Itinerary to discover Anafi, the Greek island that preserves an uncontaminated natural heritage ideal for hiking and coastal tourism.
The island of Anafi, also known as Nanfio, is one of the incredible wonders of Greece. Anafi is located in the region of South Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades Islands archipelago. The island, which today has less than three hundred inhabitants, became a tourist destination starting in the seventies and since then, also thanks to some investments, the sector has developed considerably. Located east of the famous Santorini, Anafi is not affected by mass tourism and preserves an uncontaminated natural heritage.
Our itinerary to discover this beautiful Greek island starts from Agios Nikolaos, the port that fills up and comes to life during the high season. The numerous tourists who choose to visit theIsla Anafi in Greece they reach the southern coast of the small island and in Agios Nikolaos they disembark from the numerous boats and ferries that serve this route. It is possible to reach Anafi from the island of Santorini, which, being equipped with an international airport, acts as a stopover and starting point for numerous tourist destinations.
To travel within the island it is possible to use the bus service that depart from Agios Nikolaos, alternatively it is possible to rent cars or scooters that guarantee greater autonomy of schedules and guarantee a holiday adapted to your needs.
Our itinerary continues towards Chora Anafis, the main center and only town on the island inhabited all year round. Chora It is located on top of a hill, a few kilometers from the port, and is characterized by the typical white buildings. The houses, which as tradition dictates are built on a dome, form a picturesque and lively town where the colors of the vegetation mix with the white and blue of the horizon.
One of the peculiarities of Anafi is the absence of large hotel structures or towns; The center of Chora is therefore the ideal place to look for accommodation for your holidays: several guest houses or cozy Bed&Breakfasts face the cobbled streets.
The island of Anafi preserves some archaeological sites and remains of historic buildings; Among them is the Chora kastro, where you can see the ruins of the fortifications built around the 15th century. Some statues of Greek deities have been found on the island and are partially preserved in the Chora Archaeological Museum.
The small island of Anafi preserves, in an area of barely 40 square kilometers, a natural landscape of authentic beauty. Among the hills, cultivated with wheat and olive trees, rises the Monte Sant'Elia, at just over 580 meters high. However, Anafi Island is famous for Monte Kalamos, the promontory that rises southeast of the town of Chora. Approximately more than 400 meters high, the imposing rock is one of the main attractions of the island, also because at the top is the Monastery of Our Lady of Kalamo.
Reach In Kalamioti It is necessary to take a hike of approximately one hour, but it is absolutely worth it as the path allows you to enjoy splendid views and unique views. At the end of the path awaits you not only a stunning view of the Aegean Sea, but also a splendid small church. In ancient times this monastery watched over the local population, warning with its bells of the arrival of pirates.
During the summer period, many tourists choose to spend the night outdoors to have the opportunity to admire the sunrise from a privileged point of view. For this experience we recommend that you equip yourself with a sleeping bag and flashlights, in any case it is advisable to bring water and appropriate clothing with you. The monastery comes to life in a particular way on the occasion of the Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin, a religious festival in the Orthodox calendar that falls on September 8.
At the base of Mount Kalamos is the Monastery of Zoodochos Piyìs built on the site of an earlier temple of Apollo. Ruins from the Roman and Hellenistic periods have also been found on the eastern coast, near Kastelli, a city inhabited only during the summer season. Remains of an ancient port were also found near Katalimatsa.
The best way to explore Anafi Island in Greece is without a doubt hiking, but don't forget the numerous beaches very fine sand. Those who go to Anafi find relaxation and peace even during the summer period; The most beautiful beaches are located in the southern region of the island. During a short vacation it is possible to change beaches every day, starting from the port you can take a real tour that will allow you to discover the wonders of Anafi, between fine sand and crystal clear waters.
