And did you know that Paros has a younger sister named Antiparos? Yes, that's right, a smaller island that almost seems to be under the protection of its older sister. We are talking about an island which, unlike the well-known Paros, is much younger and newer, still full of completely natural landscapes and places without even the shadow of some tourist structure. So if you are looking for a more wild and peaceful island, Antiparos is the perfect destination!
But let's see in detail what you can admire in the island of Antiparos ...
What to visit in Antiparos?
As you may have guessed, the island of Antiparos is a real jewel, an island where nature takes its course and nobody wants to step on her feet! Obviously Antiparos is served however by what you need for a perfect holiday, but in minimal doses and without chaos or crowds. The attractions of Antiparos are mostly natural and falling in love with these wonderful places will not be difficult! But let's see in detail the most beautiful things that the island of Antiparos has in store for us ...
The Cave of Antiparos
The first thing that you absolutely cannot miss is the Antiparos cave, a huge cave that in addition to making you observe its "natural works" will offer you a magnificent view of the suggestive landscape that surrounds the area, its international fame is also thanks to these unique scenarios. It is a cave located on the hill of Agios Ioannis, perched on the sea, where after walking down 411 steps you can find the oldest stalactites and stalagmites in Europe, some dating back even 45 million years ago. At its entrance you will find, in addition to the oldest stalagmite, the chapel of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis; a white wonder built in the 18th century!
The island of Despotiko
Another masterpiece of Greek nature is the island of Despotiko, an uninhabited islet only 700 meters from the southwest coast of Antiparos and which is perfectly located in the center of the Cyclades. This is not only a paradise made up of sea, sand and almost lunar rocky landscapes, but we are talking about a place with a certain historical importance. Here they were found: statues, gold jewelry, ceramics, the remains of a temple in honor of Apollo and Artemis and other archaeological remains that once came to light led experts to think that, around the seventh century, there was created a cult center of some relevance. In addition to the historical beauties, on the island of Despotiko you can also admire the splendid views of the nearby islands, among the most important: Antiparos, Folegandros, Ios, Serifos. To reach Despotiko just take a hiking boat from the village of Agios Georgios or from that of Antiparos.
Kastro
The last unmissable attraction of Antiparos is Kastro, which is the main village of the island. Strictly in Venetian style, this majestic and beautiful architectural work has walls that are actually two-storey houses and inside there are graceful local churches and neighborhoods in classic Greek style. Finally you have found an attraction made by man, witness of stories and events experienced by a civilization now gone!
The beaches of Antiparos
If you are on the island of Antiparos, the beaches are certainly what will amaze you most, for their beauty! Most of its beaches are sandy and with a clear turquoise sea, but there are also rocky beaches and bluer seas because they are deeper, which attract the gaze of the visitor dazzled by such beauty. For example, near the village of Antiparos you can visit: Psaralykes, Kalargyrou, Sifneiko, Agios Spyridonas and Theologos; the most famous beaches of the island. The best beach that we advise you not to miss is that of Glifa; it is 6 kilometers from the Chora and is located on the southern coast of the island. It is one of the best sandy beaches on the island of Antiparos, not for nothing thousands of visitors annually go to the island of Antiparos and run to see Glifa. It is a real paradise!
How to reach the island of Antiparos?
To reach the island of Antiparos there is only one way: starting from the port of Pounta (island of Paros) 6 km from Paroikia and in 10/15 minutes by ferry, you will have arrived at your destination. The ferry shuttles between the two islands every day and at regular times every 30 minutes (ticket price € 1.50 and can be purchased directly on board, next to the compartment dedicated to the suitcases).
A little tip!
Once in Antiparos, turn it over! It doesn't matter whether it is by boat or by car. What you need to do is admire every glimpse, every hidden corner, every promontory and every single beach, and breathe the air of uncontaminated nature and the wild spirit of the island. Antiparos is a truly unmissable island!