Anafi: Ancient Sites, Hiking Trails and Island Nature

Anafi is the southeasternmost island in the Cyclades. Ancient sites, trails across the island and the distinctive rock of Kalamos give your holiday a range of different highlights. The ancient city was established on Kastelli Hill; to the east rises Kalamos, a massive, compact rock. When planning your trip, you can decide whether you would most like to explore Chora and the island’s history, go hiking or visit the beaches in the southeast.

Traces of Antiquity and Impressions of Chora

The ancient city of Anafi was founded on Kastelli Hill and was fortified. Above-ground and numerous underground tombs were located on the southeastern side of the hill. The sanctuary of Apollo Aigletis is also one of the island’s historic sites: it had a large, high enclosure, with ruins and architectural elements all around it.

Another archaeological detail can be found in the Dokari area. Near the small church of Panagia stands a marble sarcophagus whose sides are decorated with reliefs of Erotes, griffins, sirens, Bellerophon and Pegasus. The Archaeological Collection of Anafi displays finds from a surface salvage excavation in a small exhibition room. In Chora, you can see windmills as you stroll. Cultural interest thus ranges from ancient remains to impressions of today’s island town.

Hiking Trails of Different Lengths

The marked routes offer practical ways to explore Anafi on foot. Route 1 runs from Chora via Roukounas and Megas Potamos to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. It is 7.8 kilometres long; the stated duration is around 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Route 2 connects Roukounas, Kastelli with the ancient city, Agios Mamas, the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi and Kalamos. The stated time for the 9 kilometres is 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours.

Route 3 connects Agios Dimitrios, Agios Antonios and the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. It is 7.2 kilometres long and takes around 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes. Route 4 is shorter: it runs from Chora via Stavros and Rachidi to Lakkous, is 4 kilometres long and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. The route lengths and stated durations can help you choose hikes that fit your day’s plans; the four routes lead to different island locations and sights.

Kalamos, Nature and Beaches

Kalamos lies at the eastern end of Anafi and is especially popular with experienced climbers and mountaineers. The Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa stands at the summit of the monolithic rock. Kalamos is also home to Drakontospilo Cave, with its stalactites and stalagmites. The route there is difficult. If you are interested in visiting this cave, take this challenge into account when planning.

Kalamos and Roukounas are part of the Natura 2000 international environmental protection network. Eleonora’s falcons breed on the rock of Kalamos and the rocky islets of Ftena, Makria and Pachia; more than 300 pairs live on Anafi. Kleisidi Beach also has its own distinctive scenery, with fine golden sand and characteristic palm trees.

Cultural Life and Choosing Where to Stay

Regular cultural events are held on Anafi every year, with more taking place in summer in particular. Every summer, a traditional island festival is celebrated in Chora’s square. There are also exhibitions of folklore materials and photographs. Visitors can also attend celebrations at the island’s small chapels. These occasions offer insights into local traditions alongside the historic sites and trails.

The paved main road connects the port of Agios Nikolaos with Chora, the beaches in the southeast and the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. The southeastern beaches are also accessible by local bus. When choosing a holiday rental, consider which destinations you want to shape your stay: Chora, with its windmills and events; the beaches; or the hiking trails to historic and scenic locations.

Discover more destination pages: Agios Georgios, Vlychada, Agia Theodoti, Pyrgos, Manganari Ios, Karterados, Vourvoulos and Ano Meria.

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