What to Do in Antiparos, Greece
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Antiparos is a small island that is part of the Cyclades group. The southeastern part of the island is rich with cliffs that form over the sea and create caves. The northwestern side of the island has long, sandy beaches. Antiparos is home to traditional Cycladic whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows. Here’s what you can do while visiting Antiparos, Greece.
Explore the Cave of Antiparos
The Cave of Antiparos is located 8 km from Chora (Antiparos Town). The cave is also known as the Cave of Agios Ioannis Church. The Cave of Antiparos is 85 meters deep and the only vertical cave in Europe. It is also thought to be the oldest cave in Europe. It features the oldest stalactite in Europe at 45 million years old. The cave once served as a worship and refugee center.
The cave of Antiparos also has archaeological importance due to the engraved inscriptions that are found on the walls of the cave. Audio tours of the cave are available in both English and Greek. It’s a good idea to bring your own water as there are no shops near the cave and after the 411 step ascent. The area of the Cave of Antiparos, including the 411 cement steps, were renovated in 2009.
While you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis, which is located at the entrance of the Cave of Antiparos. The church is accessible through a hiking route that starts at the settlement of Agios Georgios.
Enjoy the Foods, Drinks, and Products of Antiparos
If you’re a cheese lover, you’re going to enjoy trying the cheeses of Antiparos, which include: ladotyri, touloumotiri, and xinomizithra. The local wine and unaged brandy called tsipouro will also thrill your taste buds. Local island specialties include wild rabbit stew, grilled octopus, and sweet ravioli. For breakfast and coffee, you can head to Margarita or Sifneiko Cafe in Chora. If you’re relaxing at Apantima Beach, you can stop by the Beach House for coffee. If you’re craving souvlaki, Oikogeniako in Hora is a good choice. You’ll find varied cuisine around the island of Antiparos, Greece.
Spend Time Outdoors in Antiparos
Antiparos, Greece is paradise for anyone who wants to spend a lot of time outdoors. There are a number of hiking paths throughout the island of Antiparos. One of the most well-known and beautiful routes is the one that goes from the harbor of Antiparos to the Cave of Antiparos. Antiparos is a flat and small island making it ideal for inexperienced or beginning hikers.
There are more demanding hikes such as the Antiparos North Coast Hike, which is an 11 km hike that starts from town and going by secluded beaches where you can stop and swim, and rugged hillsides. This route also offers wonderful views of the sea. Another long hike is the one from Agios Georgios Village that leads up the hills to the Chapel of Prophet Ilias and then back down to Monastiria Beach and further on through rugged terrain.
Antiparos, Greece is an exciting place to visit. Consider enjoying these activities while here!
Categorized in: About Antiparos, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
