Kea

Explore the Villages

• Ioulida (Chora): The capital of Kea, Ioulida, is a traditional village with narrow streets, stone houses, and amazing views. It has a quiet, laid-back vibe with cafes, shops, and local art
• Vourkari: A lovely seaside village known for its marina, seafood taverns, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or a meal by the water
• Korrisia: A small port village with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for exploring local life and enjoying fresh seafood

Hiking and Nature Trails

• Kea offers several hiking trails with stunning views of the island’s rugged landscape, hills, and coast
• The Lion of Kea: A famous stone lion sculpture dating back to the 6th century BC. The hike to it offers beautiful views of the island
• Kea’s Ancient Paths: The island has an extensive network of old stone paths (kalderimi), which can be followed to explore the natural beauty and historical sites
• Fidias Trail: This trail offers views of the island’s wild flora, local wildlife, and historical sites

Visit the Archaeological Sites

• The Archaeological Museum of Kea: Located in Ioulida, the museum showcases artifacts from the island’s rich history, including the ancient city of Karthea
• Karthea: An ancient city located on the southeastern coast, known for its well-preserved ruins and temples dedicated to Apollo and Athena. The hike to Karthea is scenic and worth the effort for history lovers

Beaches

Kea has several beautiful beaches, many of which are quieter compared to other Greek islands

• Gialiskari Beach: A pebbled beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing
• Otzias Beach: A sandy beach ideal for families, with calm waters and a few beachside taverns
• Koundouros Beach: A popular beach with clear waters, excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying seaside cafes

Water Sports and Boat Tours

• Snorkeling and Diving: Kea offers some great spots for snorkeling, including around its secluded coves and rocky shorelines
• Boat trips: Hire a boat or take a tour to explore the island’s hidden beaches and nearby islets, such as the small island of Makronissos

Tasting Local Cuisine

Kea offers some great local delicacies:

• Kea’s Local Cheese: Try the island’s famous cheese, such as “Kea graviera,” a hard cheese with a rich flavor
• Seafood: Enjoy fresh fish and seafood at the taverns along the coast, especially in Vourkari
• Local Wines: Kea produces some excellent local wines, so make sure to sample them while dining

Watch the Sunset

• From Ioulida or the Lighthouse of Kea: The island offers some stunning sunset views. Ioulida, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views, and the lighthouse offers a great spot to catch the sunset

Cycling

• Renting a bike to explore the island can be a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights. Kea’s hilly terrain and picturesque roads make it an ideal destination for cyclists

Visit the Ancient Windmills

• Scattered around the island, these historic windmills are a testament to Kea’s agricultural past. Many are located in remote areas, making them an interesting find during a hike or bike ride

Relax in Seclusion

• Kea is known for its quiet charm, so if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, simply relax on one of its secluded beaches or enjoy a slow-paced day at a cafe in one of its picturesque villages