Swimming Spots on Kythira That Are Difficult to Access
Kythira, an island that is gaining more popularity over the years due to this blog (jokes, I try though) and if you haven’t heard me talk about Kythira, then where have you been? Because, to be quite honest - I am obsessed. Not only is this island a part of my family lineage, but it feels like my home and a piece of my heart always breaks whenever I have to leave.
Want to join us on our Women’s Retreat to Kythira in 2025? Click here for more information!
SOME KYTHIRA FACTS:
The island is sometimes referred to as an island of Aphrodite - however, Cypriots also believe that she was born there…so we have a little bit of friendly rivalry at times.
Kythira is geographically isolated from the main group of Ionian islands however is still apart of them.
There is a tonne of unique cave systems which adds to the beauty of the island.
Nikos Kazantzakis: The famous Greek writer and philosopher, author of Zorba the Greek had family roots from Kythira. Oh and he isn’t the only writer emerging from Kythira. My poetry book: ‘Five Summers: An Anthology’ is also heavily influenced by the landscape, lifestyle and beauty of the island - the front cover is even inspired from a church on the island.
If you’re down for an adventure, or an escape from the summer crowds on other more popular islands, then here are some of Kythira’s Swimming Spots That Are Difficult to Access:
1. Kaladi Beach
I would consider Kaladi Beach a MUST on your itinerary, however arriving to the beach is not for the faint of heart. You will have to walk down a few steps, well…162 steps to be exact. But once you get there, damn it’s a sight to see. Dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, a true Mediterranean dream. Make sure to pack water, drinks and snacks and allow a full morning or even a day on this beach. My advice is to not be in a hurry, relax and enjoy, allowing yourself enough time down there before you have to turn around and walk the 162 steps back up!
Kaladi Beach
2. Limionas Beach / Green Lake
Another must-visit is Limionas Beach, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain. Limionas has one of the best canteen’s which is run by Brothers on Wheels offering snacks and drinks to those relaxing down on the beach or up at the chairs provided.
But I think one of the best things about going to Limionas is the hike to the Green Lake. This challenging hike takes about 50 mins each way and at times you will have to climb rocks to reach the destination - but damn, it’s 100% worth it! Make sure to pack lots of water, snacks, wear sneakers, a hat and also high-ankle socks as the terrain is quite scratchy.
Green Lake
3. Kalami Beach
I won’t be telling you much about Kalami Beach, mainly because it’s one of Kythira’s best-kept secrets. I’ll just say that it is worth the mission to get there and if you join us on our Come to Kythira Retreat next year then you will be included in my hike there.
Kalami Beach
4. Sparagorio Beach - my favourite!
This is hands-down my favourite beach on Kythira. Sparagorio Beach has been a favourite of mine since 2015, when I would spend a lot of time down in Kapsali however wanted to get away from the crowds. I also befriended two French men back in those days who were camping out in the abandoned villa near the beach so I would often visit them too. It’s only a short walk from Kapsali or you can rent one of the paddle boats (what we did when we were kids) from Kapsali and paddle over there. I also remember when we were kids, we were so shocked once we got there to see naked man and women on the beach. I later found out when going there in 2015 (at eighteen years old) that it is one of the main nudest beaches, where a lot of campers stay. It ALL made sense.
Sparagorio Beach
5. Hydra Cave
Hydra Cave is by far the hardest swimming spot to get to, because it’s a rock in the middle of the sea. You must take Spiro’s Glass Bottom Boat out or rent a private boat from Drakakis in order to get there. It is one of the most spectacular places you will ever visit, and snorkelling through the cave is just incredible. If anyone knows me well enough they will know that one of my fondest memories of being on Kythira is having Pappou (my grandad) driving his boat and dropping me inside Hydra Cave while he goes out fishing to then pick me up 3 hours later (he’s done the same with my mum and aunty). It’s calming and tranquil and obviously has no phone service so it’s just the best place to be for some peace and quiet.
Hydra Cave
I hope you enjoyed this blogpost on Swimming Spots on Kythira That Are Difficult to Access. Mum and I are excited to be launching our 2025 Women’s Retreat to Kythira in a few days time so make sure to check out all info HERE and email travellyconcierge@gmail.com with any questions you might have.
Stay safe + travel always,
Love Elly-Grace x
All pictures taken by Elly-Grace from Travelly Concierge on Dji Mini 4 Pro Drone. Feel free to leave a comment if you enjoyed this blogpost.
