Traditional villages will charm you with their beauty as they retain the charm of a bygone era.
Avlemonas, Karavas, Mylopotamos and Potamos are the most beautiful villages of Kythera, the green island where Aphrodite was born and a beautiful destination that offers relaxation and tranquillity.
In addition to the crystal clear waters, incredible beaches, and cultural attractions, the picturesque villages of Kythera are also worth visiting.
These traditional settlements are of natural beauty, with running water and buildings with architectural historical interest.
Below, you will discover four of these settlements and understand the reasons why they are equally excellent.
Avlemonas
Avlemonas, a charming fishing village on the island of Kythera, combines the charm of the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea with a distinctly Cycladic atmosphere.
With its enchanting landscapes, charming architecture, and welcoming beaches, Avlemonas is undoubtedly the jewel of Kythera, attracting visitors to a very special setting.
The unique blend of the village's whitewashed houses, the blue details on the shutters and windows, and the bougainvillaea's fuchsia give the settlement an Aegean colour.
The much-photographed cove with its steep cliffs and the nearby Paleopolis beach are excellent swimming options, while the beautiful alleys and historical sites, such as the small Venetian castle built in 1565, are ideal for exploring for the whole family.
Karavas
The traditional village of Karavas is considered - and rightfully so - one of the most beautiful on the island, having preserved the traditional architecture of its houses, which shows influences from the Peloponnese.
It is located at the northernmost point of the island, 26 kilometres from Chora, and essentially consists of many scattered settlements that form a single village spread out amphitheatrically, with an excellent view.
The village is built in a verdant area, with running water and many springs.
Although the internal migration of previous decades has left its mark on the settlement, Karavas does not hide its nobility. Thanks to the love of its inhabitants, it manages to see the future with optimism.
It is the station for exploring the northern part of the island, with access to the famous Platia Ammos.
Mylopotamos
Many consider Mylopotamos one of the most beautiful and, indeed, special villages in Greece.
It is located in the heart of Kythera and is a settlement that does not resemble an island, as it is nestled in lush vegetation and running waters.
To all this magical natural landscape is added the great history of the village and the enormous architectural interest, which gives a clear picture of the traditional life of the island and its people.
Mylopotamos is named after the numerous watermills that once existed there, some of which have been restored. In addition to the fantastic area of watermills and waterfalls, important attractions are the Venetian castle and the cave of Hagia Sophia.
Potamos
Potamos is the largest village in Kythera. It is built in a prominent position at an altitude of 340 meters in the northern area of the island, and it shows intense commercial activity all year round.
The locals call it "The Town of the Lady," and it owes its name to the icon of the Virgin Mary from Jerusalem, housed in the holy church of the Virgin Mary Hilariotissa.
As the island's cultural centre, Potamos played a decisive role in Kythera's history. The village is home to a variety of traditional and neoclassical houses, preserving its cultural heritage.
Notable attractions include the Kasimateio Nursing Home, the Monastery of Saint Theodoros and the ruins of the Paleochora of Kythera, which was destroyed in 1537. However, Potamos is even more special because it retains the charm of a bygone era of Kythera.
Panagiotis Tritari is a columnist for Travel. Translated by Paul Antonopoulos.