Kea is not known only for the antique car rally held the first weekend in June, but for many things besides this. It actually became known to the modern world in 1916 when the Titanic's sister ship Britannica sunk here. The wreckage still lies at the bottom of the surrounding waters, with constant activity going on around it. Other renowned things about Kea is the fact that it has exceptional beaches and one of the best systems of walking paths and trails of any Greek island. Kea is a hiker's paradise with numbered routes that take you through a variety of landscapes, each one offering both natural, historical and archaeological interests. There are green forests, rich in wild flowers growing within the rocks, cultural heritage shown among its people and ancient cites just begging to be explored. Kea is of big archaeological interest. There is the prehistoric settlement of Agia Irini and the archaeological site of Karthea, which is considered one of the most important monuments in the island. The most important monuments are the temples of Apollo Pithios and Athena. Don’t miss out on seeing the five-storey square Tower of Agia Marina. The archaeological museum is in Hora, the island’s capital. The most famous sight on the island is the Lion of Kea, or Lionda. It is a big, archaic sculpture of the mythical lion. The monastery of Panagia Kastriani is also worth a visit, and you can even stay in one of its cells. You will also find the Saint Nicolas Lighthouse, which was the second lighthouse ever to be built in Greece. The village of Otzias is a splendid village with stone-brick houses and a superb beach that is lined with tamarisk trees. Koundouros is famous for its series of charming coves and stunning beaches, as well as its impressive villas and mill houses. The settlement of Vourkari is a cosmopolitan resort, with many bars, cafes, tavernas and restaurants along its shore. Here you can see luxury yachts and the jet set as they tour the Cyclades Islands. These and other villages provide guests with a wide range of hotels, apartments, rooms to rent and studios. On many of the sandy beaches, like Otzias, Koundouros and Korissia water sports and volleyball are some of the activities offered. You can also go fishing or if you’d rather play mini golf you can do that too on the course that is available to you. The island in itself is a charming little paradise and it is still a very genuine place to visit. There are a few taverns and cafes, and the pace is slow and comfortable. Kea is an excellent alternative for those who want to get away from the busier islands, but still don't want the total quiet. There is not much nightlife to talk about here. Ioulis and Koundouros seem to be the best places to go for that. There are not many souvenir shops; instead, you'll find a lot of handmade ceramics, carved wood and leatherware. The restaurants on Kea are among the best in Greece and the summer features a number of cultural events, and an outdoor movie theater with new first-run movies (usually in English) that change every two days. So with so much to offer the many visitors who come here, why wait any longer? Book your vacation today and come join us on one of the most beautiful islands of Greece - Kea, for the kind of holiday trip that memories are made of. |