Anafi, southeast of Santorini, is an island for those seeking inner peace and an authentic connection with nature. A simple Cycladic landscape, steep paths, secluded beaches, and a Chora that embraces the light. Far from mass tourism, with very few inhabitants and even fewer interventions, it offers an authentic contact with nature and simplicity. Here, time slows down, words become fewer, and beauty speaks for itself, silent yet profound.
Anafi
Isolation, authenticity, and Cycladic light away from the crowds
Anafi is an island that resists the tourist frenzy, offering authentic experiences, serenity, and impressive landscapes. With Cycladic architecture, golden beaches, and one of the most mystical monasteries in the Aegean, Panagia Kalamiotissa, the island appeals to those seeking contact with nature, simplicity, and themselves. The Village (Chorio), perched on the hillside, offers panoramic views and nights full of stars and silence. Anafi is ideal for free campers, hikers, and travelers who love the unpretentious. Without crowds, but with plenty of soul, Anafi is a destination for those seeking a meaningful disconnect, quiet beaches, and the raw beauty of the Cycladic landscape.
Highlights
At the beaches
Swim along the southern and western coasts of the island. South of Anafi lies the small Anafopoula, a "satellite" of the island.
Hiking
Hiking the trail network, with a total length of 18 km, which spans most of Anafi. Hiking the trail network, with a total length of 18 km, which spans most of Anafi.
Kalamos
The imposing monolith, the second highest rock in Europe after that of Gibraltar.
Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa
At the peak of Kalamos, the beautiful and stately monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa stands dominant (at an altitude of 460m).
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IDEAL DESTINATION
The Silent Power of the Aegean
The Silent Power of the Aegean
Culinary journey to Anafi
We recommend trying the local delicacies and flavorful mezes with the characteristic aroma of saffron (crocus), which is found in abundance on the island. Try pork dishes such as: lagaro and pitaria, or koulouridia (dough balls boiled in goat milk and served as a soup). The traditional sweets of Anafi are primarily the pies, while during Christmas, the local “koufeto” (a sweet made from roasted almonds and honey) takes center stage.
The best time to visit Anafi
An island like Anafi remains beautiful during all seasons of the year; nevertheless, summer is the season when most people will visit for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
How to get around Anafi
Transportation options to/from the airport
There is no airport on Anafi, so to reach the island you must travel by air to Santorini and then take the ferry or hydrofoil to the island.
You can easily and comfortably travel by ferry from Piraeus and the surrounding islands to Anafi. The journey from Piraeus to Anafi by conventional ferry takes about 6-7 hours, while by speedboat it takes about 4-5 hours, and its port, Agios Nikolaos, is not very far from Chora.
Public Transportation
Chora and the port of Anafi are connected by the local bus, which runs approximately 7-8 routes during the day and until late at night. There is also another bus from Chora to the Monastery—with fewer routes, of course—which makes stops at several of the island’s beaches. You will not find taxis on the island, but there are small boats (kaikia) that transport you to the beaches, though you can also visit many of them on foot.
Questions / Answers
Q&A
By ferry from Piraeus (8-10 hours) or from Santorini (approximately 2 hours).
Anafi is famous for its natural, unorganized beaches – ideal for independent travelers.
There are rooms for rent and camping sites near Chora and the beaches.
Absolutely – Anafi offers unique routes with incredible views and archaeological sites.
Local meats, fresh fish, revithada (chickpea stew), mizithra cheese, and spoon sweets are a must.
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