Kea (also known as Tzia) is a green Cycladic island near Athens, famous for its unique landscape with oak forests, traditional architecture with red-tiled roofs (unlike typical Cycladic whitewashed buildings), rich history (ancient cities like Karthea), extensive hiking trails, and the famous shipwreck of Britannic for divers, offering a blend of genuine Greek charm, archaeology, nature, and relaxation away from mass tourism, accessible via a short ferry from Lavrio.
Key Features
Proximity to Athens: It's the closest Cycladic island to the mainland (about 1 hour by ferry from Lavrio), making it popular for weekend trips.
Unique Landscape: Characterized by green hills, valleys, oak forests, and vineyards, offering a different feel from other Cyclades.
Traditional Capital (Ioulis): The main town is built on a hillside with distinctive stone houses, arched passages, and red-tiled roofs.
Rich History: Home to ancient city-states (Ioulis, Karthea, Korissos, Poiessa) and archaeological sites.
Hiking Trails: Features an extensive network of ancient paths (kalderimia).
Shipwrecks: A significant diving site, including the wreck of the Britannic (Titanic's "brother").
What to Do
Explore History: Visit archaeological sites like Karthea, the Lion of Kea, and the Archaeological Museum.
Hiking: Follow the well-marked ancient paths through the island's diverse terrain.
Diving: Explore the underwater world and historic shipwrecks.
Relax: Enjoy the beaches, picturesque villages (Korissia, Vourkari), and authentic Greek cuisine.
