Kythnos is among the least touristically developed islands in the Cyclades. Yet its charming town and over 50 easily accessible beaches are perfect for exploration.

Merichas harbour

A small, picturesque harbour that serves as the main port of Kythnos. Although very attractive, it is not particularly yacht friendly as the north winds result in the intrusion of a mild swell, which is intensified when ferries from the mainland arrive during the day. There are many restaurants around the harbour and fresh fish food is always on display. The following morning, you can visit the harbour’s fish market where the fishing boats dock; you can buy fresh fish directly from the boats.

Loutra harbour

Loutra bay is a tiny picturesque harbour on the north east side of the island. Loutra means “baths”; the name is associated with the thermal springs of the area, whose healing properties were known since ancient times. There is a free natural bath at the right side of the beach, where you can sit in around 50cm of depth to enjoy the very hot water that flows freely into the sea. Loutra is also close to a Mesolithic settlement dated around 10000 BC, the oldest known in the Cyclades!

The Main Town and Local Produce

Kythnos main town is a 10 minutes bus ride from Loutra and it is totally worth a visit. With its narrow streets (“sokakia”), white houses and churches, this will be your first introduction to the typical Cycladic architecture. In town there is an excellent choice of tavernas for dining. You should try the delicious local recipes such as sausages, kopanisti, sfouggato and kokkinisto meat, accompanied with the ‘thermiotiko’ wine. Kythnos has a great tradition in pottery and is famous for its clay objects, white cheeses and thyme honey.