Kea (Tzia)

Kea (Tzia)

Things to do - general

Due to its proximity to Attica, Kéa (also called “Tzia”) is an easily accessible beauty with a scenery variety: steep mountains, small fields, olive groves, vineyards, valleys, picturesque coves, exciting hiking trails and off-the-beaten-track beaches. On the island with the largest oak forest in the Cyclades bird-watching is a real delight. For those who are into geology, there are plenty of small caves (like in Kálamos and in Áyios Timótheos). 36 km long cobbled trails will lead you to the four city-states of the ancient times: Ioulis, Karthaia, Koressia, Poiessa).
Situated in the centre of the island, at the site of the ancient city-state by the same name, the capital of Kéa (or Tziá), Ioulis, is a very picturesque town with ceramic-tile roofed houses, cobbled streets, arched passages, steps and squares.

In the area of Cavo Doro there are also many more or less ancient shipwrecks. It is believed that the Greek ships were wrecked here on the way back from Troy. As technology has advanced, the passage is now safer and became a challenge for people who enjoy sailing; in a way, passing by Cavo Doro is considered to be an extra badge of skill for sailors.
In Kea’s waters lies the wreck of the Britannic, sister ship to the Titanic, a favourite destination for diving enthusiasts.

Events

In July, the Tale Festival is held: fabulists from all over the world come here to enchant children and grown-ups with their stories. Cultural events including theatrical shows, concerts and sports events are the attraction between August 1-19 in July.

Source: visitgreece

Country Greece

Nightlife info

The general vibe of Kea is very relaxed when it comes to nightlife. It is one of the least known islands of Cyclades for foreign visitors, but very popular with Athenians. Today, it counts on many nice places where you have a great night out. At the ports of Vourkari and Korissia, there are few seaside bars playing various kinds of music. There are few more bars in the streets of Ioulida, the capital of the island. For more peaceful nights out, there are beautiful taverns all around the island, either in the central square of Ioulida or along the beaches.

Source: greeka

Culture and history info

Visit the exhibits evidencing prehistoric human life in the Neolithic settlement of Kefalá (3,300-3,200 BC) and in the early Cycladic settlement of Agia Irene. The monastery of Panagia Kastriani (18th century) to the north-east is built on precipitous rocks, and offers an imposing panoramic view.
Kea is one of the most visited islands for the aficionados of sailing, due to its proximity to the Attica land. The area between Cape Sounio, Kea and Makronissos (means “Long Island” in Greek) is named Cavo Doro (Kafireas during the ancient times). Due to different steams and winds blowing from several directions it is considered to be one of the most difficult passages in the Mediterranean Sea. Actually, the meaning of Cavo Doro is not “Cape Gold” but a paraphrase of Cavo Duro, which mean Hard Cape.

Source: visitgreece

Unfortunately there are no accommodations at this location at the moment.