— Unlike a number of Greek islands which are more and more crowded by tourists, Kythera retains its intimate peacefulness. You immediately can feel the serenity when you arrive, whether by ferry or airplane from Athens. It is a wonderful hidden gem.
The beauty of the nature and landscape
Iridescent blue dragonfly on Kythera
The landscape is full of jasmine, thyme, sage, heather and amazing Queen Anne’s lace. Kythera is known for its wild thyme and heather honeys. During our walks through rippling waterfalls we always see the iridescent blue-purple dragonflies. Kythera is surrounded by the Aegean, Cretan and Ionian seas, and we are never far from dramatic oceanscapes and beaches.
Aphrodite’s Island - the island of love
The Minoan civilization (3000-1600 BC) was the first civilization in Europe. Kythera was a Minoan colony. Aphrodite, the goddess of love, arose from the shores of Kythira and the temple to her attracted women from all over Greece. It is from here that Helen, queen of Sparta, left for Troy. The temple of Aphrodite is the oldest temple to the goddess.
— https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Aphrodite,_Kythira
The village architecture
Kythera is located between the Peloponnese southern mainland and Crete. It has a unique blend of architectural styles from traditional, Aegean and Venetian culture. It has suffered constant invasions by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Turks, and pirates. Castles were built to protect the island and their ruins remain today. The Venetian and Aegean influences can be seen in the simple village architecture. The churches and monasteries retain a simple Byzantine design.
Local products
Kythera has a variety of small production, local products. The island air is clear and the products are healthy and high-quality. The award-winning wild thyme honey is recognized around the world for its quality. The rich beekeeping tradition and the island’s abundance of wild thyme, oregano and other herbs make for an exceptional honey. In our household, and for generations before, we have always used this for medicinal properties. The owner of our hotel is a great beekeeper and we regularly buy directly from him.
Kythera has excellent bakeries, pottery workshops and Greek food products.
— Local products | Official Website for Tourism In Kythira | Destinationkythira.gr