Avlemonas – Accommodation
Welcome to Avlemonas, the “jewel” of Kythira and arguably one of the most photographed spots in all of Greece. While Kapsali is dramatic and Agia Pelagia is expansive, Avlemonas feels like a perfectly directed movie set—a small, Cycladic-style village radiating elegance and deep relaxation.
It is said that nearby, in Paleopoli, Aphrodite, the goddess of love, rose from the sea foam. Standing on the shore, it’s not hard to believe.
The “Natural Swimming Pool”: Avlemonas Bay
The heart of the village is its small, fjord-like bay. There is no classic sandy beach here, which only adds to its unique charm:
- Swimming Among the Rocks: The water is an incredible emerald green and so calm it feels like a natural pool. You can enter the crystal-clear water directly via small ladders and steps carved into the rocks.
- Cycladic Flair: Although Kythira belongs to the Ionian Islands, Avlemonas—with its whitewashed houses and blue accents—is an architectural homage to the Cyclades.
History & Landmarks
Avlemonas isn’t just for swimming; it is a place of deep historical significance:
- The Kastello: At the edge of the bay, a small Venetian fort (Castello) guards the harbor entrance. A stroll there is a must, especially at sunset.
- The Lord Elgin Shipwreck: Just off the coast in 1802, the brig Mentor sank while transporting the famous Parthenon Marbles (Elgin Marbles) to England. Local divers helped recover the treasures from the depths at the time.
- The Sundial: Look out for the house with the intricate sundial on its façade—a symbol of the timelessness you feel while staying here.
Culinary Delights: Dining by the Emerald Bay
The culinary scene in Avlemonas is a bit more exclusive yet remains down-to-earth. The few tavernas and cafes are renowned for their quality:
- Breakfast with a View: There is nothing quite like sitting by the bay in the morning, enjoying Greek yogurt with honey while watching the first swimmers of the day.
- Seafood Paradise: Lobster pasta or fresh sea urchin salad are local specialties that you will find prepared to perfection here.
Activities Nearby
Avlemonas is the ideal starting point for exploring the eastern part of the island:
- Paleopoli Beach: Just a short walk away lies the island’s longest beach. It is wild, vast, and perfect for those seeking space and solitude.
- Agios Georgios on the Mountain: A small chapel high above the village featuring ancient mosaic floors. The climb offers perhaps the best panoramic view of the entire east coast.
- Kaladi Beach: A short drive takes you to one of Kythira’s most iconic beaches—a triple-cove bay with a striking rock formation in the water.
An Insider Tip: Avlemonas is the epitome of “Slow Travel.” Don’t just plan a quick stop; stay for a long lunch or an overnight visit. The village reveals its full magic once the day-trippers move on in the late afternoon.
