Antiparos routes network

Route title: «Oliaros»

Theme: Natural heritage

Route duration: 1 hr. & 30 min

Route length (distance): 5.5 km

Incline: 2%

Level of difficulty: Easy

Connection with other routes: Route 1Α and Route 3. 

Useful information: It can be combined with Route 1A so as the visitor could have an overall picture of the island of Antiparos. 

SHORT DESCRIPTION

This circular Route is kind of an introductory hiking activity included in ANTIPAROS ROUTES network and can be done as an afternoon walk as well. It is suitable for people of all ages regardless their physical condition. If you wish to enjoy the sunset, it is recommended to follow the reverse route from the one described below.   

After passing the central paved road of Chorio, you will also pass the so-called “katastegi” (a wooden construction that connects two residences at the first-floor level) directing towards Sifneikos Gialos. Following a northward direction to reach Agriokastro point, the path evolves over the homonymous cape. Directing eastwards, you will encounter the sensitive cedar ecosystem and the King Cedar- a tree dated hundreds of years back. You will also come across the coastal dunes’ habitat, and the sand daffodils as well. The northern part of the island used to be full of cedars, hence Antiparos’ ancient name was “Oliaros”, a word of Phoenician origin probably meaning “woody place”.  

POINTS OF INTEREST 

SIFNEIKOS GIALOS

At the opposite side of the Castle, the bay of Sifneikos Gialos is used as a safe anchoring point.  It is named after the island of Sifnos since it is located across from Antiparos. Watching the sunset from this place is a must-do when visiting Antiparos!

AGRIOKASTRO

Directing to the northwestern point of Antiparos, you will reach Agriokastro which is right across from the islet Kato Fyro (Diplo). This is the place where the ruins of the ancient settlement of Agriokastro lie; pottery finds dated on the end of first half of the 2^nd millennium BC suggest that this settlement flourished at that time. Agriokastro is considered to be a significant prehistoric settlement in the Cycladic region, equivalent important to the Akrotiri of Thira, the Filakopi of Milos, and the Agia Eirini of Kea.

CENTENARIAN CEDAR TREE 

King Cedar is in Antiparos! Located at the northern part of the island, King Cedar is hundreds of years old and its height is really breathtaking. It constitutes a landmark of the cedar forest which once formed dense clusters in the northern part of Antiparos; hence Antiparos’ ancient name was “Oliaros”, a word of Phoenician origin probably meaning “woody place”.

CEDAR FOREST

The Greek name of the Juniperus genus is “arkefthi”. The names “cedra” or “cedroi” (in plural) is more common but they should not be confused with the other species of Cedrus genus (C. libani and C.atlantica). In Greece, these species are not indigenous and have been imported mainly for decorative purposes. The coastal cedar species are submitted to hard pressure due to human activities and are in danger mainly because of the uncontrolled tourism development. Another major factor contributing to the pressure these species face is visitors’ lack of awareness. The fact that cedars’ natural regeneration is really slow and when combined with the climate change, intensifies the need for urgent action in order to protect and preserve this sensitive ecosystem.  

SAND DUNES

A rare habitat of great aesthetic value in Antiparos is the one including coastal sand dunes along with cedar species. The roots of the trees are expanded to a length that is at least twice their height, forming a dense grid made of the trees’ trunk. This grid restrains sand, thus forming sand dunes. The aforementioned habitat belongs to the list of “priority habitats” which means that it is in danger to be extinct. Therefore, we are all responsible for its preservation!  

SAND DAFFODILS

A stunning amaryllis inspired once an ancient artist which depicted it on the frescos of the prehistoric town of Akrotiri in Santorini. It is also known as sand daffodil (Pancratium maritimum). The word Pancratium has its origin in two Greek words παν and κρατύς = powerful, strong. Although it is an extremely resistant plant since it manages to blossom at a sandy ground, it is in danger of extinction due to the imprudent tourism development taking place at the Mediterranean sandy beaches!

Route title: «at Voreina»

Theme: Natural heritage 

Route duration: 45 min 

Route length (distance): 1.7 km

Incline: 10%

Level of difficulty: Moderate  

Connection with other routes: Route 1 and 3. 

Useful Information: The overall duration of the Route is 1 hr & 30 min forth and back, as it is the same trail that will get you back at the starting point. The trail becomes rough at some points, so trekking poles are recommended for that reason. Route 1A should be combined with Route 1 as a complementary trail for the visitor to get a first taste of Antiparos.  

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE ROUTE

By completing the first kilometer of this Route, you will have reached the northern cape of Antiparos called “Voreina” or “Vourna”, named after its point of direction. It constitutes an isolated shelter for the visitor looking to explore the island. It is recommended to reach the chapel of Stavros, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kato Fyra (Diplo) and Pano Fyra (Kavouras) islets. Standing at that point of view, you can perceive the shallow waters connecting them, offering a unique experience of hiking along the in-depth lagoon crossing from one islet to another. Reaching at the end of the Route, it would totally worth your while, as you will have the chance to dive into the crystal clear waters of a beautiful and secluded beach.  

POINTS OF INTEREST

STAVROS SMALL CHURCH 

The most familiar feature in the landscape of Cyclades are the chapels. Beneath the bright blue sky, they are emerging peaceful and all-white. A panoramic view of the serene and cozy northern part of the island is extended all over the courtyard of the small church of Stavros. 

CAPE VOURNA 

The rocky, barren land of the cape hosts brushwood; short bushes with prickly branches adapted to summer droughts. Their natural defense mechanism against droughts makes them considerable allies to fight desertification phenomena threatening many once fertile areas in Greece. Their main characteristic is the seasonal dimorphism (small leaves during summer, big ones during winter) which helps them to adjust the pace of water loss through transpiration! 

Theme: Natural heritage

Route duration: 45 min

Route length (distance): 2.6 km

Incline: 0%

Level of difficulty: Easy 

Connection with other routes: Route 1

Short Description:

Along the Route 2, you will come across two wetlands included in the National Catalogue of small, insular wetlands under protection. These wetlands are covered permanently or temporarily by shallow waters (fresh water, brackish or sea water), where the groundwater soil offers the opportunity for aquatic vegetation to thrive. The first wetland you will encounter is called “Pano Psaralyki”, where the sea water is vaporized due to the wind and the heat of the sun. The remaining sea salt can then be collected. The second wetland, named as “Palia Alyki Lagoon”, contains sea water as the flat and sandy beach, along with strong sea currents, offers a direct connection to the sea. February 2^nd is the World Wetlands Day and it remind us of both their ecological value and their contribution in life preservation!

Useful information: 

The overall duration of the Route is 1 hr & 30 min forth and back, as it is the same trail that will get you back at the starting point. This trail is considered to be family-friendly and it can be combined with swimming at Panagia beach!

Theme: Cultural Heritage

Route duration: 2 hrs.

Route length (distance): 5.6 km

Incline: 6.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate 

Connection with other routes: Routes 1, 1A and 5 

Short Description: 

This Route follows the hill ridge where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Chorio and the two wetlands; Pano Psaralyki and Palia Alyki Lagoon. Farmhouses and crops, such as olive groves and vineyards, are standard features of this Route. These farmhouses are called “katoikies” by the local people and conform to vernacular insular architecture. They are made of stone and present characteristic complementary structures of farming lifestyle, such as oven and threshing floor. The island of Antiparos contributes to the rebuilding of viticulture in Cyclades through the preservation of indigenous winemaking vine varieties. During October and November, the production of “tsipouro” (the so-called “souma” by the local people) as well as the prominent “Kazanemata” are considered to be social events. It is important to raise and extend awareness of biodiversity protection towards the field of viticulture, as protection and enhancement of the rural agricultural heritage, constitute major factors of preserving both our natural and cultural heritage!

Useful information: 

You can also cross this route by mountain bike; the route is categorized as Easy. If choosing to do so, it is suggested that you should return using the main road that connects Livadi to Chorio. 

Theme: Natural heritage 

Route duration: 1 hr. & 30 min

Route length (distance): 4.1 km

Incline: 6.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate 

Connection with other routes: Route 3 and Route 6

Useful information: 

“I grew up in Chorio at a house in the Castle. Each time we wanted to visit Agios Georgios, we were following the road to Livadia. At the junction of the road that leads to the beach and before you arrive at Agios Panteleimonas, we used to turn left and move towards Monastiria”. “Pano Dromos” was an old mule road that connected Chorio (Castle) with the settlement of Agios Georgios. “Kato Dromos” was along the seafront on the eastern side of the island. Following the “Pano Dromos” route and exploring its history, you will reach the Monastiria bay, where a wonderful beach can offer you the chance for a refreshing dive before continue your ascending to “Kakia Skala”!

Useful information: 

It is recommended to combine Route 5 with Routes 6 and 6B (overall route duration: 3hr & 15 min). Though it is considered as a trail of Intermediate difficulty level, this integrated route will offer you the unique experience of how people of Antiparos used to travel on foot or by animals!

This route is also suitable for mountain biking and it is categorized as Easy. If this is the case, it is suggested that you should continue further to Routes 6 and 6B. Their level of difficulty is Intermediate and Easy respectively.

Theme: Georoute

Route duration: 45 min

Route length (distance): 1.7 km

Incline: 8.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other routes: Route 6A, 6B and Route 5

Useful information: 

In 19^th century, there has been an intense research for ores at the Monastiria area. “Kakia Skala” has been the major mining zone, where the French Company of Lavrion has deployed a systematic operating program for ore exploitation. The excavated ore was the so-called “kalamina”, a mineral ore of zinc (smithsonite). At the wider area of Monastiria-Bougiouka, the main extracted ore was lead. The remnants of the quarry process, such as extracted materials and various structures, prove the intense mining activity of the area. This Route can be considered as a “living laboratory” for mineralogy and petrology, as manganese oxides and iron oxides occur in the surface environment throughout the trail.

Useful information: 

This Route is complementary to Route 5 and by completion you can choose to follow Route 6A or 6B with destination the chapel of Profitis Ilias or the settlement of Agios Georgios respectively. If you choose to combine the Routes 6A, 6B and 7, you can also make a small detour to Route 6 and get into Antiparos’ mining history.

The route is also suitable for mountain biking and its level of difficulty is Intermediate.

Theme: Natural heritage

Route duration: 45 min

Route length (distance): 1.2 km

Incline: 10.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other Routes: Route 6, 6B and Route 7

Short Description:

Profitis Ilias, the highest peak of the island, is just 300m above sea level and exhibits a view of 15 islands. It is therefore considered as the “watchtower” (vigla) of Antiparos. The homonymous chapel was built in 1937 by the inhabitants of the island. Ioannis Patelis’ contribution to this chapel’s construction was really important; he was working at the mines of the region at that time. Being persistent and patient while enjoying the company of his donkey, he contributed to the building of the chapel by carrying materials up to the top.

Useful information:

 This Route is part of a circular route combining Routes 6B and 7, while being part of a demanding trail in which Routes 3, 5, 6 and 7 are combined.

This Route is suitable for mountain biking as well, and it is considered as a trail of Intermediate level of difficulty. Bagging the peak where Profitis Ilias’s chapel lies, you meet the junction of Route 6 and 6B, and you can choose your preferred trail.

Theme: Natural heritage

Route duration: 1 hr.

Route length (distance): 2.6 km

Incline: 6.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other routes: Route 6, 6A

Short Description:

The Route develops on a dirt road with rough and rocky segments along the trail. Depending on the direction you choose to follow, this route will direct you towards or away from the settlement of Agios Georgios. This settlement began to develop since 1975 by a building cooperative offering a general residential plan and having a vision to create an exemplar “insular” settlement. Across the bay of Agios Georgios, the islands of “Tsimintiri” and “Despotiko” are of significant archaeological importance and they can be reached by boat.

Useful information: 

This Route is part of a circular route combining Routes 6A and 7, while being part of a demanding trail in which Routes 3, 5, and 6 are combined.

This Route is suitable for mountain biking as well, and it presents an Intermediate level of difficulty.

Theme: Natural heritage

Route duration: 1 hr.

Route length (distance): 1.6 km

Incline: 10.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other routes: Route 6B, 6A and Route 8

Short Description:

This Route develops in a pathway full of clusters of coniferous and maquis vegetation. The term “maquis vegetation” is used to describe evergreen broadleaf bushes, which constitute a typical Mediterranean ecosystem. These clusters are created at low and medium altitudes, mainly on a limestone bedrock. In particular, dense clusters of Pistacia Lentiscus (Skinos) and Juniperus phoenicea (Fida) are also encountered. This path was convenient when travelling by mules towards and from Agios Georgios’ settlement through the ridge of Kampia. It is part of the main axis connecting the southern with the northern part of the island, called “Pano Dromos, the mountainous one”.

Next to the path’s development axis, you will encounter a vertical excavation (well), a remnant of the mining activity of silver galena in the northern part of ​​Agios Georgios’ settlement. It is suggested that you admire this kind of excavation, while keeping a distance from it and not to bend over to explore its depth!

Useful information: 

This Route is part of two circular routes combining Route 6B and Route 6A, and Route 6A and Route 8 respectively. The mentioned duration refers to the downhill course of Route 7. If you choose the uphill course, you should add 15 more minutes.

Theme: Georoute

Route duration: 1 hr. & 15 min

Access Time on Route: 20 min (612m)

Route length (distance): 2.2 km

Incline: 7.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other routes: Route 10 and Route 6A

Short Description:

Remnants of the abandoned iron mine are considered to be the main features of this Route, a mine that operated between 1890 and 1910 at this area. The extracted iron ore consisted of hematite, goethite and limonite. Hematite is named after its red colored tinge. It is used as a semi-precious stone, and in industrial processes as well. Goethite is named after the German poet, author and philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, as Germany boasts an abundance of this mineral. The limonite has a distinctive yellow ocher color. Minerals embrace our everyday life and they are everywhere around us!

The mining activity that developed in the area has now been abandoned, while no protection measures have been taken and therefore you must be very careful! There are also remnants of auxiliary infrastructures, such as carved and paved roads, sheds and ramps for loading ore.

Useful information:

Following the dirt road to access the Route, you will meet a beehive alongside. Keep a safe distance from it and do not use any fragrances/aroma when following this route. Fragrances/aroma attract bees!

Theme: Cultural heritage

Route duration: 30 min

Route length (distance): 1.2 km

Incline: 9%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Connection with other routes: Route 9

Short Description:

The Cave of Antiparos is closely linked to the history of the island since it was a significant attraction for many visitors since the Great Expeditions (18th – 19th century). During the years of piracy, it was used by the inhabitants as a refuge; hence it is called “katafygi” (refuge), I.e. shelter. All the engraved inscriptions found on the cave’s walls constitute an inexhaustible source of stories, legends and information for its famous – or not – visitors. The cave is well-known for the Europe’s oldest stalagmite (45 million years old) as well as its rich lithomatic decoration.

People used to take this Route on mules up to 25 years ago and it was considered as a customary way. Nowadays, Agios Ioannis Spiliotis’ fest is still an existing custom that takes place on May 8th!

Useful information:

You can visit the Cave of Antiparos by the public bus (bus routes and the opening hours of the cave can be found on the ANTIPAROS ROUTES website).

Arrival at the cave by mules at 1992 (source: Jan Bergtun)

Antipariotes at the entrance of the Cave, May 8, 1948. Celebration of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis (source: Ηλίας Τσιμικλής)

Theme: Georoute

Route duration: 1 hr. & 40 min

Route length (distance): 5.1 km

Incline: 4.5%

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Short Description:

The southern part of Antiparos consists of volcanic rocks, thus creating extraordinary geological formations. In the bay of Faneromeni, typical forms of cellular disintegration of volcanic rocks, known as “tafoni”, can be founded. “Tafoni” are formed by intense wind and chemical weathering. The most possible mechanism leading to their creation is when water dissolved salts enter the micro cracks of the rock. Water evaporation forms salt crystals that fill the empty spaces and exert tension on the interior of the rocks and therefore a part of the rock is being detached. After years of this mechanism taking place, the formed cavities are getting even larger. Furthermore, this part of Antiparos belongs to Natura 2000 (Europe’s protected Areas Network) entitled “Paros Islets and Southern Antiparos” under code No GR 4220025 (Special Protection Area).

In addition to the remarkable geodiversity and biodiversity offered in this route, you can also reach hidden beaches, by making short detours from its main axis, where you can enjoy a refreshing dive without being disturbed at all!

Useful information: 

The route leads to the southernmost part of the island and from there you can turn back to Soros settlement. Thus, the overall route duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes.