The cradle of Cycladic civilization, Antiparos is a small paradise in the center of the islands, with golden sand beaches surrounded by crystal blue-green waters.

Imagine yourself in the town of Pounta on the isle of Paros. Go to the chapel and open the door wide. The boatmen on Antiparos will see the door wide open and will cross over the narrow channel (500 to 1000 metres, which connects the two islands) to get you and bring you to Antiparos. This ancient custom is certainly the most romantic way to get here, besides being the most traditional.

The capital, Antiparos or Kastro, is built around a medieval castle. Among the principal attractions of Antiparos is the famous cave of stalactites on Agios Ioanis hill. There is a chapel to St John of the Cave (Agios Ioanis Spiliotis) at the mouth of the cavern. Antiparos has a number of beaches with golden sand and blue-green waters. It is surprisingly easy to find a beach where you can be totally alone and undisturbed. The island’s shores are filled with stretches of hidden beaches below the cliffs and ridges. Some water activities that you can enjoy besides swimming are: windsurfing, sailing, surfing and spear fishing. But if you really want to add special excitement to your visit, go for a swim on a moonless night. Joining you will be tiny microorganisms, which make the water glow with an awesome green light. Now that makes for an amazing swimming experience!

In the town square, you will find little cafes offering tables under the sun or in the shade, where you can relax and enjoy something to eat before, during or after shopping. Speaking of shopping, along the village's two main streets you also find shops with traditional art, souvenirs, jewelry and casual wear. The dive shop offers scuba diving and snorkeling equipment, fashion swimsuits and the 2004 Olympic games items. Next to the square, you can visit "Castro", a block of houses build in 1450 to protect the inhabitants from the pirates that invaded the island. There is also a small museum of ancient Cycladic art there. Meet back up with everyone in the evening for coffee and chat or have drinks at the several bars available to you.

The main occupation of the islanders on Soros, the only other village on the island, is fishing and hunting (when permitted - mainly hares). There are many wonderful beaches here for everyone to enjoy.

The island is very pleasant and particularly likes the vacationers who bring their young children along. It’s an island ideal for those looking to escape from the usual holiday crowds as well for those looking for a perfect combination of quality diving and adventure.

So, if you are not a fan of the cosmopolitan lifestyle of the much-frequented islands and you are looking forward to spending your vacations at a serene and secluded island of unique beauty, opt for the magical island of Antiparos.