Kéa is a secluded Cycladic Greek island, set just a short hop from Athens. Yet despite its accessibility and familiarity to locals, it remains a hidden gem for visitors. Unspoilt, somewhat wild, peppered with archaeological sites and protected waters that are perfect for diving, there’s plenty of reasons to put Kéa on your radar.
One more reason: One&Only Kéa Island, an ultra-luxury all-villa resort that is just a 45-minute speedboat ride from Athens.
This season, Ancient Greek Sandals has collaborated with the brand to create a four-sandal capsule collection, which you can find exclusively at the resort. Showcasing Mediterranean craftsmanship, the sandals feature details such as waxed cord whipstitching, hand-stitched leather on our signature vegetable-tanned vachetta, and fine eco-leather straps with stitch accents. Of creating the collection, Christina Martini says, ‘Designing this capsule over the past winter made me dream of summer – imagining how I would wear each pair during my stay at One&Only Kéa Island and the island of Kéa, an island that holds a special place in my heart’
Our mini guide to Kéa should provide further inspiration for visiting this precious island, with background from One&Only and local recommendations from our co-founder Christina Martini.
Vourkari Village
A charming coastal village near the main port of Korissia on the northwest coast of the island, Vourkari is known for its marina, restaurants, colourful cultural events and vibrant atmosphere.
Christina recommends:
- Breeze, great for breakfast.
- Aristos, the famous fish restaurant.
- 9 Kores, a restaurant with tables on the sea, for more traditional cuisine.
- Aqua, an Italian restaurant, which becomes a bar in the evening. The setting, with tables on the beach, is magical.
- Pyx1s for kaftans, baskets and one-of-a-kind pieces from Asian and Greek brands.
Ioulida Town
Ioulida, Kéa’s colourful hillside town and capital, is vibrant and historic. Don’t miss the atelier of celebrated Greek painter Alekos Fassianos or the Archaeological Museum of Kéa.
Christina recommends:
- Piazza a traditional tavern in the small square, with home-cooked dishes.
- Ton Kalofagadon and Paparouna, both in the big square, specializing in keftedakia (meatballs) and paidakia (pork chops).
Favourite Beaches
Kéa is fringed by 56 secluded beaches, offering tranquility and unspoilt natural beauty. Fourteen bays out of 56 secluded beaches are accessible only by boat.
Christina recommends:
- Xyla beach, accessed by a dirt road but worth the journey
- Spathi beach, also difficult to reach but worthwhile, with a small bar
- Orkos and Sikamia, just two of many deserted beaches
Hike to Ancient Karthea
Hike to the ancient city of Karthea to explore the ruins of the amphitheatre and temples of Athena and Apollo