general information

The island

The island of Antiparos is located southwest of Paros, from which is divided by a shallow channel, of approximately 4n.m. wide, and 4,2m deep. The island covers an area of 35sq.klm, and because of its long shape it has 57klm of beautiful coasts.

The land to the north is flat and fertile while small hills rise from the center to the west, with Profitis Helias (300m.) being highest. The western coasts of the island are smooth and sandy, while the east ones are rough with small bays. The island is surrounded by numerous smaller islands. To the north: Kavouras, Diplo and the rocks Kokkinos Tourlos and Mavros Tourlos . In the northern entrance of the channel we come upon the Magrines, Rematonisi (owned by the family of Goulandri) and Saliagas with the lighthouse and the remains of a prehistoric settlement. Northwest we can find the biggest one, Despotiko, which together with Antiparos creates a leeward bay, and a little further more Stroggilo. All these islands except Rematonisi, are uninhabited and some of them are used as pastureland.

The settlement

The main settlement, the Castle and the port are found in the north side of the island. The approximately 600 residents of the settlement are occupied with farming, fishing and mostly, the last years, with tourism. The fast and easy passage to Paros (8 min. from Pounta and 25 min. from Paroikia), gives the ability to the locals to enjoy the peaceful life of a small island, while they can also have access to the facilities of a bigger one. Either way the growth of the local infrastructure , with hotels, cafes, bars and commercial shops, can satisfy most of the locals and visitors needs.