The island of Kea or Tzia, the "Gate of the Cyclades" as it is characteristically called, with its calm life rhythms, is the nearest to Athens Cycladic island. The oaks forests, the old streets, the traditional stone houses, the imposing neoclassical buildings, the tower ruins, the old springs and the quaint chapels are the key features of this peaceful place.

Capital of Kea is captivating Ioulida or Chora which stands perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea. The cobbled and winding streets, the white houses, and the colorful buildings with tiled roofs compose a particular residential complex. During your walk in Chora, your attention will be captivated by Dimotikià, the Cathedral of Ioulida, which dominates in the neighborhood of Katochori and is dedicated to Virgin Mary’s Annunciation. In Katochori, you will come across Alekos Fasianos's, with a distinctive mural, house. Capital’s reference point is the Piazza; the oldest square of Chora, where you will find traditional café, quaint taverns and tourist shops. Following a path which starts from the square, you will reach the Castle area. An important attraction of Ioulida is the Archaeological Museum, where, amongst other exhibits, the famous Daughters of Kea dominate. It is also worth visiting the Main Square with the characteristic tall tree, "stegadia" roof tops with Alekos Fasianos wonderful paintings and the imposing neoclassical building of the Town Hall, which hosts today the "Musical Workshop". Just outside the capital, the legendary Ioulis Lion dominates; Liodas, as the locals call it. The "petrified guardian" of Chora is six meters long and is carved on a rock.

In the northwestern part of the island, Vourkari picturesque fishing village lies. Along the beach, you will find trendy café, stylishly taverns, galleries and shops with souvenirs. You can enjoy fresh fish and other local delicacies, overlooking the sheltered bay. Across Vourkari the peninsula of Agia Irini, with the homonymous chapel unfurls. There, an important prehistoric settlement has come to light.

South from Vourkari, you will find the natural harbor of Korissia or Livadi, built where the ancient town of Coressus used to be. Today, on the hill of Agios Savas, remains of the citadel are found as well as the ruins of a temple on Trinity hill. Moreover, the excavations in the area have revealed an ancient cemetery ruins and the famous Kouros of Kea which are now exposed in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. An important attraction of Korissia is the listed enamel factory, with its impressive chimney.

Continue your trek in Kea, with a visit to Koundouros; the ancient Nirissos; one of the most picturesque "corners" of the island, which unfolds in its southwestern shores. The picturesque stone windmills and the impressive stone houses, combined with the sheltered coves with crystal clear waters, create a place of indescribable beauty!

On the north coast of Kea, beautiful Otzias, built in the homonym gulf, unfolds. Its golden sandy beach with trees, the colorful boats which dock at its pier and the picturesque churches of Agios Sostis and Agios Georgios on both ends of the bay are a great retreat!

Kea is ideal for trekking excursions, as it has a vast network of paved paths, which covers the entire island and has been designated as a paths network of Cultural Interest. The trails which are signposted with beautiful wooden signs, cross wonderful oak forests, pass from old springs and small chapels and end on the beautiful beaches of Kea.

The famous Festival of Folktales is an institution of the island. Held every year in July, it aims at preserving and disseminating the cultural tradition of the place. Storytellers, musicians and artists gathered in Kea are waiting to take you into fairy tales magical world, full of myths, legends and beliefs!

In this alternative island, Kea, the wild beauty of the mountains and the steep gullies marries perfectly with the serene image of the picturesque bays and the isolated beaches, creating a place full of contrasts and unstoppable scenery alterations!