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”. 

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 2nd is the World Wetlands Day and it remind us of both their ecological value and their contribution in life preservation!

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. 

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!