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From a distance, Anafi, in the south-east corner of the Cyclades, looks like no more than an isolated rock in the ocean. According to the myths, Apollo raised the island to provide refuge from a storm to Jason and the Argonauts.

Archaeological finds have demonstrated that Anafi was inhabited in antiquity. Today, there are a few inhabitants and tourists have only recently discovered it. On the south coast there is the small port of Agios Nikolaos , with a few tavernas and rooms;don't miss the delicious spaghetti with lobster while you are there. A road leads from the picturesque harbour up to Hora, the only settlement of any size, built on a naturally amphitheatrical site in the centre of the island.

The beaches of Anafi, most of them sandy , are lapped by crystal-clear water. Most of them are within walking distance from the port, and the more you walk, the more isolated they become. The local religious feasts are very lively, and so are the island dances.

The main attraction, however, is the monastery in the east of the island, on the summit of a precipitous peak. Daring visitors usually climb up at dusk (when the sun is not strong but there is still enough light), spend the night in the yard outside the chapel and come back at dawn before it gets hot. It takes courage, but the view and the sunrise are worth it. Don't try it, unless you have company, sleeping-bags and something to eat and drink.

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