One of the Ionian islands just south of the tip of the Peloponnese peninsula is Kythira. Long a crossroads for sailors and maritime traders, this island offers visitors an incredible mix of Venetian and Aegean architecture and culture that reflects the variety of people who have lived here over the centuries. There are several dozen small villages scattered around Kythira. The main port is at Diakofti, on the southern end of the island, and there is also a small commuter airport here. The capital is Chora, but perhaps the most intriguing village is Paleochora, home to incredible Byzantine architecture within its fortified cliff-top location. Tourism hasn't really taken off here yet, so visitors can expect a quiet relaxing holiday where traditional Ionian life still rules the roost. Many of the beaches are undeveloped, though some contain resorts and hotels in Kythira. Nikolaos and Avelmonas are two of the more popular beaches to go to. Kythira is known as Aphrodite's Island for good reason: it's both beautiful and inspiring.

other spellings: kythirahotels, otelin kythiar, kythria hotell, kytihra hote, kyhtira hotle, ktyhira hotes