Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
they are historically fascinating. There is a site
museum
with some fine reconstructions
of temple features. Signs point the way from Sangri.
Apiranthos Απείρανθος
Apiranthos seems to grow out of the stony flanks of the rugged Mt Fanari (883m). The
village's unadorned stone houses and marble-paved streets reflect a rugged individualism
that is matched by the villagers themselves. Many of them are descendants of refugees
who migrated from Crete, and today the village's distinctive form of the Greek language
has echoes of the 'Great Island'. Apiranthos people have always been noted for their
spirited politics and populism and the village has produced a remarkable number of aca-
demics. These days, the village is peppered with wonderful, quirky shops, galleries and
cafes, and it's a lovely place to spend an afternoon wandering.
On the main road, to the right of the free parking lot and bus stop, is the
Museum of
Natural History
(admission €3; 8.30am-2pm Tue-Sun)
. The
Geology Museum
(admission
€3; 8.30am-2pm Tue-Sun)
and the
Archaeology Museum
( 8.30am-2pm Tue-Sun)
are partway along the main street. The latter has a marvellous collection of small
Cycladean artefacts. The museums are notionally open from 7pm to 10pm in summer,
but these hours are 'flexible'.
Check out the
Apiranthos Women's Association
, a small shop selling handmade em-
broidery and traditional woven goods and run entirely by local women who sit and stitch
while you browse. Also visit
Apiranthos Art
, the gallery and workshop of local sculptor
Narkissos, who creates glazed objects from local materials.
Eating
Taverna o Platanos
GREEK $
( 22850 61192; mains €6-10; lunch & dinner)
Set beneath the shade of its namesake tree,
this family restaurant serves up everything from yoghurt to grilled local meat to
homemade cheeses. Hearty and popular, it's a lively place to dine.
Lefteris
GREEK $
( 22850 61333; snacks €2-6; breakfast, lunch & dinner)
With a deck taking in a phenom-
enal view, this place has the look and feel of an old country kitchen, complete with a
well-filled hat stand, preserves and local baking. Treat yourself to traditional snacks and
treats.
