Small yet wondrous, Kea or Tzia is just a breath away from Athens. This island differentiates itself from its other Cycladic counterparts. Mythology claims that Kea was the island of Nymphs due to the water sources that keep the soil fertile and the vegetation lush and verdant. Kea is perfect for those seeking islandic coolness served with a slice of mother nature. The Royal Oak forest is one of the many wonders of this island. The oak flour is used to make delicious cookies, perfect for dipping them in your morning Greek coffee. The shipwreck of Brittanic, the sister ship of the Titanic lies underneath Kea. Even the town of Ioulida, Kea’s capital has a distinctive aesthetic. Here you won’t find the white cubic houses with the candy-colored doors but red-tiled rooftops on houses and neoclassical buildings. Should you wish to experience that Cycladic allure, the seaside village of Vourkari will do the trick. For your dives choose Koundouros, Xyla, Sikamia and Psili Ammos. If you feel like pumping your fitness levels, there are many hiking trails to choose from. To Spiti, To Steki and Paparounas won’t fail to satisfy your seafood/Greek food cravings.