Loutra/Loutrou is a delightful little harbour on the north east corner of Kithnos. Laidback and carefree, Loutra has been attracting visitors for centuries, many seeking the restoratives powers of its natural hot springs. Whether you too are looking to “take the waters” or you would just prefer to chill out in one of the harbourside bars, Loutra provides a perfect port of call for any sailing holiday.
Loutra is a popular first stop for charter yachts from Athens. On Sundays the tiny harbour can be filled to overflowing so if you want a secure berth with walk ashore access you might want to cut that afternoon swim stop short. When I say the harbour is tiny, I mean it. If there is space inside make sure you have all your ropes prepared and fenders down before entering. Inside the harbour shelter is excellent. If you have to moor on the outside wall be sure to put some distance between your transom and the quay and try to stagger your mast and rigging with neighbouring yachts. A far distant and unseen daily high speed ferry creates a significant wash that can cause temporary mayhem for the uninitiated! Likewise when the Meltemi blows strongly the outside wall can be a bit uncomfortable.
The harbour has power and water on the quay and the showers are located near the Harbourmasters office. Free Wifi is available (2015). A small charge is sometimes made for the nightly use of the quay.
Keep an eye on the depth as you approach the harbour as silting sometimes occurs.
Provisions are limited in Loutra but the restaurants serve excellent food and there are a number of good bars.
In its heyday Loutra was a “must-do” on any noble Greek or Roman’s holiday list. Famed for its mineral rich hot springs it drew visitors from far and wide. Greece’s first king (King Otto) was so taken with the place he had a spa built here which still stands today.
If you don’t fancy the somewhat dilapidated surroundings of this establishment for your water treatment, just take a stroll down to the southern end of the very nice beach. Here you can lie back in a partially enclosed rock pool and relax in the therapeutic spring that bubbles up from the depths below. Warning: the water can be extremely hot here so test the temperature before committing your whole body!