If you want a gorgeous Grecian holiday but don’t want to do battle with the hordes of other tourists who swarm this island paradise every summer, then one location is unmissable. Although it’s a little off the beaten path, the uninhabited island of Koufonisia in the Cyclades offers a holiday like no other.
Koufonisia belongs to the Small Cyclades, and indeed, they are so small that you can easily get around on foot. While Pano Koufonisi is slightly larger and has become a bit more of a tourist destination in the last few years, Kato Koufonisi has remained uninhabited – bar a single restaurant. To explore this untouched paradise you can hop aboard the boat that departs daily from the port of Pano Koufonisi to discover the gorgeous secluded beaches of Kato Koufonisi. The ride takes about 10 minutes and runs daily in the summer.
Most of the island’s beaches can only be reached on foot, as there are no roads.
The hiking trails are not very difficult and the breathtaking views of the Aegean. If you want to spend the night on this island, you’ll have to do so under the stars with the island’s native goats for company.
Although there’s no overnight accommodation on Kato, the island and its neighbour are famed for having some of the best beaches in Greece, untouched and unspoilt by over-tourism.
As for Kato, the island is car-less so if you’re planning a day of beach hopping,it’s best to do it on foot.
The island is so small you walk it in just a couple of hours. Four of the best beaches on this tiny island are Nero, Detis, Lakki and Pezoulia – all equally gorgeous with turquoise waters and stunning views out to the ocean. Back on Pano Koufonisi is where you’ll find Chora – the only village in Koufonisia.
There, you will find all the amenities you need for your holidays: pharmacy, supermarket, a medical center and an ATM machine. There’s also a couple of accommodation options as well as restaurants, bars and cafes to sit and enjoy the slower pace of island life.
