4 Reasons to Visit Koufonisia

Why did we write an article about four reasons for visiting Koufonisia?

First of all, because Koufonisia is a group of two beautiful islands, Ano Koufonisi (“upper Koufonisi”) and Kato Koufonisi (“lower Koufonisi”),
Secondly, these Cyclad islands are so small that you can quickly get around on foot.
And finally, holidays there involve swimming and sunbathing on their gorgeous beaches and spectacular crystal-clear waters.

In recent years, Pano Koufonisi has become a popular holiday destination. However, it still retains its traditional nature. Here, you will find rooms to let and picturesque taverns where you can try delicious fresh fish and seafood.

On the other hand, Kato Koufonisi is an unspoiled paradise that is pretty much uninhabited and only has one restaurant. Furthermore, you must sleep under the stars to spend the night there. Finally, when you wake up, you can meet the only inhabitants of the island: the goats!

Everything is within walking distance.

Cars are not required on an island about 3.5 kilometers from one end to another. As a result, all the beaches of Koufonisia are easy to reach on foot, and the distances are short. For instance, the longest walking distance from Hora to Pori (the most famous beach on the island) is around 40 minutes. But, if you don’t like walking in the hot sun (who does?), here’s some good news for you. Namely, small boats transport the beaches daily, from morning to sunset. Another popular option is bicycling, as few cars are on the island, and the highest point is only 113 meters.

It’s beautiful, but not crowded.

In the 80s and ’90s, Koufonisia served as a secret hideaway for offbeat yet sophisticated Greek visitors whose knowledge exceeded the content featured in travel guides of the time. Recently, the stream of visitors has come here with boat tours, etc. However, it is still calmer than in the other famous Greek islands, even during the TOP season.

Resort tourism has not reached this island. Even though camping is prohibited, visitors can find attractive accommodations for every budget. Due to not developed tourism, the island’s six beaches are not serviced. However, you could discover some beach bars offering everything from local cuisine to Mojitos. The most appealing thing is that having dinner in your swimsuit is expected here. More importantly, even walking barefoot in the town won’t raise eyebrows.

Because it has beautiful white sandy beaches and Caribbean blue sea

Due to its small size and the limited tourist development, activities in Koufonisia are restricted mainly to swimming and walking. Swimming is the only thing to do. The beaches in Koufonisia are not organized and provide excellent chances for total privacy (especially in Kato Koufonisi). Many of them are natural beaches. Free camping is also practiced frequently in Kato Koufonisi.

Walking and cycling is the only way to reach the beaches of Koufonisia island. Small boats also deserve most of the beaches and Kato Koufonisi.
If you enjoy cycling, some accommodations provide complimentary bicycles for their guests. Walking is also fun if the weather is not hot. Otherwise, it gets very tiring.

Because of its authentic local cuisine

The island offers picturesque little taverns in whitewashed Cycladic courtyards, small restaurants with tables on terraces with superb views, and others with tables by the sea or alley. Though the island is small, it offers a vast choice of food. All Cyclades supplies fish, while the meat is provided by local and regional producers who maintain livestock on Koufonisia, Naxos, and Keros. Meat and fish choices are well prepared on charcoal grilles. The recipes are passed on from one generation to another. Don’t miss trying the renowned souvlaki at Strofi in town if you decide to have something on the go.

So, what do you think about the Koufonisia islands? Would you be willing to spend your vacations there?