If you’re yearning for a stunning Greek getaway without the throngs of tourists that typically flock to these island paradises each summer, there’s one destination that should be on your radar. A bit off the well-trodden path, the uninhabited island of Koufonisia in the Cyclades offers an unparalleled holiday experience.
Koufonisia is part of the Small Cyclades, and ‘true’ to their name, they are so compact that you can easily traverse them on foot. While Pano Koufonisia has grown slightly larger and more touristy over recent years, Kato Koufonisia remains uninhabited – save for a solitary restaurant.
To explore this pristine paradise, you can catch the daily boat from the port of Pano Koufonisia to uncover the beautiful secluded beaches of Kato Koufonisia. The journey takes about 10 minutes and operates daily during the summer season.
The majority of the island’s beaches are only accessible on foot, as there are no roads. The hiking trails aren’t particularly challenging and offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
If you wish to spend the night on this island, you’ll have to do so under the stars, with the island’s native goats as your companions, reports the Express.
Although there is no overnight accommodation available on Kato, the island and its neighbour are renowned for boasting some of Greece’s finest beaches, untouched and unspoilt by overtourism. As for Kato, the island is devoid of cars, so if you’re planning a day of beach hopping, it’s best to do it on foot.
The island is so petite that you can traverse it in just a few hours. Four of the most stunning beaches on this minuscule landmass are Nero, Detis, Lakki and Pezoulia – all equally breath-taking with their turquoise waters and spectacular vistas out to the sea.
Back on Pano Koufonisi is where you’ll discover Chora – the only village in Koufonisia.
Here, you’ll find all the facilities you require for your holiday: a pharmacy, supermarket, medical centre and an ATM. There are also a handful of accommodation options, as well as eateries, bars and cafes where you can sit back and savour the leisurely pace of island life.