SMALL CYCLADES (KOUFONISSIA, SKINOUSSA, IRAKLIA, DONOUSSA)

A group of small islands situated south east of Naxos and west of Amorgos in the heart of the Aegean Pelagos. These small islands were only discovered by tourists in the last few years. They have minimal road networks and most of the traveling is done on foot or by boat. The fish, which is served in the tavernas, is both fresh and abundant as most of the island's inhabitants are fishermen. The way of life is peaceful and relaxed. The ferryboat services include connections between the Small Cyclades islands and with Naxos and Amorgos. Some days of the week there are also connections directly with Piraeus. We welcome you to the Small Cyclades, a place where the horizon remains unspoiled and where people are still connected with nature. Click here to contact us or make a booking on Koufonissia.

 
CONTACT US
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Tel. : +30 22850 74091, 71671
Mob.+30 6944 244158
Fax.+30 22850 74091 

info@koufonissiatours.gr

Introduction
If Paradise were an island, it would have brilliant greenblue water, windless sandy beaches, hospitable and friendly inhabitants, small white houses (one next to the other) and picturesque little roads that appear to be obscurely wreathed with flowers.
If Paradise were an island, it wound have secluded creeks and caves-ideal refuge for two, an abundance of fish and seafood, also opportunity for genuine island entertainment with a real magical island atmosphere.
If Paradise were an island, an automobile, credit cards and clothing, especially for going out at night, would not be necessary in order to get to know every corner.
If Paradise were an island, it would be in the Cyclades, between Naxos and Amorgos, just a few hours by boat from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina.
Welcome to Koufonisia, an earthly Paradise of the Aegean.

General information
Koufonisia are two islets southeast of Naxos and West of Amorgos.
Straight 200 meters wide separates the populated Upper Island from the presently unpopulated Lower Island. The Upper Koufonisi (which is frequently simply called Koufonisi) is the smallest island of the Cyclades, with an area of 3,5 square kilometers but the most heavily populated. It has 284 inhabitants, of whom 110 are young – an analogy, which is quite unique for greek standards. The island’s schools (kindergarten, grammar school, high school and lyceum) have a total of 70 students.
Koufonisi is the absolute fish island. All families are involved with fishing. The little cultivation that exists on the island and the few goats and cows essentially covers the household needs of the inhabitants. They tend to exaggerate by saying that their caiques outnumber their households. It is a fact though, that with 35 large vessels (without taking into consideration the caiques that are specifically used for octopus fishing and the smaller vessels) Koufonisi possesses the largest fishing fleet in Greece in proportion to its population.
Tourism discovered Koufonisia just only during the last decade and a result of this is that most of its pure charm has been preserved. Even though securing a beach all to yourself has become a bit more difficult – the pioneers of the unprofitable shipping line find the opportunity to complain that the island was “discovered”- the golden sand and the provocative shimmering sea is more than enough compensation.
The white windmill on the left of the dock of the port looks like it’s welcoming visitors, while above, the town (“Hora”) is spread out with its typical cycladic whitewashed houses. The inhabitants, still untainted by organized tourism, immediately make you feel like you are their guest. They are willing to transport you with their farm truck to the farthest beaches, even though the cost for chartering a caique to Lower Koufonisi, to the Seagull island or any beach on the island is very reasonable, as is the cost for living accommodations and delightful meals. The island has post-office, several restaurants and taverns, hotels and rooms for rent (in Hora and in Harokopou). Free camping is generally not permitted, but on the beach of Harokopou, approximately 1,5 kilometers from the port, you can find organized camping that provides one with basic conveniences.
Visiting Koufonisia is possible all year round with frequent service from ferryboats to the ports of Piraeus and Rafina although daily routes to and from the surrounding islands is provided by Flying Dolphins (Ios, Santorini, Amorgos, Naxos, Mykonos, Paros, Syros) and the legendary “Skopelitis” (Amorgos, Donousa, Koufonisi, Shinousa, Iraklia, Naxos).
History
Koufonisia have been populated continuously since the Prehistoric Age. Excavations in the area of Upper Mili brought to light significant findings of early phases of Cycladic Civilization. Perhaps the most significant finding is an earthen shaped pan with an engraved nine- rayed star, which is presently kept in the museum of Naxos. A second excavation sight in the south end of the East Coast revealed findings from the Hellenistic and Roman times. As research has proven, the neighboring island Keros, which is worth visiting constitute a significant center of Cycladic Civilization (3000-2000 BC). Throughout the centuries that followed, Koufonisia were subjected to the common fate of almost all the Cycladic islands, which was, being the apple of discord for various pirates. They had quite frequently been invaded and subdued by Turkish and Latin rulers. The Koufonisians, some times by need and sometimes by choice, would often co-operate with Maniates or other pirates, who would use their straight that separated the Upper and Lower Koufonisi as safe refuge. During the 17th century, the period of great conflict between the two naval superpowers of the time, Venice and Turkey, the Koufonisians found them-selves surrounded and confronted with the spectre of famine. They were obliged to eat all types of bulbs that grew on their unfertile island, before they ended up and “loupina”, which were being used for cattle feed. Koufonisia were liberated, along with the rest of the Cyclades, in the revolution of 1821.

Beaches
On the islands south coast stretch, from Pariano on the west side to Pori on the east side, the beaches are fascinating. Crescents of golden sand interchange with wild looking caves that the tide has carved into the rocks. In general terms, the further east you go the better the beaches are – and the denser the greenery comparatively is. A pathway parallel to the islands south coastline allows you to see and chose the beach that appeals to you. The most frequented beaches are Harokopou and Platia Pounda, the most secluded beach is Fanos and the most isolated beach, and probably the best, is Pori. It’s approximately 4 kilometers from the town, but – literally – it’s worth the effort. Bear in mind that the seaside road, in practice, has proved to be longer that it appears to be on the map but it definitely is a more beautiful road than the one that runs through the island. Beside the pathway you will find “ammothines” (small hills of sand where very rare flowers with white lilies grow), that you can only find in the Cyclades. Do not forget an excursion by caique to Lower Koufonisi. The coarse sand beaches are ideal for nudism and isolation. Also, in Upper Koufonisi, look for the “Pool” which is a stone tank filled with seawater that will offer you a memorable swimming experience.

Life on Koufonisi
Relaxation, distance from convention and pretence. An escape from the usual tempo of daily life. The inhabitants with their heartfelt smiles are hospitable. The restaurants and taverns offer fresh fish and seafood in very reasonable prices. The amateur, fishermen, of course, secures his or her own meals from the rocky caves that are ideal for fishing. It’s a fact that an automobile is unnecessary because the island distance can be covered by walking. You may visit the surrounding islands by chartering a caique or you may use Koufonisi as a starting point for daily visits to the rest of the Small Cyclades. If you are fortunate and find yourself on the island on one of its festive days, the experience will be unforgettable. On Saint George’s day (a saint who is considered to be the protector of the island) there is a procession of the saint’s icon around the island by a “chosen” islander. After Holy Service the islander, with icon in hand, walks through the islands rose petal covered roads, while at the same time, all the islands caiques accompany him by floating near the seashore. The procession concludes at the town church where food is offered (boiled beef with potatoes) to all persons present. The same night, the feast is continued on the island’s taverns. Holy Week on Koufonisi offers devoutness and true island color. On Holy Friday the port is light up, from one end to the other, with torches. At the time of resurrection (midnight Saturday towards Easter Sunday) the whole island is “shaken” by the fire works. Other island feast are on July 20th (Prophet Elias name day) and August 15th (the Assumption of Virgin Mary), where with caiques (at 7:00 a.m.) all the islanders travel to Lower Koufonisi in order to attend Holy Service at the church of Virgin Mary that is located on the island. After the service, food is offered (fried fish, lam and goat). On their return, the caiques race back to the port of Upper Koufonisi. That same night, winners and losers of the race treat each other drinks under the sound of violins playing. The last Saturday of June, “the Holiday of the Fisherman” is celebrated. On this festive occasion fish and drinks are offered to all present and entertainment is provided by musicians playing traditional island instruments. The stores on the island are closed on this night. If you happen to find yourself on Koufonisi on a night with full moon, you can observe the crest of the neighboring island Keros. On the horizon you can clearly see the shape of a woman lying on the water of the Aegean. A unique experience!

Keros
On the rocky and portless island, 1,5 nautical miles southeast of Koufonisi, existed one of the most significant centers of Cycladic Civilization (3000 – 2000 BC). Excavations on the west side of the island have brought out archaeological findings of great value, among them more than 100 marble statues. Two of them, the harpist and the flutist, are being displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Athens, although very impressive is the 1,4 meters high statue of the Great Mother. According to one version, Keros is identified with “Asteria”, the island where the ancient Greek Gods of mythology Apollon and Artemis were born – and not on Delos as is generally believed. The supporters of this theory find traces of Homer, the Orphics and other ancient sources that seem to be persuasive. Also, some claim that the unique style of the Cyclades statues, were inspired by the lying female figure that is clearly see on island’s crest. However, the view during Winter and Summer solstice is magical. Above the life giving organs of the mountains female figure, the moon rises in June and the sun in December, as if the celestial bodies that give light to Earth, are born here, behind the female of rock of a forgotten sacred island.

Koufonissia is the name of the two islands, which are separated by a strait 200 metres wide. Kato Koufonissi is uninhabited. Pano Koufonissi (which is called just Koufonissi) is the smallest of the Small Cycladic islands but the most densely populated. Koufonissi is a fishing area and all the families on the island are involve in the fishing trade. All along the southern coast of the island there are wonderful beaches with beautiful stretches of sand, azure blue and green colored sea and all kinds of water sports facilities. In Koufonissi there is a post office, petrol station, ATM, hotels and rooms for rent, tavernas, shops selling folk art and a few bars. The local festivals of Mother Mary (15 Aug.) and the ' Fisherman's celebration' (last Saturday of June) are a unique experience.

Iraklia is the southern most island of the Small Eastern Cyclades, rich in natural beauty and one of the last lost paradises of the Aegean. Far away from the bustle and noise of modern day life, its few inhabitants make their living from fishing, farming and the raising of animals. There is only one road, which connects the two villages of the island, Ai Yiorgis (the island's harbour) and Panagia (Hora). The road and the paths which criss cross the island lead to wonderful beaches, the cave of Ai Yiannis (one hour on foot from Hora), one of the most beautiful in Greece or to the ruins of Heraklia's castle. Apart from enjoying the natural beauty of the island the visitor can also try the fresh fish, the local "mezedes" (starters) which are served both in the cafenions and the tavernas and enjoy the traditional music and dancing at the festivals, which are held on the 23rd of April and the 15th August.

Shinoussa situated north east of Heraklia, has it's own special beauty. Its few inhabitants are concentrated in the two island settlements of Panagia and Messaria. The harbour of Shinoussa, (Mersini), is famous for being one of the safest harbours for small boats in the whole Aegean and is situated 1200 metres from Hora. Shinoussa has about fifteen small beaches, each one more beautiful than the other. Apart from the fresh fish on sale in the tavernas, visitors should try some of the other local specialties such as roast lamb with rice, small pies made with the local "mizithra" cheese, "diples" (a folded pastry with honey), "kopanisti" and "sour mizithra" (both local cheeses). On the 15th August when the festival for the church of Panagia takes place the celebrations sometimes go on for several days with food, wine and local island music.

Donoussa is situated opposite the eastern shores of Naxos, away from the other Small Cycladic islands. It's a few inhabitants live in the settlements of Donoussa (the harbour), Haravgi, Mersini and Kalotaritissa. The island has beautiful small beaches such as the one in the bay where the harbour is and at Kendro.

A few words about Naxos:
Naxos is seen as the "capital" for the Small Cycladic islands, being the largest island in the area and the island from which frequent ferryboat connections are made with the Small Cyclades. The capital of Naxos, which is called Hora, is a cycladic town offering modern conveniences (banks, a post office, a Health Center, internet cafes etc.), which cover all the requirements of the tourist during both the summer and the winter. It has a widely varied landscape with wonderful beaches, huge valleys, imposing mountain ranges and remarkable ancient remains from all periods of history.

Amorgos the most easterly of the cycladic islands has it's own rugged and imposing beauty. It has two harbours, Katapola and Aigiali, beautiful small villages and unique beaches. Hora, the medieval capital of Amorgos and one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades, is built in an island mountain area of the island and is not visible from the sea. The monastery of Hazoviotissas in Amorgos is one of the finest examples traditional ecclesiastical architecture wedged against an enormous vertical rock about 300 metres above sea level.