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Small Cyclades Travel Guide
Donousa Island Name
According to the Greek Mytholology the island was named after god Dionysus who was thought to have resided on the island.
Inhabitance History
Excavations in two settlements reveal that the island was inhabited since the Early Cycladic Period (3rd millennium B.C.). The findings from the excavations are mainly amphorae which date from the Geometrical Period (9th century B.C.) and are housed in the Archaeological Museum of Naxos. During the Roman Era it served as place of exile.
Settlers from Amorgos founded the village “Stavros” and the homonymous church. In the beginning of the 20th century the locals worked at the island’s mines digging out copper, iron and aluminum and up to the 50’s agriculture was basically limited to tobacco and onions. There are no springs or water resources on Donousa, except for the “spring” in Mersini village where a natural green picture is formed in high contrast with the rest of the island.
Schinousa Island Name
According to the local tradition, the island was named after a bush named “schinos” that thrives on it. There is also another version according to which the Venetian lord Schinoza gave its name to the island.
Inhabitance History
There is not much evidence from the Prehistoric Period but there are remnants found from the Hellenistic and the Roman Period instead. Being raided by pirates, the locals built the settlement on a hill for protection, a fact that eventually did not help them. The island has been abandoned many times and its last inhabitants were farmers from Amorgos.
Koufonisia Islands' Names
There is a theory supporting that the island’s name derives from the ancient expression “Koufos Limin” meaning “windless port”. A second version indicates that due to the natural form of these islands with the numerous caves which give the impression of hollowness (“koufio” in Greek) were named Koufonisia.
Inhabitance History
According to the Archaeological findings the islands were inhabited since the Prehistoric Period. The excavations also brought to light findings dating back to the Early Cycladic Civilization, the Hellenistic and the Roman Era.
Koufonisia were also used as a refuge by the pirates and in 1830 they joined the newly formed Greek State. The locals are engaged to fishing while, during the last decades with the development of tourism, the Upper Koufonisi (or koufonisia) was given a remarkable boost.
Iraklia Island Name
It is also called Rakleia and Arakleia and it is known as Agios Georgios too.
Inhabitance History
Remnants of ancient settlements and tombs are found on the island, evidence of the Early Cycladic civilization (3rd millennium B.C.), as well as ruins of the temples of Goddess Luck and Zeus (4th-2nd century B.C.).
Its coves and natural formed caves served as shelter for pirates and smugglers during the Turkish Occupation.
Keros Island Name
Also known as Kereia and Keria.
Inhabitance History
In contrast with today’s picture, the island was a very important centre of the Cycladic civilization. Among other objects and remnants, the famous statuettes of the “Piper” and the “Harper” were discovered on Keros, which are symbols of the Cycladic Civilization now exposed at the Archaeological Museum of Athens.
The excavations held on the islet “Daskaleio” which was connected to the shore of Keros in antiquity, led to a theory that Keros was the sacred island and a Gate to Hades and not Delos, as it is commonly believed. The island was part of the Athenian League according to an Athenian tax catalogue of 425 B.C.
Being mountainous, barren and difficult to access, with the passing of years the island went abandoned and nowadays it only visited for daily excursions.
Donousa
Returning from Crete to Athens, Theseus and Ariadne, daughter of Minoas, stopped at Donousa. God Dionysus who lived on it fell in love with her and Goddess Athena ordered Theseus to leave Ariadne on the island so that she got married to Dionysus. And eventually Ariadne stayed on Donousa with Dionysus.
Keros
According to a legend, Keros is the sacred island of the Ancient Greece and not Delos, as commonly believed. There is also a theory supporting that Keros is in reality the island of Asteria where God Apollo and Goddess Artemis were born.
Fokospilia, Cave of the wall
Every day from the port of Stavros there is a small boat going around the island. The route includes a visit to “fokospilia”, located at the cape Moschonas to the eastern part of the island, and a visit to the “cave of the wall” located at the White Cape to the North West part of the island.
Fokospilia is a marvellous cave with clear emerald waters which was used to be a refuge for the seals, therefore its name means “the cave of the seals”. The boat also stops to the “Cave of the Wall”, a fantastic place where you can enjoy the clear blue waters and admire the natural decor composed of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Spring
At Mersini village, located at the north east side of the island, a spring of potable water is found. A verdant ambience has developed around it due to the abundant waters flowing, a small oasis in contrast to the arid character of Donousa. The big old plane tree stands out offering its shade to the visitors that stop by to rest. The place also offers a great view towards the sea and on days with a clear atmosphere you might even manage to see the contour of Amorgos.
Sea caves
The sea caves are located at the Northern Cape of the Upper Koufonisi and can only be accessed by boat. Their crystal clear blue waters are just alluring and ideal for snorkelling.
Nearby Islets
The islets Aspronisi, Ofeidousa and Argilos are located at the northern part of the island and can be visited by boat. You should not miss the opportunity to explore them and swim in their charming, cooling waters which are ideal for snorkelling or spear fishing.
The peak of Papas
On the peak of this hill called “Papas” the chapel of Profitis Elias is found from which the visitor is rewarded with a magnificent view of the island and the surrounding ones.
The castle of Livadi
The castle is a structure of the Hellenistic Era offering a great view to the surroundings. It is set over Livadi beach to the north-eastern part of the island. It is also a place of archaeological importance where remnants of an ancient temple of God Zeus and another one dedicated to Goddess Luck have been found.
Agios Ioannis Cave
On the southern part of Iraklia the biggest cave of the Cyclades is found, Agios Ioannis Cave, which has remained completely unexploitied and, thus, maintains its natural beauty. It is richly decorated with stalactites and stalagmites which are naturally painted. A must see for cave lovers.
Cyclops’s Cave
Next to the Cave of Agios Ioannis Cyclops’s cave is found consisting in two large halls. According to Mythology the famous Cyclops “Poliphemos”, the son of Poseidon, lived in it.
Mericha bay
On the southeastern side of the island the bay of Mericha is found. It is a steep almost vertical rocky shore extending 100 metres high. It is naturally protected from the northern winds and a refuge for the local sea birds. You will definitely be astonished by this wildly beautiful scenery.
CLIMATE
The Small Cyclades islands except for Donousa, are located between the “triangle” formed by Naxos, Amorgos and Ios, Eastern Cyclades. Donousa is located east from Naxos and north from Amorgos.
The locals are generally engaged in fishing, livestock and agriculture and during the last couple of decades in tourism. Winters are mild and rainy and summers are hot. Especially during August the weather usually turns windy. Like most of the Cyclades, they generally lack vegetation and water resources.
TELEPHONE
The national prefix for Greece is +30 if you are calling from abroad. All numbers in the capital Athens start with the prefix 210 and are followed by 7 digits (e.g. 210-3227400).
The Area Code for Small Cyclades is: +30 22850.
If you wish to call abroad, you have to start by dialing the other country’s national prefix (i.e. 0049 for Germany, 0044 for England etc.) and continue with the area code and the number where you wish to call.
CURRENCY
Euro €
Euro Coins: 1 and 2 euro coins (gold and silver color), 10, 20 and 50 cents (gold color) 1, 2 and 5 cents (copper color)
1 euro = 100 cents / centimes.
Euro Bank Notes: Are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. It is not always easy to receive change for 200 and 500 Euro Notes.
BY BOAT
The Small Cyclades are connected directly with routes from the port of Piraeus. The trip lasts 8 to 10 hours depending on the itinerary.
There is a route operated by “Express Skopelitis” connecting the island of Naxos to Amorgos with stopovers at the Small Cyclades.
Small Cyclades are interconnected as well (Info Tel.: +30 22850 71438).
Blue star ferries
For accurate timetables and ticket costs please visit: www.bluestarferries.gr
Tel.: +30 210 8919800
E-mail: [email protected]
Skopelitis Lines
Skopelitis Lines Agency Tel.: +30 22850 71256, 71390, 71519
Piraeus Port Authority Tel.: +30 210 4226000, 210 4147800
Naxos Port Authority Tel: +30 22850 22300
Amorgos Port Authority Tel: +30 22850 71259
The Small Cyclades, as indicated by their name, are so small that neither taxis nor buses are operating routes there. The distances are relatively short and in most cases the destinations are within walking distance.
Especially on Koufonisia you will not need a vehicle for every destination is within walking distance. There is though the option of renting a bike or hiring a small boat at a reasonable price.
Take under consideration that there are no gas stations on these islands except for Upper Koufonisi.
BANKS & ATMs
You must be prepared carrying mainly cash because on those islands there are no bank branches except for Donousa and Koufonisi which have each an ATM.
MONEY EXCHANGE
Post offices exchange cash, but not traveler’s cheques, and usually charge lower commissions than banks. On Small Cyclades, though, you will not find a post office. Travel agencies and larger hotels exchange cash and traveler’s cheques but usually charge a higher commission. Credit cards are accepted in shops and restaurants, however, you will probably have to pay in cash.
POST OFFICE
The Greek post office is called ELTA. Post Boxes in Greece are YELLOW for normal post, usually with 2 slots for INTERNAL POST (meaning inside Greece) and post for ABROAD. RED Post Boxes are rarer and they are used for URGENT mail. REGISTERED mail is always handled and given a receipt for at the POST OFFICE.
Post Office facilities are operating on Naxos
Post Office
Naxos Tel.: +30 22850 72228
Filoti Tel.: +30 22850 31226
POLICE STATION
Koufonisia Police Station Tel.: +30 22850 26057
- Tourist Police: 171
- Hellenic National Meteorological service: +30 210 9699101-3
- Elpa (Car breakdown tourist information service): 174
- Naxos Port Authority: +30 22850 22300
- Amorgos Port Authority: +30 22850 71259
- Piraeus Port Authority: +30 210 4226000, 210 4147800
INTERNATIONAL PRESS
International Press can be found in the main settlements of the Small Cyclades but we suggest that you take it with you from Piraeus and Naxos.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police: 100
Fire Department: 199
Ambulance: 166
HEALTH
Naxos Health Centre Tel.: +30 22850 23333
Donousa Health Centre Tel.: +30 22850 51506
Schinousa Health Centre Tel.: +30 22850 71385
Iraklia Health Centre Tel.: +30 22850 71388, 22850 71545
Koufonisia Health Centre Tel.: +30 22850 71370
PHARMACY
There are no pharmacies on the islands of the Small Cyclades. In case of emergencies you will be serviced by the health centres. So, take with you any first aid and indispensable pharmaceutical products.
Boat trips are organized everyday from the Upper koufonisi to the Lower Koufonisi. The beaches Detis, Nero and Pezoulia are secluded and tranquil sandy beaches with beautiful emerald waters ideal for those who enjoy relaxation and even nudism. You should definitely grab the chance to visit this small island heaven when you visit the Small Cyclades and live the divine calmness and utter tranquility in those secluded beaches of the Lower Koufonisi as this is an experience you will carry with you for the rest of your life!
On the south eastern part of the island Fanos beach is found with its fine sandy coast and transparent waters. Fanos beach is quite near Harokopou beach and Chora while between those two beaches you will find a camping site with a restaurant and basic facilities. The beach is quite popular, so it is usually crowded and also offers a beach bar and some watersports facilities.
Harokopou or Finikas beach is found at the south eastern part of the island at the end of the coastal road. The beach has beautiful golden sand and cooling blue waters and it is included in the most famous beaches on the upper Koufonisi as it is easily accessed and it is also a usual choice for families too. In the area you will find various taverns, rooms to let and other facilities so that you have everything in hand!
Parianos beach is set on the south west coast of Koufonissia and it consists in a large sandy beach naturally protected from the winds as it is in fact the harbor where the small fishing boats are anchored. This place is ideal for families with young children and people who do not like transportations.
One of the most famous beaches on the island is Platia Pounta set on the south eastern part. A beautiful large sandy beach with alcohol-blue waters. The beach, although not organized, it is usually crowded as it is amazingly beautiful and attracts many travelers and locals. It is also nudism friendly and wind protected. A beach you should definitely visit!
Piscina beach is exactly what its name implies: a pool (the Greek word for 'pool" is "piscina"). Located on the eastern side of the island, it boasts an amazingly beautiful and naturally carved shape of a round pool. The waters are crystal clear and the beach is sandy with rocks surrounding it.
Pori beach is located at the far east side of the island and it is wind protected as its half-moon shape creates an invisible shield towards the meltemia winds. Pori beach is considered one of the best coasts in the Cyclades and is also ideal for wind surfing. It can be easily accessed either by the small road, used like a shortcut, from Chora or by the boats from Pori camping or Finikas. Its coast is covered by very thin and almost white sand, its waters are just marvelous and it is slightly organized with two bars serving the visitors. Almost a paradise on earth.
Karvounolakos beach is set on the south part of the island between Alimia and Merichas. This sandy beach is small and not organized but has marvelous waters alluring you to stay for hours in them! Around the coast you will see the stunning black rocks while its coast is of pretty light hues creating a unique contrast. There is no road leading to it, so it is best accessed by boat.
The beach is located at the south part of Iraklia, in the homonymous cove of Merichas. It is a small steep pebbled beach surrounded by steep cliffs making the scenery stunningly imposing. Merichas cove is ideal for isolation and relaxation while its deep, clean waters will make you not want to leave.
Tourkopigado beach is located at the south eastern side of the island, majestically set in a beautiful cove with pebbled coast and clear, cooling waters. The beach is completely untouched and unorganized although it can be easily accessed through a beautiful minor scenic road.
Alimia beach is located at the south west part of Iraklia and it is a coast of fine sand. Under its transparent green-blue waters a wreck of a German war plane is found which was shot down during the 2nd World War. As such, Alimia beach is the ideal place for snorkeling and underwater explorations.
This sandy beach with clear blue waters is set on the north side of the island. It is a small cove which, at calm days, offers a paradisiacal experience away from crowds and noise. Although it is nestled within a small cove, its location make it prone to strong winds so we only suggest this to those who love waves and are strong swimmers. Keep in mind that it is not organized so have all necessary supplies with you.
From this large beach you are granted with a marvellous view to Venetiko islet and to the island of Schinousa. Livadi beach is quite easily accessed as it is located right next to Agios Georgios settlement to the south. The waters are shallow and the beach is sandy, therefore it is the perfect choice families. Although it is not at all organized, maintaining its natural beauty, you will find some taverns and some rooms to let above the beach.
Agios Georgios beach is located right next to the port, on the north eastern part of the island. Its waters are blue and greenwhile the shore is covered by glittering golden sand. There are also some trees offering natural shade and some taverns and bars at the background.
Vazeou beach is a small beach at the south east coast with easy access. It is separated from Lioliou beach by a rocky shore and it is sandy and pebbled with marvelous deep waters and a natural cave providing shade to the bathers. It is not organized and there are no trees but you will definitely have a day of fun as it is calm and charming with a beautiful sea view to the south.
Lioliou beach is a large sandy and pebbled beach with clear waters, located about 30 minutes' walking distance from Chora following a dirt road southeast. On the beach you will find some big trees offering abundant shade and also a tavern and a bar where you can have a break from your day on the beach!
At about a 10 minutes' walk from Chora Livadi beach is found; a large sandy beach with shallow waters, big trees offering natural shade, rooms to let, taverns and shops. All that along with the two small capes on both sides that protect it from the winds, make it ideal for families.
It is a large sandy beach just five minutes from the port to the south west. Tsigouri is a slightly organized beach with a beach bar and a number of trees for shade. There are also rooms to let, taverns and stores. It is ideal for families. There is a beautiful view towards Venetiko islet and Iraklia.
This beach is located behind the port of Mersini. It is a very small but beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear blue waters. It is not suitable for those who seek tranquility and seclusion though, because it is placed right at the back of the port. Boats and yachts usually use it as a harbour due to the natural protection it offers from the winds. There are some taverns and bars on the area as well.
Pretty close to Agios Vasileios beach you will find the beach of Feidous (or Feidousa) which is also an isolated sandy beach accessed only by sea. Likewise Agios Vasileios, Feidous is stunningly beautiful, secluded and calm and it is also ideal for naturists.
Agios Vasileios beach is possibly the best beach on the island but with limited access only by the sea because it is in fact on a private owned peninsula. The perfect spot for total relaxation and seclusion but also a very impressive scenery of supreme natural beauty! Besides, due to the difficult access, it can never be crowded!
Fountana beach is located to the east part of the island with easy access through a dirt road. It is a sandy beach approximately 40m. long with some rocks and beautiful waters, but it offers no trees and natural shade. Fountana is ideal for total privacy, relaxation and cutting yourself off the rest of the world!
Gero Limnionas is a beautiful untouched beach located 3km from Chora and can be reached after almost a 30 minutes' walk following the dirt road and then the narrow scenic path. It is sandy and its turquoise waters make it ideal for snorkeling and spear fishing. There are no trees for shade though, so you must be prepared.
It is considered one of the best beaches on the island because of the crystal clear waters, the sandy sea bed and the sand dunes. It is located on the eastern part of the island, at only 5 minutes walking from Messaria, and it offers natural shade from trees but it is completely unorganized.
Almyros beach is located almost 15 minutes on foot from the port of Stavros to the east. The beach is sandy with shallow waters and is divided in two parts by some rocks. There are trees offering natural shade and a snack bar too. Its shallow waters and the natural shade it provides make it ideal for families.
At Kalotaritissa area, at the north part of the island, three charming small beaches are found all of them sandy and pebbled with clear waters and whitish surface. Sapounochroma and Mesa Ammos are located next to Kalotaritissa village. Trypiti is a little further and is considered the best of all. All those beaches are ideal for campers and naturists too as they are pretty virgin and secluded.
Right next to Livadi beach there is a small sandy cove with a pier where the local boats operating routes around the island are anchored. Nestled within the rocky surroundings, this place is completely unorganized and never packed with people. We suggest taking the small boat from Stavros port early in the morning along with the necessary supplies so that you enjoy the absolute privacy and tranquility of Fykio beach.
Vathi Limenari beach is a secluded pebbled cove with beautiful blue waters set next to Kedros beach. It is accessible by boat or on foot following the path from Kedros. Vathi Limenari beach is suitable for those who seek tranquility and privacy while in the area the remnants of an ancient settlement are found.
Livadi is a large sandy beach with clear turquoise waters and white sand. It is quite near the village of Mersini at about 20' on foot) and it is suitable for free camping too. A small exotic paradise untouched by the human hand that is rarely crowded with bathers. You may reach the beach either by walking from Mersini village or by taking the small tour boat from the island's port, Stavros. An alternative way, especially for hiking lovers, would be walking through the path from Kedros beach. This will take you about 1 hour to get there but you will be rewarded with an unforgettable day of beach explorations!
At about 15 minutes walking distance from Stavros you will find the beautiful Kedros or Kentro beach. The free campers love this one and the nudists as well. The beach is sandy and the waters are crystal clear blue. At the fond there is a small bar where you can find refreshments, water and snacks. At the left side of the beach there is a path leading to the nearby Livadi beach.
Stavros beach is located right next to the port and the homonymous settlement of Stavros. It is a large sandy beach with clear blue shallow waters thus making it ideal for families with young children. In the middle and low season the beach is not very crowded but in high season its privileged position makes it one of the most popular coasts on the island. Besides, being next to the main settlement is an advantage for those who prefer having everything in hand including taverns, rooms to let and mini markets.
There are a lot of traditional recipes on Small Cyclades. Some of them are encountered on all of these islands and prepared in the same, traditional way. Of course there is plenty of sea food and fresh fish.
Goat stuffed with rise
This is a dish prepared on Easter. The goat meat is marinated in salt, pepper and herbs then stuffed with rise and baked in the oven.
Kavourma
This dish is made with pieces of pork fried in lard. A quite heavy but very tasty dish.
Giaprakia
Cabbage leaves are boiled in water and then carefully stuffed with rice and/or minced meat. Then they are placed in the casserole again to boil with sauce made with egg and lemon. This is one of Greece’s most tasty dishes while quite difficult and time consuming to prepare.
Fried herb pies with chard and fennel
After the sheets of dough are prepared they are stuffed with chard and fennel. They are then folded into various shapes so as to keep the stuffing and fried in a pan. A very distinctive flavour which can accompany either meat or fish dishes.
Klosta and Pitaridia
Klosta is the homemade pasta and pitaridia is a kind of pasta not cylindrical like the typical pasta but flat like lasagne which are traditionally cooked with milk.
Pasteli
This is a traditional sweet with sesame and honey and is usually prepared in special occasions. It is served wrapped in lemon tree leaves. Highly nutritious, light and tasty!
Aranista
This is a type of the traditional frumenty. The frumenty (called “trahanas” in Greek) is pasta made of flour and milk and its texture is grainy. It can be made sour or sweet, thick or thin. It is cooked with a lot of water like a soup and you can also add tomato juice or top with with grained cheese or even yoghurt.
Stuffed Lamb or Goat
This special dish is prepared on Easter. The meat is marinated with herbs, salt and pepper and then stuffed with pligouri (groats), butter, cheese, nuts and baked in the oven.
Fava
This is a tasty appetizer made by mashed and boiled grains of fava cereal with olive oil, salt, pepper and sliced onion.
Patatato
A traditional recipe prepared for special occasions. It is made with goat meat in red sauce and potatoes in the oven. Yet another delicious dish though quite heavy due to the sauce.
Pasteli
The same traditional sweet of Donousa (mentioned above) and many other places in Greece.
Melitinia
It is a kind of sweet cheese pies. The dough is prepared with flour, butter, yogurt, salt, egg and sugar. The stuffing is made with mizythra cheese, honey, mastiha and egg. Cinnamon is added on top.
Snails
For those who like exploring new or different tastes, this is a traditional dish with a remarkably distinct taste which will remain unforgettable. The snails are either boiled or sautéed and then garlic or tomato sauce and herbs (or all) are added.
Red wine (sweet or semi sec)
From the local vine varieties of mandilaria, athiri, fokiano, rozaki, and voudomato is produced a fine and tasty sweet or semi sec red wine.
Raki
In October the locals produce the famous and tasty raki with the traditional recipe. Raki is made by using the remnants of the grapes after the wine production and the outcome (raki) is a highly alcoholic spirit with an overwhelming taste…don’t go overboard with it especially if you are not a fan of alcohol! It will make you feel dizzy in only a few minutes!
Axialomizythra
This a special type of cheese made of yogurt. Special taste not easily found.
Thyme Honey
The local honey made from thyme is a fine quality product that you should definitely try or take home with you.
Cheese
Mizythra, xinomizythra, anthotyro and hard cheese are local specialties made according to traditional recipes. You should definitely ask for them or buy some for home (that is if you manage to resist their delightful taste on the way back!).
Xinomizythra
It is a relatively soft and low fat cheese made by sheep or goat milk, salt and yeast. Its sour taste distinguishes it from mizythra and anthotyro.
Cheese
The locals produce kefalotyri (a hard salty cheese), kopanisti (a soft, creamy cheese with spicy flavor) and xinomizythra (a type of mizythra with sour taste).
Other products
The land of Schinousa produces a variety of vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, green beans but fruits as well such as figs, melons, grapes and olives. You may buy those from the local stores or directly by the producers themselves.
Usually the religious feasts, after the morning church services, are followed by traditional music, dancing, food and drink, offered at an open feast.
- Every year on the 14th of September the celebration of the Holy Cross is held followed by a feast with music, dance and food.
- Annually on the 15th of August the celebration of Virgin Mary is held. Traditional dishes are prepared by the local people and are offered to the visitors gathered in the port.
- On the 17th of September the celebration of Agia Sofia is held in Mersini village followed by a feast under the old plane tree next to the water spring.
- On the 23rd of April (or on Monday after Easter) the celebration of Agios Georgios (St George) takes place, which is the island’s Patron Saint. A litany is held with the procession of the saint’s Icon followed by fireworks.
- On the lower Koufonisi every year on the 15th of August Panagia (Virgin Mary) is celebrated at the homonymous church. After the service, food is served and the followers pass by small boats to the Upper Koufonisi where a feast takes place with music and dance.
- The 14th of June is the fishermen’s’ day. Kakavia (fish soup) is prepared and served to the visitors on the jetty accompanied by a feast with traditional music and dance.
- The Annunciation of Theotokos (this means “Mother of God” meaning the Virgin Mary) is celebrated on the 25th of March and wine with cod is served.
- On the fourth Friday of the Lent the celebration of Panagia Akathi (standing Mary) is held at the homonymous church which took its name from an Icon of Mary from the Standing Hymn. The next day there is a feast with Lenten food.
- On the 15th of August a celebration in the name of Panagia is held at the church of Panagia Akathi. The feast includes traditional dishes, music and dance.
- In the village of Agios Georgios on the 23rd of April (or on Monday after Easter) the celebration of Agios Georgios (St George) takes place at the homonymous church.
- Agios Nektarios is celebrated on the 16th of November at = Panagia village with a feast with food and wine.
- A feast with traditional music, dance and food is organized every August on the 15th during the celebration for Panagia at the homonymous village.
The sun is very strong in summer and especially in August. Try to avoid the direct exposure for extended periods of time, especially from 11.00 to 16.00. You should often use a high factor sun cream or oil to get the maximum protection and get a nice sun tan.
As for transportation, we highly suggest a motorbike or bicycle as the distances are quite short. You should be careful though when driving on the Small Cyclades because the road network is not well maintained and there are not wide roads but narrow and winding.
Mind that there is no gas station to be found except for Koufonisi. There are no pharmacies but the local health centres will serve you instead and there are no post office facilities.
Although these islands are generally arid, there is potable water. Of course, you can always buy bottled water.
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