Why You Should Visit Koufonisia, the Caribbean of Greece

Greece is a country that is made up of many islands that deserve, each one of them, a visit. Koufonisia is also in our list and should be yours too. Koufonisia is like a lost paradise. This place invites every visitor who wants calm and peaceful holidays full of immense landscapes that will make you want to keep hundreds of pictures! It is certain that the beauty of these islands will not leave you without a motivation. 

Koufonisia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece, and every year even more travellers are setting sail to this majestic part of the Cyclades. The Koufonisia islands belong to the small eastern Cyclades complex and consist of the Lower and Upper Koufonissi, while they are located west of Amorgos and southeast of Naxos. You have to point out here that Keros is an integral part of Koufonisia as well. Keros is a small, uninhabited island of 15 sq. Km, which hosts important findings of the Cycladic civilization and culture.

Although in the last decade the visitors have increased significantly, the natural beauty of the island remains unchanged. As the Greek ferry approaches the port, the windmill on the left side of the waterfront and the white houses of Chora, built on the hillside of the island, welcome you by giving a small taste of what is about to be revealed in this beautiful Cycladic landscape. Many people characterize Koufonisia as an "Earthly Paradise" and not unfairly! The golden beaches, the crystal blue waters and the abundant "mysterious" caves make up an enchanting setting, ideal for holidays full of pictures and relaxation.

Taking a look at the social media in recent years, you will have noticed that Koufonisia is one of the top travel destinations. The two small islands of the Small Cyclades have become a hot spot for local and foreign tourists and they are the first choice for every summer vacation itinerary. Unless you into free camping, your base will be Ano Koufonissi. Kato Koufonissi is now uninhabited and gathers people only on the beaches. You will also find some taverns there during summer, while Ano Koufonissi in the 2001 census numbered 366 permanent residents. Of course, this number goes up immensely during the summer months. There are many hotels and rooms to let in Koufonisia, especially near the harbour and if you make a reservation in time you can find very good offers in strategic locations where you will have everything at your feet. This, of course, does not mean that you will be isolated if you decide to stay away from the port.

Perhaps the biggest asset of the island is its small size and hence its proximity to the best beaches and taverns. Wherever you stay, you can make a stroll on foot. Chora is 5 minutes from the harbour and has everything you need, without unnecessary luxuries and without losing sight of the narrow alleys. It consists of a beautiful scenic alley that you walk in within 10 minutes. You will love going down that alley... Nightlife in Koufonisi is based on specific spots. Surely you will love the famous bar, which is a point of concentration and a landmark, in Ano Koufonissi. You can sit on the edge of the rocks over overlooking the magnificent sea view as the waves pop on your feet, which is very romantic if you have travelled as a couple. As for the cocktails, it's one of the best you've ever tried. Exceptional funk and reggae music choices. For fun, Chora is a one-way street. It is better to get there early to catch a table on the alley and drink a "rakomelo" with your company. Just before the end of the Chora, there is another great bar, ideal for early drinks. 

Koufonisia is a beautiful place one of those lost paradises that take a while to be forgotten. Be prepared, after your return, you will not be satisfied with anything else. You will want and need to go back. I've been there... It is also a great retreat to relax after a hard winter, but also to spend a quality holiday together with good people and away from the cosmic fast pace of the classic Aegean destinations.

Koufonisia is a big love of mine. Actually, this place gets the No1 place in my top 5 islands in the Cyclades! 

A summer destination (not only, since you could also enjoy the marvellous beaches until mid-October as well) that you could choose this year is and there are plenty of reasons why you should do so. 

These are only some things that will make you want to find yourself in Koufonisia during your next summer vacation:

- This lovely complex of small islands is only about 4 hours from Rafina and about 7 hours from Piraeus.

-The sea caves in Koufonisia are one of the things to visit no matter what.

-Nice place for those who don't want to use a car.  The perfect place to take walks on foot. You do not need a means of transport in Koufonisia and you can discover a lot when walking.

-Beaches, stunning beaches! We are talking about incredible beauty and we do not lie about it. Blue-green waters and sandy beaches that do not have to envy anything from the tropical places of other destinations outside Europe. Parianos, Finikas, Fanos, Italida and Pori are the beaches that you should visit in Pano Koufonissi. You will understand why some people call this place the Caribbean of Greece.

-It is an island chosen by those who love water sports and you will see many surfers practising and playing in the sea.

-The main products you can find around Koufonisia islands are seafood delicacies and fresh fish. All you have to do is choose to sit in a  scenic tavern and enjoy your seafood appetizers while drinking ouzo.

-Cool destination for your Greek island hopping holidays. Koufonisia are close to Anafi, Schinoussa, Donousa, Naxos, Paros, Amorgos, Ios and Santorini. You can combine a visit to most of them during the summer months.

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