Donoussa

Donoussa, one of the most tranquil and untouched islands of the Cyclades in Greece:


Location: Easternmost island of the Small Cyclades, near Naxos and Amorgos
Best time to visit: Late May to early October
Ideal for: Nature lovers, solitude seekers, hikers, beachgoers, and those escaping mass tourism


🧭 Getting There

  • By ferry:
    • From Athens (Piraeus port) – ~7-8 hours (direct ferry, limited schedule)
    • From Naxos or Amorgos – ~1-2 hours (more frequent connections)
    • Small boats from nearby islands in the Small Cyclades (Schinoussa, Iraklia, Koufonisia)

🏘️ Main Villages

  1. Stavros (or Chora)
    • The main port and only real village
    • Tavernas, bakeries, mini-markets, a few rooms to let
    • White-washed houses and traditional Cycladic charm
  2. Mersini
    • A tiny village with panoramic views
    • Access point for Livadi beach
    • Home to Tzi Tzi taverna, famous for its food and sunset views
  3. Kalotaritissa
    • Very quiet hamlet on the north side
    • Great for a peaceful walk or a rustic stay

🏖️ Best Beaches

  • Kedros Beach
    • 20 min walk from Stavros
    • Crystal-clear waters, free camping vibe, and a small beach bar
    • Wreck of a WWII German ship visible underwater
  • Livadi Beach
    • Reachable via hiking trail (~40 min from Mersini) or by boat
    • Pristine, remote, and serene
  • Fikio
    • Very secluded, ideal for naturists
    • Requires hiking
  • Vathi Limenari
    • Hidden cove; best accessed by boat
    • Unspoiled and peaceful

🥾 Hiking Trails

Donoussa is a hiker’s paradise with marked trails:

  • Stavros ➝ Kedros ➝ Livadi ➝ Kalotaritissa
    • A scenic long hike, roughly 3–4 hours in total
    • Incredible views and access to remote beaches
  • Stavros ➝ Mersini ➝ Livadi
    • Moderate difficulty
    • Perfect for nature and photography lovers

🍽️ Where to Eat

  • Tzi Tzi in Mersini – traditional Greek food, great sunset view
  • I Kafene – in Stavros, cozy and traditional
  • Captain George – local seafood and Greek staples
  • Apospero – elevated cuisine with a great ambiance

🛏️ Where to Stay

  • Guesthouses in Stavros – simple rooms with sea views
  • Eco-camping at Kedros – informal, with a bohemian atmosphere
  • Studios in Kalotaritissa or Mersini – for a truly quiet retreat

🎉 Local Life & Events

  • Panigiri of Timios Stavros (Sept 14) – traditional music, food, and dancing in Stavros
  • Donoussa remains peaceful even in summer – few organized events but plenty of stargazing and relaxation

📝 Travel Tips

  • Bring cash – few ATMs and cards not accepted everywhere
  • Pack light – walking is the main mode of transport
  • Respect nature – Donoussa prides itself on being clean and wild
  • Mobile signal is limited in some areas