Donoussa

Donoussa belongs to the unofficial group of islands that is called Little Cyclades between Naxos and Amorgos. In Little Cyclades there are four islands that are inhabited: Donoussa, Iraklia, Schinoussa and Koufonissi. Of these four islands, Donoussa is the one that have the worst ferry connections; it depends on that the island lie a bit out-of-the-way and therefore there are not many who travel there. Tourism is still in its infancy. Although the island has increased in popularity in recent years, in particular the number of families with children who are tired of Koufonissi where tourism has grown tremendously in recent years go to Donoussa instead. If you have visited Koufonissi you will be reminded of the island when you visit Donoussa. The islands are not completely different: a small port village with a few houses and streets, a nice sandy beach that divides the village, little traffic and child-friendly beaches.

GETTING HERE
The easiest way is to go by air to Santorini, and from there by ferry to Naxos, which is the junction for almost all ferries to and from the Little Cyclades. The small ferryboat Express Skopelitis works the route between Naxos, Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonissi, Donoussa and Amorgos three to five days a week during the summer months. Another option is to go by air to Athens and then take the ferry from Piraeus, the port of Athens. The best Greek shipping company Blue Star Ferries operates Donoussa up to three times a week.

GETTING AROUND
There are no buses, no taxis and no cars or mopeds to rent. There are hardly any roads and almost no cars. In other words, you will have to walk.

Kendros beach.

Stavros.

VILLAGES
There is only one real village on Donoussa and it is the port, Stavros. There are also two smaller settlements: Kalotaritissa and Mersini, both are so small that they can hardly be called villages. Stavros is also small and the village only takes a few minutes to discover. Here are a few tavernas - most of them are located in direct proximity to the port - one ouzeria, one cafe, one souvenir shop, one mini market with to say the least a poor supply, one travel agency, one ATM and several pensions. More than that, it is not. Time seems to stand still; absolutely nothing is happening that has not already happened the day before.

BEACHES
There are not many beaches, but those who exist are good and child friendly. The beach in the port is one of the best beaches on the island and it is popular with families with children because it is close to home and close to the tavernas. Kendros beach is located a 15-20 minute walk from Stavros and it is the best beach on the island. There is a taverna. Further on is Livadia beach, which can be visited by bathing boat in high season. Nudism and wild camping is common in both Kendros beach and Livadia beach.

SIGHTS
No sights.

ACCOMMODATION
People with rooms for rent will meet up the ferries in the port. If you want to look for a place to stay by yourself, you find most options on the other side of the port beach. In low and middle season, it is no problem to find a place to stay, but if you are travelling during high season, you should book in advance.

MORE ABOUT DONOUSSA
Geographical location »
Map of Donoussa »
Ferry timetable »

OTHER LINKS
Naxos - nearest island »
Weather in Greece »

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Stavros »

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