Koufonisi

Koufonisi (Ano Koufonisi) is a small Cycladic island known for its remarkable coastline with crystal-clear blue water and dramatic cliffs. Unlike its more famous Cycladic neighbors, it remains relatively low-key, offering a authentic Greek island experience with beautiful beaches without the crowds. The island combines scenic natural beauty with traditional charm, including a renovated windmill bar, historic churches, and easy access to nearby Kato Koufonisi and the archaeologically significant Keros island.

Everything on Koufonisi is within walking distance, and on foot is the main way to get around the island. You can circumnavigate the entire island on foot in just 3-4 hours. There is no bus or taxi service on the island, so walking is essential. Shuttle boats connect the various beaches with the main village and port area.

There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels in and around the village area near the port. During the high season from June to August, booking accommodation in advance is strongly recommended as the island fills up quickly. Free camping is permitted only on Kato Koufonisi, the neighboring smaller island, not on Pano Koufonisi itself.

There are plenty of places to eat in the village. The Giorgoula bakery comes highly recommended for excellent bread, pastries, and traditional Greek pies. The large cafe restaurant facing the port is generally not recommended by locals. It is not advisable to drink tap water on the island; 1.5 litre bottles of water cost approximately €2.50 for a 6-pack at the Veneti supermarket (June 2023 prices).

The main village offers charming traditional Cycladic architecture and a relaxed atmosphere for wandering. Beach lovers will find their paradise with numerous beautiful coves around the island. Sea caves are located on Pano Koufonisis North Cape. Daily boat excursions to the Neolithic village site on neighboring Keros are offered, providing a fascinating archaeological experience. Saint Nicholas small church above Karnagio offers panoramic views of nine surrounding islands.

The Veneti supermarket (marked "Beneth" in Greek) is a large, tall building near the port that stocks everything you will need at good prices. There are three ATMs on the island, one of which is located outside the Veneti supermarket, though there are no banks. Most shops accept card payments.

Koufonisi is a generally very safe destination with low crime. The biggest dangers are sunburn and heatstroke, particularly during the hot summer months. Reasonably priced sunscreen is available at the Veneti supermarket.

Daily boat excursions to Kato Koufonisi, the neighboring smaller island, are offered from Koufonisi. Free camping is permitted on Kato Koufonisi. Boat trips to Keros allow visits to the Neolithic village archaeological site. Other nearby islands worth visiting include Donoussa, Schinoussa, tiny Iraklia, Amorgos, and the popular island of Naxos.

From Koufonisi, daily ferry excursions connect to nearby islands in the Small Cyclades and greater Cyclades. Nearby destinations include Kato Koufonisi (accessible by daily boats), the archaeologically significant Keros (Neolithic site excursions), Donoussa, Schinoussa, Iraklia, Amorgos, and the popular Naxos. Connections to the broader Cyclades network allow access to islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros.

Saint Georges Day on April 23rd (or Easter Monday if it falls during Lent) features a litany and procession of his icon along the seaside street, with streets covered in rose petals, fireworks, and a flotilla of small boats sailing alongside. Traditional tripe soup with vinegar and stew or pasta is offered to everyone before the feast begins. The Panagia festival on August 15th at the church on Kato Koufonissi includes Mass followed by a boat race to Pano Koufonisi where the celebration continues. Fishermens Feast on June 24th involves captains of caiques cooking traditional cacavia (boulliabaisse) for everyone on the pier, followed by traditional music and dance.