Seeking Wanderland

Koufonisia, located in the center of Cyclades, belong to the Small Cyclades region, consist of two islands, Ano and Kato Koufnisi and can be spotted between the islands of Naxos and Amorgos. Both islands are armed with stunning scenery, and are close to the abandoned Keros Island, which is a protected archaeological site where amazing antique artifacts from the Cycladic Bronze Period were discovered. Koufonisia offer unusual glistening beaches, friendly residents, delicious food, crystal pure water and caverns the pirates utilized. According to archaeological evidence, the islands have been inhabited since the prehistoric times, excavations uncovered findings dating back to the early years of the Cycladic, Hellenistic and Roman civilizations.

Pano Koufonisi, is the smallest of the inhabited islands of the Small Cyclades, approximately 10 km2, and provides untouched natural beauty and all required amenities for its various visitors. Chora is a traditional village with whitewashed cottages, little geranium and basil pots, tiny alleyways and a lovely church in its center. There are several trails in the island to explore its inland, routes beginning close to its port with the white windmill and terminate at wonderful exotic sandy beaches with amazing scenery, gold coasts and calm waves. Finikas, Fanos, Italida, Pori and Pisinia beach are some of the most popular beaches in Ano Koufonisi.

Kato Koufonisi is uninhabited, there are roughly 10 houses and one bar on the island, but no one lives there anymore. The island is preserving its natural beauty, untouched by mass tourism, has amazing sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, charming hinterland and a church, which was erected on ancient ruins. Some of the most famous beaches of the island are Hawaii, Nero, and Laki.

Glaronisi, an uninhabited islet 600 meters from Kato Koufonisi, it is ideal for a quick sail, and highly popular with seagulls, who like to lay their eggs and relax. The islet’s name literally means the island of the seagulls and was taken after them. The landscape offers turquoise waters, marine caverns, quiet and peace in this natural setting. Another islet, that no one is allowed to visit but only admire from a distance is Keros, which has massive archaeological significance. It is the home of the Arpisti and Avliti, the classic flute- and harp-playing figures portrayed in the Cycladic art. A lot of these figures can be found in the Cycladic museums over Greece and in the Acropolis Museum in Athens.