The top 5 things to do in Ano Koufonisi [Greece]
Ano Koufonisi feels like a paradise on earth! This is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, swimming in crystal clear waters, and those who seek relaxation! Erasmia Vassileiou, a middle schooler who lives in Vienna, lists her top 5 things to do in Ano Koufonisi with your family. Start packing!!!
Have you ever wondered if there is…
… the perfect island?
… an island that feels like home?
… an island that you can create memories in?
… an island with natural pools, great restaurants and unforgettable beaches?
Then, what you’re looking for is Ano Koufonisi! Let’s find out why all the above are true for this paradise…
Is it Koufonisia or Koufonisi?
Let’s start off with some background. Koufanisi is part of a complex of 3 remote islands, which are called Koufonisia (plural of Koufonisi in Greek). The only one that is inhabited is Ano (or Pano) Koufonisi. There is also Kato Koufonisi as well as Keros. Greeks typically refer to Koufonisi as ‘Koufonisia’.
Koufonisia belong to Cyclades and are surrounded by other islands such as Naxos, Schoinousa, Amorgos. Ano Koufonisi is very popular among Greek people, as well as Italians.
Best things to see in Ano Koufonisi
1.The Natural Pool
One thing you should do while visiting Ano Koufonisi is going to Piscina (or Devil’s Eye). Piscina is a natural pool, surrounded by rocks and contains the most beautiful turquoise water. Dive from the top into the pool is once in a life time experience.
2. Stunning Beaches
Ano Koufonisi is known for its mesmerizing beaches. They are so beautiful with their transparent and crystal turquoise waters. Gala, Fanos, Platia Pounta (or Italiada), and Finikas all contain these features. Platia Pounta is a nudist beach.
There are water taxis from Hora to various beaches.
Another place to visit is the tiny ‘beach’ Gala near Pori, secluded by caves. This is slightly tricky to find, as you can only see it once you are actually there.
3. The charming Hora (capital)
A great way to spend your evening is by visiting the Hora, the island’s only village. The Hora is full of shops, cafeterias, bars, and restaurants. It attracts a lot of people during the evenings for dinner at the seaside tavernas in the small harbor of Loutro or for a nice walk.
4. Delicious Food
In Ano Koufonisi after a long day of swimming and hiking you will probably be hungry.
Kalofeggo will leave you with a smile on your face. It is located next to a beautiful beach named Pori. In Kalofego you get one of the best quality Greek dishes, freshly made and delicious. We highly recommend the taramasalata and the delicious feta with honey and sesame seeds.
For take away souvlaki (meat skewers), visit the Souvlaki sti Strofi in Hora. Mikres Cyclades as well as Guacamole The Burger Bar are also highly recommended. For pizza and Italian food try Lavanda e Rosmarino Italian Restaurant.
If you fancy a cocktail, go to bar Scholio (we love the decoration!) or Sorokos. Both are popular among the younger crowd or those who are young at heart!
Fistiki is the place for you, an ice – cream shop located in the Hora with many delicious ice cream flavors and creamy milkshakes.
5. Island Hopping to other Koufonisia
We highly recommend that you visit Kato Koufonisi, one of the two uninhabited islands of Koufonisia. It is really easy… just wake a water taxi, get off at Nero beach, have lunch at the Venetsanos taverna (the only one on the island) and return back to Ano Koufonisi. There are a few other beaches ie. Lakki and Hawaii,
How to get to Ano Koufonisi
Ano Koufonisi can be reached from Piraeus by a conventional boat (8½ hours) or a high-speed boat (approximately 5 hours). Alternatively, from the nearby island of Naxos, you can take a ferry (2 hours) or high-speed ferries (40-50 minutes). You can reach Naxos by boat (conventional or high speed) or plane from Athens.
For more information, contact the Kids Love Greece team about helping to plan your family vacation to Greece!
Best season to visit
- All
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