Koufonisia

Koufonisia belongs to the complex of the Small Eastern Cyclades. They consist of two islets, Ano and Kato Koufonisi, of which only Ano is inhabited. Ano Koufonissi has started to develop into an excellent relaxation destination that attracts many tourists. Keros is also part of the Community of Koufonisia, where the presence of Cycladic culture is felt. Koufonisia combines Cycladic architecture with the natural beauty of their beaches, which is definitely the strongest element of the island.

Koufonisia is distinguished for its Cycladic architecture. Archaeological finds that have been found, testify to the existence of people from prehistoric times. The chambered tombs and the number of objects from the Hellenistic and Roman years prove the existence of a Roman settlement at this point. Koufonisia acquired many names over the years, such as Kofinoussa, Pira and Phocussa. It is important that the island was subjugated to the Venetians and the Turks. In 1830 it was integrated into the Greek state.

An important place for the residents but also for the visitors is the Folklore Museum of the island, which opened in 2011 with the help of the residents themselves, who participated in the works and offered many of the objects on display. The eyes of many travelers are caught by the two mills located on the island, which were once used for the production of wheat. One is located in the port and the other in the area of Carnagio, in Loutro. The carnagio is the place where they repaired their ships. An equally important point of interest is the "Eye of the Devil", a cave located in the sea. There are also two caves in the bay of Xylombatis, which is located near the bay of Pori.

The most important reason to visit Koufonisia is definitely their beaches. Most of them are disorganized, full of sand or pebbles. The most beautiful beach of the island is Pori, located in Ano Koufonisi and has magnificent turquoise waters and sand. This beach also has a tavern. Near it is the Swimming Pool, which is a rocky shore suitable for many dives. Equally beautiful is Finikas beach, which is accessible on foot and is located a few kilometers away from Koufonisi Town and Ammos beach, which is located in the port. Italida beach is an exotic place with clear and transparent waters, where you can also meet nudists. Kato Koufonisi may be uninhabited but it does not lack beautiful beaches, which can be reached by boat. All beaches have tropical waters. Some of them have pebbles, such as Laki and Terraces, while others are sandy, such as Detis and Nero.

Koufonisia is distinguished for its fishing wealth and certainly for the wide variety of seafood dishes. At the feast of the fishermen they prepare the kakavia, a variety of fish cooked with sea water. All fish are fresh, coming directly from the sea to the plate. But apart from the seafood, in Koufonisia you can try many different flavors of ice cream with Swiss chocolates.

Although Koufonisia is considered a quiet place for holidays, they can combine fun with relaxation. On the island you will find many relaxed hangouts to admire the view and drink a cool cocktail. In Astrolouloudo and Koufochori you will find small shops with wine and rakomelo. For more nightlife and dancing, there are bars near the port, which stay open until the early hours of the morning.

The island is quite small and can be easily reached either on foot or by local bus. The access from one Koufonisi to the other as well as the access to some beaches is done by boat. The port is located right next to the town of Koufonisia and there is a local bus stop. The area code is 22850.