Small islands have their charm, too. You can explore them in a few days, while in some of them you won’t even need a car to get around!
Koufonisia
Just an hour from Amorgos, Koufonisia is a group of two beautiful islands, Upper (Pano) and Lower (Kato) Koufonisi, belonging to the so-called “Small Cyclades”, and indeed, they are so small that you can easily get around on foot. However, if you are one of those who get bored of walking, there are small boats that drop you off in any bay you want. Nevertheless, we recommend visiting their marvellous beaches on foot as the landscapes are all enchanting. In Pano Koufonisi, you will find rooms to rent, as well as picturesque tavernas, whereas Kato Koufonisi is pretty much uninhabited and has only one restaurant; it is usually preferred for camping.
Hydra
Hydra is built in an amphitheatre shape, on a slope overlooking the Argosaronic gulf. It is famous for its traditional stone mansions, narrow cobblestoned streets and the banning of cars. Its beaches are all very close to each other, so visitors do not need any means of transport. Hydronetta is a popular rocky swimming area with a bar that hangs off the rocks, playing relaxing lounge music and offering one of the most magnificent views, especially at sunset. Mandraki Beach is the only sandy beach on Hydra. The trip duration from Piraeus to Hydra is between 1h 35m – 1h 50m, depending on whether you travel by a highspeed or conventional ferry.
Heraklia
Heraklia belongs to the “Small Cyclades”, between the islands of Ios and Naxos. It is just an eighteen square km island, an ideal destination for those who want calm and peaceful vacations. The beaches of this islet are unique with blue-green waters. It has a few inhabitants and no nightlife, but it is certain that visitors will enjoy nice and quiet walks, while they can also go diving to explore its seabed as there are shipwrecks. Heraklia is a tranquil island with pristine beauty and scenic bays.
Schinoussa
As the islets of Donousa, Iraklia and Koufonisia, Schinoussa belongs to the Small Cyclades islands, too. Schinoussa is a small island, consisting of two settlements, Chora and Mesaria, which you can explore on foot, without needing a means of transport to enjoy your vacation. A typical example is Tsigouri, the most famous beach in Schinoussa, which is about 500 meters from Chora.
Antiparos
Antiparos is an islet, located very close to Paros, which combines beauty with simplicity. Antiparos can be easily reached from Pounda port in Paros by a ferry boat in about 7 minutes. You can walk to the three most famous beaches of the island, while for the more distant ones there is very good public transport. The inland part is small and beautiful and it can be easily explored. There are tavernas and restaurants as well as some bars.
