Welcome to Donoussa
Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades islands in Greece lies Donoussa, a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle. With its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and natural beauty, Donoussa is an idyllic destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Unlike the more popular tourist destinations like Santorini or Mykonos, Donoussa is a quieter and less commercialized island. This lack of commercialization is perhaps the island’s most appealing feature, as it allows visitors to experience a more authentic Greek island experience.
Donoussa boasts a total of five breathtaking beaches, including Stavros, Kedros, and Livadi. Stavros, the most popular beach on the island, features a long stretch of white sand and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Kedros, on the other hand, is a quieter and more secluded beach, accessible only by foot or boat. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and exploring the nearby rock formations or simply soak up the sun in one of the secluded coves.
Aside from its natural beauty, Donoussa also boasts a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its traditional whitewashed houses and cobblestone paths. Visitors can wander the narrow streets of the village and admire the quaint architecture or visit the island’s two churches, Panagia and Agios Ioannis. The latter offers stunning panoramic views of the island.
For those seeking a more active holiday, Donoussa offers some fantastic hiking opportunities.
The island’s network of well-maintained trails weave through its rugged terrain, dotted with historic sites and stunning vistas. Hikers can explore ancient ruins, including the ruins of a Venetian castle, and the island’s rich flora and fauna.
Donoussa is also home to a small but vibrant community of locals who are committed to preserving the island’s natural environment and cultural heritage. Visitors can find several quaint tavernas and cafes in the village, offering authentic Greek cuisine and a warm welcome.
How to reach it
Donoussa is accessible only by ferry boat as there is no airport or heliport on the island. The closest airport can be found on Naxos island, which is around 25 nautical miles away, and is served by several airlines operating daily flights from Athens International Airport. Once you arrive at Naxos airport, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to the port of Naxos and then take a ferry to Donoussa.
Alternatively, you can reach Donoussa by taking a ferry from Piraeus, the port of Athens. There are several ferry companies that operate daily services to Donoussa, especially during the summer season. The journey time from Piraeus is around 5-7 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
It is advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak summer season, as ferry services can get busy and seats may sell out quickly. You can book your ferry tickets online or in person at the port of departure.
Where to stay
Donoussa has a limited number of accommodation options, but they all offer a traditional and authentic island experience. Most of the island’s accommodation options are family-owned guesthouses, apartments, studios and villas. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Donoussa:
1. Pension Irene:
Located in the heart of the village, this traditional guesthouse offers comfortable and cozy rooms with views of the sea or the village. The owners are helpful and friendly, and breakfast is served in the picturesque courtyard.
2. Studios Mary:
This family-friendly accommodation offers simple, yet comfortable studios with a kitchenette and a balcony with sea views. The property is just a few steps from the beach and close to the village center.
3. Donoussa Rooms:
This small guesthouse offers comfortable and beautifully decorated rooms with a shared kitchen and garden terrace. The owners are kind and available to offer advice and recommendations for exploring the island.
4. Villa Delphini:
This luxurious villa is situated in a peaceful location and offers stunning sea views. It has a private pool, outdoor dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s suitable for families or groups of friends.
5. Althea Boutique Hotel:
This recently-built boutique hotel is located on a hill with panoramic sea views. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and there’s a large outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
Highlights: what to see/what to do
Donoussa is a small island, but it is full of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the highlights of Donoussa:
1. Stavros Beach:
This is the most popular and largest beach on the island, located in the village of Stavros. It features crystal clear waters, white sand, and offers stunning sunsets.
2. Kedros Beach:
This is a secluded and quieter beach, located in the southwestern part of the island. It offers crystal clear waters and is accessible only by foot or boat.
3. Hiking Trails:
Donoussa has a network of well-maintained hiking trails that lead visitors through the rugged terrain and offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty and ancient ruins.
4. Venetian Castle:
The ruins of a Venetian castle can be found on the hill above Stavros village. It offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
5. Traditional Architecture:
Donoussa has retained its traditional Cycladic architecture, featuring whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and cobblestone paths. Visitors can explore the picturesque village and admire the quaint architecture.
6. Local Cuisine:
Donoussa offers authentic Greek cuisine with a traditional local twist. Visitors can taste fresh seafood, local cheeses, and other traditional dishes at the island’s tavernas and restaurants.
7. Authentic Island Experience:
Donoussa is a quieter and less commercialized island, allowing visitors to experience a more authentic Greek island lifestyle. Visitors can relax on the beaches, explore the nature and culture of the island, and interact with the friendly locals during their stay.
