A piece of heaven on earth is well hidden in Koufonisia. The stressful life and the city noises are blocked by a magical vibe surrounding these islands and preventing them to get through.
Koufonisia is a small group of two islands, Pano Koufonisi (Upper Koufonissi) and Kato Koufonisi (Lower Koufonisi), that are separated by a narrow strait. They are located southeast of Naxos and west of Amorgos; Pano Koufonisi is inhabited, with a land area of 5.5 sq. km and a population of 366 residents.
There is not just one explanation about their name. Some say that their name comes from the numerous caves the waves have shaped along their shores, which, when seen by pirates, gave them the impression that the islands (in Greek “nissia”) were hollow (in Greek “koufio”) – therefore the islands took the name “Koufionisia” and later “Koufonisia”. Other say that the name comes from the harbor protected by the wind which is formed in the gulf between the two islands and Glaronisi (kofos limin: harbor protected by the wind)
The deserted island of Keros lies next to Koufonisia and is a protected archaeological site as major finds of Cycladic art have been unearthed here. The findings are now exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
Koufonisia has become one of the most favorite destination for Greeks and foreign tourists. And who can blame them! Sun-drenched beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters, small natural pools, sea caves that can be used as a “refuge for two”, plenty of fresh fish and seafood and of course a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
“The island has 2,200 beds to meet the needs of visitors. In August, the number of visitors reach 3,500 people as the houses of locals are also full hosting their guests. We live here in a relax stress-free environment” said the chairman of the Municipal Community of Koufonisia, Antonis Koveos to ANA- MPA.
The Koufonisi town (called Chora by locals) is a Cycladic fish village with picturesque streets and houses. The distances on the island can be covered on foot, by small boats that make frequent runs to the beaches and by bicycles that are rent here. It won’t take you more than two hours to walk around the island twice, so having a car is unnecessary.
The locals are hospitable and cheerful and they celebrate organizing feasts on any occasion making visitors feel like home. Fresh fish and seafood, different kind of cheese (ksinomizithra) and wild goat are some of the famous local products .
You can visit the most distant beaches and the nearby islands by small boat. The sea bottom is amazing, while Koufonissi along with the surrounding islands is included in Natura 2000 networking programme, since a unique flora of many endemic plants of Cyclades is developed.
