On the Greek island of Donoussa, life is sweet, very sweet indeed. And the program is simple: get up, swim, change beaches, stroll around the village at the end of the day, dine in one of the restaurants on the harbor… and repeat the same rhythm the following days. Here we take our time and enjoy. There are no “must-sees”, no “must-visits”. We come to Donoussa above all to have a good time, to relax on the beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the Cyclades, and to enjoy simple pleasures.
Here are some ideas for things to see and do on your vacation in Donoussa.
The port of Donoussa: Stavros
The port of Stavros is the first place you’ll see when you arrive in Donoussa , as this is where the ferries dock.
There’s a sandy beach bordered by a very clean sea. The advantage of this beach is that it’s easily accessible at any time of day. We particularly enjoy swimming in the early morning, when the city is still asleep. Or in the evening, just before dinner.
The village is small but pleasant, with its Cycladic architecture and flower-filled houses with white walls.
You’ll probably stay in Stavros, as this is where the hotels and guesthouses are concentrated. There are also several bars and restaurants. There’s also a bakery where you can fill up on pitas before setting off for the day to explore the various beaches.
Livadi beach
This is our favorite beach in Donoussa. One of the wildest beaches in the Cyclades.
It can be reached either on foot from the port (4.5km/1h walk), or by caïque (departures from the port – 4 trips per day in high season – tel: +30 6944203441).
The incredibly clear turquoise water and fine sand make Livadi beach look like paradise. There’s little shade and no tavern or beach bar. It is therefore essential to bring water and provisions for the day.
This beach is popular with naturists and free campers. Baba-cool atmosphere.
The village of Mersini
If you’re walking back to the port from Livadi beach, stop off at Mersini to refresh yourself at its drinking water spring at the foot of a large plane tree. You’ll soon have done the rounds of the hamlet, but we recommend stopping off for a meal at I Kori Tou Mihali, a very nice tavern.
On your way out, take a look at the little Agia Sofia church above the village. From here, there’s a lovely view of the sea.
Kendros Beach in Donoussa
Here again, fine sand and transparent water. But this beach is much busier than Livadi or Kalotaritissa, due to its relative proximity to the port and the presence ofa tavern set back from the beach (a good one, by the way).
It’s a mixed beach: textile and naturist.
It can be reached on foot (a ten-minute walk from the port) or by boat from the port of Stavros.
We like this beach a little less because it’s so crowded at the height of summer.
If you have a mask and snorkel, you can snorkel and see the wreck of a ship that ran aground here during the Second World War.
Kalotaritissa and Tripiti beach
Just north of Donoussa, we love Tripiti beach in Kalotaritissa. It’s a sandy beach with an absolutely magnificent sea. It’s not very busy, even in the middle of August.
Set back from the beach, you’ll find a friendly taverna where you can eat: O Mytsos. We particularly recommend the excellent pork chops.
The beach can be reached by bus, car or on foot (but be warned, it’s a long walk – about 1h30).
The seal cave
Between Livadi and Kalotaritissa lies a cave: Fokospilia, which literally means “seal cave”.
It can be reached by small boat from the port of Stavros.
Hiking trails in Donoussa
There are several hiking trails in Donoussa. They’re well signposted and offer lovely panoramic views… and the chance to meet a few goats along the way.
Find out more here.
The island’s culinary specialities
We eat well at Donoussa. There are some nice traditional taverns. Like Simadoura in Stavros or O Mitsos in Kalotaritissa.
Goat’s cheese is one of the island’s specialties, often cooked in a sauce with vegetables. There are also good local cheeses.
*****
To find out more about Donoussa, we recommend our “Practical Donoussa” article : how to get there, how long to stay, where to stay, etc .
2024 Laure M.
