Are you planning a vacation in Donoussa, Greece? This island is a haven of peace in the heart of the Lesser Cyclades. Here’s all the information you need to make the most of it.
Where’s Donoussa?
Donoussa is a tiny Greek island of around 15 km². It is part of the Lesser Cyclades archipelago (along with Schinoussa, Iraklia and Koufounisi). It is about 15 km from Naxos and 35 km from Amorgos.
How to get to Donoussa in Greece
The island of Donoussa can only be reached by ferry. There are no airports. It is served by the Skopelitis, the famous boat that links the islands of the Lesser Cyclades.
It can be reached from the islands of Amorgos, Koufounissi, Astypalea, Schinoussa, Naxos and Paros.
There are also direct connections from the port of Piraeus to Athens (7-hour crossing).
Personally, we always use Ferry Hopper to buy our ferry tickets. This site is practical and the platform is in French. And best of all, the site doesn’t charge extra. Prices are the same as if you were buying tickets at the port.
Good to know: there’s a travel agency in Donoussa that sells ferry tickets. SIGALAS TRAVEL / +30 2285 051570.
Donoussa: an island for every type of traveller?
Donoussa in Greece will appeal to travelers in search of authenticity and simple pleasures, lovers of farniente and swimming. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the Cyclades in the height of summer.
The island only comes alive in summer. For the rest of the year, its inhabitants earn their living from fishing and livestock farming. No nightclubs or cultural sites here. The program is simple: beach, swimming in exceptionally clear waters and hiking.
Good to know: Donoussa is a popular island for naturists. It’s also one of the few Greek islands where free camping is still allowed (although this may be called into question in the future), which explains why young Greeks come here to spend a few weeks or months on the beaches.
How long can I stay?
It takes just two days to discover Donoussa. But if you like seaside vacations, you can stay longer without getting bored.
Where to sleep?
The island is small and has very little in the way of accommodation. If you plan to come in July and August, book your accommodation well in advance.
The accommodations are located on the port of Stavros. During our stay, we stayed in the Astrofeggia studios. They are clean, modern and conveniently located. They are equipped with a kitchenette. We recommend them.
We were also advised :
- Makares apartments, inexpensive and conveniently located. Close to the sea. Lovely staff
- Stenosa, a seafront guesthouse with rooms built around a garden. Cycladic decoration
- Pahivouni Studios & Suites: studios with superb sea views
How to get around?
There are no car rentals in Donoussa. But that’s not a problem, as you don ‘t need a vehicle to get around the island. Everything can be done on foot, as distances are short. You can walk from one end of the island to the other in 1h30-2h.
If you’re bringing your car, you can park it in the port parking lot. There are no gas stations on the island.
Another way to get around Donoussa is to take the boat from Stavros to the beaches of Kedros, Livadi and the seal grotto. 4 departures per day.
What to do in Donoussa, Greece
To find out what to do and see on Donoussa, we recommend our article “Donoussa: the tranquil island of the Cyclades“. We share our favorites and good ideas at Donoussa.
Some tips for your vacation in Donoussa
The beaches at Donoussa in Greece are undeveloped and there isn’t much shade. So remember to take everything you need for the day (water, provisions, sun protection). If you need to buy a parasol, you’ll find one in one of the stores on the port.
The island welcomes naturists. Beaches are mixed.
Free camping is accepted on the island. However, this is likely to change as Donoussa wishes to “smooth out” its image.
Laure M.
