Small Cyclades Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Small Cyclades with this comprehensive travel guide. Find information on places to visit, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, and much more.


Introduction to Small Cyclades

Small Cyclades is a group of four islands located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, in Greece. The islands - Donoussa, Koufonisia, Schinoussa and Iraklia - are known for their unspoiled natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages. Small Cyclades is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to escape the crowds and experience authentic Greek island life.

List of Places to Visit in Small Cyclades

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Small Cyclades is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Greek history and culture. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions include:

  • The Archaeological Museum of Iraklia
  • The Folklore Museum of Donoussa
  • The Church of Panagia in Koufonisia
  • The Venetian Castle in Schinoussa

Natural Attractions of Small Cyclades: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Small Cyclades are the perfect destination for nature lovers. Outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts can explore the following natural attractions:

  • Natura 2000 protected areas of the islands
  • Beaches such as Pori in Koufonissia, Livadi in Iraklia, Fikios in Donoussa, and many others.
  • Hiking routes to visit the lighthouse in Schinoussa or to reach the secluded seashores of Iraklia, for example.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Small Cyclades

Small Cyclades offers visitors a chance to explore the islands’ beauty on foot or by bike. Some of the best hiking and biking routes are:

  • Schinoussa to Livadi beach
  • Koufonisia to Pori beach
  • Donoussa to Mersini beach
  • Iraklia to Alimnia beach

Best Things to Do in Small Cyclades: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, there are several other activities that visitors can enjoy in Small Cyclades like:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving
  • Kayaking tours
  • Sailing tours
  • Fishing trips

Week-Long Itinerary for Small Cyclades

Explores like:

  • Day 1: Arrival and explore the picturesque Chora of Schinoussa
  • Day 2: Visit the Venetian Castle and go for a walking tour.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour to the other islands and explore their top attraction.
  • Day 4: Spend a day at the remote beach of Livadi in Iraklia for a relaxing beach day.
  • Day 5: Plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the beaches of Koufonisia and enjoy the town.
  • Day 6: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, or scuba diving.
  • Day 7: Take a leisurely day and explore the town at your own pace.

Food and Drink Scene of Small Cyclades

Must-Try Dishes

Small Cyclades has a rich culinary scene. Some of the dishes not to be missed include:

  • Sloooowly cooked goat in a wood-fired oven.
  • Tsigarelli: tasty greens eaten boiled or fried with garlic and olive oil.
  • Local Cheese Pies, in different versions with feta cheese and local herbs.
  • Liquor made of local herbs Kerasma or Rakomelo (Raki with honey and cinnamon)

Local Beverages

Apart from Rakomelo, the locals of Small Cyclades indulge in wine, beer, and cocktails made up of local ingredients.

Where to Stay in Small Cyclades: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The islands of Small Cyclades are small, so the tourist infrastructure is not as developed as other Greek islands like Mykonos. But, visitors can enjoy their stays in:

  • Cosy little guesthouses can be found on all of the islands.
  • In Koufonisia and Schinoussa options like beach resorts with pool and bungalows
  • Iraklia offers the majority of the accommodation options on the islands.

What to Buy in Small Cyclades: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring home some of the unique local products or souvenirs such as:

  • Honey and marmalade made from local produce
  • Local wines and spirits
  • Handmade pottery, embroidery, or woven items
  • Handmade soaps and beauty products
  • Fisherman hats, handmade baskets, and other traditional items

Local Culture and Customs of Small Cyclades

The people of Small Cyclades are proud of their Greek heritage and tradition. Visitors can explore the local culture and customs by being a spectator to some of their ceremonies and events such as:

  • Religious festivals that take place every summer, which involves live music, food, and dance.
  • You can witness the art of fishing as it’s done by hand on some of the beaches.

Best Time to Visit Small Cyclades

The best time to visit Small Cyclades is between April and June or September-October, where the weather is mild, the crowds are few, and everything is still open. Visitors can also avoid the hot and humid summers and enjoy the off-season rates or avoid the season for more serenity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Small Cyclades

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and monasteries.
  • Carry cash; few establishments take cashless payments.
  • Take ample time to admire the beauty serenity of Natura 2000 spots.

Don’t:

  • Don’t damage the local environment.
  • Don’t assume everyone is fluent in English
  • Don’t flush toilet paper down the toilet, as it harms the local plumbing system.

Safety and Health

Safety in Small Cyclades

Small Cyclades is relatively safe. Visitors should be careful when exploring the rocky, uneven terrains. Be mindful not to trespass on private property, especially the farming land, and ask locals before camping.

Health in Small Cyclades

Small Cyclades has medical facilities, but visitors may need to travel to Naxos or Amorgos for severe medical emergencies.

Getting to Small Cyclades: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Small Cyclades

There are no airports in Small Cyclades. The best airport close to Small Cyclades is the Naxos Island Domestic Airport.

Bus Stations Near Small Cyclades

Visitors can take buses from Athens to the town of Naxos, where they can take a ferry to Small Cyclades.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Cyclades by:

  • Ferries or catamarans from the nearby islands like Naxos, Amorgos, or Santorini
  • Book chartered yachts or boats to the islands of their choice.

How to Get Around in Small Cyclades

Visitors can get around on the islands of Small Cyclades:

  • On foot
  • By bicycle
  • With a rental scooter
  • By using the local transport service of a small van that makes regular trips between all the islands daily.

Where to Go Next from Small Cyclades: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other Greek islands nearby like:

  • The islands of the Cyclades- Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, Santorini, Amorgos
  • Athens, the Acropolis, and the historical sites of Greece.
  • Boating tours to neighbouring beaches and other islands.

Conclusion

Small Cyclades is an idyllic destination for those seeking a more authentic, undiscovered island experience that feels the embodiment of serenity, relaxation, and adventure. It’s a place where visitors can bask in the warm sun, azure seas, and explore the natural beauty, culture, and traditions of Greece.