Donoussa is one of the smaller islands that lie around the much larger island Naxos. This group of islands has been given the name "Small Cyclades". Donoussa is the most isolated of the group and is situated on the eastside of Naxos. Donoussa is considered by many to be the ideal destination in the Cyclades for peaceful and relaxing holidays. The size of the island makes it possible to walk from one side to the other, where along the way, you can enjoy beautiful scenery and inspiring views out towards the blue waters of the Aegean sea.
The island’s population is mainly gathered in the Chora, Stavros, which is also the island’s port and where you will find the doctor’s office, picturesque taverns, coffee houses, the bakery, mini-markets, bars and an ATM to draw money from. Besides Stavros, there are three more hamlets on the island, Messaria, Mersini and Kalotaritissa, whose little taverns have to offer you delicious food and panoramic views over the surrounding islands.
Donoussa is famous for its superb sandy beaches and the crystal-clear waters which invite you to explore them. Besides the central beach of Stavros and the beaches of Kalotaritissa which are accessible by road, there are also the beaches of Kedros, Livadi and Vathi Limenari, all accessible through beautiful paths.
The few villages of the island are untouched by massive tourism. The lovely bright white houses, the colours of the flowers in the yards, the fresh air enriched by a scent of sea and flowers, the idyllic squares where the open-hearted locals are gathering, create a serene and charming atmosphere.
For decades now, Donoussa has been a favourite destination to those who are longing for serenity, to nature-lovers. In recent years there is a growing number of visitors and the accommodation facilities have been considerably expanded.
Maybe Donoussa doesn’t offer many luxuries on material lever or choices for intense nightlife; however it is an island that one can have the luxury to relive the beauty of the simplicity; to re-estimate the value of the artless aesthetic and to remember the revitalizing effect of the direct contact; with nature, with the others; with oneself.
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