Greek Islands: the timeless appeal of Minor Cyclades and Naxos

Among the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos and Santorini often muscle in with their tourist appeal. But if you prefer to be away from the crowds, then head for the quieter charms of the Lilliputian islands of Minor Cyclades, nestled south of Naxos.

With golden beaches, limpid turquoise waters and breathtaking geological formations, Iraklia, Schinoussa, Donousa, Koufonissia, and the uninhabited Keros Island are undeniably idyllic.

Life in the slow lane: idyllic Donousa is the most secluded and mysterious of the Minor Cyclades.

Naxos, where according to Greek mythology Theseus abandoned Ariadne after she helped him escape the labyrinth, is a magical place to be cast ashore in the 21st century.

You don’t need to roam far from Naxos Town’s cobbled alleys to find secluded beaches, Venetian-influenced architecture and picturesque villages such as Halki and Apiranthos.

The beach at Plaka is a vast sandy crescent with plenty of parasols to shade under and conveniently close to tavernas that deliver lunch and cheap good wine. Gastronomy is about simple pleasures on this island, which is abundant in olives, grapes and figs, and celebrated for its wines, cheese and kítron, a sweet liqueur distilled from the leaves of lemon trees.

“Schinoussa is considered a best-kept secret by visitors, for whom this small island with majestic sunset views and tiny inlets is tranquillity itself”

Iraklia – the largest of the Minor Cyclades – is endowed with rolling hills, rocky coves, wild flowers and ancient stone-paved pathways which invite exploration. Scooters are for hire but walking best suits the rhythm of life. Head to the Cave of the Sacred Icon of Agios Giannis, a sequence of caves full of stalactites and stalagmites, or ramble along the shoreline and spot seals and sea turtles.

Other attractions include the fort rising above Livadi beach, which was built on the ruins of the ancient temple of Zeus, and the vantage point at Profitis Ilias church, which gives sweeping views of the Cyclades-speckled Aegean.

Blue lagoon: tour the beautiful island of Ano Koufonisi by boat and admire the impressive sea caves. Credit: P Dimitrakopoulos

Schinoussa is considered a best-kept secret by visitors, for whom this small island with majestic sunset views and tiny inlets is tranquillity itself. The serene way of life is sporadically enlivened by a calendar of religious feasts, during which delicious fish is served with garlic dip alongside traditional dancing until dawn.

Each of its three villages serves up a classic image: Chora with its whitewashed cube houses and gardens teeming with bougainvillea; Mersini with its former pirates’ harbour; and Mesaria, which is notable for its tiny family vineyards.

Koufonisia, made up of two main islands, invites you to make it your own. You arrive on low-lying Ano Koufonisi, with its magnificent beaches and seafood, along with a whitewashed alley dotted with restaurants and gallery. There are excellent swimming opportunities, including a natural swimming pool surrounded by rock.

A short boat trip away to the south is Kato Koufonissi, ringed with scenic sandy shores, such as Panagia, Detis, and Nero. You can also tour the island by boat and admire the sea caves, as well as the nearby islets of Glaronisi, Prasoura, Voulgari, Tsouloufi, Lazaros and Megali Plaka – all of which have been designated as areas of great natural beauty.

The small but impressive island of Keros, which lies southeast of Ano Koufonisi, rises up high from the sea with its dramatic cliffs, and is a source of endless fascination for archaeologists. Designated as a protected archaeological site, it is considered to be one of the most important centres of the Cycladic civilisation and a magnet for visitors who are serious about delving into Greek history.

Take a dip: with its stunning emerald waters, the Minor Cyclades pack a big visual punch. Credit: Getty

Donousa, the most secluded and mysterious of the Minor Cyclades, lies between Naxos and Amorgos. With steep cliffs and emerald waters, it is a tiny paradise that packs a big visual punch.

You can hike between beaches and picture-perfect villages, drinking in the sweet, herb-infused air, and explore the many beautiful caves such as Fokospilia (one of the last refuges of the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus Monachus), and the island’s landmark churches.

Get inspired in Greece

Greece is a country of rich culture, fine cuisine and natural beauty.

While the mainland offers surprises at every turn, its many picturesque islands are dotted with the monuments and relics of past millennia – secluded but accessible, mysterious but enlightening.

This inspiring and diverse destination provides opportunities of adventure of all kinds.

To find out more and to begin planning your trip, visit www.visitgreece.gr  or  www.greekislandyachtholiday.com