Koufonisia is a trio of islands: Pano (upper) Koufonisi, Kato (lower) Koufonisi, and Keros. To reach the island, you need 4h40 with Hellenic Seaways Highspeed from the port of Piraeus (as a reminder, the port is now Chinese). 

The arrival at the port of Pano Koufonisi takes your breath away, despite the capricious Meltemi. The sea is turquoise, the sand is white and there are many fishermen’s boats that decorate this little paradise on the Aegean Sea.

Mr. Simou is waiting for you at the port. Friendly as one can expect from a Greek host, smiley and so happy to welcome you. He came to pick you up to take you to the Skrini studio. His wife is from Koufonisia. 10 years ago, he decided to build his own family house and 5 years ago decided to turn it into a cozy complex called Thalasso Koufonisia.

Every evening, he serves you Rakomelo, a popular digestive drink made of raki, honey, and many other ingredients. Each islander has its own secret recipe. The Simou family’s recipe is delicate and smooth, just like their home. Every morning, homemade orange marmalade, and creamy omelet which you enjoy from your 180-degree view terrace. Thalasso Koufonisia is full of small design details that make all the difference: a superb ceramic, a starfish lying on a vintage table, every kitchen tool you may need to cook in your kitchenette…

Each object tells you a story. You sleep like a princess (or a prince). And when you wake up, you feel that the world is big, full of mystery and you realize how lucky you are to witness such wild beauty. The sound of the waves and the wind gives rhythm to your peaceful retreat. 3 other houses are available for rent: the independent Antikeri house, the Glaronissi apartment furnished with walnut wood beds, and finally Keros, 150 sq.m. in an ethnic setting.

Melissa and Captain Nikolas’s taverns in the village of Chora are worthy of your hopes: they are traditional, tasty with local products, and impeccable service. Count 15 euro per person roughly for a meal.

In the summer, you will inevitably bump into tourists. But Koufonissia isn’t crowded. Between French and Italian, the Greek spirit prevails on the island.

I guess everyone melts into it.

PS: and you won’t leave the island before dropping by the bar Kalamia…