Explore Donoussa
Table of contents
Explore Donoussa
"Welcome to the Table of Contents for your ultimate guide to Explore Donoussa! Whether you're seeking pristine beaches, charming villages, or breathtaking landscapes, this comprehensive guide will help you uncover all the hidden gems this enchanting destination has to offer. Let's dive in and discover the wonders of Donoussa together!"
Explore Donoussa
Explore Donoussa. Discover the hidden treasures as you explore its pristine beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
Donoussa is the northernmost island of the Lesser Eastern Cyclades group and lies east of Naxos and north of Amorgos. Its area is 13 square kilometers. The terrain is rocky, while the shore forms numerous coves with small, sand beaches.
Donousa has a population of 160; its inhabitants make their living from fishing, livestock keeping, and, recently, tourism. There are five settlements on the island:
Stavros, called Kampos locally, us the largest and also the island’s port. Set around a sheltered harbor on Donoussa’s southwestern end, it’s a charming settlement featuring the traditional architecture of the Cyclades.
Timios Stavros is located on the island’s eastern side and takes its name from the church, which is also its main landmark. The other settlements – Mersini, Haravgi, and Kalotaritissa – are picturesque and perfect destinations for leisurely strolling tours.
Villages
Mesaria: Small mountain settlement.
Mersini: The second largest settlement of the island. It is built on a slope with houses of traditional Cycladic architecture and a breathtaking view. Its few inhabitants are particularly engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. In Mersini is one of the most picturesque spots of the island, the spring of the same name with the plane tree. From Mersini begins the path to the exceptionally beautiful beaches of Livadi and Fiki. In the village there is a tavern for food.
Kalotaritissa: perhaps the most picturesque settlement of Donoussa. It is isolated on the North side of the island, built in the shadow of Papa, the highest peak of the island. The main road of the island ends at Kalotaritissa. In the bay there are 3 other beaches, Vlychos, Trypiti and Sapunochoma.
Explore Donoussa History
Donoussa has been known by this name since the Geometric era, a fact confirmed by the identification of Geometric-era ruins at several sites on the island.
According to the mythology, the island is where Dionyssos hid Ariadne so Theseus would not be able to find her.
Holidays in Donoussa
Holidays in Donoussa are a unique experience suitable for those looking for relaxing moments by the sea. It is a small island in the east of the Cyclades that stands out for its wonderful natural landscapes, dreamy beaches, but also the delicious food in the traditional taverns and restaurants.
Explore Donoussa Sights
- The Cave of the Wall located NW of the island.
- The Seal Cave, located in Kavo tou Moschona, a seal sanctuary.
- The Spring in Mersini Idyllic location, near the settlement of Mersini, with a source that gushes drinking water, in the shade of a century-old plane tree. The festival of Agia Sophia takes place here on September 17.
- The remains of the settlements of the geometric period.
- The Church of the Holy Cross.
- The church of Panagia.
- The church of St. Ioannis.
- The church of St. Sofias in the settlement of Mersini
- The church of Ag. Giorgi in the Kalotaritissa settlement
Beaches
Certainly one of the strongest points of Donoussa are its beaches! Some of them are among the most beautiful in Greece with their crystal clear turquoise waters and golden sandy beaches.
- Stavros: The beautiful sandy beach of the port of Donoussa
- The Deep Limenari. it is located under the half-demolished Mill and to get there you will cross the path. What you will come across at the end of the route is a secluded pebbly beach. Here, there are also ruins of a geometric settlement. Vathy Limenari is located near the settlement of Messaria.
- Kedros Bay, at the bottom of which you can see the wreck of a German ship sunk there by the Allies during World War II.
- Ormos Livadiou. It is located near the settlement of Mersini. On the coast and in the seabed you will find white sand while the sea has a wonderful blue-green color. You can reach it from the path (about 20′) that starts from Mersini or by boat from the port of Donousa
- The Fikios next to Livadi is this small beach with the caves in the rocks and the blue-green waters.
- The Bay of Kalotaritissa, A large bay that hosts three small beaches, Mesa Ammos, Vlycho and Sapunochoma. The largest of them is Mesa Ammos, while all of them have wonderfully clear waters and sand with pebbles.
Events
The observation of the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin on August 15 at Stavros includes a folk festival with live traditional music, dances, and patatato (a local dish).
Folk celebrations marking feast of the Cross (Stavros) on September 14 with traditional music, dance, and local foods.
“Treasure Hunt,” a game rooted in folk tales about pirates using Donoussa for anchorage. The Innkeepers’ Festival in July 27 featuring exhibits of photography and folk art.
The “Innkeepers’ Festival” in July 27 featuring exhibits of photography and folk art.
The feast of Ayia Sofia on September 19 at the Church of Ayia Sofia at Mersini.
Useful Telephones
Municipal community of Donoussa: +302285051600
KEP Donoussa and Post Office: +302285029107
Multipurpose Regional Clinic: +302285051506
Donoussa Travel Agency (SIGALAS TRAVEL): +302285051570