Agathonisi: Where it looks like time has stopped

Agathonisi, a small island nestled in the northernmost reaches of the Dodecanese, serves as a reminder that even in today’s world, there exist untouched and breathtakingly beautiful places that beckon you to explore. Unscathed by the hustle and bustle of tourism, and seemingly frozen in time, Agathonisi will captivate you with its picturesque landscape that radiates an aura of serene tranquility. So come, let us embark on a journey, even if only in our minds, to the enchanting Agathonisi and discover its wonders…

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Agathonisi: Time passes at a different past

Upon arriving at Agathonisi, you’ll be greeted by an authentic landscape framed by just three settlements - the large and small villages, and the port of Agios Georgios. The island, once known as ‘donkey island’ due to its shape resembling the patient four-legged animal, will captivate you with its unspoiled beauty.

Agathonisi’s landscape is characterized by rocky terrain interspersed with vegetation, including bushes and trees. The island serves as a sanctuary for rare bird species and has been designated as a protected area. The traditional island image is further enhanced by the whitewashed houses and winding paths that lead to picturesque churches, such as Agios Panteleimonas, perched atop a hill overlooking the sparsely populated small village, offering breathtaking views.

Megalo Chorio, the oldest settlement on the island, is located just 500 meters from the port. It was deliberately kept hidden from pirate attacks. Near the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find two domes and buildings from the Byzantine era, believed to have been used as food storage areas. These are among the sights on the island that are definitely worth admiring.

Make your way to the so-called ‘pebble’ where you’ll discover a large chasm. Rumor has it that beneath the chasm lies a network of galleries that traverse the island from end to end. Your final stop is Kastraki, an ancient port dating back to the Hellenistic era, where beekeeping production once thrived.

The exploration stations are within hiking distance of each other. The entire road network of the island spans no more than 10 kilometers. So put on your comfortable shoes and set out to explore all that Agathonisi has to offer.

Agathonisi: An ideal place to enjoy fish

On Agathonisi, many of the permanent residents earn their livelihood through fishing or by working at the fish farms on the island. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ve come to the right place. Take a stroll to the seaside village of Katholiko and see for yourself. Savor your meal with fliskoukoudi, the renowned fava beans, and wash it down with a generous serving of exquisite local wine. If you prefer meat dishes, rest assured that the goats raised in the area will leave your taste buds fully satisfied.

Agathonisi: Unique beaches

Despite its small size, Agathonisi boasts a diverse array of beaches that are well worth a visit. You can reach these beaches by following the alleyways that lead to each coast or by taking a boat ride. In keeping with its alternative ethos, the turquoise shores of Agathonisi remain unspoiled and unorganized, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace.

Take a dip in the waters of Spilia Beach, where a blend of sand and pebbles awaits your arrival. Or venture to the other side of the hill to discover Donkey Beach and be mesmerized by its turquoise waters. The coast of Poros, located just a short distance from Agios Nikolaos, beckons you to fully immerse yourself in its shallow sandy shores and natural shade.

Another option is Vathy Pigadi (in Greek a Well) Beach. Follow the dirt road on the southeast side of the island to admire its crystal-clear waters, among other things. If diving is your passion, Vathy Pigadi is sure to become your top swimming destination in Agathonisi. If you’re seeking a beach with wild and untamed beauty, Tsagkari will reward your 300-meter hike with its pristine pebble scenery.

How to get to Agathinisi: To reach Agathonisi from Athens, you’ll need to travel to one of the Dodecanese islands. Then connect with a local itinerary that will take you to your destination, as there is no direct connection from the port of Piraeus.

Agathonisi, a place that has seemingly stood the test of time, retaining its unique charm and character, awaits your arrival. Come and lose yourself in its lands, where you’ll find ultimate relaxation. Most importantly, experience the unspoiled grandeur of nature in all its glory.