Smaller Cyclades

Size: all piddling
Martian Risk: Nil

The main purpose of these islands is to offer havens of rest to the m.v. Skopelitis (flagship of the Colin Murison Small Cyclades Lines, and surely due for a long service medal soon) on its way from Naxos to Amorgos. Thus the key gateway is Naxos – see Central Cyclades intro above for getting that far. From Naxos, the noble Skopelitis chugs manfully onwards every afternoon to Iraklia, Schoinoussa, Koufonissia and Amorgos, adding Donoussa four times a week. Large ferries from Piraeus – an overnight cabin has many advantages -  also call at Naxos and can be picked up there, though usually at about midnight. Note that outside the high season, services may be fewer.

Connections to these islands, especially Donoussa and Amorgos, improved dramatically last year and that situation is expected to continue this year. Because reaching these islands takes longer than a direct charter takes to, say, Crete or Rhodes, it follows that you are likely to avoid Martians; thus Greek life is more genuine, the pace of life slower and the tavernas have not been tempted to turn into fast food outlets.

In this group, the least developed islands are Iraklia, Schoinoussa and Donoussa. Koufonissia is becoming more developed, especially popular with French and Italians in high season. Amorgos – though with a far bigger area and much more challenging terrain – is also now on the tourist map, at least in high season.

Price Guide

SMALLER CYCLADES

1. Iraklia
2. Schoinoussa
3. Koufonissia
4. Donoussa
5. Amorgos

CENTRAL CYCLADES

1. Mykonos
2. Naxos
3. Paros
4. Antiparos
5. Folegandros
6. Santorini

WESTERN CYCLADES

1. Kea
2. Kythnos
3. Serifos
4. Sifnos

Air-conditioning is evident - especially out of doors