“The Guardian” Island-Hops To Greece’s Naxos, Small Cyclades

Koufonisi Island. Photo: Christos Drazos

The Guardian newspaper recently ran a travel special on Naxos and the islands Koufonisi and Iraklia of the Small Cyclades from the perspective of journalist Giles Fraser and his 10-year son, Felix.

The three-page travel feature is entitled “The Coast is Clear: Island Hopping in Secret Greece.” (Online version: “Island-Hopping: Greece’s Small Cyclades”) and includes a map, photographs and a column with useful information and suggestions.

Naxos

The island of Naxos is the journalist’s first stop. He refers to the island’s “overly generous hospitality,” distinct beauty, vegetation, hospitality, gastronomy and local products.

“The specialities just kept on coming: tuna sashimi… more grilled cheese, sardines and the local potatoes, widely considered the best in Greece.” – Giles Fraser

Mr. Fraser of course mentions the famous myth of Ariadne of Naxos.

Small Cyclades: Koufonisi and Iraklia

Continuing his journey, Mr. Fraser takes a ferry to Koufonisi and later to Iraklia. He claims to be very impressed by the calmness, perfect beaches and blue waters of both islands that made him lose all sense of time.

“This is a Greece I had not expected. Quiet, secluded, almost cut off from the rest of the world… For the first time in ages, I am released from any anxiety about purpose or achievement. Who cares when the car comes to pick us up?” – Giles Fraser

Irakleia

Mr. Fraser visited Naxos, Koufonisi and Iraklia in May by invitation of the Municipality of Naxos and the Small Cyclades. The journalist’s visit was organized within the framework of the municipality’s promotional actions for the five islands it represents (Naxos, Iraklia, Shinousa, Koufonisia, Donousa).