Cyclades islands holidays is not all about the frenzy Mykonian parties, the idyllic sunsets of Santorini, the appealing nightlife of Paros and the secluded beaches of Naxos.

For those who wish to explore the “other way” of holidaying, the Small Cyclades are an ideal destination. It is only recently that they have been discovered by the majority of tourists while they had always been an attraction point for nature lovers and for those who appreciate the most traditional of the Greek islands.

The Small Cyclades are located south and south-east of Naxos. Their size justifies their name, being rather small compared to the rest of the islands in the group. I won’t lie to you, it is not so easy to get there. But this is part of their charm. This is what has left them unspoilt and has helped the inhabitants to retain their traditional characteristics.

Still, during August (the high season for the Cyclades islands), Koufonissia become such an attraction pole that it is almost impossible to find a place to stay without prior arrangements or a beach to yourself. Other than that, I would highly recommend them as your next Greece travel destination.

How to get to the Small Cyclades

First of all, you need to get to Naxos. This is really cool (at least for me) since Naxos is one of my favourite islands in the Cyclades and for a very good reason. It offers just about everything your heart might desire. If you have the time, do spend a few days on Naxos; you won’t regret it, I promise.

From Naxos, you can either continue on the same ferry or hire a sailing boat to get you to one of the Small Cyclades islands. It is also important to know that during middle and high seasons, small ferry companies depart from the port of Naxos on daily tours to this wonderful island group. Such a tour will help you decide which of the islands you prefer the most and visit them only.