Introduction

This is one of those almost untouched islands by time and tourism, and here, you'll find Greece at its most genuine and traditional.

History

The island was originally called Tragea or Netousa, and got its current name by a priest in the beginning of last century. The word "agathos" means good or gullible, and a common translation is "Island of the Fools" or "Island of the good-hearted".

Agathonisi lies only ten km away from the Turkish coast, and this has had consequences for the tiny island through history. Originally a place for exiles during Roman and Byzantine times and constantly attacked by pirates, Agathonisi did not have a proper community until the 19th century.

By then, it had been under Turkish rule since the 16th century, but the Turks never actually lived on the island.

In 1922 Agathonisi was occupied by Italian troops and was not liberated until after the second World War. In the 1980's, the island finally got electricity and telephone lines

What to See

The island doesn't have any special sights apart from a couple of small churches. There are three villages on the island except the harbour Ag Georgios: Katholiko, a practically abandoned fishing village, Megalo Chorio, where most islanders live, and Mikro Chorio.

What to Do

You come to Agathonisi to relax, so bring good literature, snorkeling gear and perhaps a fishing rod. It is also a nice island for walking.

Beaches

There are many small bays that you can discover on your own. If you like, you can also stay at the beach of Ag Georgios. Ormos Cochilia ("Shell Bay") is a lovely beach.

Nightlife

Only a couple of taverns where you can stay up late and just enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. In Megalo Chorio there are also a few cafes. If you consider the number of people that live here, and that about 800 more visit the island every year, it is not bad.

Food

The taverns on Agathonisi serve good, traditional Greek food. Try the local peas Fliskoukoudi.

Shopping

In Megalo Chorio you can get some souvenirs like handmade ceramics and textiles, a few postcards and wine.

Getting Around

Only on foot! You might get one of the fishermen to take you if you ask nicely and are willing to pay a small fee.

Getting There

It is a little bit tricky to get here since the connections are not the best. Get a direct flight to Kos and take the ferry or hydrofoil from there. Be careful with the departure, it is probably best to leave Agathonisi one or two days before since it might get windy and the boats will be canceled.

Agathonisis is also connected to Samos, Kalymnos and Patmos.