Donousa in 2 Days
The east-coast walking trail to Kedros and Mersini on Day 1, Kalotaritissa and the north on Day 2.
Donousa in 2 days, day by day: what to see, in what order, how far you drive and where you sleep. Base: Stavros. It works without a car.
Stavros, Kedros & Mersini
Stavros (Chora)
The port and main village, with a sandy crescent beach right next to the harbour. Walk the alleys uphill β the tavernas, mini-market and a few small hotels are all here. Most visitors base themselves in Stavros and walk out from there.
Kedros Beach π beach card Β· wind & conditions β
20-minute walk east of Stavros along the coastal path. The largest and most beautiful beach on Donousa β fine yellow sand and turquoise water. The wreck of a German WWII ship lies in shallow water just offshore (visible by snorkel). One beach bar that serves genuinely good food.
Vathy Limenari π beach card Β· wind & conditions β
Continue 1km east on the path. Deep turquoise bay with white coarse pebbles. Geometric-period ruins on the surrounding hills β once a pirate hideout. Quieter than Kedros.
Livadi Beach π beach card Β· wind & conditions β
The most photogenic beach on the island β emerald water and dazzling white sand reached only by the trail from Mersini (or by boat). Nudist-friendly. No facilities. Bring everything.
Mersini Village & Spring
Steep climb up from Livadi (160m elevation). The only village with a natural spring on Donousa β water from a plane tree, locals fill bottles for the week. The clifftop chapel of Agia Sofia has the best view on the island, looking out to Amorgos in the distance.
Kalotaritissa & the North
Kalotaritissa Village π beach card Β· wind & conditions β
The northernmost settlement on Donousa, reached by an asphalt road climbing high above the sea. Three small beaches in a row (Sapounochoma, Mesa Ammos, Tripiti) and the Mitsos taverna β keftedes that justify the trip on their own.
Tripiti Beach
Short path from the far end of Kalotaritissa beach. Sandy, nudist-friendly, almost always empty. The third and most secluded of the Kalotaritissa beaches.
Fokospilia Sea Cave
Reachable only by boat. A dramatic sea cave at Cape Moschonas β once a Mediterranean monk seal breeding site (Greek 'fokia' = seal). Local boat excursions from Stavros include it.
Aspros Kavos Walk
Easy 2km flat coastal path west from Stavros to a wild limestone cape. Almost no elevation, no shade, but constant Aegean views. The best easy walk on the island.
Planning questions
Is 2 days enough for Donousa?
Yes, for a first visit. The plan covers the essentials at a pace that leaves time in the water. With one more day, add a slow beach day with no driving.
Do I need a car on Donousa?
No. This plan works on foot, by boat and with the local bus.
Where should I stay on Donousa?
The plan sleeps in Stavros.