Sunday 01 December 2019

Retreat With Us To…. Donousa

It’s no secret that we have a wealth of cultural inspiration to draw from in our beautiful home country of Greece. This season, our founder Christina looked to the lesser-explored Cyclades islands - a group teeming with pure white marble, sandy shores and a seductively azure coast. She found herself enchanted by their wild beauty, the extreme terrain (think steep cliffs plunging directly to the water) and the natural sea caves.

Our new Donousa sandal, with its wave-like curves and twisting metallic leather, has us ready to book a plane ticket to its namesake island. Explore with us this summer as we share our favourite tips, hidden hot-spots, and insider’s guide to the islands that imbue every part of our design process.

WHAT TO EXPECT…

You won’t find any buzzing clubs or thronging beaches here - the beauty of Donousa is that it’s yet to be overrun. The easternmost island of the Cyclades, it boasts unspoiled beaches and a population of just 150 permanent residents. The quiet, intimate coves are devoid of signs and regulations, mostly accessible by foot or by boat - making each one feel like your own private island. The dramatic landscape of Kalotaritissa beach makes it the ideal escape, with craggy rock faces giving way to the clearest waters imaginable, nestled in the northern side of the island.

WHAT TO DO…

Explore the magical cave of Fokospilia on the east coast. Towering stalactites and a dramatic sea bottom make it a favourite for both humans and wildlife alike - the Mediterranean monk seal is a frequent visitor. Greece’s famed white-washed churches may dot the cliffs of most of our islands, but for serenity you can’t beat a walk to the Church of Agia Sophia. Standing tall and solitary, its blue dome meets the sky in a breathtaking landscape.

WHERE TO EAT…

It’s hard to beat Iliovasilema, the local favourite restaurant. Perched above Stavros, the views of the harbour (especially at sunset) are reason to eat here alone. That is.. until you try the grilled octopus. Or the classic Souvlaki. Or the halloumi. Or just… all of it really. For this family-run taverna knows a thing or two about food (and wine), and the owners’ jovial spirits will have you return again and again throughout your stay.

HOW TO GET AROUND…

Prepare yourself for some walking, and be sure to pack a pair of our extra-special comfort soles. There are car ferries to the island, but the narrow paths and abundance of scooters make cars an unnecessary hindrance to your stay. Instead, explore the unchartered paths of the island’s 5 hiking trails, mapped out from the original paths residents walked into the hills.

WHEN TO VISIT…

If it’s atmosphere you’re after, you can’t beat the island festivals held each September. The island comes together to celebrate the day of Timios Stavros at its namesake beautiful white-washed church, a must-visit. Traditional music and dance, along with an inviting home sourced feast, encourage locals and visitors to make the pilgrimage from town to port. We recommend staying from the 13th-17th to experience it in full, but make sure to book in advance - the limited number of rooms on the island means every bed is in hot demand!