Travel
11 Remote Greek Islands Offering A Peaceful Escape
Dreaming of a tranquil getaway where time slows down, the crowds disappear, and the sea shimmers in endless shades of blue?
Dreaming of a tranquil getaway where time slows down, the crowds disappear, and the sea shimmers in endless shades of blue? Greece is home to some of the most breathtaking islands, but beyond the famous hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos, there are hidden gems where serenity reigns. These remote Greek islands offer untouched landscapes, charming villages, and a true escape from the modern world. If you're looking for peace, quiet, and authentic island life, here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore.
Koufonisia
Nestled in the Small Cyclades, Koufonisia is a paradise of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. This tiny island feels like a secret hideaway, with no massive resorts or overwhelming crowds—just a handful of whitewashed houses, charming tavernas, and some of the clearest waters in Greece. The best way to explore is by foot or bike, hopping between secluded coves and scenic coastal paths.
Things to Do:
Swim At Pori Beach
A stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear waters.
Take A Boat To Kato Koufonisi
A neighboring uninhabited island is perfect for an even quieter escape.
Anafi
A hidden gem near Santorini, Anafi remains blissfully untouched by mass tourism. This quiet island is known for its rugged beauty, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Life moves at a slow pace here, making it the perfect spot for those who want to truly disconnect and soak in the natural beauty of the Aegean.
Things to Do:
Hike To Kalamos Rock
The second-highest monolithic rock in Europe, offering panoramic views.
Relax On Agios Nikolaos Beach
A peaceful spot with soft sand and clear waters.
Kasos
Tucked between Crete and Karpathos, Kasos is a tiny island with a rich maritime history, traditional stone houses, and a relaxed way of life. With barely any tourists, the island feels like a step back in time, where locals gather in cozy tavernas, and fishermen bring in their daily catch.
Things to Do:
Visit The Village Of Fry
A charming seaside settlement with a picturesque harbor.
Explore Hidden Beaches
Small coves like Helatros offer pure tranquility.
Schinoussa
One of the least-visited islands in the Small Cyclades, Schinoussa is a dream for travelers seeking solitude. With fewer than 300 residents, this island offers empty beaches, breathtaking sea views, and a deep sense of calm. The landscape is rugged and unspoiled, with hiking trails leading to remote bays and spectacular lookout points.
Things to Do:
Discover Tsigouri Beach
A beautiful, uncrowded spot perfect for relaxation.
Try Local Delicacies
Schinoussa is known for its delicious fava beans.
Iraklia
Iraklia is a tiny island where life revolves around nature and the sea. There are no big resorts or buzzing nightlife—just quiet beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a handful of friendly locals. It’s the ideal place to unplug, explore on foot, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Things to Do:
Hike To The Cave Of Agios Ioannis
One of the largest caves in the Cyclades, filled with stalactites.
Swim At Livadi Beach
A secluded bay with stunningly clear water.
Tilos
A paradise for nature lovers, Tilos is a remote Dodecanese island known for its wild landscapes, rare bird species, and untouched beaches. With its eco-friendly approach and commitment to sustainability, the island offers a peaceful escape where nature takes center stage.
Things to Do:
Visit Mikro Chorio
A fascinating abandoned village with stone ruins.
Explore Secluded Beaches
Eristos Beach is a quiet haven with golden sand.
Lipsi
A charming island near Patmos, Lipsi is an unspoiled paradise with quiet beaches, traditional white-and-blue houses, and a relaxed pace of life. The island's small size makes it easy to explore, whether you're wandering through the town's narrow streets or finding your private stretch of sand.
Things to Do:
Swim At Platis Gialos
A beautiful bay with shallow, clear waters.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Lipsi is known for its excellent octopus dishes.
Sikinos
If you’re looking for an island where tourism has barely made an impact, Sikinos is the place. This hidden gem in the Cyclades is all about authenticity, with traditional stone villages, quiet beaches, and a deep sense of tranquility. It’s the perfect retreat for those who want to experience Greece without the crowds.
Things to Do:
Visit Episkopi Monastery
A fascinating site combining history and stunning views.
Relax On Agios Georgios Beach
A peaceful spot with calm waters and golden sand.
Donoussa
A tiny island in the Small Cyclades, Donoussa is one of the most remote and untouched destinations in Greece. It has a bohemian, off-grid vibe, where travelers come to escape the modern world and reconnect with nature. The beaches are pristine, the waters impossibly blue, and the atmosphere pure serenity.
Things to Do:
Swim At Kedros Beach
A stunning cove with turquoise waters and golden sand.
Hike To Mount Papas
The island's highest point offers breathtaking views.
Gavdos
The southernmost island of Europe, Gavdos, is as remote as it gets. Located south of Crete, it feels like an untouched paradise, with vast sandy beaches, cedar forests, and an almost mystical sense of isolation. With only a few hundred residents and a simple way of life, Gavdos is the ultimate escape for those seeking total seclusion.
Things to Do:
Visit Tripiti Beach
The southernmost point of Europe, with natural rock arches.
Experience Off-Grid Living
Stay in a rustic eco-lodge for a true retreat.
Fourni
A true hidden treasure in the Aegean, Fourni is a small island complex between Ikaria and Samos, known for its untouched beauty, secluded bays, and rich maritime history. This island remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism, offering visitors a glimpse of traditional Greek island life with picturesque fishing villages, unspoiled nature, and some of the freshest seafood in the country.
Things to Do:
Discover Secluded Beaches
Kampi and Petrokopio Beach offer crystal-clear waters and absolute tranquility.
Explore Ancient Shipwrecks
The waters around Fourni are home to numerous archaeological diving sites.
Where Will Your Greek Island Escape Take You?
These remote Greek islands offer a rare kind of peace, where the only sounds are the waves, the wind, and the occasional chatter of friendly locals. Whether you’re searching for unspoiled nature, hidden beaches, or a simple, slow-paced way of life, these tranquil destinations provide the perfect retreat. Which one will be your next escape?
