These small and beautiful islands, few of which have any amenities, are an ideal destination for those in search of solitude and peace. The rugged beauty of the barren landscape, the sea-lashed rocks, the little coves along the coastline, a chance to get away from the crowds and the culture of technology - these are the charms which attract visitors to these virtually virgin islands. Archaeological excavations have shown that the islands were inhabited in prehistoric times. In Iraklia, where there is a cave (Ai-Yanis) with superb stalactites, traces of the Cycladic civilisation have been found. At the pretty harbour of Messaria on Shinoussa, there are ruins of medieval fortifications. Koufonissia has a fine sandy beach at Finikia (Pano Koufonissi), where the water is crystal-clear, and (on Kato Koufonissi) further beaches with coarse sand. The remains of buildings from the Hellenistic and Roman periods have come to light. Keros has yielded the remains of settlements from the Early Cycladic period, together with archaeological finds of the same date which are considered among the finest anywhere in the Cyclades. Donoussa, too, with its incomparable beaches, has traces of prehistoric habitation. A few rooms are available for rent in IrakIia, Pano Koufonissi and Shinoussa. How to get there: The smaller islands of the Eastern Cyclades are served by ferries from Piraeus and Rafina.

           
Source: GNTO