Oinousses islands, a hidden gem in the northern Aegean Sea

The name Oinoussa most probably comes from the existence of vines and famous for its good quality wine since the ancient times (oinos in Greek means wine). Egnousa (Αιγνουσα) is however the most common name of the island by the residents, deriving from agnos, the ancient name of osier plant that grows on the island.

Oinoussa town is built amphitheatrically on the top of a hill around the port and offers its visitors natural beauty and important sights. An ideal place for relaxing holidays where you will enjoy watching, during your walks in the whitewashed alleys and gardens, the unique traditional mansions of the island’s captains as well as the two-story stone houses. Oinousses have been declared as a Place of Special Beauty from Natura 2000.

Oinousses beaches are beautiful, small and quiet and you can choose sandy or pebbled with the most accessible lying on the island’s southwestern side. Apiganos, Kastro, Mpilali, Zepagas, Agios Giannis, Farkero/Fourkerou. You can also visit the more secluded ones in the north Fokia, Hohlakas – Katsika, Tselepi, Hatzalis

These islands are known for their serene atmosphere, stunning natural landscapes, and rich maritime history. Here are some fascinating details

1. Location and Composition:

• Oinousses is a cluster of nine small Greek islands and islets.
• The largest of these islands is Oinoussa, which is also the only inhabited one.
• The islands are situated approximately 2 kilometers (1 mile) off the north-east coast of the Greek island of Chios and about 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of Turkey.

1. Maritime Heritage:

• Oinousses has a long-standing connection to the Aegean and Mediterranean seas.
• Often referred to as the “island of the shipowners,” this small archipelago has produced some of Greece’s most successful and prominent shipowners and sailors throughout the centuries.
• The maritime heritage of Oinoussa is proudly showcased at the Oinousses Maritime Museum, where you can find an impressive collection of model ships, nautical instruments, and paintings, including works by the renowned artist Aristeidis Glykas.

1. Monastery of the Annunciation:

• The Monastery of the Annunciation (known as “Evangelismos tis Theotokou” in Greek) was built in the 1960s in a classic Byzantine style.
• It adds even more charm to the landscape, perched on a hill with spectacular views of the lower lands of the island and the beautiful Aegean Sea.
• The monastery serves as a haven of peace and spirituality for those seeking moments of religious tranquility.
• Hospitable nuns run the monastery, welcoming visitors with tasteful traditional treats, exemplifying true Greek hospitality.

1. Getting to Oinousses:

• Reaching Oinousses involves a bit of a journey, but it’s well worth the effort.
• The island is accessible by ferry from the ports of Piraeus (the port city of metropolitan Athens) and the northern Greek port city of Kavala in Eastern Macedonia.
• Travel times range from 9 to 12 hours, during which you can enjoy the endless blue of the Aegean Sea on your way to Oinousses¹.

Whether you’re drawn to its maritime history, natural beauty, or spiritual tranquility, Oinousses offers a unique and authentic Greek experience. 🇬🇷