Day 8: Donousa to Koufonisia – Island Hopping, Beach Walks and a Bit of Football

A Quiet Start and a Smooth Ferry Crossing

Our ferry from Donousa was scheduled for 9:20 a.m., but I woke just after 6 and made the most of the early start by working on my latest YouTube video about Donousa. The morning light and peaceful surroundings were perfect for getting things done.

At 8, I joined Ed for breakfast next door. We finished off the last of yesterday’s bread and added coffee and orange juice to round out the meal. We checked out of our rooms at 8:45 and strolled down to the port (politely declining the offer of a transfer, knowing that it’s quicker to walk across the beach), where I filmed the final segment for my Donousa vlog. The ferry arrived on time, and we enjoyed the early sun while waiting to board.

The journey to Koufonisia took just over an hour, arriving at 10:30. We were both able to check into our accommodation immediately — I was staying at Sorokos Koufonisia, and Ed had booked into Melissa Chora, just a short walk away. After unpacking, we met for a beer at Opsianos, a laid-back bar close to Ed’s place.

Exploring Koufonisia’s Coastline

With the day still wide open, we set off on a coastal walk around the southeast of the island. The path wound past bright blue water and hidden coves until we stopped for lunch at a taverna behind Finikas Beach. It was exactly what you’d want on a Greek island: relaxed, scenic, and quiet.

After lunch, we continued to Pori Beach, a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay with soft sand and crystal-clear water. I went for a quick swim while Ed took in the view from the shade. Eventually, we cut back across the island on the inland road, arriving back at our respective places around 2:15.

I spent the afternoon finishing and publishing my Donousa video, then got ready to head out again for the evening.

Cocktails, Pizza and Football (Sort Of)

At 6 p.m., I met Ed for a drink at Astrolouloudo, a small cocktail bar tucked not far from Sophie’s Cafe. We then walked to Fos Fanari for dinner, where we had pizzas and some decent house white wine — a simple yet satisfying meal.

Post-dinner, we returned to Sophie’s Cafe for another drink. Our original plan had been to watch the Europa League Final at Opsianos, but when we passed by, it didn’t look like they were showing the game. We’d noticed a large screen at Sophie’s earlier, so we circled back and settled in there instead.

I had a glass of wine and a really good chocolate and caramel cake, while Ed ordered a beer and some ice cream. We watched the first half, which ended with Tottenham leading 1–0, but it was a fairly dull match and we were both flagging. Ed decided to finish the game in his room, and I called it a night and headed back to Sorokos to get some sleep.