Are the Oinousses Islands a touristic destination?
by George Malakos
I have visited this group of 9 islands between the island of Chios island and the coast of Turkey many times. Most of my visits were as a tourist and a few times I came to study the lighthouse on Pasha island and the village of Agnussa for their traditional architecture. So I had the chance to enjoy the countless small coves, the crystal-clear sea water and the peaceful landscape as well as the interesting main village
of Oinousses (Agnoussa). Still though I am skeptical about suggesting a touristic visit here.
Oinousses is the “shipowner’s island” since many Greek ship-owners are from there and have their summer houses and villas built on the island. It is true that they take care of their fatherland by offering financial support to big works like the new port, a huge stadium, the Nautical high school and Academy for Commercial Navy Captains, the Naval Museum, a Sailing Club for children, Water Desalination System and many more important projects. On the other hand,
it seems that the whole island belongs to them and to the local people, turning its back or ignoring the visitor. They simply don't seem interested in attracting tourism, and why should they be? They don't need the income. They don't need the inconveniences for example not finding a table at their favorite small fish taverna because it is full of tourists.
Visiting by sailboat as I have done, it is difficult to find a cove without a big yacht occupying the whole place, while there are many sea-farm cages among the islands on the east side ruining an interesting landscape. Sailors using the port facilities will not be able to get water (only two days a week) or electricity (pillars not always working) in the port and most (if not all) the supplies (fresh fruits, vegetables, etc), come from Chios island.
Coming by ferry:You can wander around the village and the nearby small beaches but you will need a car, motorbike or a small boat to take you to one of the more distant sandy beaches and coves. The important Naval Museum is closed in the afternoon (opens 08.00-14.00) So, it is worth visiting Oinousses for one day and then you can decide if you want to stay longer. During this day you have to visit the Naval Museum and enjoy the local tastes in one of the taverns in the port. Seafood and goat are
the specialties of the island.
Oinousses has a winter population of about 1000 people but in the summer there are many more as the families of the ship owners come and fill the port with their yachts.
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Oinousses is located Northeast from Chios island in the Central Aegean. It is a group of 9 islands Agnoussa, Panagia, Vatos, Gaidaros, Pontikonisi, Pateronsi, and many smaller islands too. Agnoussa is the bigger (15sqkm) and it’s port is where you will arrive by the ferry from Chios (capital city of Chios island) 10nm. Every day. Boat: “OINOUSSES II”
Twice a week there is a ferry which connects with Piraeus, Chios and Lesvos.
You can also reach the island by Water taxi from Lagada (small port on North East Chios island).
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 Use Ferryhopper to find all direct and indirect ferry routes for the islands of Greece, Spain, Italy &
Turkey, compare ferry companies & prices, and book cheap ferry tickets with no hidden fees in one go!
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Restaurants
To Palio Teleneio is a cafe-restaurant in the port a few steps away from the ferry boat and a popular place with visitors with good local food, large portions and reasonable prices. Further along the coast is the restaurant-cafe Glaros known for its fresh seafood and mezedes. Both are located right on the sea and serve coffee and drinks as well as usual Greek island restaurant food. Aignousiotiko Taverna
is not on the sea but in the upper part of the village and worth going to for good food, large portions and a nice atmosphere.
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Where to Stay
Evgenikon House (photo) is a 1890s restored shipowner's house set in Oinousses island in northeast Aegean, 350 feet from the center. The property features views of the sea. This holiday home features 4 air-conditioned bedrooms, a balcony with unobstructed, panoramic views, fans, a fully-equipped kitchen and three bathrooms. The whole
house is available to guests. Simplistic Holiday Home in Oinousses is a vacation home featureing 2 bedrooms, a TV, an equipped kitchen with a fridge and an oven, a washing machine, and a bathroom with a shower.
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George Malakos is a former architect, now a sailboat skipper doing charters and daily cruises from the island of Lesvos. See Sailing in Lesvos for more information |
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