Fourni:
An Island for Nature Lovers

Fourni is an island complex in the Eastern Aegean, situated between Ikaria and Samos. It consists of Fourni and Thymaina, and ten uninhabited islets. During the Middle Ages, they were known as the “Corsair Islands”, as they were a legendary base for pirates.

With landscapes reminiscent of Polynesia, Fourni is among the last untouched paradises in the Aegean. It is an aquatic ecosystem of great biodiversity and dazzling beauty, with a magnificent crenelated coastline of secret sea passages, fjords and rocky reefs.

Made for nature lovers, sailors, snorkellers and divers, it promises unforgettable experiences for those seeking something out of the ordinary. Fans of seafood cuisine will also find plenty to excite them here.

Seize the opportunity and choose one of the ferry tickets to Fourni for a unique experience.

1. A boat trip around the islands to discover a major Mediterranean wetland that is part of the Natura 2000 network.
2. The view of the beautiful Kampi Bay from the hillside with the three windmills.
3. Walking in the enchanting Koumara, an area verdant with pine trees and Greek strawberry trees, where the 18th-century Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation, the oldest on the island, stands.

The island’s crenelated coastline hides many captivating beaches. Some are tourist-oriented, with tavernas and beach bars, while others are ideal for seclusion and relaxation. Don’t miss:

• Kampi, in the bay of the same name, combining soft sand, large pebbles, tamarisk trees, and tranquil emerald waters. Its good facilities, including umbrellas, sunbeds and tavernas, make it very popular.
• Chrysomilia, a lovely beach with fine sand, a shallow crystal-clear sea, and picturesque tavernas serving fresh fish.
• Petrokopio, the most striking of Fourni’s beaches, with a view of the ancient marble quarries and wonderful scenery of steep white rocks that come down to the sea.
• Psili Ammos, a favourite of young people, thanks to the all-day beach bar that pumps up the volume once the sun goes down and gets everyone in the mood for dancing. There are a few umbrellas and sunbeds here, as well as a platform for diving into the clear blue sea.
• The exotic Kasidi, an endless stretch of white sand with turquoise waters for those seeking a quiet secluded haven.
• Kamari has sand and pebbles, and trees providing natural shade. Its deep sea is particularly suited to underwater exploration, since the fascinating remains of an ancient city can be seen on the bottom.
• The sandy Keramidou on the island of Thymaina, with tamarisk trees and a small taverna for delicious fish and seafood.

The ancient acropolis
Built on Saint George’s Hill at an altitude of 180 metres, the ancient citadel of Fourni is scattered with wonderful inscriptions. It has stunning views of Kampos, Thymaina and Alatsonisi.

The marble quarry
Situated above Petrokopio Bay, the island’s imposing marble quarry dates back to Roman times. At the archaeological site there are unfinished architectural members of different shapes and sizes. According to tradition, many of the monuments in Ancient Ephesus, the most important city in Asia Minor, were made of marble from this quarry.

Kampos
The capital of Fourni is a charming settlement of mulberry trees and low white houses with blue shutters. All the streets lead to the main square with its impressive marble sarcophagus (dating from Roman times) and traditional cafes in the shade of a giant plane tree. It is the perfect place to stop for coffee and homemade desserts.

Thymaina
The second of the two inhabited Fourni islands has two pretty little villages and marvellous beaches such as the famous Keramidou. The chapel of Saint Demetrius offers an exceptional view of the surrounding area, while there are also some fine fish tavernas here.

Chrysomilia
One of the most attractive villages in the Aegean, built in tiers, having a delightfully romantic atmosphere. It is worth exploring the hill of the Holy Trinity, an area scattered with the marble remains of a temple of Poseidon.

Fourni is renowned for its seafood cuisine and its seas abound with fresh fish and top-quality lobsters.

If you choose one of the itineraries to Fourni, you will sample gourmet lobster linguine, fish and seafood from the grill (sea bream, sea bass, dentex, shrimp and octopus), as well as sea squirts, flying squid, mussels, and smooth clams.

For meat lovers, the island’s best-known speciality is stuffed goat with rice, fennel and herbs. You will also enjoy filo parcels filled with fava (split pea mash), koukoumavla (bread with salt and oil), karivoli (snails), ospria pandremena (beans, chickpeas and lentils with rice), soufiko (a medley of vegetables) and pougakia (little pastry “purses” filled with fennel and soft mizithra cheese).

To cool off, choose Lagou, the local orangeade, and for something sweet, try the much-sought-after Fourni honey, fruit preserves, or traditional cookies.