Accommodation: Where to stay

Don’t expect big hotels or resorts here—Agios Efstratios isn’t that kind of island. Instead, you’ll find small family-run guesthouses and a few room options. The best part is that they’re all located close to the main village and the harbor. The rooms are simple but comfortable, with wooden beams, crisp white sheets, and views of the sea or the village.

Agios Efstratios is committed to preserving its natural environment and promoting sustainable tourism. The island has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, including renewable energy projects and waste reduction programs. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local environment by minimizing their ecological footprint and supporting local businesses.

The Beaches: Small and Serene

Small and Serene Agios Efstratios isn’t the place for massive, bustling beaches. Instead, you get smaller, intimate spots where you might be the only one around. Agios Antonios Beach is the most accessible, located just a short walk from the village. The sand here is soft, and the water is crystal-clear with a shade of blue that feels almost unreal. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, but don’t expect beach bars or loud music. Bring your own snacks, find a good book, and enjoy the sound of the waves.

For a bit of an adventure, head to Livadaki Beach. It’s a bit more challenging to reach, but that’s the beauty of it. You’ll need to take a dirt road and then walk a short path through low bushes before you arrive at this secluded spot. It’s a pebbly beach, surrounded by cliffs, with deep waters perfect for snorkeling. Bring a mask if you can; the underwater scenery is worth it.

If you’re looking for something even quieter, there’s Trypiti Beach. It’s a little cove with fine pebbles and shade from the nearby tamarisk trees. This beach is often empty, even in the summer, making it feel like your own private paradise.

Food: Simple but Surprising 

Agios Efstratios doesn’t have many dining options, but what’s here is done well. Expect local, fresh ingredients and dishes that reflect the island’s simplicity but still offer some surprises. The seafood is the star of the show here, as you’d expect. At the traditional taverna, they serve whatever the fishermen caught that morning. You might get grilled octopus, small fried fish called atherina, or a plate of sea urchin salad, which is a local delicacy.

The island’s honey is another must-try. It’s dark and aromatic, thanks to the wild thyme and sage that grow all over the hills. You can taste it at the bakery in the village, drizzled over warm, fresh bread.

We need to mention here that the island is almost autonomous regarding energy, water, and food. The islanders also grow a good portion of their own food, with small farms and gardens producing fresh vegetables and herbs. Local beekeepers provide honey, which is famous for its unique, aromatic flavor. Even the seafood you enjoy in local tavernas often comes straight from the boats of local fishermen. Agios Efstratios isn’t just a place to visit; it’s an example of how a small community can thrive by harnessing its own resources thoughtfully and sustainably.

Exploring Nature and Unique Spots Agios Efstratios might be small, but it’s got a surprising variety of landscapes. Rent a bike or take a long walk, and you’ll quickly find yourself alone with the sound of cicadas and the wind. One of the best places to visit is the Cave of Agios Efstratios, a natural sea cave that’s linked to the island’s namesake saint, who supposedly lived there as a hermit. It’s a bit tricky to reach by foot, so many people choose to go by boat.

The Democracy Museum: A Unique Slice of History 

A must-visit on the island is the Democracy Museum, housed in a building that once served as a school and infirmary. The museum offers a deep dive into a lesser-known chapter of Greek history. During the 20th century, Agios Efstratios was a place of exile for political dissidents, especially during the 1930s and the post-World War II period but also after this. The exhibits include photographs, personal letters, and documents from those who were forced to live here, providing a stark glimpse into their everyday struggles and resilience. It is said that Mikis Theodorakis was in Agios Efstratios for some time in exile and wrote some of his famous songs sitting on the rocks of this island.

The museum’s design is modern yet understated, making the most of its small space to tell a powerful story. It’s a moving experience that feels very connected to the island’s identity and past, making it well worth a visit even if you’re not usually a museum person.

What to Do: Activities Beyond the Beach 

The island might be quiet, and sometimes really quiet, but it’s not boring. Hiking is one of the best ways to explore, with several trails crisscrossing the island. One popular route is the hike up to Profitis Ilias, the island’s highest point. It’s a moderate climb, but the panoramic views from the top are worth it. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Lemnos and sometimes even as far as Mount Athos.

In the summer months, the island hosts small cultural festivals and events, adding a bit of liveliness to the quiet surroundings. One of the highlights is a community feast that brings locals and visitors together for a meal by the harbor, featuring fresh seafood and local wine.

One newer trend on the island is eco-tourism. You can book guided tours with locals who will take you foraging for wild herbs, or even on a diving trip to see the underwater caves and shipwrecks that dot the coastline.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses and small apartments on the island, offering comfortable accommodations, but you really need to book before going.
• Car: You will not be able to reach the beaches around the island without a 4X4 jeep as there are no proper roads. But if you bring your mountain bike, you won’t have an issue.
• Dining: Enjoy local cuisine at the island's taverna, where fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes are served. We found only one taverna open in Agios Efstratios, but the food was really good, mostly seafood. Drink the local beer San Strati.
• Activities: Don't miss the chance to explore the island's hiking trails and visit the local Museum of Democracy.