Lipsi, a small island in the Dodecanese group, is gaining international recognition for its 23 untouched beaches and pioneering sustainability policies. With around 800 permanent residents and no airport, the island has deliberately avoided overtourism, prioritising environmental protection over large-scale development.
Location and Climate
Tucked between Samos and Leros, Lipsi is part of the Dodecanese islands, which include popular destinations like Kos and Rhodes. The region boasts more than 300 days of sunshine annually, making it the sunniest spot in Greece. Summer temperatures average 25.5°C in August, 24.8°C in July, and 23°C in June. Even in winter, November sees averages of 17.8°C, while January and February hover around 13°C.
Beaches and Activities
Lipsi offers 23 secluded beaches free from rows of sunbeds. Popular spots include Platis Gialos Beach, known for its sparkling blue waters and sweeping views; Hohlakoura Beach, ideal for snorkelling; and White Islands Beach, with pale jagged rocks that enhance the Aegean's blue. The surrounding islets, such as Aspronisia, can be explored by boat, kayak, or organised tour. The Rena 5 Island Cruise takes visitors to five nearby islets—Makronisi, Aspronisi, Marathi, Tiganakia, and Arki—running from 10:30am to 6:30pm.
Cultural and Religious Sites
The island is home to the Panagia tou Harou (Madonna of Death), a church dating back to 1600 built by monks from Mount Athos. Its white and blue-washed walls are iconic. Each year on August 22, a procession from the village to the church marks a miraculous event: lilies placed there by a young girl in 1943 bloom every year without fail. The Monastery of St John the Theologian, adorned with religious artefacts, is described by visitors as peaceful and restful.
Local Cuisine and Products
Lipsi is famous for top-class local products, including cheese, honey, and sweet red wine—a legacy of Italian occupation of the Dodecanese. At local restaurant Pefko, visitors can sample seafood dishes like octopus salad, mussels and cheese in tomato sauce, and prawns and peppers, along with plenty of feta.
Getting There
Lipsi has no airport, so visitors must fly to Athens first. For example, easyJet offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Athens International, departing August 30 and returning September 6, for £137 per person. Wizz Air flies from Luton on September 27, returning October 4, for £98 return. From Athens, a ferry from Piraeus port takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes. Blue Star Ferries runs the route approximately twice a week, with prices starting from around £43. A week-long stay is recommended.
Sustainability and Overtourism
The local community has deliberately chosen a different path from other popular islands, prioritising policies that protect the environment, such as reducing plastic use, over large-scale tourism. According to the article, "there's not a sunbed in sight" on Lipsi's beaches, highlighting its commitment to preserving natural beauty.
