Oinousses

Oinousses

Oinousses is known as the “shipowner’s island” since many Greek ship-owners are from there and have their summer houses and villas built there. Ιt is an island with long and vibrant maritime tradition, reflected in the Maritime Museum of Hora, which is housed in a mansion near the port. Oinousses is not actually one island, but a cluster of one large and eight smaller islands off the north-east coast of Chios. Oinousses has a small resident population living on the larger of the islands. The island’s only town features neo-classical style mansions painted in the pastel colors of cream, terracotta and pale blue, paved walkways, and a lovely square with a sculpture honoring the Unknown Sailorman. The town is built amphitheatrically on the hillside that slopes down towards the port, and is very atmospheric.

Unlike the rest of the Greek islands, Oinousses does not feel the need to make concessions to tourism. This is because of the shipowners who take care of their fatherland by offering financial support to big works. Thus, the island remains quiet and keeps mass tourism away. Oinousses is famous for its quiet and hospitable atmosphere, the wonderful beaches with clear blue waters and the sea caves. There is not much to do in Oinousses apart from wandering around the town, visiting the maritime museum and enjoying the local tastes in one of the taverns in the port. Oinousses offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds and is one of the best destinations if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This travel guide will let you discover this unknown gem of the North Aegean Sea.