Fourni

Fourni is the name given to this archipelago of 12 small islands between Ikaria and Samos.  Only the two largest islands – Fourni and Thymena along with the smaller eastern island of Agios Minas are inhabited.  On the main island is the de-facto capital of the islands – the village of Fourni.  

Most of the 2000 inhabitants of Fourni make their livelihoods from fishing, agriculture or farming supplemented by the tourism industry.  On the main island – Fourni – there are some beautiful beaches including Vlychada, Vitsilia, Petrokopio, Elidaki and Bali.  There are also may other smaller bays and coves that can only be reached on foot or by boat.  In the fish tavernas of Fourni village the local speciality of grilled lobster is often served fresh from the fishing nets.  

Such is the temptation and reputation of the tavernas on Fourni that locals from Ikaria, Patmos and Samos make the trip to sample the culinary delights on offer.  Away from the village the island is almost deserted. A few kilometres outside of Fourni town, the asphalt simply runs out and the roads become footpaths. Secluded coves and bays are within walking distance, one of the best being lovely Kampi complete with a taverna that overhangs the sandy beach.  The 20 minutes it takes to reach Kampi is nothing to what the more intrepid walkers will undertake in reaching some other gloriously remote areas of the island.

To describe Fourni in a few words – it is traditionally Greek, laid back and with incredibly friendly locals.
 
The island of Fourni is reached easiest by boat from Samos and Ikaria, taking 1 – 2 hours depending on the schedule.