Once a place of exile, today a paradise on earth, full of cedar forests, few and kind inhabitants, beaches with golden sand and all the peace in the world. It is the southernmost point of Greece and Europe.

Gavdos is a one-of-a-kind destination.

It’s an island completely isolated from the rest of Greece. It is actually the southernmost point not only of Greece, but Europe as well.

Because of its geographical position, Gavdos used to be a place of exile for communists back in the 1930’s. Nowadays, it’s a place completely untouched by mass tourism, where people go and seek absolute peace, next to Nature. The sea, the wind and the Earth are at their purest in Gavdos.

In order to get there, you need to get to the south of Chania region. Either drive to Paleohora or Sfakia and then take the ferry to Gavdos. The ferry ride takes about 3-4 hours and runs from Thursday to Sunday during high season. The ferry company is called Anendyk Ferries so you’ll have to check on their website in order to get the correct timetables for your trip.

But note this down: with the slightest of rough seas, the ferry won’t travel (it’s a small ferry), so if you want to visit make sure you have at least a couple of extra days to spend, in case you get stranded. You will need at least a week in order to get used to the serenity and incredibly slow rhythms of Gavdos, so believe me: getting stranded for a few extra days won’t actually be a bad thing. I happened to get stranded on my Gavdos trip and absolutely loved it.

Here are 10 quick reasons why you should visit Gavdos:

1. You’ll find yourself at Europe’s southernmost point

2. Around the most unspoiled, pure environment

3. The few locals that inhabit it have learned to live in peace, away from the modern, stressful life

4. Huge cedar trees everywhere!

5. Sandy beaches with crystal clear waters

6. If you are into free camping, this is your go-to spot

7. Same for nudism

8. You can combine your trip to South Crete, such as Ayia Roumeli, Sfakia, Paleohora, Loutro

9. The iconic big wooden chair at Cape Tripiti

10. The food. Mostly Cretan cuisine with local, homegrown vegetables and herbs.