Tzi Tzi Spring, Mersini 843 00, Donousa, Greece

## Overview Tzi Tzi Spring is a charming public drinking spring located on the small Cycladic island of Donousa, one of the Lesser Eastern Cyclades in Greece's Aegean Sea. Donousa is among the smallest inhabited islands in the group, known for its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unhurried pace of life — making this spring a fitting gem in an already idyllic setting. The spring flows from a simple white pipe set beneath a beautiful, shade-giving tree, with stone benches nearby where visitors can sit and rest. The tranquil scene — water flowing gently beneath leafy branches on a quiet Greek island — has been compared by visitors to the spirit of Jean Giono's beloved story *The Man Who Planted Trees*, evoking a deep sense of peace and connection with nature. The spring has historically been used as a source of drinking water by locals and visitors alike, though as with any natural water source, conditions can vary. ## Directions 1. From the port village of Stavros (Donousa's main settlement), take the local island bus heading toward the Tzi Tzi Taverna area. 2. Alight at or near Tzi Tzi Taverna — the bus stop and taverna serve as your landmark. 3. From the taverna, look for the stone steps leading downhill. 4. Follow the stone steps down to reach the spring, which is located beneath a large tree with stone benches nearby. **GPS Coordinates:** 37.098003, 25.828058 *Note: Donousa is a small island with limited roads. The bus service is seasonal and may run infrequently — check locally for current schedules. Walking from Stavros is also an option, as distances on the island are short.* ## What to Expect Tzi Tzi Spring is a modest but lovely spot — a white pipe delivers a steady flow of water beneath the canopy of a large tree, creating a cool, shaded resting place. Stone benches surround the spring, making it an inviting place to pause during a walk or hike around the island. Donousa is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path island with limited tourist infrastructure, so the spring feels wonderfully secluded. The surrounding landscape is typical of the dry Cycladic hills — rocky terrain dotted with scrubby vegetation and wildflowers in spring. The area around the spring, however, is notably green and lush thanks to the water source. Visitors should be aware that Donousa is reached by ferry from Naxos or other nearby islands, and services can be affected by weather and season. The spring is publicly accessible and has been reported as a local drinking water source, though water quality may vary with seasonal conditions. The walk down the stone steps is short but can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.