Chorio with its Cycladic character, the medieval castle with its enchanting view, the old churches and the pristine beaches compose the simple and charming image of Kimolos, which lends itself to serene holidays.
Small in size, authentic and charming, with its picturesque Chorio, its gorgeous beaches and a laid-back atmosphere that wins you over instantly, Kimolos sparkles like a rare jewel under the Aegean sun. «My Kimolos, my paradise!», the locals often say about it, and when you find yourself on the island you will understand what they mean.
Kimolos, the «little sister» of Milos, is a distinctive and special island, known for its tranquility and simplicity. The Venetians gave it the name Arzantiera or Argentiera, meaning silver land. Arriving on the island, the little port of Psathi gives you the first impression, as the crystal-clear waters, the few small houses and the count-on-your-fingers tavernas make you realize you’ve just reached a small yet earthly paradise.
Chorio
On Kimolos there is no Chora. There is Chorio and all roads lead there. Everything is picturesque and beautiful, with labyrinthine alleys, classic white Cycladic houses with flower-filled courtyards, stone terraces and churches. The small squares of Theoskepasti, Kampos and the School complete the simple and captivating scene. In Chorio you can visit the medieval castle, the island’s oldest settlement, to admire the view from there, as well as the two museums (Archaeological and Folklore) to get to know the island’s history.
The best beaches of Kimolos
A dip at Prassa is a must. It is the island’s most famous beach and one of the most beautiful in the Cyclades. Dazzling white, coarse sand, fabulous turquoise waters and sea caves ripe for exploration compose the beach’s heavenly scene, located in the northeastern part of Kimolos within the bay of Pigadi, about 6 km from the port. On the beach there is a beach bar with sunbeds and umbrellas.
In the southeastern part of Kimolos you’ll find the island’s largest beaches, Aliki, Bonatsa and Kalamitsi. Also very beautiful are the beaches of Monastiria and Soufi in the north, accessible either by sea or with a 4x4.
In the west, Mavrospilia offers golden sand and is famed for its spellbinding sunsets. Right next door, you’ll find Ellinika beach with the submerged ancient cityof Kimolos in its waters. Fantastic, too, are the little coves of Goupa and Karas, with their colorful «syrmata» (spaces carved into the rock where locals store their boats in winter) and the rock – «elephant» for dives into the blue-green waters.
The «Skiadi»
In the island’s northwestern part, to the west of a hill called «Sklavos», a gigantic stone mushroom dominates, which locals have named «Skiadi». It is a rare monument of nature, standing in the middle of a wind-beaten plateau in the island’s interior, with wonderful views of the island’s western coasts and a large part of Milos. Its formation is due to the different rocks that compose it and the strong winds that blow in the area.
Local flavors
Do not miss trying the traditional ladenia (local pizza with olive oil, tomato and onion). In the island’s bakeries you will also find tyrenia, a kind of open cheese pie with bread-dough pastry, elenia, bread filled with Koroneiki olives, and aromatic rusks with skinokokko. From the grocers you can buy manoura and xyno, the island’s traditional cheeses, honey, capers, tomato paste from local tomatoes and handmade pasta.
Escape to Polyaigos
Polyaigos, the largest uninhabited island in the Aegean, between Kimolos and Milos, is a blue oasis with enchanting waters and striking rock formations in the sea that will leave you open-mouthed.
The island’s captivating beaches attract sailing boats, yachts and many other vessels that make sea tours from the neighboring islands. On Polyaigos you can swim in the bays of Pano and Kato Mersini, at Galazia Nera (true to its name), on Ammoura beach and at Panagia (a large beach with blond sand). Sailing around the island you’ll see spectacular geological formations, natural pools and mysterious caves you won’t stop photographing. Access is either by private boat or by caiques that make sea excursions from Kimolos.
Accommodation
- Built amphitheatre-style, between the port of Kimolos and Chorio, overlooking the picturesque bay of Psathi, Kimolis offers hospitality of high standards.
- At the entrance of Kimolos’ picturesque Chorio, you will find Kimolos Houses, a complex of rental residences of Cycladic architecture in a relaxing setting with panoramic views of the Aegean.
- Perched on a hill above Prassa, the Kimolia Gi complex features 6 studios and 2 independent residences that combine modern comforts with traditional character.
- Windmill Kimolos is one of the few authentic traditional windmills from 1852 in Greece, restored and operating as a hotel with five rooms.
Food
- At the port of Psathi, by the sea, Kyma is one of the best places to eat on the island.
- Kali Kardia (Bochoris) is the island’s historic café-meze house. Here you can enjoy breakfast, coffee, delicious home-cooked dishes and meze.
- Kalamitsi, right on the beach, serves fresh seafood and fish from the family’s caique.
- At Prassonisi you will enjoy ultra-fresh fish on a wonderful balcony over the sea and very close to Prassa beach.
