A unique island in the Dodecanese for lovers of tranquility, simplicity and authenticity.
With pristine beaches, picturesque villages, medieval castles, many Byzantine churches and other distinctive sights, Tilos is an «undiscovered» destination in the Aegean, full of surprises, that is worth discovering. A place of gentle development that has not altered its authentic island image at all.
This small and remote island lies south of Nisyros, between Kos and Rhodes, and is encircled by 16 islets. The journey by ferry from Piraeus takes about 14 hours, but you can fly to Kos or Rhodes and from there reach Tilos by boat.
Tilos is special in many respects. It is the Mediterranean’s first «green» island to be completely energy self-sufficient through wind and solar power. Also, the entire islandis part of the Natura 2000 network. In Tilos’s mountain ranges, a wealth of flowers and herbs grows and many species of rare birds live.
Exploring Tilos
Arrival point is Livadia, the port on the island’s eastern side. It is Tilos’s most tourist-developed settlement, with rooms to let, tavernas and cafés close to the beach. Leaving Livadia behind you, after crossing a plain dotted with little chapels, you will reach Megalo Chorio, the island’s capital, a ten-minute drive from the port. It is Tilos’s most picturesque village, with authentic Aegean architecture and the ancient castle commanding its summit. Strolling the narrow lanes of the village is delightful.
On the way to Megalo Chorio, you can also see Mikro Chorio, built in the 15th century on the hills above Livadia and abandoned by its inhabitants after World War II. Today, in this atmospheric settlement of ruined stone houses, which feels like a movie set, only one little bar operates at night with a wonderful view. Continuing your exploration, it is worth visitingAgios Antonioson the island’s north coast, a pretty fishing village with a small beach, famed for its sunset.
Beaches
Right by the port, Livadia Beach is long and lively, with pebbles, tamarisks and crystalline waters. Everything you need (coffee, food, rooms to let) is within very close reach. Eristos Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful, with a long golden sandy shore and deep-blue, refreshing waters. You will also enjoy delightful swims at the beaches of Lethra, Agios Sergios, Theologos, Plaka and Agios Antonios.
Don’t miss
The Palaeontological Museum (Megalo Chorio) is particularly interesting, as in Tilos, in Charkadio Cave the bones of dwarf elephants (their height did not exceed 1.5 meters) were found, believed to have lived 45,000 years ago and to have disappeared 4,000 years ago!
A wonderful route from Megalo Chorio will lead you to the medieval Knights’ Castle, one of the island’s most important sights. Prefer to visit in the afternoon. The mesmerizing view will reward you.
Do not miss a visit to the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, which is about 10 km from the capital. Built in 1470, it features notable frescoes and an elaborate carved wooden iconostasis. Set on the slope of a hill with views of the Aegean, the monastery has a fortified character and a courtyard with a lovely pebble mosaic. The island’s biggest festival takes place here on July 26-27.
The network of trailsis excellent for discovering the island’s beauties. If you like hiking, these paths will lead you to beaches inaccessible by road (Lethra, Skafi, etc.), to lovely old churches (Panagia Politissa, Taxiarchis, etc.) and to mountain peaks with superb views (summit of Mount Amalis, Profitis Ilias). Whichever route you choose, you will enjoy the nature and tranquility of a distinctive island.
