Perched on the brow of a steep slope, unexpectedly green, with distinctive traditional architecture and a panoramic view of the Aegean, Kardiani is a delightful surprise of a village you should not miss visiting when you are on Tinos.
Although mainly associated with religious tourism, Tinos has much more to offer: from stunning beaches and unique gastronomic delights to beautiful villages inland that will reveal the authentic charm of the island.
For the visitor to Tinos, Kardiani will certainly be a delightful discovery. Clinging to the slopes of Mount Pateles, in the heart of the island, unexpectedly green, with distinctive traditional architecture and sweeping sea views, Kardiani wins you over at first sight.
Kardiani: A surprise village on Tinos
Kardiani is located on the southwestern side of the island and is about 15 km from the town of Tinos. The village is built amphitheatrically on the slope of Mount Pateles, on the road to Pyrgos and Ysternia, and looks out over the Aegean and Syros from 250 meters. Thanks to its abundant springs, Kardiani is lush green. Its natural beauty, with unexpected vegetation and stunning sea views, as well as its traditional architecture, easily place it among the most beautiful villages of Tinos and of all the Cyclades.
At the entrance to the village you will leave your car and continue your wanderings on foot. Kardiani is an architectural gem. The houses and churches, the narrow lanes, the vaulted arcades, the marble fountains, the flower-filled courtyards and the central square with its fountain lend a unique character to this village that was built with the stone and marble of the area.
In the center of the village stands the Catholic church of the Nativity of the Theotokos (Kioura), while higher up at the upper edge of the village the Orthodox church of the Holy Trinity dominates. It is particularly imposing and is distinguished by its marble belfry, the rich marble sculpted interior and exterior decoration and the six-arched arcade that supports the courtyard of the church.
After your strolls through the village alleys, make a stop at Dimitras café for coffee, sweets and meze. In Giannaki Bay, below Kardiani, the traditional tavernaDinos serves fresh fish, plenty of meze and a lovely shrimp pasta. And if you want to enjoy cocktails, wine and sushi while gazing at the wonderful sea view and the magical sunset, a visit to Sunset Bar is a must. Below the village, you will enjoy the clear sea in Kardiani Bay (Giannaki), while a short distance away you will also find the beachesKalyvia and Agios Petros.
