Kimolos, a volcanic island located next to Milos in Greece, is often overlooked but is worth a visit. The best time to explore the island is from May to September when the weather is pleasant. Despite being home to just 1000 permanent residents, the island experiences a surge in tourist activity during the summer months.
Chorio, the main town of Kimolos, is packed with many picturesque squares, houses, and narrow streets that showcase the island’s unique culture. The town is also home to the Folklore and Maritime Museum, housed in a beautifully restored mansion. Visitors can catch a glimpse of collectables from the 18th and 19th centuries here. Meanwhile, the Archaeological Museum of Kimolos displays artefacts from the ancient Greek era, including objects dating back to the 8th and 7th centuries. Chorio is dotted with 80 churches, many of which date back to the 16th century. The Church of Panagia Odigitria is the largest of them all. Don’t miss out on the medieval castle of Kastro, situated on a mountain and divided into an old inner section dating back to the 15th century and a newer outer section from the 17th century.
Kimolos boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The sandy beaches of Psathi and Bonatsa are worth a visit, with the latter being ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Prassa Beach is an excellent spot for nature lovers as you can see sea urchins and corals here. Additionally, there is a beautiful 18th-century church of Agios Nikolaos in Psathi.
There is no shortage of activities to keep visitors entertained on the island. From scuba diving to hiking to stargazing, there is something for everyone. Skiadi rock formation is only accessible by foot and takes around 30 minutes to reach, and the island offers several hiking trails. Visitors can also try their hand at cooking local delicacies, and don’t forgot to try the famous pie with olive oil and tomato here, on the island.
If you have extra time, consider island hopping to Polyegos, a nearby islet that boasts a ruined church, a lighthouse, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Alternatively, you can take a 30-minute ferry ride to the popular island of Milos.
To get to Kimolos, take a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens, The fast ferry takes about 4 hours, while the slow ferry takes around 6 hours. Kimolos doesn’t have an airport, but visitors can fly to Milos and take a ferry from there.
Kimolos is a charming Greek island with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and endless activities to keep visitors engaged. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique travel experience in Greece.
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