Kimolos

Nature gave birth to Kimolos in a fit of rage and compensated by endowing it with rich gifts. The volcanic island of Kimolos – Arzantiera, meaning silver, to the Venetians – welcomes you in its own serene way. 

Colourful shiny pebbles, limpid waters, grey-white rocks whose shapes tease the imagination, thermal springs streaming onto sandy beaches … everything on Kimolos comes together as a single painting of unique beauty.

Things to do on Kimolos island

Explore the main town and castle of Kimolos

Horio, the main settlement at the foot of Mt Ksaplovouni, will enthral you with its picturesque simplicity. Walk under archways amongst white houses with gardens in full bloom, and rest in a traditional cafe whilst talking with the open-hearted locals. From Platia tou Sholiou, the square of the school, you can admire the moon by night and, from the Chapel of Pantokratoras, take in a view of the islands near Kimolos at any hour. In the evening, enjoy a drink in one of the bars in Agora, the central thoroughfare.

The centrepiece of Horio is the medieval castle. From the 14th-15th century, it consists of two clusters of now derelict houses in Mesa Kastro and Exo Kastro, once forming a stronghold against pirate raids. From the moment you enter the two gates of Exo Kastro and Kato and Pano (Lower and Upper) Porta, you’ll be whisked back in time.

Unearth Kimolos’ secrets through its museums

In the Archaeological Museum of Kimolos, you will see exhibits that guide you through thousands of years of history. There’s a depiction of an ancient burial, uncovered during excavation work, under a transport floor. And in the Folklore Museum, you will admire the efforts to keep alive traditions lovingly handed down through generations.

Seek out the ‘stone mushroom’ in the heart of Kimolos

On the Sklavi elevation, in the middle of a bare plateau in the heart of Kimolos is a rare and striking geological formation. Registered in the Aegean Geological Monument Atlas, ‘the stone mushroom’ has acquired its unique shape due to the variety of rock types of which it is composed, all with different levels of resistance to the prevailing winds.

The best beaches on Kimolos island

Ellinika

Don’t forget your goggles when you come to this beach. Lying just below the surface of its shallow waters is the ancient city of Kimolos. In Mavrospilia, you will enjoy a dreamy sunset. And don’t forget your camera because nearby Apagremna will also enchant you.

Prasa

One of the most impressive beaches of Kimolos, with turquoise waters and loose-grained sands. At the entrance to the hamlet, there are thermal springs. And under the chapel of Agios Georgios, the rare and endangered Mediterranean monk seal is said to find refuge in the sea caves.

Gioupa and Rema

Gioupa is a picturesque fishing village with a few houses and a small harbour. At the end of the headland, you will see the “elephant”, a figure sculpted by the sea and the wind with the passing of time. At some other point, your attention will be drawn by Sirmata, the caves carved out of the rocks by the fishermen to haul their boats into for shelter during the winter months. Next to Sirmata, you’ll find a pebbly beach, Rema, and a natural pool with azure waters, inviting you in for a quick dip.

Aliki 

Find yourself some shade under the tamarisks of Aliki beach and enjoy a swim in sparkling waters. Bliss!

Hidden treasures of Kimolos island

Tour the island by boat

Boats of all descriptions are ready to carry you to gorgeous beaches and wild, untamed landscapes of Kimolos. The sea cave of Gerakia is unforgettable, especially wading through its clear, shallow waters. In Agioklima, you will be rejuvenated in the therapeutic warm waters. And in Geronikola t’Apsila, you will admire the grey-white volcanic rock.

Visit Polyegos island

Just a nautical mile away, between Kimolos and Milos, is Polyegos, the biggest uninhabited isle in the Mediterranean and a veritable eco-haven. It provides shelter to rare species of flora and fauna and its gorgeous beaches, such as Mersini and Galazia Nera, and exotic bays attract yacht owners and boat trips.

Take a boat trip to Polyegos 

Head out on the footpaths of Kimolos

If you love a good hike, equip yourselves accordingly. There are hiking routes all over Kimolos that you will adore discovering.