Hey there! I’m Alex Souchoroukof – a travel photographer from Greece. Welcome to my article on Kimolos. Traveling has been a big part of my life since childhood. Every summer, my family and I would explore different Greek Islands together. Our family vacations were always very special.
Exploring distant beaches, sleeping in the car and eating watermelon by the sea were the moments we enjoyed most. It was this sense of adventure that made our vacations so unique. I am pleased that I had such a happy childhood and can now see where my passion for travel comes from.
Today, my parents keep telling my brother and I stories about these family trips. We have tons of printed photographs that give us a huge smile each time we see them. I guess these photos inspired my love of photography!
Five Fabulous Days in Kimolos
Our trip to Kimolos was part of a documentary series that we were creating on the Cyclades Islands. We had five days on the island, which I can say went by so fast because it’s such a beautiful place! The summary of the trip was hikes, visiting remote beaches and finding hidden gems.
I have always wanted to visit this island and was thrilled that it happened. It quickly became one of my favorite places in the world. Our time there was full of adventures. We didn’t partake in a tour or anything like that, but we knew every detail of the places we wanted to visit after contacting locals.
The hiking trails, in particular, were immaculate. They had fantastic signs and it was super easy to find a good path. When it comes to the beaches, the waters were so lovely and the underwater world mesmerised you from the first dive. Diving was another popular activity for us in Kimolos.
My Favorite Place in Kimolos: Polyaigos
My favorite place from this trip was Polyaigos – a small island across from Kimolos home to just one citizen! It’s a stunning island which you can only access by boat. The island has some of the most crystal clear waters I have ever seen. It’s a paradise for diving, snorkeling and other water activities.
8 Best Things To Do in Kimolos
The volcanic island of Kimolos – known to the Venetians as “Arzantiera” (meaning “silvery” because of the gray-white rocks that emerge from the crystal clear waters) – welcomes you with its tranquility. There is so much to do here for a small island. Below are my recommendations for your visit.
1. Wander around the Charming Streets of Chorio
Chorio (otherwise known as Chora) is the main settlement of Kimolos. This village will captivate you with its idyllic simplicity. Walk under archways among white houses with flowering gardens and relax in traditional cafes while conversing with the friendly locals. Such a great place to explore!
At night, the moon can be seen from Platia tou Sxoleiou square and the surrounding islands of Kimolos can be seen from the Pantokratoras Chapel. In the evening, be sure to stop off at one of the bars for a cocktail.
2. See Skiadi, A Huge Mushroom Shaped Stone
This unusual and striking geological formation can be found on the Sklavi elevation in the middle of a bare plateau. The rock resembles the shape of a mushroom. It was formed due to the variety of rock types that make up the foundation, each with varying degrees of resistance to the prevailing winds.
3. Explore the Beaches around Ellinika Beach
When visiting Ellinika Beach, don’t forget your goggles! Excavations of an ancient city lie just under the surface of its shallow waters. After swimming here, head to Mavrospilia Beach for a dreamy sunset. Bring your camera because the nearby Apagremna will enchant you as well!
4. Bathe in the Turquoise Waters of Prassa Beach
Prassa Beach is home to turquoise waters and sand that is lovely on your feet! Without doubt, this is one of the best beaches in Kimolos. You can find thermal springs near the entrance. Walk to the Agios Georgios Chapel where Mediterranean monk seals hide in sea caves underneath the chapel.
5. Discover the Treasures of Gioupa Fishing Village
Gioupa is a quaint fishing village with a small harbor and a few homes with traditional Cycladic architecture. Visit “Elephant Rock Beach” – a natural sculpture that was formed by the sea and wind over time – at the end of the headland. It resembles an elephant and makes for some great photos!
Then you can discover Sirmata. Caves here have been cut out of the rocks by local fisherman. The goal was to shelter fishing boats during the winter. This place will attract your attention at some point. Lastly, visit Rema – a pebbly beach near Sirmata with a natural pool filled with azure waters.
6. Cruise to the Best Beaches around Kimolos
Boats of all kinds are waiting to transport you to the best beaches of Kimolos. Untamed landscapes are a feature of this island. Gerakia Sea Cave is one of the best places. Wading through its smooth waters is a wonderful experience. Agioklima and Tou Geronikola t’ Apsila are also great spots.
7. Take a Boat Trip to the Uninhabited Polyaigos
Polyaigos is one of the largest uninhabited islands in the Mediterranean. Only a nautical mile away from Kimolos and Milos, this ecologically diverse isle is a must-visit when exploring the Cyclades Islands. Discover rare flora and fauna, and visit beautiful beaches like Mersini and Galazia Nera.
8. Taste the Delicious Cuisine of Kimolos
The cuisine is special all around Greece and Kimolos is no different! There are many great little tavernas where you can taste local cuisine. Two must-try dishes of the island are “Ladenia” and “Tyrenia” which are pizzas and pies that can be found in bakeries and tavernas. Just delicious!
Need to Know Before you Go
From a travelers standpoint, I would suggest that you spend some time researching online every possible location that you may want to visit. There are two websites about Kimolos making that process relatively easy for you:
- www.kimolos.gr
- www.gokimolos.gr/en/
I would like to leave you with my best memory of Kimolos. When I travel, my best moments are not about the destination but about the people. My favorite moment came when we were chasing the sunset on a mountain. Seven others joined us. We were sweating but it was so much fun!
