Tinos is a northern Cycladic island. It is located between Andros and Mykonos. Its main port and capital Tinos is dominated by the imposing rock of Exombourgo (640 m). Tinos is an island still relatively unknown to foreign tourists. Its ancient monuments are little known and its coasts are mainly composed of stones and pebbles although it still has some beaches of fine sand. Exposure to the northern winds, mainly the meltemi in summer, does not play in its favor either. This characteristic even made that in mythology, it was the abode of Aeolus, master and the steward of the wind. For the Orthodox Greeks,
Tinos is a place of religious pilgrimage, which attracts a large crowd on 25th of March (Annunciation Feast) and especially 15th of August (Assumption Day). It is also home to an important Catholic community. The harbor is a modern city and lively by the many cafes bordering the docks. The artery leading to the church of the Annunciation is paved with marble and lined with shops of religious objects.
Pyrgos is one of the most beautiful villages on the island and the largest after Chora. Marble sculpture has been a specialty for a long time. In the picturesque alleys one can admire the marble decorations around the windows, the lintels with decorative motifs, the fountains and the School of Fine Arts, from which are descended from the famous Greek sculptors. Kardiani is 16 km from Chora. It is located on the side of the mountain ‘Pateles’, surrounded by greenery and offers a view of the sea. Its streets are crossed by a stream that feeds marble fountains.
There are also three large churches: Agia Triada at the edge of the village, Kimisi in the center, and Kioura at the other end.
The village of Volax is situated on a plateau dotted with granite rocks which are the result of a volcanic eruption that took place thousands of years ago. They are of varied forms and give the landscape a special beauty. In the village there are basket weaving workshops, specialty of the place. In amphitheater facing the sea, the village of Fatalados has also remained very authentic.
Located north of Chora, it is an ancient village dating from 1400. Its inhabitants are mostly cattle breeders. You can visit the distilleries of Raki (strong alcohol) as well as the Folklore Museum.
The beaches:
– Porto: Less frequented and one of the most beautiful.
– Pacheia Ammos: The most beautiful area. Turquoise waters and golden sand.
– The small port of Panormos: In the north of the island, it is very picturesque and offers some uncrowded coves.
– Kolimbithra Bay: It has two beautiful sandy beaches with clear waters.
– Agios Fokas: The largest and one of the most beautiful in Tinos. A few minutes’ walk from the town of Tinos (Chora).
– Stavros: A short distance from the west of the town of Tinos (Chora). Picturesque beach with the ruins of the ancient port.
– Agios Markos: Next to Stavros beach. Crystalline waters.
– Kionia: Just after Agios Markos. Several sandy beaches on this side.
– Agios sostis: A few km to the east of the town of Tinos, a series of popular sandy beaches with a view of Mykonos.
Do not miss:
The villages of Pyrgos, Kardiani, Volax. The port of Panormos and the bay of Kolymbithra.