Experience the divine intervention, go on a pilgrimage; visit the marble-lined villages; watch art being created before your eyes; admire the extravagant pigeon houses and the imposing granite rocks; what follows is our testament to our treasured island of Tinos.
Tinos is part of the Northern Cyclades and is the third largest island in the Cyclades, following Naxos and Andros. It is located southeast of Andros and northwest of Mykonos, at a distance of 86 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus and 62 nautical miles from Rafina.
The capital of Tinos is Chora. The island is famous for its beautiful hinterland and its 45 villages. The locals have separated it geographically in Exo Meri (Western part), Mesa or Pano Meri (southern part) and Kato Meri (northeast and central part).
OUR LADY OF TINOS
The Holy Church of She of Great Grace was founded where the miraculous icon of Panagia was founded. Panagia came three times in Aghia Pelagia’s sleep asking her to organize excavation in order to renovate her church which was buried in Antonios Daxaros’ field in Chora. The icon was revealed in January 30th in 1823 when the pickaxe of the worker Dimitres Vlassis from Falatados hit on it and cut it in two leaving the figures of the Angel and Panagia untouchable. The reconstruction of the Holy Church of Evangelistria was completed in 1880 and since then, a high number of worshippers from all around Greece swarm here in order to worship the miraculous icon of Evangelismos.
TINOS CHORA
As a first time visitor you’ll be surprised by the plethora of urban characteristics found in the Tinian capital. Indeed, Chora, founded in the 6th century BC, looks like a contemporary resort. Its most defining year to date was 1823 when the Icon of Annunciation was found. Around that time, the settlement’s urban planning began to grow around the Church of Panagia (Virgin Mary) Megalohari and the capital of the island started taking its current form. If you want to get acquainted with the true characteristics of the town, you can walk in the alleys of Malamatenia, explore the old neighborhood of Pallada, visit one of the many bars lined along the harbor and climb up the marbled Megalohari Avenue towards the majestic church of Panagia.
KARDIANI
The first settlement in Exo Meria in the southwest part of the island sets upon the steep hillside of Pateles mountain, in an altitude of 240m with the view of Syros. Surrounded by lush vegetation and many springs, it boasts for the arcades, the catholic church of Holy Mary’s Birthday- Kioura and higher for the Orthodox one of Trinity, with the one and only arch of six arches in the Cycladic islands.
VOLAX
A place which looks like a lunar- like scenery. One may think that Titanomachy has truly taken place in the plateau with huge round granite rocks. The gigantic forms in the vast tract which surrounds Volax village in Kato Meria is a consequence of a unique geological phenomenon and is accredited to meteorites’ fall. The views on this issue vary. Some people believe that this once was the bottom of the sea while others claim that the rocks derived from a volcanic eruption millions of years ago.
DIO CHORIA
Once upon a time, the green slopes of Kechrovouni mountain used to house two little villages separated by a river. As the years passed and the number of residents increased, the two communities were joined to form Dio Choria. At an altitude of 1500 feet, it is one of the most popular scenic viewpoints of Tinos, offering panoramic views of vastness of the Aegean sea, Chora and even Naxos when the sky is clear. The village itself will amaze you with medieval arches, the old narrow streets, the natural fountains and an old sycamore tree located in the center of the square.
TRIANTAROS
Built amphitheatrically on a hill that “looks” at Aghios Fokas, it is rightfully called the “balcony of Tinos”. From every corner the view is magical, even if it’s about the sea or the valley which is spread on its feet. Go through the countless arches and see the church of the Holy Apostles but also the traditional oil mill in Lefkes.
PYRGOS
The homeland of Chalepas, Nikiforos Lytras and Giannis Gaitis, surrounded by the mountain peaks Patela, Meroviglia, Profitis Ilias and Kaji Scala, was at its great prime during the 18th and 19th century. At he same time the exploitation of the marble deposits of the area began. Walking down Giannoulis Chalepas street that passes from Panormas; Artists; Museum and Giannoulis Chalepas’ house, you will see blazons, “portosies”, doorsteps, fountains, inscriptions, busts, alleys and carved tables, everything made of marble. Continue to the central, marble paved square (of the Heroes of 1821) with the plane, the monumental fountains and the coffee- pastry shops and visit the Museum of Marble Crafts.
AGHIOS IOANNIS PORTO
Located in the southwest part of Tinos, it’s a perfect recommendation for families with children, as it is protected from the winds. It also has clear, shallow waters- suitable for little swimmers- and golden sand. Sun umbrellas, sunbeds, open- air bars and tavernas are included in the shore’s facilities. Aghios Ioannis Porto is approximately 6km away from Chora.
AGHIOS SOSTIS
One of the most beautiful coasts in Tinos, just 5km east of Chora. It “sees” towards Mykonos and has been awarded several times for the crystal waters.
AGHIOS FOKAS
It’s the longest beach on the island (3km). It is perfect for those who do not have any means of transport since it’s easily accessible on foot from Chora. All along you will find cafes, restaurants and tavernas. It is positioned towards Delos.
APOTHIKES
This beach is ideal for those who need calmness away from the crowds. The beach is well equipped so you will find sunbeds and umbrellas too.
ROCHARI
This beach will be liked by amenities fans. This is a cosmopolitan place to be with salt cedars and views to the Northern Aegean Sea. It is located in the small port of Platia settlement, near Panormos.
AGHIOS ROMANOS
A large sheltered from the wind sandy shore at the southern part of the island, 11km away from Chora. It is one of the most popular beaches in Tinos thanks to the transparent waters, trees and views of Syros. As for the name, it was “baptized” by a small church which you can find on the left side of the bay.
KIONIA
A cosmopolitan, organized beach with the archaeological site of KIONIA in the background. It is 3km away from Chora. It’s a pebble beach.
YANNAKI BAY
Right under Kardiani village, this beach is 7km away from Chora. It’s a quiet, small port of blue waters and fine pebbles, mostly preferred by families. Here you will find fish tavernas with excellent seafood and fresh fish.
PACHIA AMMOS
In every sense…once you get here, 10km away from Chora, you will see the golden dunes and lots of people. Simply said, this is the most popular beach on the island.
