Discover Ios

The Capital of Ios

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Ios located on the west side of the island. Characterized as one of the finest villages of the Cyclades, Hora is a true specimen of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Whitewashed houses and blue windows, stone windmills and light blue domes, labyrinthine alleys and flowery courtyards spread amphitheatrically on the slope of the hill of the medieval castle. Ios is waiting for you to discover it, as it desires to introduce to you the side that is always left unexplored. Definitely, it is worth visiting the church of Panagia Gremiotissa to admire the beautiful sunset views. One can also visit the theatre of Odysseus Elytis and the traces of the Venetian Castle of Ios.

The Archaeological Site of Skarkos

The Archaeological Site of Skarkos is located in one of the most fertile regions of the island at the area of Kambos. The notable settlement hosts the traces of the biggest known settlement of the Bronze Era. Findings from the excavations are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Ios. Ios was one of the six destinations that were awarded with the Cultural Heritage Prize from the European Union for its exceptional conservation of the Archaeological Site of Skarkos in 2008.

The Beach of Magganari

The Beach of Magganari is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southern side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean. The beach is easily accessible. Magganari is a well organized beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns. Scenes from the movie of Deep Blue have been filmed at the beach.

The Church of Panagia Gremiotissa

The Church of Panagia Gremiotissa is one of the most beautiful churches of Ios located on the highest spot of Hora. The church offers the most outstanding views of Ios. The name of the church in Greek means Virgin Mary of Collapse.  According to tradition, the church was built three times and it was always collapsing, until it was built at the highest point of Hora. The church is dedicated to the Assumption of Virgin Mary and celebrates on August 15.

The Tomb of Homer

The Tomb of Homer is located at the area of Plakoto. Historical references of Herodotus show that Ios was the island where Homer died. Homer was one of the greatest poets in the history of Ancient Greece who wrote the Odyssey and Iliad. According to the legend, Homer died from his distress of not being able to solve a riddle that the fishermen ask him to solve. In the area of Plakoto, one can admire the traces of a tower of the Hellenistic period that it considered to be the tomb of Homer. The tomb of Homer is accessible through a sign posted route that starts from the region of Koulida. The tomb of Homer offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Archaeological Site of Skarkos is located in one of the most fertile regions of the island at the area of Kambos. The notable settlement hosts the traces of the biggest known settlement of the Bronze Era. Findings from the excavations are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Ios. Ios was one of the six destinations that were awarded with the Cultural Heritage Prize from the European Union for its exceptional conservation of the Archaeological Site of Skarkos in 2008.

The Fortress of Paleokastro is the old castle of Ios located on a hill of the northern side of the Ios. The castle was built from the Byzantines in the 16^th century with the intention of protecting the surrounding areas. Today, one can admire traces of the walls and some old buildings along with the chapel of Panagia Palaiokastritissa. Paleokastro is accessible through a steep path starting from Hora leading to the area of Psathi.

The Tomb of Homer is located at the area of Plakoto. Historical references of Herodotus show that Ios was the island that Homer died. Homer was one of the greatest poets in the history of Ancient Greece who wrote the Odyssey and Iliad. According to the legend, Homer died from his distress of not being able to solve a riddle that the fishermen ask him to solve. The area of Plakoto has the remnants of a tower of the Hellenistic period that it thought to be the tomb of Homer. The tomb of Homer is accessible through a sign posted route starting from the region of Koulida leading to Plakoto. The area offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Church of Agia Irini is one of the most beautiful churches of Ios located on the bay of Gialos. It is a byzantine church built in the 17^th century. The church of Agia Irini forms the natural lighthouse of Ios and been classified as a Preserved and Historical Monument. A beautiful path starts from the church and leads to the beach of Valma.

The Church of Panagia Gremiotissa is one of the most beautiful churches of Ios located on the highest spot of Hora. The church offers the most outstanding views of Ios. The name of the church in Greek means Virgin Mary of Collapse.  According to tradition, the church was built three times and it was always collapsing, until it was built at the highest point of Hora. The church is dedicated to the Assumption of Virgin Mary and celebrates on August 15.

The Monastery of Pyrgos, else known as the monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos, is located at the highest point of Ios. Here, one can admire one of the most beautiful views over the surrounding islands of the Cyclades. On the eve of the celebration of the saint, June 24, the customs of Klidonas and Fotara are performed in the monastery. Pilgrims set fires, exchange teases and dance.

The Theatre of Odysseus Elytis is located at the highest point of Hora behind the twelve windmills.  Odysseus Elytis was a renowned Greek Nobel Prize winner and poet and the theatre was named after the poet himself. The theatre was inaugurated in 1997 and was constructed from marble in the style of Ancient Greece. Every summer, a series of cultural events take place at the theatre.

The Windmills of Ios are the landmark of the island standing on the hill of Hora. In the old days, the windmills operated by wind as the Cyclades are renowned for its gusty winds. Although the windmills are no longer operational, they continue to be a symbol of the long history of the island.

The Archaeological Museum of Ios is housed in a neoclassical building at Hora. The museum exhibits a rich collection of antiquities from the history of Ios dominated from the finding of the First Cycladic Settlement of Skarkos.

The Museum of Modern Art is a private museum located at the cove of Kolitsani. The museum exhibits the remarkable art works of Jean Marie Dro. Numerous cultural exhibitions are held in the museum during the summer.

Hora is the capital of Ios located on the west side of the island. Characterized as one of the finest villages of the Cyclades, Hora is a true specimen of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Whitewashed houses and blue windows, stone windmills and light blue domes, labyrinthine alleys and flowery courtyards spread amphitheatrically on the slope of the hill of the medieval castle. Ios is waiting for you to discover it, as it desires to introduce to you the side that is always left unexplored. Definitely, it is worth visiting the church of Panagia Gremiotissa to admire the beautiful sunset views. One can also visit the theatre of Odysseus Elytis and the traces of the Venetian Castle of Ios.

Gialos is the natural harbour of Ios located on the west side of the island. The charming village is a true sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Whitewashed houses with blue windows and labyrinthine alleys with flowery courtyards are scattered throughout the beautiful settlement. The harbor of Gialos is considered as one of the safest harbors of the Cyclades.

Spot: Beach of Koumbara, Northwest Ios

Spot: Beach of Mylopotas, West Ios

Spot: Church of Panagia Gremiotissa, Hora of Ios

Spot: Theatre of Odysseus Elytis, Hora of Ios

Spot: Windmills of Ios, West Ios

Boat Trip: The Island of Heraklia is a beautiful island of the small Cyclades. What is there to say for this mysterious island of eighteen square kilometers? Heraklia is a diamond shaped island of the Small Cyclades lying between the islands of Ios and Naxos. In an island of a hundred fifty inhabitants, the permanent peace of Heraklia is swinging in the air. When you arrive at the charming harbor of Agios Georgios, you feel like you have disembarked from a time machine boat travelling to the past. .Heraklia is a tranquil island embellished from pristine mysterious beauty with scenic bays and crystalline waters with shipwrecks surrounded from smooth hills on a simple Cycladic architectural landscape of whitewashed houses and charming chapels. Maybe it’s the time for you to be charmed from the simplicity of virgin nature and the magic of tardiness liberating the freedom of living.

Boat Trip: The Island of Folegandros is an island of barren beauty. While approaching the harbour of Folegandros, you will be fascinated from the barren beauty of the towering cliffs that resemble just a rocky mountain. Folegandros has built its own myth as the island of the measure as the residents have managed to maintain the authenticity of this mysterious island alive. The beautiful villages and the pristine beaches will definitely captivate the eyes of the travellers. It’s just this wild beauty of the barren and rugged sceneries of Folegandros. As for Hora, it is one of the most beautiful villages of the Aegean, a true sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Scattered whitewashed houses with colorful windows, purple bougainvillea hanging amongst the successive charming squares and labyrinthine alleys perching on the edge of the vertical cliff. Undoubtedly it is one of the most beautiful and oldest medieval villages of the Cyclades. Folegandros creates a bohemian atmosphere with the romanticism of Hora and its medieval colours, the charming scattered chapels and the magnificent sunset colours under the scents of the shrubs of thyme and oregano that decorate the dry slopes of the arid landscape. The puzzle of the island is completed with the breezy landscape of Karavostasis dominated from the reddish rocks, and the traditional cottages and stone windmills of Ano Meria. The tremendous beauty of Folegandros will make you forget everything.

Boat Trip: The Island of Santorini will definetely leave you speechless from her invigorating beauty of the imposing sceneries of the island. The mysteries of Santorini emerge through the vermillion colours of the astonishing sunset of the caldera. Mysteries of the sleeping volcano, intoxicating beaches and majestic sunsets compose the rare beauty of this island. The eternal beauty of Santorini is crafted through the reddish cliffs and the colourful houses hanging on the deep blue of the sea. Nowhere else on earth exist such an impressive scenery hosting human life. As though the works of the almighty volcano create awe, as though the island is exposed in the most imposing landscapes of the world, as though thousands of travellers grasp subtly a piece of her soul, Santorini is a miracle itself. The evocative landscapes, the lunar sceneries and the faschinating history of the island attest that Santorini is a natural monument for your bucket list, a destination you deserve to explore even for once in this life.

Boat Trip: The Island of Sikinos is one of the smallest island of the Cyclades. From the time of legends, Sikinos appears as a mysterious refugee and nothing seems to have changed up until now, as it remains a haven for those who are looking the beauty of simplicity. In Sikinos, you might remember what seems forgotten from the gentle rhythms of a different lifestyle. The warmth of the local people and the unspoilt hospitality of the island will make you appreciate the simple moments in life. Hearing narrations for the ancient wines of Sikinos, the wild bees of Sikinos and the traditional custom of Panigirades from the local people of the island attest moments of a forgotten era. The local people are the true soul of Sikinos. You might feel like that they gave you a piece of their heart. As for its natural beauty, the pristine landscapes and sceneries of the small lady of the Cyclades are stunning, just with one word. Undoubtedly, the main village of Sikinos is one of the most authentic traditional settlements in the Aegean. Standing like a balcony to the open sea, the colours are even more intense in the early morning. Only then, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning clarity of the atmosphere. Discover the beautiful trails and the charming chapels, enjoy the crystal clear waters and wander around the labyrinthine alleys to enjoy the endless beauty of this pristine paradise. Shining in its simplicity, Sikinos is a hidden treasure!

Camping: Are you a camping lover? You will find a camping site at the beach of Mylopotas.

Diving: The varied coastline of Ios offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. Ancient shipwrecks, volcanic underwater caves and interesting reefs are some of the most interesting diving spots. One will find diving centers at the beach of Mylopotas.

Driving: The countryside of Ios is an ideal place for driving explorations. One of the most impressive routes includes the one that begins from the beach of Magganari. One will have the opportunity to admire rocky sceneries of incomparable beauty. The best time to drive towards this route is the time of the sunset.

Hiking: Ios hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is the one that begins from the beach of Mylopotas, passes through the areas of Klima and Pikri Nero and leads to the beach of Magganari. (2) Another interesting trail includes the one that starts from Hora and leads to the beach of Kolitsani. It is a scenic route of extreme natural beauty. (3) It is also worth following the route that starts from the area of Pelekania, passes through the Museum of Gaitis and leads to the theatre of Odysseus Elytis and the traditional windmills of Hora. Discover more information from the Official Website of Ios.

Kitesurfing: Ios is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of kitesurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer. The beach of Mylopotas is one of the best beaches of Greece for practicing kitesurfing. One will find a kitesurfing center at the beach.

Windsurfing: Ios is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of kitesurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer. The beaches of Mylopotas and Gialos are ideal for practicing windsurfing. One will find a windsurfing center at the beach.

Agia Theodoti is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northwest side of the island.  The beach is one of the greatest spots for those looking for tranquility. The surrounding areas have taverns.

Gialos is a golden sandy beach with crystal clean waters located on the west side of the island. The beach is very popular owing to its close proximity to Hora. Gialos is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns.

Kalamos is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southeast side of the island. The beach is isolated ideal for those looking for tranquility. If you continue south of the beach of Kalamos, you will find the hidden cave of Papas while further down one will find the remote beach of Plakes.

Koumbara is a sandy beach with blue waters located one the northwest side of the island. The beach is very popular owing to its close proximity to Gialos and it has various amenities on the surrounding areas. Koumbara offers fantastic sunset views.

Kolitsani is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on the west side of the island. The beach is a favorite place for nudism and nature lovers.

Magganari is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southern side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean. The beach is easily accessible. Magganari is a well organized beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns. Scenes from the movie of Deep Blue have been filmed at the beach.

Mylopotas is a long golden sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. It one of the most crowded beaches with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Pikri Nero is a beautiful bay that consists from three beautiful beaches located on the southwest side of the island. The beaches are isolated with golden sand and turquoise waters. Access is possible by boat from the harbor of Gialos.

Psathi is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is isolated and an ideal spot for windsurfers on windy days. There is a tavern at the beach.

Tris Klisies is a golden sandy beach with deep blue waters located on the southwest side of the island. The beach is secluded ideal for those seeking for total privacy.

Valma is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters located next to the harbor of Gialos. The beach is very popular owing to its close proximity to Hora and it has a delicious tavern.

Coffee Corners

Almyra by the sea: Coffee, Mylopotas

Cantina del Mar: Breakfast & Coffee, Mylopotas beach

Harmony: Coffee, Mylopotas

Nutelleria: Crepes, Hora

Yialou Beach Bar: Breakfast & Coffee, Yialos beach

Gastronomic Delights

Agosto Ristorante: Italian Cuisine, Hora

Alonistra: Greek Cuisine, Psathi beach

Drakos: Seafood,  Mylopotas beach

Elia : Greek Cuisine, Hora

Harmony: Mexican Cuisine, Mylopotas Beach

Katogi: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Lord Byron: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Polydoros: Greek Cuisine, Koubara

Salt Restaurant Bar: Greek & Mediterranean Cuisine, Mylopotas

Vilaeti: Greek Cuisine, Pano Kabos

Cocktails Inspirations

Baru: Cocktails and drinks, Hora

Coo Bar: Cocktails and drinks, Hora

Free Beach Bar: Cocktails and drinks, Mylopotas Beach

Ios Club:Cocktails and drinks, Hora

Karma Beach Bar: Cocktails and drinks, Mylopotas Beach

Nios: Raki and Drinks, Hora

Valsamo: Cocktails and drinks, Hora, Ask for Giorgos!

Yialou Beach Bar: Cocktails and drinks, Yalos beach

The local products of the island include skotiri, kefalotiri, mizithra and xino cheeses, the thyme honey, pasteli, a sesame bar with honey, the aromatic plants of cappari and oregano, watermelon comfiture, and pomegranate liquor. Taste the local cheeses of Ios from Hrisi Akti at the harbour of Gialos.

The local specialties of the island include dolmadakia, a dish made of stuffed vine leaves, goat soup, sundried picarel, vegetable marrow omelette, panada, which is homemade bread sopped in red sauce, tsimetia, a dish made of stuffed stuffed vegetable marrow flowers, sweet pumpkin pie, mosenta pie, a watermelon pie, and pastota figs, a dish made of stuffed dried figs with sesame seeds.

Every summer, a series of cultural events take place at the Theatre of Odysseus Elytis.

Every May, the Homeric Festival takes place in Ios. The festival hosts numerous cultural events in honor of Homer organized under the aegis of Unesco.

Every 24^th of June, the traditional celebration in honor of Agios Ioannis takes place at the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos. The holy service is followed by local food specialties and traditional music.

Every 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place at the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa. This is one of the most important religious celebrations of the island.

Every 29^th of August, the traditional celebration in honor Agios Ioannis takes place at the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Kalamos. The holy service is followed by music, dancing and traditional meat soup.

Mythology

According to mythology, the creation of the Cyclades is attributed to God Poseidon. It is said that the god of the sea transformed the Cyclades nymphs into islands, when they angered him.

History

Archaeological findings show that Ios has been inhabited since the Early Cycladic period flourishing as a community from the Carians, the Pelasgians, the Achaeans, the Phoenicians and the Ionians. A series of evidence of Herodotus including inscriptions and coins testify that Ios was the birthplace of Klymeni, the mother of the Greek Poet of Homer, and excavations have showed the remains of an ancient temple at the region of Psathi. During the Classical period, Ios established a democratic political system as a member of the Athenian and Delian League. However, the island was captured from the Macedonians in 338 BC until it regained its independence in 315 BC. The Romans dominated the island and used as a place of exile; a series of Byzantine churches were built at that time. Following the fall of the Byzantine Empire, Ios suffered from pirate raids and the islanders’ hid in the fortified castle to escape from their cruelty. In 1204, Ios was occupied from the Crusaders and came under the authority of the family Crispi of the Venetians until the pirate Barbarossa occupied the island. At that period, Ios suffered from a series of pirate invasions until it took part in the Greek War of Independence. Ios actively helped the revolution by donating twenty four well equipped ships. Ios became a part of the Greek State in 1829.

By Boat (99 and 108 Nautical Miles): Ios is accessible by boat from the harbors of Rafina and Piraeus. The journey usually lasts from five to seven hours. Ios is also connected with the islands of Sikinos, Heraklia, Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Schinoussa amongst other. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !