Chios: Unveiling the Aegean's Untouched Treasure
A Tranquil Escape from Greece's Tourist Hotspots
While millions flock to Greece's renowned destinations like Athens, Crete, and Santorini, Chios emerges as a peaceful alternative for those yearning for an authentic and uncrowded Greek island experience. This island, the fifth-largest in Greece, stands apart from the bustling cruise ship routes and crowded resorts, offering a serene sanctuary where tranquility reigns supreme.
Exploring Chios: A Tapestry of Nature and Heritage
Nestled in the Aegean Sea, just a short distance from the Turkish coast, Chios is a natural marvel defined by its rugged mountainous terrain and flourishing citrus groves. A key feature of its economy is the cultivation of rare mastic trees, contributing to the island's self-sufficiency. Visitors will find charming pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters, captivating medieval villages featuring intricate stone alleyways, and the historic 11th-century Nea Moni Monastery, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
Journey Through Chios: Villages, Coastlines, and Cultural Gems
Begin your exploration in Chios town, conveniently located near the main port. Delve into history at the Castle of Chios, an ancient walled fortress offering panoramic harbor views (admission is free). Within its walls, savor traditional small plates at Kafenes, an atmospheric outdoor restaurant. Nearby, the Byzantine Museum of Chios, housed in a former Ottoman mosque, provides a glimpse into the island's rich past. Conclude your town visit with a coffee and delicious pastries at a café in Vounakio square, such as Veneti Food Hall.
Venture further to Mesta, a medieval village approximately 45 minutes from Chios town. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine stone streets, discovering landmarks like the New Church of the Archangels, the Mesta Clock Tower, and the Tower of Koulouka, a remnant of the village's original defenses. Indulge in Greek sweets at Kanellos Loukoumades or enjoy a glass of wine at Kellari. From Mesta, explore the region's diverse pebble beaches: Apothika, popular for diving with available beach chairs; Merikounda, known for dramatic rock formations; and Didyma, celebrated for its striking green offshore waters.
Planning Your Chios Adventure: Accommodation and Travel Insights
Both Chios town and Mesta offer excellent lodging options. In Chios, consider Agora Residence, offering a beautiful internal courtyard for around $84 per night, or the budget-friendly CityZen Rooms Chios at approximately $70 per night. Mesta provides charming choices like Mesta Mastic, priced around $116 per night, or the well-valued Medieval Castle for about $50 per night.
Chios has a small airport south of Chios town, primarily serving flights from Athens (a 50-minute journey). Ferries also connect Athens to Chios year-round, with a travel time of just over 8 hours. For a quicker trip, a 30-minute ferry ride is available from Çeşme, Turkey. To fully explore the island's remote villages and beaches, a rental car is highly recommended, as public transportation outside the port town is limited. For those who fall in love with Chios, consider extending your Greek island exploration to Folegandros, another underrated gem with breathtaking hotels and serene beaches.