05/11/2023
Tinos: A delicious slice of heaven in the Cyclades Greece
Rocky Tinos flies under the radar among Greece's Cycladic big hitters. But its wild, marble-carved beauty and its spiritual aura makes it a quietly romantic hit. Set in the southeast of Athens, it has numerous of unspoiled sandy beaches, some of them have serene coves surrounded by the wild nature, and some are abuzz with beach lovers.
With its strong viticulture and world-class food, Tinos is an engaging place, with a lively and passionate local community spread throughout its 50 picturesque villages. Just a 20- minute ferry ride from Mykonos, the island is worlds away from the hedonistic party scene, and is the perfect location for those looking for a more authentic Greek lifestyle experience.
Legend says that the great ancient sculptor Phidias taught his craft on Tinos. And who’s going to argue with legend? No place has a richer marble-crafting tradition than Tinos, and this glittering white stone is used throughout the island to stunning effect.
Tinos has recently started making waves on the international foodie scene, due to its unique landscape producing world-class wines, herbs, honey and cheeses supplying high-end restaurants across Europe - travelers with a taste for luxury and fine dining will not be disappointed.
All around the island are 750 chapels and churches (Catholic and Orthodox), 600 ornate dovecotes, 34 settlements and the Temple of Poseidon, where the ancients were purified before they visited the sacred island of Delos. Be sure to explore the interior of the island, puzzling over the surreal lunar landscape of Volax and its mysterious, monumental boulders – the island truly has something for everyone.
