Kimolos

General Information on Kimolos

Kimolos is a small volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, belonging to the cluster of Cyclades, near the island of Milos. The island is a perfect getaway for those who want peace and quiet, as it is not included in the tourist hotspots. However, it is a very beautiful island and has friendly people, lovely beaches, traditional villages and offers the opportunity to sample a traditional and relaxed Greek destination. There are two different versions regarding the origin of its name. According to Greek mythology, the island took its name after its first inhabitant, Kimolos, husband of Side. The most popular explanation, though, is that the name comes from the Greek word for chalk. Kimolos was known for its chalk in antiquity, used as detergent and in medicinal baths. The island has many chalk mines.

History of Kimolos

The island of Kimolos has a rich history. The island may have been connected to its neighbouring island of Milos in the past, but they were separated due to an earthquake. The town Ellinika was submerged, and findings from that area and the ancient city of Kimolos, on the islet of Agios Andreas, proved that the island has been inhabited since Mycenaean times. In general, the histories of Kimolos and Milos are intertwined. Since ancient times, it was a battlefield between Ancient Athens, the ruler of Kimolos, and Sparta, the ruler of Milos.

In the Middle Ages, it was known as Argentiera, because of the silver-coloured rocky lands of its southern coast. Since those times, these rocky lands were a trade market in the seas, making the island a major trade hub. From the 13th to the 16th century the island was part of the Venetian Duchy of the Cyclades and most of its inhabitants were pirates. The Ottomans arrived in the 16th century, conquering most of Greece. Kimolos was no exception. However, the Turks never took an interest on the island and it was left on its own. Piracy was the plague of the island, and by the 18th century, almost all islanders had left Kimolos. The island was freed along with the rest of the Cycladic islands in 1829.

Towns & Villages in Kimolos

Hora: This is the capital of the island, built on a high hill overlooking the harbour. Because of the many pirate attacks, the village has been built like a labyrinth to confuse the enemies. It is a traditional settlement full of white-washed houses and paths. Few accommodations can be found here as well as taverns and cafes.

Psathi: This is the main harbour of the island, situated just 1.5km from the capital. It has a beach restaurant, a couple of taverns, a bar and one information centre.

Goupa: This small and quiet fishing village is also worth seeing. It is located near Psathi and has a nice beach and few taverns.

Beaches in Kimolos

Aliki: This is one of the best sandy beaches of the island situated a few kilometers south of Hora.

Ellinika: This beach is located southwest of the capital. It is sandy and organized, and there is a diving school where visitors can visit the sunken city of Ellinika.

Kambana: This is among the most beautiful beaches of the island and is situated southwest of the capital.

Klima: It is situated northeast of Hora and it is sandy with crystal clear, shallow waters.

Prassa: This lovely beach is situated northeast of the capital. It is sandy and has several secluded coves nearby.

Top Things to Do in Kimolos

The ruined Venetian Castle which was built by Marco Sanudo is within walking distance from Hora, at the highest point of the island. Moreover, Ellinika is the main archaeological site of the island, situated within a 50-minute walk from Psathi. At the bottom of the sea in the nearby Koftou beach are the remains of Ancient Kimolos, though not much can be seen today. Generally, Kimolos is an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.

How to Reach Kimolos

Sea: There are several ferries per week from Piraeus via Kythnos, Sifnos, Serifos and Milos. The island is also connected through less frequent services to Sikinos, Ios and Santorini. Kimolos and Milos have multiple ferry connections daily.

Air: You may fly to Milos and then take the local ferry to Kimolos.

Getting Around in Kimolos

Because of the lack of transportation (no buses and car rentals), you’ll have to walk. There is only one mini bus from the port to the capital. Distances are fairly short, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to hitchhike. In the harbour, there is usually a taxi boat, and sometimes you can get a fisherman to take you where you want for a small fee.

Weather in Kimolos

The weather of Kimolos is typical of the Mediterranean with a lot of sunshine during summer, and few rainfalls during winter.

Like most Cycladic islands, summer in Kimolos is characterised by the seasonal northern wind, the Meltemi, which blows from the middle of July until the middle of August.