Ios

Ios combines the best qualities of the Greek islands and has long been famous for its pastoral charm. Reminiscent of Santorini, chalky white houses and blissful mills tumble down and unite with the azure Aegean sea. The centuries-old hedonistic legacy of Cyclades islands is very much alive in Ios, too, most vigorously revealed in the summer months. But beyond the fast pace of nightlife and numbing hours on the beach, Ios is a place for authentic sensations.

The beaches are long-stretching, trekking to the hilltops is rewarding, and wine is as exquisite as it can get in Ios. Local hubs from beach clubs to shops concentrate in the old town of Chora. Among all the glamor that seem to surround Ios, there is a side to the island that lies low and nestles secluded rural wonders. Once you stray from the beaten track, they reveal themselves in the rejuvenating countryside. Dramatic views of the Mediterranean complement the scene. Homer’s tomb is one of the highlights. And, there are museums displaying objects of antiquity for history enthusiasts.

Ios’s untouched state is a blessing, given its popularity. Luckily, locals remain determined to preserve it from the transformation that comes with development. In this laid-back Greek island, authentic life carries on and nature is always in the foreground even in the busy summer season.