Kimolos

Small, shy, but ever so authentic and enchanting, glistening under the Aegean sun.

Deviating from the rest of the Cycladic complex for its serenity and authenticity, Kimolos is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Surrounded by clear waters, and adorned with a lunar but kaleidoscopic landscape, this volcanic island is nothing less than a gem.

The light shining onto the breathtaking white rock formations of Kimolos is probably the reason why the Venetians named her Argentiera, deriving from the Italian word for silver: argento.

Kimolos is situated next to Milos. In fact, it has been said that those two islands, along with Sifnos, were once forming one piece of land that split after a volcano eruption, thousands of years ago. The explosion rendered these islands with unique fauna as well as fascinating rock formations.

She has her name from the greek word “kimolía” (κιμωλία) which means: chalk. Or it may be the other way round: she gave her name to the greek word for chalk, which is mined from the northeastern part of the island.

“Kimolos, my Paradise” is a verse of one of the local traditional songs. If you visit Kimolos, it will most definitely become your Paradise as well!

Take a stroll around the island’s only village: the Choriò, situated at the foot of mountain Xaplovouni. Wander around in its narrow streets, between the white-washed houses and feel as though you’re walking in a greek postcard. There’s no way to get lost – all the streets eventually lead to Kàmpos or Agorà, where the village whoops it up. This is where you will find all taverns, café’s, bars, etc.

When in Kimolos, you will want to wake up to taste the local breakfast consisting of ladénia (a sort of focaccia that the locals claim to be the oldest greek pizza) with local, hand-made cheese. For the sweet tooth, you will have to try the local, hand-made pastéli (a bar made from locally produced honey and sesame) or melòpita (fresh cheese, honey and cinnamon in a pie).

For lunch, you can try kolokithokàppari (I know, difficult to pronounce) which is an omelette with courgettes and capers, a fresh salad with Kimolian gherkin and fresh cheese, or just try the local bread with cheese and you won’t need anything else!

There are also plenty of options for dinner: fresh fish, various meat dishes and even strictly vegetarian dishes will satisfy even the most demanding palate. Close your day with some hand-made ice cream or a fancy cocktail.

Keep in mind that most of the ingredients used are sourced locally, whether it is herbs and veggies or meat and fish. Don’t forget to try the prickly pears that grow everywhere on the island and are considered a superfood! However, be aware, they are prickly so let a local pick them and clean them for you if possible.

The beaches of Kimolos offer a mix of white sand and pebbles. Most are accessible by foot and tend to be spots for quiet relaxation. The most popular beaches are Agios Georgios, Aliki, Kalamitsi and Bonatsa. 

Some of the more remote options include Fikiada, Dekas, and Mavrospilia as well Pigados.