Part IV – Chios

Our time in Santorini was brief, but sensational. After two days filled with scenic vistas, savory food and of course, those sunsets – we began the next leg of our journey. After an hour and a half delay, we were flying (Sky Express) first to Athens, where we boarded our connecting flight that took us to the island of Chios. Chios is substantially larger than Milos and Santorini and is located much farther to the east – in fact it is only an hour from Turkey, by Ferry. With a layover and a second delay, it took us most of the day for us to get to Chios, even though we were only in the air for a little more than an hour, both flights combined!

We had five full days to spend in Chios. Why so much time, there? A friend and former colleague, who’s family is from Chios, has always spoken so highly of it. He travels there every other year with his family, for three weeks! So, after hearing so much about it, I decided we would spend enough time there, to really explore and get a feel for it. On his recommendation, we stayed in an Air BnB right in the heart of Chios Town. Our Air BnB Host (Roula) recommended we rent a car. She said “Chios is a large and magical island, you should rent a car, so you can best explore it”. So rent a car, we did (everyone’s favorite, a Blue Ford Fiesta, with Manual Transmission!).

We spent four days driving around the island, visiting many of the places recommended by my buddy. Driving on Chios (even more so, than on Milos), was challenging and at times harrowing! The mountain roads are winding and very steep. The roads in the towns are ancient, narrow and also winding and hilly. I am going to list the places we visited and give a brief description.

Agia Markella – a monastery located on the water next to a beautiful beach. Pyrgi Village – a beautifully preserved village with the ruins of Volossis Castle, on the highest ground. Lagkada Village – a classic Greek Fishing Village. Glaroi Beach – Crystal Clear Water, Tables, Umbrellas, Lounge Chairs and Waiter Service. Nea Moni – A Magnificent Monastery located at the top of a mountain, overlooking a valley that stretches to the sea (this is a UNESCO site of historical significance). Agia Dinami – Our favorite beach, recommended by my friend and our waiter at a restaurant, named Streat, which had delicious food. Mesta Village – a picturesque, medieval town. Mavra Volia – another great beach, this one has gray stones (black when wet). The Mastic Museum – Mastic is a tree that only grows in the south of Chios, its Resin is harvested and has been used in a great number of products for centuries. The Windmills of Chios – four amazing structures that are well maintained, just outside Chios Town, on the water. Castro – the original part of Chios Town that was once walled, and has the Castle of Chios, still standing within it.

Our last full day in Chios, we spent around Chios Town. We went back to Cafe Delfina (I think the best of any of the amazing food, we had on our trip) and had another great meal. The next day we got up early to walk around the harbor and enjoy the sunrise. Then it was, to the airport for a flight to Athens, where we would spend the night before flying home the next day. So my friend was right about Chios, being a great place, and I am so glad we chose to check it out. Our host was also correct, Chios is a big, magical island!

Here are some additional Photos, enjoy!

Needless to say, this was an absolutely wonderful trip. I don’t think words, or even photos, can adequately describe it all (I have tried). What was my favorite thing? The food, the history, the beautiful scenery, the beaches, the sunsets, the sunrises – I guess, All Of It!