Discover Kardamyla
Explore the village of Ano Kardamyla on foot
Starting from Kapetanospito, walk to Spilia, a medieval settlement at the highest end of the village, then walk down the narrow streets as you descend towards the leafy, stone-paved central square. Take in the traditional architecture, the artful design of the balconies, and the tranquility of life here. There is an abundance of historical churches in the village that you will sure notice if you are staying on a Sunday. It’s worth exploring the traditional Chian pebble designs (votsalota) around the church of Panayia Ypapanti, the temple of Saint Loukas, the Cretan-school frescos of Saint Nikolaos Prinaritis, and the belltower of Saint George.
Cool down at the best local beaches
Nagos is a popular, organized beach in a picturesque cove with changing facilities, showers, umbrellas, sunbeds, and even private parking for a small fee that you can redeem at the beach bars. It can get busy, so it is best to go early in the day. Giossonas is a quitter option, a 800-meter long beach with deep waters and smooth pebbles that is at its best when there is no wind. North of the beach flows the namesake stream, while the Giossonas Gorge is one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes on the island.
Spend a morning, or evening, at Marmaro
In the summer, the fishing port of Marmaro comes to life! A favorite local destination to meet friends over coffee, drinks, or a meal, it is worth taking a stroll by the port and experience the homage to the nautical history of Kardamyla in the statues of the Kardamyla sailor and the Kardamyla woman who is awaiting the return of her beloved. Explore the Vassilaki and Perivolari mansions, the old Tax Authority building, and the churches of Saint Nikolaos and Timios Stavros.
Local delicacies within a 20-minute drive
Some of our favorite tavernas in Chios are only a 20-minute drive away! They include Makellos at the village of Pityos for their meat specialties under the age-old tree, Nostos at Lagkada for its top-class seafood (we love their tsiros with some Chian ouzo or tsipouro) next to the sea, and Oz Bay at Sykiada for award winning cocktails made with local spirits and ethnic food influences. Or you could just walk down to Geragides at the village square for traditional recipes including the hand-made local pasta called herissia.
Hike to Gria’s castle for a panoramic view of the area
Offering the best view of the cove of Kardamyla, the Gria’s Castle hike starts at the road to Pityos, and is an easy but rocky 1.4 km walk through the Genovese-era Koulele Well up to the Medieval Castle. Can you spot the Kapetanospito from here?
