In Nisyros for volcanic excursions overlooking the Aegean Sea.

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Santorini may have the name but Nisyros has the grace of volcanic land as the island’s intense volcanic past is evident everywhere. The number one attraction of Nisyros is the large caldera of the Polyvotis volcano and especially the large and visitable crater Stefanos.

The island is also famous for the traditional settlements of Mandraki, Nikeia and Emporeios…

Mandraki | Volcano | Nikia | Emporeios | Beaches

Rooms in Nisyros

hotels and rentals rooms in Nisyros.

Mandraki of Nisyros

The capital of the island, the picturesque Mandrakiis a traditional settlement with whitewashed houses and small narrow alleys. There you can climb the hill of the Venetian castle, inside which is the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani with important icons, rich history and excellent views of Mandraki or the sunset.

Moreover, in Mandraki , do not miss the visit to the excellent and modern archaeological museum which is one of the most pleasant surprises on the island. Another attraction that is located near Mandraki and must be visited is the restored Paleokastro.

Mandraki as seen above the walls of Paleokastro.

It is the acropolis of the ancient city of Mandraki (6th-4th century BC), which now stands in excellent condition. Climb its walls with care and enjoy an alternative view of the Aegean Sea, Kos, which is just across the road, and of course Mandraki.

If you get tired of the day’s schedule, a walk along the coastal road of the village with its cafes and taverns is the best way to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening, right next to the waves of the Aegean Sea. An alternative suggestion for a coffee or a favorite and the beautiful square of Ilikiomeni covered by the large trees, thus having shade all day long.

Emporio of Nisyros

Other places to see in Nisyros are the two mountainous and traditional settlements of the island. They are none other than Emporios and the famous Nikeia. At Emporio you will find the Castle of Pantoniki, the church of Taxiarches and the Natural Sauna, a small hole in the rocks, just before the entrance to the village, from which very hot air comes out!

In the village you will find two tavernas, one of which has a small balcony with tables and a wonderful view of the volcano’s caldera. In the tavern“Balcony of Emporios” you will have a wonderful view of the Polyvotis volcano.

Nikiia Nisyros

The Nicosia is the next village worth visiting. On one side they stand right above the volcano’s caldera and the large crater Stefanos, with excellent views, while on the other side they look out over the Aegean Sea and Tilos.

In addition, they have the only volcanological museum in the country where you can learn not only the geological history of the island but also get information about volcanic activity around the world. Something I didn’t know existed and it really was one of the most pleasant surprises during my visit to Nisyros.

The beautiful Nikia as seen from the side overlooking the Aegean Sea and Tilos.

Finally, Nikia is also famous for its beautiful pebbled square. The square“Porta” has been photographed perhaps more than any other island square in the Aegean and not without reason! It is worth walking through the narrow streets of the village and discover spots with beautiful views of either the Aegean Sea and Tilos, or the volcano of Nisyros and the largest crater Stefanos. Enjoy the view and feel the smell of the scent of the sake as it is carried by the air through this unique village.

Beaches of Nisyros

Nisyros does not have enough beaches. The most beautiful ones are Lyes (3-4 beaches with dark pebbles), the beach of Chochlaki, at Mandraki following the path under Panagia Spiliani, with its large and impressive black pebbles and Pachia Ammos.

Pachia Ammos beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach on the island but somewhat isolated as you cannot reach it by any means of transport and it takes a ten-minute walk along a path over which volcanic rocks hang in some places !

Just before the final descent to the crater Stefano.

Leaving Nisyros do not forget to visit one of the shops with traditional products where you will find two local non-alcoholic drinks, Soumada (made from bitter almond) and Kanelada (cinnamon distillate) and the intoxicating Koukouzina.

I would like to thank the Municipality of Nisyros for the valuable information and especially Valantis Kaparakis from Expert Stores / Expert Art Photography for the valuable help he offered regarding my photographic material! In addition, little Paraskevas and Papa Giannis for their company at the café of Porta square in Nikia.

text/photos: Yannis Tsouratzis

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