Tinos Outdoor Activities: Top 5 for Adventure & Scenery

Tinos, that place, it’s a Greek island that sometimes gets a bit overlooked, that is true, especially when compared to its crazy popular neighbors such as Mykonos and Santorini, it tends to fly under the radar a bit. That is something you should know. But, hey, you know, that’s a part of what makes Tinos seriously special. You see, this island gem shows off a very authentic Cycladic experience, mixed with dramatic landscapes, those wind-swept coastlines, and, oh, not to mention the villages, the really picturesque villages, so quaint, with their totally unique atmosphere. What might make it special is the vast amount of amazing things you’re able to do outside on this magnificent island. Now, from checking out historic trails and relaxing on the fantastic beaches to seriously fun watersports adventures, that’s a given. Let’s peek at a few of the very top outdoor activities that you absolutely have to think about on the next adventure to the amazing Greek island, Tinos.

1. Hiking the Volax Landscape

Okay, first up is Volax, so it’s almost like a location on Tinos that you simply cannot miss; believe it or not, it feels like you’ve, maybe, stepped right onto another planet. Apparently, the area is covered in seriously big, very round granite boulders, a pretty weird geological quirk. You see, this is just so fantastic for folks that enjoy hiking, those nature lovers. You can explore a few, yet very scenic trails that weave, that is the word, all through these crazy rock formations. As a matter of fact, a lot of the trails begin from the actual village of Volax, that little place, famous too for its basket weaving tradition. Okay, as you hike, and with the pretty fantastic view of the Aegean Sea that is laid out before you, you get, in a way, this surreal vibe; really, the sun against the smooth rocks is beautiful, actually.

That said, consider bringing good shoes that work well when climbing, and it’s advisable to maybe even check the weather because Tinos gets sort of breezy sometimes. You see, it’s not just the weird views that attract, yet this area seems pretty historical. Actually, Volax offers almost this quite tranquil environment for reflection, you can find all sorts of pretty old chapels scattered around, too it’s almost like relics of eras that are now long past. So, the whole area is this seriously fantastic combo of natural wonder and cultural charm that is extremely unique. Read our full review: Hiking In Volax Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Volax Hike)

2. Surfing or Windsurfing at Kolymbithra Beach

Let us say you are searching for some action with some waves. Well, you need to head straight over to Kolymbithra Beach; truly, it’s very well-known as the surfer’s playground of the area of Tinos, maybe due to those regular meltemi winds. Basically, the beach is made up of a couple of coves; Megali Ammos is really for the water sports enthusiasts, actually, with its windsurfing and surfing gear available to rent, and yet there’s also Mikri Ammos, a calmer area with a pretty relaxed vibe that’s pretty good for the occasional swimmer. Now, the waters are very clear and have this pretty nice blue-green hue that, as a matter of fact, is simply beautiful.

Hey, I want to mention that it really does not matter if you’re a professional or just starting to test things out, the Kolymbithra shores offer options. It appears like beginners might just enjoy learning during the less windy morning periods; that is true, while really seasoned surfers can enjoy a test in the strong afternoon gales, usually the wind picks up. At the very least, bring some beach shoes for the pebbles! And, like your days on the beach, it is always great to end the day in a cozy tavern nearby where they offer classic Cycladic meals as the sun starts to fall, I can assure you it can be quite rewarding after getting out of the seas, in some respects. Read our full review: Kolymbithra Beach Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit Kolymbithra)

3. Exploring the Villages of Kardiani and Isternia

Okay, let’s set aside some of that serious adventure for the time being, and then you get into the classic Tinos villages; specifically, those two lovely places, Kardiani and Isternia, that is quite beautiful, those hillside retreats with amazing Aegean views. Alright, Kardiani, really it’s famed for its crazy lush landscape, so vibrant with plentiful greenery and streams, it has those tiered houses flowing downward towards the ocean. That’s amazing. The central plaza is very charming; you can find the most quaint of the fountains beneath super old trees; anyway, it has all of the classic appeal that any person would want.

Then, really, you head over to Isternia. A very quaint seaside village noted for its creative soul; it actually feels more like an outdoor museum in a way, the amount of sculptures and arts everywhere are rather fantastic. So, wander all of the old lanes to actually admire the marble work and then just unwind over some locally brewed coffee in some cozy spot. Very nice, basically both of these great locations are pretty fantastic for getting pictures or just taking in real island life as you actually find it here. Hey, make certain to grab a snack, maybe local honey or cheese from a small shop, that stuff is pure pleasure! Read our full review: Kardiani and Isternia Villages Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Village Tour)

4. Discovering Tinos’ Hidden Beaches by Boat

So, to gain the very most from those Cycladic islands, a boat is basically your admission ticket to those secret coasts; there are various tour companies based on Tinos that allow amazing sailing adventures along with those hidden places and super secluded locations. Usually, these cruises will bring you past locations such as, that is, Agios Sostis, known rather well because of that picturesque church that stands atop; pretty fantastic. Now, that’s an idyllic place for swimming, as is, as I was saying, the peaceful bay, very sheltered, known as Ormos Agiou Ioannou. Apparently, many hidden coves wait; several of them can be gotten to only by ocean. Now, for people that are snorkelers and adore aquatic investigations, that crystalline waters provide just great view.

Typically, while you choose that boat, it’s almost a full-day affair; what is more, most have some very Greek meals supplied onboard that really helps with local immersion. It isn’t simply only the beaches which wow: on any one sail you may, actually, just pass tiny, uninhabited isles, all alone with crazy rock configurations and, clearly, a fair amount of wildlife as you start gliding around. So, pack your towels, sunglasses, that stuff, and, like your voyage is, expect an adventure on what this spectacular shoreline must showcase. Read our full review: Boat Tours Tinos Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Boat Tour)

5. Rock Climbing at Exomvourgo

So, finally we get into something seriously interesting and exciting, Exomvourgo mountain; rather central to Tinos; has, yet, some fascinating climbing walls; really there’s rock climbing. As a matter of fact, because of its prominent location on Tinos, basically it gives climbers views around that region. Originally a location to that old Venetian stronghold, a location layered not just in steep rock surfaces but rather history.

But make absolutely certain you get your climbing gear as well as a really capable guide if that is needed; you probably won’t be attempting to hike that without one, too it’s almost vital, for certain! What some adore on Exomvourgo could very well be the climbing routes themselves; these are the sorts of adventures where, on your way up that steep and uneven part, they’re as much about conquering oneself just like physical. And by that end, for hikers not extremely into actual climbs themselves but who also adore amazing views. In this light, just hike that winding course up for those fortress top sections, definitely amazing photo ops or some seriously good thoughts, by the way. Read our full review: Rock Climbing Exomvourgo Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Climbing Exomvourgo)