Ios Island. The island of diversity.

My second stop was the island of Ios - once more. Ios Island in Greece is a famous tourist destination, attracting visitors with its golden beaches and the characteristic Aegean architecture. Ios is mostly known as the party island with the lively atmosphere and the endless fun. But there is much more. Far from the bars, with young people screaming and dancing during day light we have a truly Geek island to discover, a perfect mix between modernity and still some rurality, that make the delight of the food lovers. This time we passed our beloved Ios Palace at Milopotas and we stay at KOUKOS PENSION, a small family business – 6 rooms with bathroom, fridge, balcony and restaurant situated 9 km from the main village of Ios, Chora, at the fantastic beach of Agia Theodoti. It is a good and clean place with friendly atmosphere and traditional homemade cuisine (homemade cheese, vegetables from the garden and local honey) where the management of the place is not their biggest assets. Driving from Chora to Panos, and up the hill we reach the south coast of the island. This itinerary will probably offer you the most interesting excursion sites. Before getting to sea again, and if you turn left, it will take you to the monastery of Kalamos, a very well-preserved 200-year-old building, a special place of worship for the locals. The same road leads straight to Kalamos, a beautiful pebbly beach accessible by a 4x4 or only very adventurous family cars. Returning to the main road, a short way take us to Manganari, in my opinion four of the most beautiful beaches in the island (maybe in the Aegean sea!), each one lying next to the other, wait for the visitor to enjoy their peaceful nature. There are many seaside taverns where you can taste fresh fish, as well as good accommodation, but still a bit far from everything. The sunset is beautiful from the hills while returning home, the but most beautiful sunrise in Cyclades is from the KOUKOS PENSION. You just have to wake-up at 6.00 am and go to your balcony and enjoy it.