Seeing Ios for the first time is a mesmerizing experience. At the right side of the port entrance stands the Byzantine Church of Agia Irini, humble, yet radiating with pristine white beauty, at the edge of a rock since the 17th century. Perched on the base of a barren hill, above the natural harbor, Chora, the island’s capital, awaits your encounter.
With the refreshing touch of the sea breeze on your face, and the caress of sweet anticipation on your soul, you reach Ormos. This one-time haven for pirates of the Mediterranean is now packed with luxury yachts, sailboats and fishing vessels. At last, the ship is moored to the dock and you set foot on Gialos in the blink of an eye. Boasting an excellent tourist infrastructure, with a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, travel and car rental agencies, the second largest settlement of the island welcomes you. The titular beach with amenities stretches at the left side of the port is easily accessed for those who cannot wait to dive into the crystal clear sea. The street above the beach is lined with hotels, bars and tavernas, promising high-quality services and a laid-back atmosphere. At the sight of the Agios Georgios Basmenos Church, you remember that this is the starting point of the traditional cobbled path that, among geraniums and eucalyptus trees, will lead you step by step, to Chora.
