Tinos is a beautiful Greek Island in the Aegean Sea, located within the Cyclades archipelago. In many ways, it’s one of Greece’s hidden gems, especially from the UK’s point of view. With charming villages, lovely beaches, and an immense spiritual aura, there are plenty of reasons to visit Tinos on single holidays abroad. If you are new to Tinos, read on to learn more about why you should make the trip.
It’s home to picturesque villages
One of the best-loved features of Tinos is the traditional architecture of its picturesque villages. These villages are thought of as the island’s greatest treasure and must be explored by anyone who pays Tinos a visit.
You will find these delightful, whitewashed villages scattered across the island’s mountainous landscape. These little communities have been around for a very long time and help keep the traditions of Tinos alive.
Some of the key villages to explore during your holiday on Tinos include Pyrgos, Ktikado, Kardiani, Loutra and Tripotamos. Make sure you explore their beautiful squares and ancient rural streets and grab a bite to eat from a local establishment.
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It’s a popular place of pilgrimage
Tinos is sometimes called the “spiritual heart of Greece” and is a place of great relaxation thanks to its powerful religious atmosphere. Tinos is one of the most visited pilgrim sites in Greece, with people flocking from all over to visit the island’s church, called Panagia Evangelistria, literally “The All-Holy Bringer of Good News”, but often referred to in English as “Our Lady of Tinos”.
This special location is the major Marian shrine in Greece, with a beautiful complex built around a miraculous icon called “Megalócharē” or “[She of] Great Grace”. The pilgrims arrive in droves, particularly on the 15th of August when the Dormition of the Virgin Mary is celebrated.
Festivities take place all over the island, making it a special time to visit Tinos. However, you can take in the spiritual aura of this special island throughout the year, visiting the church and getting a glimpse of the miraculous icon.
It has an ancient history
Tinos has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with the Phoenicians the likely first inhabitants. About fifty archaeological sites with finds from the Geometric period to the 5th century have been found on Tinos, as have items from the era of the Venetian Ghizzi family in Xombourgo.
Tinos was seized by Eretria during the 6th century BC, and during the Median Wars, the island came under the authority of Xerxes and the Persians in 490 BC. The inhabitants of the island regained their freedom after the battle of Marathon.
That was only the start of the island’s fascinating history, however, and you can explore more of its roots during your visit. The Sanctuary of Poseidon is one of the island’s ancient sites – a place where people would come to ask the gods for help. There is also the archaeological museum, which features treasures from excavations across the island, mostly from the ancient temples of Demeter and Poseidon.
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There are serene beaches to enjoy
Tinos has some of the most beautiful and serene beaches in Greece. The beaches on the south of the island tend to be the most popular, with seaside taverns and cafes available for refreshments.
Some of the most popular beaches in Tinos are Agios Ioannis Porto Beach, Agios Sostis Beach, Agios Romanos Beach, and Kionia Beach. On the north side of the island, you will come across more secluded beaches, so if you want a quiet spot, this is the place to look.
The beaches on the north side are also home to high winds and sometimes big waves, making the likes of Kolymbithra Beach popular among surfers.
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Reasons to visit Tinos in Greece
- Its picturesque villages
- It is a place of religious pilgrimage
- It has an ancient history
- It has serene beaches
As you can see, Tinos is a Greek Island with a lot to offer, especially for those who want to avoid the more famous party islands the country is known for. This special island is a place to relax and enjoy a spiritual and calming escape amid sun and beaches.
If you are interested in a singles holiday to Tinos, we would love to make it happen. We at Friendship Travel are the experts when it comes to solo holidays, so get in touch to speak with one of our travel specialists.
