TSIKNIAS. The highest mountain of Tinos (714m) was once named Giras or Girai Petrai by Girians –one of the twelve ancient tribes that is said to have lived there. It is standing near Livada beach and you may drive or trek up to the top to admire the impressive views of the Aegean Sea. In Greek mythology Tsiknias is associated to king Vorias (Aiolos/North Wind). After discovering his children’s tombs, killed there by Hercules, the king mourned by unleashing the strong north winds, still blowing on Tinos (called meltemia in the summer). Experienced sailors and fishermen always look up on Tsiknias in order to predict the weather.

VREKASTRO/VRYOKASTRO. A rocky hill laying on the eastern side of Agios Fokas beach. Atop were found ruins of the oldest settlement and fortification on the island, dating back to the Neolithic era, circa 16th century BC. The swamp that existed around the hill (visible even today during winter) seems to have favored the prehistoric inhabitants as it was forested and thus attracted a variety of prey for hunting.

Planitis/Planet. It was first lit in 1886, close to the port of Panormos, the only northern port, in Tinos and it is very important for fishermen.

Disvato/Inaccessible. This is the name of the islet in the Strait between Andros and Tinos. The lighthouse on top is as important to navigation on the Aegean Sea, as the ones on Cape Doro and the Strait of Mykonos -specially to merchant ships heading from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean. It was first lit in 1905, operating with a lighthouse keeper till 1970, and later became automatic.

Papargyras, in Livada. For trekking enthusiasts there is a path leading from Livada area to the neighboring cape of Papargyras, featuring one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the Aegean. It was built in 1910 and is considered an important lighthouse for seafaring, as it ¨defines¨ the passage from Chios to Ikaria islands and the Strait of Mykonos-Tinos. You can also admire the lighthouse from above, when you drive around Tsiknias mountain.

VRYSIOTISSA. This church is located on the road leading to Aghios Romanos beach. According to one version, its name derives from the old fountain (vrysi) that exists outside the church, according to another, it is a corruption of the word find (evresi), as the church was built after the discovery of an icon of the Virgin holding the holly Infant.. During the festival held on the 15th of August, there is an all-night service and pilgrims stay overnight in the courtyard.

KATAPOLIANI. Located near Isternia village, this old nunnery was built in 1783, on the high western ridges of a hill offering wonderful vistas to the areas of Panormos, Pyrgos, Pateles and Marlas. Inside the church of Katapoliani you will see an old wood-carved iconostasis. It celebrates on September the 1st with a festival.

DISCOVER MORE VILLAGES. Less famous, equally beautiful! Two Villages, Arnados, Agapi, Komi, Potamia, Myrsini, Steni, Kampos, Karya, Mountados, Koumaros ...you name it! On an island featuring 40 settlements, travelers’ choices are literary unlimited! So make the picks of each day, wander around the hand-made villages of Tinos, discover their beauties, enjoy coffee in shady marble squares, try local food in taverns and small restaurants.
For those seeking adventure it is worth walking in the area of Koris Pyrgos, on the Polemou Kampos plateau, among the ruins of the settlement called Monasteries. The seaside villages of Marlas and Mamados, near Pyrgos, are also worth visiting.
As you will soon realize, no matter how many times you visit Tinos, there will always be more attractions and hidden gems for each and every one of you!