Tilos Megalo Chorio

General information

Megalo Chorio, literally meaning large village, is the capital of Tilos. It's a picturesque village that embodies the rich history and natural beauty of the Dodecanese archipelago. Situated approximately 7 kilometers northwest of Livadia, the island’s main port, Megalo Chorio is nestled at the foot of a rocky mountain crowned by a medieval castle.

The village is a testament to traditional Greek island architecture, characterized by narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant bougainvillea adorning the facades. The central square is the heart of the community, where locals and visitors gather to socialize, dine, and partake in cultural events. Several tavernas and cafés offer an authentic culinary experience amidst a serene setting.

Accommodation options in and around Megalo Chorio range from traditional guesthouses to modern apartments, catering to various preferences and budgets. Many establishments are family-run, ensuring personalized service and warm hospitality.

Hotels in Megalo Chorio

We have made a selection of the best hotels in Megalo Chorio.

Eristos

$$-$$$
Hotel3 stars

You can find the three-star Eristos Beach Hotel Complex on the beautiful sandy beach of Eristos.The complex consists of four independent buildings surrounding the pool (*) of the hotel in a 25-acre garden.The hotel has 22 studio rooms (for 2-4 guests) and six apartments (for 4-6 guests).All rooms ...

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Things to See & Do in Megalo Chorio

Check out the things to see & do in Megalo Chorio during your stay and explore what the area has to offer.

Megalo Chorio Map

Explore our interactive map of Megalo Chorio.

 

More about Megalo Chorio

The village was built near the site of the ancient town of Tilos, remnants of which can still be observed today. Dominating the skyline is the Medieval Castle, constructed by the Knights of the Order of St. John during their occupation in the 14th and 15th centuries. This fortress served as a defensive stronghold against pirate incursions and other external threats. Within the castle’s precincts, visitors can explore the ruins of old houses and churches, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past.

For those interested in religious and cultural sites, Megalo Chorio boasts several noteworthy churches. The Church of Archangel Michael, located near the village center, is renowned for its beautiful frescoes and intricate iconostasis. Additionally, the village celebrates traditional festivals, especially on the feast day of its patron saint, drawing visitors who wish to experience authentic Greek island customs.

Nature lovers will find the surrounding area of Megalo Chorio appealing as it offers numerous hiking trails that traverse the island’s diverse terrain. One popular route leads to the abandoned village of Mikro Chorio, providing hikers with panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. The trails are well-marked and vary in difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and skilled trekkers.

The proximity of Megalo Chorio to pristine beaches adds to its allure. Eristos Beach, located a short distance away, is among the most popular on the island, featuring golden sands and clear turquoise waters. The beach is relatively unspoiled, offering a tranquil environment for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. Facilities are minimal, preserving its natural charm, so visitors are advised to bring necessary provisions.

Reviews

4/5.0
1 Review
  • bambam 04 Nov 2010
    Fabulous scenery
    A beautiful monastery at the far end of the only asphalt road in Tilos. Saint Panteleimon is also the protector of the island and celebrates at the end of July, with lots of pilgrims coming there (as we were told, unfortunately our holiday dates didn't match with this festival cause I'm sure it would be a great celebration). The monastery has a large church, a paved yard and some cells for the monks. I think the monks can also host some visitors if required. The scenery around the monastery is fabulous and really relaxing. I could seat for hours and watch the wild mountains ahead.

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