Escaping the Crowds: Kimolos, Cyclades
For those seeking true luxury and privacy, my ‘Escaping The Crowds’ series is here to provide the ultimate travel experience inspiration, think serenity, untouched landscapes, and cultural richness, all away from the busy tourist hotspots
By choosing lesser-known places, you contribute to local economies and help alleviate the pressures of over-tourism on more popular destinations. But choosing a lesser-known place to visit is only one part of it; embracing philoxenia, leaving a positive yet light footprint, and making thoughtful, soulful choices will make your journey even more meaningful.
Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades is Kimolos, a small island you may not have heard of, but trust me - it’s one of those places you’ll fall in love with instantly. It might not be packed with things to see, but that’s the beauty of it. Kimolos is all about soaking up the simple charm of Greek island life in a way that feels intimate and genuine.
I love Kimolos because it’s wonderfully simple, with just one charming town, Chora. It’s a place where life feels slower, more authentic. There are stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm, and super cute little ‘sirmata’ houses. These charming houses once harboured fisherman's boats, and now they are quiet storytellers of the past making the island more beautiful. Many local fishermen have taken to converting them into cozy waterfront accommodations; perfectly positioned for days languishing with a good book listening to the waves lapping on the beach. And if you're lucky, you might find yourself staying next to a fisherman who still uses his sirmata - he’s likely to share his catch with you while spinning tales of the old days. For me it’s those unexpected moments that make Kimolos so special.
Kimolos has a minimalist approach to tourism. There’s no overwhelming development here, so the island has stayed wonderfully unspoiled. It’s all about appreciating nature at its best. From an open-air cinema festival on a remote beach to swimming in crystal-clear waters or hiring a boat to explore the island by sea, the pace here is relaxed and refreshing. It's the kind of place where you feel like you’ve discovered a little slice of paradise - simple, beautiful, and totally authentic.
Annual outdoor cinema on the beach.
Making conscious decisions to travel better, matter!
Deciding on the destination for your next journey isn’t just about escaping the crowds - it’s about making a conscious decision to support sustainable tourism. So many local communities rely on tourism to thrive, our choices - like when we visit, how long we stay, where we stay, and how we spend our money all play a huge role in creating a ripple of positive impact. By visiting these lesser-known places, you’re helping to distribute the economic benefits of tourism more evenly and reducing the strain on over-visited destinations. This belief system is the foundation for every single itinerary we craft at Travel with Tess.