NISYROS

Nisyros (from Greek Νίσυρος) is an island in the Dodecanese located between Kos and Tilos. It can only be reached by sea, for example from the Greek port of Piraeus (202 nautical miles), from Rhodes (58 nautical miles), or from nearby Kos (11 nautical miles).

It has an area of 41 km² and a population of about 1000 inhabitants.

The island is of volcanic origin with a rounded shape and very high coasts covered with forests. Inside, there are several craters, particularly one that is still partly active (fumaroles, boiling mud, and sulfurous hot springs) in an environment with a thousand colorful shades.

The island experiences slight seismic activity. In the northern area, where volcanic activity has long since ceased, the land is fertile and mainly cultivated with vines, olives, and almond trees. The highest mountain is Profitis Ilias (698 meters). The island is rich in springs, including thermal ones.

The inhabitants are mainly engaged in agriculture (olives, fruit, almonds) and fishing. Local crafts include pumice stone, a cinnamon liqueur, and almond-based products.

The capital of the island is Mandraki, where the port is also located. Nisyros is mainly visited by tourists on day trips to the volcano, and in the evening it returns to an absolutely tranquil and serene place. The inhabitants of the island strive to keep their traditions alive, particularly wedding rituals.

A paved and well-maintained road connects the port with the other villages on the island and with the plateau from which you can access the crater of the volcano. There is a bus service that connects both the volcano and the various villages, as well as taxis and car or scooter rentals.