A Noble Sanctuary in Tinos
Since the discovery of an icon reputed to be by the hand of Saint Luke, Tinos –
the third largest island of the Cyclades – became a place of pilgrimage, with an annual number
of visitors exceeding one million (mostly day trippers and a smaller number staying overnight
to catch the morning ferry back to the mainland).
This steady influx of pilgrims brought prosperity to the island. The young devoted themselves
to selling religious artifacts, candles, and souvenirs, while the older islanders tended the
fertile land and their animals. Thus, the 52 villages remain alive, the fields are cultivated,
and the famous Tinian beef, lamb, pork, and pigeons are still found in abundance. Fishing,
however, like in much of the Aegean, has sadly suffered from pollution.
Since the start of the decade, Tinos has experienced an average of 40% growth in seasonal business.
A new kind of traveler – mostly from Northern Europe – discovered the island, favoring September
and October with their cooler weather, uncrowded beaches, attentive service, and remarkable cuisine.
The season extended into mid-autumn, encouraging ferry companies to keep their fast boats in service,
halving travel times to the island.
Wealthy Greeks purchased and renovated homes, while renowned foreigners chose high-end companies
like Domizile Reisen to rent villas in
the villages. Gourmet restaurants flourished – Thalassaki, Marathia, FortyOne,
Napole Zoga, San to Alati, Bread & Salt among them. Two rank among the
top 50 restaurants in Greece, with one a favorite of the Prime Minister, who has hosted Rupert Murdoch,
Novak Djokovic, and Irish ex-PM Leo Varadkar. International icons – Mick Jagger, John Galliano,
Valentino, Armani – are among those who come seeking refuge from nearby Mykonos, a short ferry away
but a world apart.
Recognizing the unique soil and climate of the island, vineyards have flourished. Today, wineries
produce some of the most exquisite wines in Greece. The legendary T-Oinos Winery – a €15 million
venture by Alexandre Avatangelos and Gérard Margeon (head sommelier of Alain Ducasse restaurants) –
crafts wines celebrated worldwide for their purity, complexity, and expression of terroir.
An intimate dwelling with arches and soft light, perfect for couples seeking timeless romance.
A spacious family retreat blending noble stone details with modern comforts.
A residence that balances medieval accents with minimal elegance, ideal for groups of friends.
TINOS!
More than an island in the blue Aegean!
Since the discovery of the miraculous icon by Saint Luke, Tinos has been a place of pilgrimage, attracting over a million visitors each year.
Beyond its spiritual allure, the island is rich with 52 traditional villages, fertile fields, authentic cuisine, vineyards producing award-winning wines,
and a unique cultural heritage that blends Cycladic elegance with timeless history.
The most iconic church of Tinos and a sacred destination for pilgrims worldwide. Its influence has shaped the island’s identity for centuries.
View LocationThe birthplace of sculptor Giannoulis Halepas and the renowned Marble Crafts Museum. Admire the rare green marble seen in the British Parliament.
View LocationA surreal village built among massive granite boulders, famous for its basket weaving tradition. Unique landscapes found nowhere else in Greece.
View LocationOne of Tinos’ most famous beaches. Golden sand, turquoise waters, and a relaxing alternative to the nearby party island of Mykonos.
View LocationFrom T-Oinos’ globally celebrated wines to boutique estates like Vaptistis, Volacus, and Messarea — Tinos is a rising star in European wine culture.
Visit WineryA 150 km network of ancient footpaths (UNESCO heritage). A paradise for hikers and explorers, with breathtaking landscapes all year round.
Explore TrailsAnother UNESCO heritage site. The valley of dovecotes near Tarabados is a living monument to the island’s agricultural and cultural history.
View LocationDiscover Tinos’ culinary treasures: Thalassaki, Marathia, FortyOne, San to Alati, Bread & Salt. World-class cuisine enjoyed by celebrities & PMs.
View RestaurantsExperience authentic village life, summer Panigyria with live music, wine, and dance until dawn — true Cycladic spirit alive in every celebration.
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