Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LivadiaΛιβαδειά
POP 470
Picture-perfect Livadia is low-key, whitewashed and inviting, its little square hugged by
cafes, an Italianate police station, and tavernas with old boys sipping retsina. Its port is
the first thing you'll see of the island and welcomes a cosmo cast of artists, yachties and
earthy locals. It's a great base from which to hire a scooter to explore the island, or
simply relax on its beach, a 2km arc of red, volcanic sand. You might not believe it, but
somnolent Livadia is actually the main pulse of the island.
Sights & Activities
Mikro Horio
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Not far from Livadia, Tilos' original, ancient settlement was built inland as protection
from pirates. The last inhabitants left in the 1960s, mainly due to water scarcity. Wander-
ing around is fascinating - and if you're here as the light fades, faintly eerie - with
houses in various states of abandonment.
Walks
WALKING
Tilos is riddled with terraced landscapes and trails once used by farmers to reach distant
crops; today, these provide perfect paths for keen walkers. A 3km walk heads north of
Livadia to
Lethra Beach
, an undeveloped pebble-and-sand cove with limited shade. The
trail starts at the far north side of the port; follow the tarmac behind Ilidi Rock Hotel to
the start of the footpath. The path is well maintained and very scenic. Returning via the
picturesque
Potami Gorge
brings you to the main island highway.
A second walk is a longer return track to the small abandoned settlement of
Yera
and
its accompanying beach at
Despoti Nero
. From Livadia, follow the road south around
Agios Stefanos Bay, past the Church of Agios Ioannis on the east side of the bay, and
keep walking. Allow half a day for this 6km-long hike.
Tilos Heritage Tours
( 6974912412)
run by Charlie are a useful outfit for finding out
per person €25)
. Both are licensed guides. Finally,
Tilos Park Association
(
22460
70883;
www.tilos-park.org.gr
;
half-day trek to abandoned settlement per person €15;
9am-2.30pm)
, run by Felicien, are the people to go to for wildlife-infused walks.
Sleeping
