Among the four major islands in the group, Kinaliada is the smallest. However, the size belies the number of fabulous summer homes that you can call your own, at least for time that you’re renting it. Kinaliada is also home to some picturesque beaches.
Kina means Henna. The island owes its name to its red color – copper and iron used to be mined in the area. Its geographic quality also means that there are hardly any trees in the island. What it lacks for trees it makes up for with antennas. The island’s full of them! Kinaliada used to vulnerable to regular raids by pirates. This, as well as the climate, it is the reason why it was inhabited only fairly recently.
As for sites to visit, there is the Hristos Monastery which was ordered by Romanus IV, the exiled Byzantine general. Romanus IV, also known as Diogenes, earned his place in history as the Emperor whose eyes were gouged out when the Selcuks defeated his armies in the Battle of Manzikert. Situated up a hill, this monastery is the emperor’s burial ground. If you want to visit this site, be sure to go on Friday, as this is the only day that it is open.
You can also visit the Armenian church, which sports its distinctive design of a drum and cone.
For swimming, head for the Ayazma beach. You will also appreciate the fact that there are fewer tourists here, as compared to the other islands. That way, you get to share the beaches with only a handful of people.
At the pier, you can choose from the many restaurants and cafes that serve up the freshest seafoods. Kinaliada’s modest size makes for great walking tours. And you really don’t have much of a choice, as there are no faytons (horse carriages) available here.