Zia Village: Where Natural Beauty and Cultural Delights Converge on Kos Island

Zia Village: Where Natural Beauty and Cultural Delights Converge on Kos Island

Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Mount Dikaios, the highest peak on the enchanting Kos Island, lies the picturesque Zia Village. Zia is a true gem of Kos, offering visitors an exquisite blend of natural splendor and cultural richness that leaves an indelible mark on the heart.


At an elevation of 846 meters above sea level, Mount Dikaios stands as a guardian over Zia, providing not only a breathtaking backdrop but also an enticing challenge for adventure seekers. For those with a yearning to conquer its heights, a designated pathway beckons, inviting them to ascend to the summit. The journey is a harmonious blend of exercise and exploration, culminating in the discovery of the Christos church, that provides a profound sense of connection with the island's spiritual heritage.


Zia is not only a destination for the intrepid hiker but also a delight for the senses. One cannot truly experience the essence of Zia without indulging in its famed island drink ''kanelada'', which is basically a cinnamon drink. Regardless of the season—be it the warmth of summer or the cozy embrace of winter—this beverage holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Crafted from a medley of sugar, water, cinnamon, and cloves, the concoction simmers for hours, infusing the air with a tantalizing aroma. Once cooled, the fragrant elixir is lovingly stored in glass bottles, patiently awaiting the moment it will be savored.


Yet, Zia's allure extends beyond its culinary and hiking offerings. The village is renowned for the awe-inspiring spectacle of its sunsets. As the sun descends below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas painted with a mesmerizing array of hues. Zia's sunset is more than just a celestial event: it's a harmonious dance of colors that captures the essence of tranquility and wonder. The scene has even been whispered to rival the renowned sunsets of Santorini, a testament to the ethereal beauty that Zia holds. 


Once upon a time, the waters of Kefalovrisi Spring meandered through Zia's higher reaches, breathing life into watermills and nurturing cultivated lands. Though the watermills are now silent, the echoes of their industrious past still resonate through the village's fabric. Zia stands as a living testament to the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature, where the touch of water brought forth vitality and sustenance to the land. If you're eager to reconnect with nature, another excellent choice to contemplate is the Zia Natural Park. This park offers visitors a chance to observe local wildlife and the renowned herds native to the island from up close.

Zia Village on Kos Island is a destination where every step is a journey through time, culture, and nature's splendor. It's a place where the echoes of history reverberate in the rustling leaves, where the palate is treated to flavors both traditional and extraordinary, and where the sky transforms into a masterpiece as the sun bids its daily farewell. Zia is more than a village: it's an enchanting story waiting to be written in the hearts of those who venture to its embrace.