Nisyros island (Nissyros) is a relatively small member of the Dodecanese islands of Greece chain, extending to just over 40 sq. kilometres. It sits among the southerly islands of the main Dodecanese spine, south of Kos island and north of Rhodes. Almost circular in shape, it features an active volcano and lots of arable land. The small off-shore islet of Yiali is effectively a giant pumice stone and a team of miners from Nisyros perpetually knock chips off the old block. It’s also a source of gypsum. The excellent faming land plus the quarrying activities mean that Nisyros has not had to depend on tourism to any significant degree, (yet!). Indeed, it tends to be more of an excursion destination from neighbouring Kos than a major holiday location in its own right. Few people spend more than a day or two here. This should not be taken to imply that Nisyros is devoid of appeal. It’s a very pleasant island with its own unique character. There is accommodation routinely available but not in the quantities or qualities associated with the larger, more tourist orientated greek islands.

Nisyros island population, around 1000, is still a pretty respectable figure but well down on the 10,000 it sustained during the 19th century. There is no airport and you will have to fly to Kos or Rhodes and then travel onwards by one of several ferry, catamaran or hydrofoil services that call at the island. These are not prolific, however and you do need to plan your journey here (and onwards) carefully. The main town and port, Mandraki, is a pleasing hotchpotch with a somewhat peculiar road system that seems like it’s pedestrian only but shouldn’t be assumed to be so!

Most of the incoming tours visit the simmering volcano and if the pungent odour of sulphur does not offend you, then it’s a possible way to while away an hour or so. You can actually walk around the crater (at a price) and feel the heat (literally). But a visit to Nisyros without exploring some of its magical interior would be a waste.
Indeed, the view of the volcano from the picturesque hill-village of Nikia is arguably more impressive than the sulphur orientated close up version. What’s more, the village square with its intricate mosaic cobbles is a lovely setting for a cold drink and a rejuvenating snack. The semi-abandoned village of Emborio, with its small hilltop fortress, is also worth a visit. Nisyros provides more than its fair share of classical sites, castles, picturesque monasteries and churches.
Beach-goers will be less well pleased. The beaches of Nisyros are mainly pebble and gritty black sand and often tend to be of somewhat mediocre quality. Two or four wheeled transport, whilst not essential, will materially assist your explorations. There is a bus service (of sorts) for those who do not have independent transport.

If you favour a day or two’s pleasant deviation from the high intensity tourism of Kos or Rhodes, Nisyros island may well be for you and because it’s not on the main tourist agenda the prices are often very reasonable. One of the more appealing Dodecanese islands and well worth a visit of two or three days.

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