Hiking Old Pyli
Deserted in the early 19th c., possibly during an epidemic, the medieval settlement of Palio Pyli on the hillside of Mt Dikeos is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the island’s seaside resorts. Among its ruins, you can explore the Byzantine churches of Panaghia Kastriani, Aghios Antonios and Taxiarches – all three with some lovely murals and with ancient architectural elements.
Ayios Stefanos
One of the most famous images of Kos is undoubtedly the beach of Ayios Stefanos. Aside from being photogenic, this stretch of sand offers visitors one of the most popular island experiences as well. Here, at the beach located on the Bay of Kefalos, you can swim beside the remains of two paleo-Christian churches.
The churches were built in the 5th- 6th century AD on a promontory and have a view of the picturesque isle of Kastri (above photo). Today, you can clearly see their foundations, the arches of the main church, the columns and arches of the courtyards, the mosaic floors and sections of the baptisteries and altars.
Sunset at Zia
Zia is to Kos what Oia is to Santorini: the spot where everyone gathers to watch the spectacular sunset, where cafés and restaurants jostle for the best view of the sun sinking behind the nearly islands of Kalymnos and Pserimos.
Zia is one of the busiest tourist spots on the island, but if you’re looking for some romantic solitude, catch the “solar show” from any vantage point on the road leading from Kos Town to the villages on Mt Dikeos.