Agia Ermioni — The Fishing Village Resort

Agia Ermioni occupies a sweet spot that few Greek villages manage: it is close enough to Chios Town (10km) to be convenient, pretty enough to attract summer visitors, and small enough to retain the feel of a genuine fishing village rather than a resort. The small harbour, with its brightly painted wooden boats and its tavernas opening directly onto the water, is one of the most photogenic on the east coast.

In summer, Agia Ermioni fills up with Chian families who come for the calm, shallow water and the excellent fresh fish. The village tavernas — several of them — serve whatever came off the boats that morning: grilled sea bass, fried calamari, plates of taramosalata and tzatziki, cold local beer. The atmosphere is relaxed and genuinely Greek.

Outside the summer months, Agia Ermioni returns to its natural state: quiet, working, and beautiful in the particular way of Aegean fishing villages in the off-season. The harbour in October, with the boats drawn up and the leaves turning on the tamarisk trees, is a different and equally rewarding experience.

Practical Notes

Agia Ermioni is 10km south of Chios Town on the east coast road. Most tavernas are open May through October. The small beach is sandy and safe for children. There is basic accommodation in summer.