Sunset Dreams in Zia: A Taste of Heaven in the Mountains

Kalimera, my sunset seekers! It’s Laila again—and today, I’m taking you somewhere close to my heart, a little village where the sky catches fire each evening and time seems to melt away. Welcome to Zia.

Perched high on the northern slopes of Mount Dikeos, Zia is the kind of place that whispers to you before you arrive. You feel it in the cool mountain air, hear it in the sound of church bells ringing through olive groves, and see it in the soft pastel light that wraps the village before sunset. And yes, it’s a popular spot—but trust me, with me as your guide, we’ll avoid the tourist traps and experience Zia the real way.

We begin in the late afternoon, driving inland through Kos’s rolling countryside. You’ll see fig trees, crumbling stone walls, and old men riding bicycles with baskets full of herbs. When Zia finally appears around a curve, it looks like a postcard—whitewashed houses, cobblestone paths, and balconies bursting with bougainvillea.

Our first stop is the little church of Agios Georgios, hidden behind a garden gate. Most people miss it—but I’ll take you there. Inside, candles flicker on frescoes that have seen centuries of prayers. It’s quiet. Sacred. The kind of place where you take a breath and suddenly feel completely at peace.

Next, we wander through the artisan shops, where locals sell handmade ceramics, embroidered linens, olive oil, and the island’s famous thyme honey. My personal favorite is a small family-run store that sells wild oregano and sun-dried figs wrapped in vine leaves. I always bring some home!

Before sunset, we head to one of my secret-viewpoint spots just above the main square—not crowded, with a clear west-facing view. This is when the magic happens. As the sun begins to dip into the Aegean Sea, the sky turns gold, then tangerine, then deep purple. You’ll see the islands of Kalymnos, Pserimos, even parts of Turkey, glowing in the fading light.

Here’s my personal tip: Bring a small mirror or your phone to capture the golden light on your face while the sea turns silver behind you. It’s the most beautiful selfie spot on the island—and I’ve never shared this location until now!

After sunset, we sit down for dinner at my favorite tavern, nestled just off the main path. There’s no menu—just what Mama cooked today. Usually a hearty goat stew, wild greens with lemon and salt, local wine from the hills, and the creamiest mizithra cheese you’ve ever tasted. The family that runs it will greet you like cousins, and the atmosphere? Pure Greek joy.

Sometimes, there’s live bouzouki music playing softly in the background. I’ve seen people get up and dance, arms in the air, moved by the moment. And if there’s dessert—try the orange cake soaked in syrup. It’s unforgettable.

We head back to Kos Town under a sky filled with stars, hearts warm, and smiles wide. Zia isn’t just a village. It’s an experience, a feeling, a slow exhale after a day of rushing.

If you’re looking for a place to fall in love with the island, this is it. And I’d be honored to show you every hidden corner.