AGHIOS IOANNIS MONASTERY

A 1h30 walk from Paleo Horio, the monastery of Saint-Jean is the only trace of human occupation in the western half of the island. It's a magical, timeless place. You'll be welcomed by the coolness of the magnificent courtyard, shaded by an imposing tree. Inside the monastery, admire the beautiful frescoes and enjoy the Olympian calm. In exchange for a few euros, and depending on the mood of the janitor, you can ask to spend the night in one of the simply furnished cells. A truly authentic experience. The walk to get there offers magnificent views of the solitary surroundings and the sea. If this hike, the most famous on the island, seems insurmountable, you can always reach the monastery by road: a bus goes there on excursion days (usually Friday evenings, departing from the port of Nimborios) or on special occasions. This is the case every year on August 29, the date of THE island's biggest celebration, the most important of Halki's panigyria ! On the anniversary of the beheading of St. John the Baptist, all islanders and visitors gather at the monastery for a day and night of dancing, music and shared banquets. Large tables are set up in the courtyard, while musicians set up under the protection of the historic tree. It's an unmissable pilgrimage and a particularly festive occasion not to be missed.