Nimborio (Emborio) overview

Nimborio is the port and the only settlement of the island. The residents of Halki live in this one unique village and port. It is an idyllic and picturesque village with beautiful red tiles, and Venetian style old Greek houses,many of them now restored and renovated, set around a horseshoe-shaped bay in tiers against a dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains. The 300 remaining local inhabitants make a living by fishing, cattle breeding and, in recent years, from tourism. Having no cars or motorbikes makes it the perfect place for anyone who loves peace and quiet and total rest.

The waterfront of Nimborio, which is called the 'Piatsa', is almost like a market square and is the heart of the village. It is here that people gather to talk, drink coffee or tea at one of the kafeneia or eat fresh fish and local specialities at one of the many tavernas.

There are almost no cars or motorbikes on Halki - just one taxi but certainly no hire cars. This makes it the perfect place for anyone who loves peace and quiet and total rest and just wants to escape from a busy life.

The port of Nimborio is just 400 metres long and has a good selection of tavernas, bars and local coffee shops. On the main road, you can see the bust of Alexandros Diakos, born on Halki and the first officer to fall in defending democracy and freedom in the Dodecanese islands during World War II. You can also see three windmills set up on a hill, the bell tower of St. Nicholas, who was the patron saint of the island and also the impressive clock tower standing before the Town Hall, where today, the lady Mayor is in residence.

There is a great selection of traditional cafes and tavernas where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or meal. Fresh fish and sea food such as calamari, squid, shrimp, sea bream, swordfish and tuna are caught in small quantities and are specialities of Halki, though you should also try to sample some of the other tasty local dishes.

There are plenty of kefeneia (traditional coffee shops), where the locals drink Greek coffee and idle away the hours. Most of the news is discussed and views aired during this time.