Situated to the south of Tilos and west of Rhodos, Halki has been inhabited since antiquity, when it must have been very prosperous, judging from the coins found by archaeologists. Its name most probably reflects the copper ore (halkos) once mined there.

The island capital and port is called variously Halki or Nimborio. Situated on the southeast coast, its two-storey houses with their tile roofs seem to climb up the sides of the hill overlooking the bay of the same name. Worth a visit is its church of Agios Nikolaos, built in 1861, whose magnificent bell tower soars above the surrounding houses. Its stone houses, built in tiers like an amphitheatre, are mute reminders of its past prosperity. Above Horio the ruined mediaeval castle occupies the site of the ancient acropolis. Within its walls is another church dedicated to St. Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos) with frescoes.

BEACHES
Pontamo is the only beach in Halki accessible on foot from Nimborio (10 min.), but caiques are on hand to take you to its other wonderful beaches: Trachia, Ftenagia, Sarri, Chania and Dyo Yiali.