One of three strategic investments totaling €200 million over a 15-year horizon by the Calilo Group on the island of Ios, is being implemented by the company 105 S.A. with a total budget of €42 million. The project involves the development of high-end, low-impact tourism facilities in the Koumbara – Diakofto – Faros area, covering approximately 566,000 square meters, near the main town (Chora) of Ios.
The investment proposal has been substantially revised compared to the original 2020 plan, reflecting a clear shift toward sustainability and environmental preservation. Specifically:
Built area has been reduced by 43%, from 23,802.89 sq.m. to 13,653 sq.m.
Accommodation capacity has been cut by 59%, from 622 to approximately 270 guests.
The developable area now stands at 273,000 sq.m., with an average building coefficient of 0.05—four times lower than the maximum allowed under Greece’s Special Zoning Plans for tourism-recreation (ESCHASE), and 50% lower than the corresponding limit under the Special Presidential Decree for Ios. Additionally, 54% of the total land area remains undeveloped and is designated as a Protected Zone.
The investment is being designed with full respect for the natural topography and the distinctive Cycladic landscape. Key sustainability features include:
- Use of local building materials
- Low-profile, low-volume architecture
- Spatial zones ensuring unrestricted public access to beaches
- A design language aligned with the cultural identity and aesthetic character of Ios
- The development will also be self-sufficient in key infrastructure areas, incorporating:
- Desalination units capable of producing 1,000 m³ of water daily
- Wastewater treatment facilities enabling the reuse of 80% of processed water
- Photovoltaic systems that will reduce CO₂ emissions by 2,500 tons annually
- Natural resource management aligned with circular economy and climate resilience principles
- Environmental enhancement measures include the creation of 15,000 sq.m. of green zones, the planting of new trees, and the integration of wildfire prevention, flood protection, and stream delineation strategies into the overall project management.
On a social and economic level, the investment is expected to:
- Create 130 direct and 500 indirect jobs
- Stimulate the local economy
- Diversify the tourism offering of Ios
- Contribute to extending the tourist season and reducing the island’s seasonality dependence
Additionally, new public spaces and upgraded infrastructure to be developed as part of the project will benefit local residents, reinforcing a sustainable coexistence between visitors and the local community.
The first phase of development is scheduled for completion within the next five years, following the issuance of the Presidential Decree approving the ESCHASE and all subsequent required permits.
