An important distinction was won by the Municipality of Kimolos at the Tourism Awards 2026 thanks to a technological application that turns Kimolos into an open, interactive geological museum using augmented reality (AR) technology.
The project “Digital Guide of Geocultural Heritage of Kimolos”, through the innovative GeoKimolos AR application, won the first prize in the category “Countryside (Nature tourism)”, confirming the systematic effort of the island for the effective promotion of its natural heritage.
The app allows visitors to discover the island’s rare volcanic wealth freely, simply by pointing their device’s camera at the landscape and receiving information about the geological monuments in real time.
The award in the “Nature Tourism” category reflects the philosophy of the project, which combines digital excellence with sustainable development, an approach implemented in the following ways:
-Experiential Exploration (AR Experience). Digital markers “come alive” on the screen, providing information about the geotopes without the need for physical signs that would alter the aesthetics of the landscape.
– Accessible Tourism Model: GeoKimolos AR is a social pioneer, providing full audio description for the visually impaired, ensuring that the knowledge and experience of nature is accessible to all.
-Zero Environmental Footprint: The project demonstrates in practice how technology can highlight geodiversity in an intangible, sustainable and completely ecosystem-friendly way.
The GeoKimolos AR app is available for free download in mobile app stores, inviting every visitor to discover Kimolos… with a different perspective.
The project was implemented on behalf of the Municipality of Kimolos by Aegean Solutions S.A., whose representatives received the award at the Tourism Awards 2026 ceremony held on 28/4/2026.
The Mayor of Kimolos Konstantinos Ventouris said: “The more authentic Kimolos remains, the more modern methods of promotion it uses. This technological application is not only useful. Its award proves that it is original and stands out from the rest. We are proceeding with steady and well thought out steps and we are confident that this year, as last year, the systematic efforts we are making to establish our island on the world tourist map will do us justice.”
