Milos

To many, this is the most exotic island in the Aegean because of its extraordinary colours and landscape. Certainly, it is one of the most impressive islands in the Cyclades. Volcanic rocks paint the beaches red, pink and orange. Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, with their white rock formations, emerald green waters and caves eroded by the sea, are steeped in stories of pirates. The catacombs, the beaches, the multicoloured settlements of Klima, Emborios and Mandrakia, with their quaint buildings cut into the cliffs, and Plaka’s sunsets... And let’s not forget that this is where the Venus de Milo (the exquisite life-sized marble statue believed to be the goddess Aphrodite, now housed in the Louvre) was discovered. All of these cry out in unison: Milos is unique.

What to do on Milos

The beaches

Palaiochori, Papafragas, Gerontas, Firiplaka, Tsigrado, Plathiena. Yellow, orange, red and dazzling white rock formations are even more vibrant against the background of turquoise water. Milos’ volcanic soil has created a sight beyond one’s imagination. Jump into a sailboat or speedboat and take in the kaleidoscope of beaches, some of the best in the Cyclades.

In pirates’ caves

Kleftiko, Papafragas, Sarakiniko, Katergo… The formidable pirates of the Middle Ages had their hideouts in Milos. Traces of their existence can be found in Kleftiko, where bollards for their ships can be found sculpted on the spectacular rocks, beside blue-green water next to the caves. And in Sarakiniko, the landscape is from another world, with whiter than white rocks of mesmerising shapes dominating the cove.

Little Venice

In the afternoon, take a stroll in the quaint, colourful hamlet above the water known as Little Venice, where the ancient port of Milos used to be. What makes it special? The 35 sirmata – cave-like structures once used to store boats and now holiday homes. Wander around the little town, level with the water, and wait for sunset.

Plaka and the Castle

The tiles of the courtyard of Panagia tis Korfiatissas warm your bare feet while you take your place to see one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Mediterranean. Nearby, is charming Plaka, with the Catholic church of Panagias of Rodon, as well as inviting restaurants and quaint cafes. The capital of Milos was built in 1800 from the ancient stones of the castle.

Climb until you reach its ruins and take the time to enjoy the panoramic view from the courtyard of Panagias Thalassitra. In Plaka’s archaeological museum, you’ll find the goddess of love herself; a life-size replica of the Venus de Milo.

Hidden gems of Milos

The sulphur mine

Take a boat trip to discover the eerie scene of the old sulphur mine located on the east side of the island, with its arcades, iron bridges, train tracks, carriages and old stone homes.

Prehistoric Filakopi

A fascinating prehistoric settlement on the road towards Polonia.

The catacombs

An archaeological spectacle, with early Christian graves dating from the 1st to the 5th century AD, impressive and humbling sight at the same time.