One of the most photogenic destinations in the Aegean Sea, Milos is a member of the Cyclades islands and boasts extraordinary colours and landscapes. Its volcanic past has gifted us some of the most memorable beaches in Greece, with sand and rocks coloured red, pink and orange. Its dramatic settings include the lunar-landscaped Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, known for their limestone cliffs and sea caves and once a favourite hangout of pirates.
Milos’ biggest settlement is its port, Adamas (or Adamantas), but charming Plaka, built on a hill offering panoramic views of the Aegean, is the capital or Hora. The narrow alleyways and squares of Plaka hide cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. It is also home to the Archaeological Museum of Milos, where you will find a replica of the Venus de Milo, the beautiful statue believed to depict the goddess Aphrodite, which was discovered in Milos in 1820 and is now housed in Paris’ Louvre Museum.
Above Plaka is the Kastro district, with remnants of a 13th-century Venetian castle and the church of Panagia Thalassitra, from which the sunset views are out of this world. Also within walking distance from Plaka is the village of Tripiti, famous for its catacombs, a remarkable network of tombs built by early Christians fleeing Roman persecution, and the partially reconstructed Ancient Amphitheatre of Milos.
Pollonia, a charming village on the northeastern tip of Milos, is known for its relaxed vibe and excellent seafood tavernas. It is also the location of Milos’ only winery, whose cellar is built in a cave. On the road to Pollonia, don’t miss a short stop at Filakopi, one of the most important prehistoric settlements in the Aegean. And nothing captures the Instagrammable beauty of Milos like the multicoloured boathouses, known as syrmata, built into the rock at Klima, Mandrakia and Firopotamos.
As Milos’ main port, Adamas is the liveliest settlement, with a wide range of cafes, bakeries and restaurants. Close by is the Milos Mining Museum, offering an insight into the island’s volcanic past that makes it rich in minerals and colour. Adamas is also the departure point for boat tours to beaches and natural landmarks, as well as kayak excursions and other experiences.
Boat trips to Kleftiko or Sykia, around the southwest coast, allow you to experience the other-worldly waters of Milos. Or heading east, you can reach the former sulphur mines above Thiorihia beach. Boat trips also leave from Pollonia, on the north coast, close to Sarakiniko, the Papafragas Cave and the colourful boat houses of Mandrakia and Firopotamos. Alternatively, there are boat trips to uninhabited Polyegos island, which has a selection of pristine beaches, and to Kimolos island, opposite Pollonia, which charms visitors with more quiet beaches and a traditional village atmosphere.
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