Milos has been the rising star of many a travel feature over recent years, celebrating an extraordinary array of beaches (more than 70), eye-catching coastline, cute little boathouses and fantastic food. Whether you explore by car, foot, boat or kayak, prepare for an unforgettable journey full of colour and Instagrammable memories.
The lunar landscape of Sarakiniko
A sight that says you could only be in Milos. The lunar landscape of Sarakiniko has been captured in so many photos but nothing prepares you for the real thing. The limestone-white rock, shaped and smoothed to resemble the surface of the moon, is dramatic enough. But then comes the contrast with the deep blue sea and the little sandy beach below and that’s it … your heart’s well and truly captured. And if you want to make the experience truly epic, try cliff jumping into the azure-blue sea.
A boat trip around the magical coastline
The only way to fully appreciate the wild beauty and colours of Milos. Your entire boat trip around Milos will be special, but there are some standouts: Kleftiko is a one-time pirate hangout on the southwestern tip, dominated by steep cliffs and with turquoise water perfect for snorkelling, and Gerakas has sand dunes appearing to flow into the clear blue sea.
The natural pool of the Papafragas Caves
Another one-time cave whose roof collapsed long ago, Papafragas Cave is more intimate than Sykias. With a little sandy beach at one end, it feels like a natural swimming pool shimmering under the sun. Exploring the area, you’ll find some sea caves nearby. No wonder pirates once loved the place.
Eating seafood like a local at Pollonia
Just a breath away, the village of Pollonia is foodie heaven – not only because of the fish tavernas and little fishing boats testifying to the freshness of the produce, but because there is (yet another) great sandy beach to enjoy. Succulent seabass, fried squid, grilled sardines and smoked eel await… accompanied by vibrant salads and local dishes. Try the karpouzopita (a watermelon, honey, cinnamon, sesame seed pie). It’s a local delicacy.
A stroll around historic Plaka and Tripiti
While the port of Adamas (or Adamantas) is the biggest settlement on Milos, little Plaka (a few kilometres to the north) is the island’s capital. Dating from the early 19th century, this is where Milos reveals its Cycladic character, with little whitewashed houses and cobblestone alleyways.
Above Plaka, you’ll find the Kastro district, so-called because of its Venetian walls. And just a short walk away is the village of Tripiti, famous for its catacombs (an amazing network of tombs built by early Christians fleeing Roman persecution) and an ancient amphitheatre.
Natural splendour revealed by sea kayak
With all those sea caves, bays and beaches, there’s no way you won’t be tempted back out to sea… this time by kayak. There are full- and half-day guided tours in many directions. Paliohori and Provatas beaches are popular destinations to the south, as is Paliorema (and the former sulphur mine of Thiorichia above it) to the east and Glaronisia to the north.
Neighbouring islands, closer than you imagined
Your final experience is not on Milos itself but all around it. Day trips from Adamas to neighbouring isles couldn’t be easier. Kimolos (Milos’ volcanic little brother) lies just 40min away, around the same time it takes to reach Sifnos (renowned for its fine beaches and finer food) and Serifos (quintessentially Cycladic, with sugar-cubed houses appearing to tumble down the hillside).
In complete contrast, there is Polyegos, the region’s largest uninhabited island and a natural escape with more great beaches and plenty of birdlife.
Experience Milos island
Milos is an island where experiences come on an epic scale – beaches, colours, cliffs and bays. But there’s also a quiet and authentic side to enjoy in the villages and fish tavernas, especially in the quieter months of May and September.
