Milos, the island of Venus and the as soon as upon a time lesser-known jewel of the Cyclades has now turn into the latest hotspot in Greece. This beautiful island within the Aegean Sea is formed by its sensational panorama and otherworldly attraction which is the results of the the island’s wealthy volcanic previous.
The seashores listed below are nothing such as you’ve ever seen, the canvas of pure magnificence is totally astonishing and can absolutely take your breath away. If you happen to want to expertise one of the crucial lovely islands within the Cyclades, listed below are our 15 causes to go to Milos.
The best way to Get to Milos
Milos is related by a small airport and port that are each positioned in Adamas. There are common flights to Milos from Athens and the flight period final about 25 minutes. Those that want to fly to Milos from one other Greek island must join by means of Athens.
There are serval ferry firms that join Milos to the Port of Piraeus, the standard boats take round 5-7,5 hours and the excessive velocity boats between 2,5-4,5 hours.
Uncover our 15 Causes to Go to Milos
1.The historical past of Milos
Over the centuries Milos loved a collection of developments – evident within the traces of the island’s geological, morphological, historic and cultural exercise. There are a number of legends that describe the place the island received its title from. In response to Greek mythology, Milos was the son of River Skamandros who colonized the island, following the directions of the goddess Venus. The three Olympian Goddesses, – Hera, Athena and Aphrodite may merely not resist his attraction and this precipitated a dispute that Paris of Troy was known as to guage. The fairest of all of them was to obtain an apple – that was Aphrodite. In modern-day Greek, milo means apple, whereas in historic Greek it meant sheep. Contained in the prehistoric tombs of Phylakopi, aside from the funerary items, tufts of wool have been additionally found – thus confirming that there was commerce of wool.
2. Discover the Villages of Milos
The primary middle of exercise on Milos is Adamas, the island’s port city is among the largest naturally fashioned gulfs throughout the Mediterranean. Right here you’ll find many retailers, cafes and eating places.
The second port of Milos is Pollonia, a small gulf within the north east a part of the island from the place you may catch a ship to the close by island of Kimolos. The small vibrant vacationer village additionally has a fair proportion of lodging, taverns and cafes by the ocean. The relaxed vibe of the village can be ideally suited for households holidaying with children.
Pollonia at sundown
Trypiti has maintained its conventional character and is characterised by its windmills which up to now have been used for grinding and have since been transformed into lodging. This small village was constructed over the ruins of the classical city of Klima. Probably the most in depth and fertile terrains of the island, Zefyria was first established by the Venetians within the thirteenth century and shortly turned the capital of Milos.
On the finish of the 18th century following the main volcano irruption on Santorini in 1650 and the large earthquake of 1738, the village was deserted because the habitants moved to the realm of Kastro (Fort).
3. Go to the Catacombs of Milos
Carved in comfortable pumice stone, contained in the pure caverns, the catacombs of Milos that lie between the villages of Trypiti and the traditional metropolis of Klima, are thought of to be the second most essential Paleo-Christian monument on this planet, after these present in Rome.
The catacombs date from the first to the fifth century and are positioned 150 m above sea degree with an explored size of 184 m. The early Christians used these catacombs as burial web site and later as a spot of worship and refuge. Proof exhibits that the primary converts to Christianity on the island of Milos have been Jews and there was a big Jewish neighborhood on the island. It’s stated that St.Paul encountered a shipwreck in Milos as he was making his solution to Athens from Crete.
Opening hours: Mon – Solar: 9:00 AM — 6:45 PM, the catacombs are closed on Tuesdays.
4. The Well-known Aphrodite of Milos
Venus de Milo, the well-known statue created within the late Hellenistic interval (120BC) is among the most famed statues on this planet and the one which received Milos its worldwide fame. The statue of the goddess which is depicted half-naked with a cloak wrapped round her thighs, made her the prototype and ideally suited of female magnificence.
The statue of Aphrodite was found by likelihood originally of April 1820 by George Kentrotas who was digging the sphere within the shut proximity to the stadium of the traditional metropolis of Melos. After an extended journey crusing across the japanese Mediterranean it was provided by the Marquis de la Rivière to the king of France, Louis 18th. At the moment the unique work of the Parian marble, 2.04 meters excessive is housed within the Louvre Museum in Paris.
Within the years that adopted, the repeated attempting to find antiquities within the space know as area of interest – the place the statue was found clearly destroyed any additional proof that existed. By the tip of the Nineteenth century the area of interest was now not seen and what was left was merely a pile of stones. At the moment, sadly the exact spot of its discovery is unknown however the exceptional story of this heavenly goddess stays to be an integral a part of the island’s historical past.
5. Get pleasure from sundown and scrumptious dinner in Mandrakia
Probably the most distinctive options of Milos are the syrmata, small fishermen dwellings that are most often carved into the rock partitions. The phrase syro interprets as to tug, these syrmata is the place the fishermen would pull their boats in, to guard them from the stormy climate. This custom dates again to the mid-Nineteenth century when there was now not the concern of Turks and the pirates, and thus the fishermen felt protected to take the seas once more.
The fishermen dwellings at Mandrakia
These small two-storey fishermen homes often had a retreat space on the higher ground the place the fisherman may relaxation, as an alternative of getting to stroll all the best way house. Later when swimming turned a typical pastime, the households would use these syrmata as weekend lodging, which have been later used as summer season residences.
A number of notable settlements dot the island of Milos, similar to Klima, Mandrakia, Fyropotamos, Mytakas, Ag. Konstantinos, Fourkouvouni, Areti, Skinopi and Pachena.
Medusa Tavern in Mandrakia at sundown
Mandrakia is positioned shut sufficient to the island port-town Adamas and to the well-known seaside of Sarakiniko. Those that observe the whereabouts of celebrities would have noticed Justin and Hailey Bieber vacationing right here in the summertime of 2021 – when Instagram photographs of Mandrakia and the Medusa tavern circulated the web.
For a memorable night and once-in a lifetime expertise we advocate coming right here for dinner, simply earlier than the sundown. Each the setting and the meals is spectacular.
6. Discover the historical past of mining on the Mining Museum
Abandones sulfur mines in Milos
The town of Phylakopi developed in the course of the Minoan interval ( round 3000 BC to 1100BC) as a commerce centre of the obsidian, an indigenous rock that could be a naturally produced volcanic glass which is fashioned because of volcanic eruption. It was largely used to supply razor sharp stone instruments and vessels in Minoan Crete and was thought of to be one of the crucial essential pre-historic software making supplies within the Aegean.
The primary obsidian areas within the Aegean are the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. On Milos there are two obsidian sources, the Adamas – Nychia and Demenegaki which provides the prehistoric communities for about seven millennia. The oldest obsidian deposit is positioned at Soros, the southern Antiparos. The Milos Mining Museum is positioned in Adamas, the primary port-town of Milos, and was first established in 1998. It’s a great vacation spot to find and study all concerning the 11,000 years of the island’s mining historical past.
The museum shows a wealthy assortment of mineral and pure wealth in addition to walks the customer by means of the extraction course of which has been utilized because the Neolithic Age.
7. Climb as much as the Kastro in Plaka – the capital of Milos
Through the 18th century an increase in critical diseases within the space of the Outdated Chora which was Zefyria, the settlers have been pressured to relocate to the Fort which in flip turned the capital of Milos. Because the inhabitants began to quickly enhance, new villages have been fashioned round Plaka, Triovasaloi, Trypiti and Plakes.
Sundown view from Kastro
Plaka, the charming capital of Milos, with its slim alleyways that have been constructed for cover in opposition to pirate assaults – can be identified to be a wonderful sundown spot. If you happen to stamina permits it, do make your method as much as the best level of the Kastro (Fort) that crowns the very tip of the settlement on the top of 280 m. The view from right here is astonishing.
Within the thirteenth century, the Cyclades and the Aegean have been dominated by the Venetian household Sanoudoi, they have been the primary to inhabit the fort and used it as a stronghold in opposition to pirates’ assaults.
8. Go to the Archaeological Museum in Plaka
Housed in a Neoclassical constructing constructed by the well-known German architect Ernst Ziller, the Archaeological Museum in Plaka homes reveals from the prehistoric to Roman period. Among the most notable artefacts discovered within the museum are the mould of the notorious Aphrodite, the tablets depicting the alphabet of Milos from the fifth century B.C, a mannequin of the city Phylakopi, the “Girl or Kyra of Phylakopi” – a ceramic mom goddess, reproduction of a ship and the obsidian assortment.
Visiting hours
Tuesday, Thursday closed
Monday, Wednesday Friday 08:30-15:30
Saturday, Sunday 08:30-15:30
9. Admire the Historic Theatre
The traditional metropolis of Melos dominated a extremely advantageous strategic place and was as soon as the island’s principal middle of inhabitants. Its lifespan lasted from the ninth/eighth century B.C to the sixth/seventh century AD throughout which it encountered intervals of nice prosperity.
The positioning of the traditional theatre was first found in 1735 by a Jesuit monk Nicolas Sarrabat who was travelling by means of the realm. The primary excavations began in 1816 and 1817 by the German architect Carl Haller von Hallerstein, who later purchased the theatre on behalf of the inheritor to the throne and later king of Bavaria, Ludwig I who in flip gave it to his son Otto, the king of Greece.
The latest excavations that passed off have been performed by the Ephorate of Antiquities for the Cyclades in 1990-1995 and 2010-2015, these have revealed the aspect entrance on the western retaining wall, the orchestra enviornment and the larger a part of the stays of the scene constructing.
The marble theatre which is in a wonderful situation and top-of-the-line preserved historic theatres of the Cyclades which will be admired by guests to today, was constructed on a hillside above the traditional harbor, which is the trendy village of Klima. The theatre is a luxurious work of the Roman interval (1st-4th century AD) and from proof it exhibits that its building lasted a very long time with potential intervals of redesign. The theatre represents a wonderful instance of a theatrical construction with options akin to these of the Roman and the Romanized theatres of the japanese provinces of the Roman instances.
The admission to the theatre is free
10. Wine Tasting at Kostantakis Cave Vineyard
Milos not like another Greek islands doesn’t boast a verdant and wealthy wine historical past, but right here one can discover a pleasant family-run conventional cave vineyard tucked away within the marvellous northern area of Pollonia. For many years Kostas Mallis (Kostantakis) has cultivated and vinified native Cycladic grape varieties. In 2012 he additional enriched and prolonged his household winery, planting solely indigenous Greek varieties that produce incredible wines with Assyrtiko, Savatiano, Monemvasia, Roditis, Muscat white, Mandilaria and Mavrotragano.
The cave vineyard is open day by day from 17:00 – 21:00 PM.
Tel: +306936644481
E-mail: winerymilos@gmail.com
11. Spend the Day Crusing Round Milos and observe the route of the Pirates
The beneficial geographical place of Milos proper on the crossroads between the east and the west was as soon as an essential naval base of the pirates within the Aegean. The cosmopolitan port of the Outdated Chora (Zefyria), the quite a few coves like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko and the protected harbor of Pollonia provided shelter to those adventurous masters of the seas.
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- Polyaigos
One of many prime causes to go to Milos is certainly its connection to the spectacular water actions and spending a day crusing the pirates route shall be by far your most memorable exercise. There are a number of boat firm and routes that take you round Milos and to the far-away locations that may solely be reached by boat.
The complete day crusing cruise with lunch takes you all the best way to Polyiagos (the island of the various goats), and continues the journey passing by Paliorema the place you may spot the installations of the previous sulphur mines, persevering with in the direction of Kleftiko, a as soon as well-known pirate den the place you’ll witness essentially the most spectacular landscapes of Milos.
At sundown you’ll sail alongside Klima and marvel on the vibrant fishermen dwellings – a really great sight to behold. E-book your crusing expertise right here.
12. Swim on the Moon-like Sarakiniko Seashore
This well-known moonscape of Milos with essentially the most wonderful whitewashed rocks that glitter like glowing diamonds with the solar’s reflections is dotted with quite a few pirate’s caves and hovering cliffs ideally suited for diving.
Benefit from the spectacular surroundings of Sarakiniko seaside on a sea kayaking journey or just come right here to sunbathe on the sleek rock formations. It is a pure seaside due to this fact there aren’t any sunbeds or umbrellas, there’s a canteen accessible within the parking space that sells refreshments and light-weight snacks.
13. Benefit from the therapeutic advantages of the Sizzling Springs
Because of the centuries of volcanic exercise on the island, Milos is blessed with many sizzling springs which since historic instances have been identified for his or her distinctive therapeutic properties.
There are a selection of sizzling springs that dot the island’s various panorama. On the seashores like Alikes, Provatas, Skinopi, Paliochori, Tria Pigadia, Kanava there are devoted spots with sizzling springs. From the fumaroles, the new sulphurous gases emerge and the nice and cozy water temperature permits you to get pleasure from swimming all 12 months spherical.
14. Go Climbing
The astonishing panorama of Milos makes it a beautiful vacation spot for mountain climbing fans. There are a number of marked trails that are pretty straightforward to observe and comparatively brief. The mountain climbing routes of Milos are scattered throughout the island. Among the hottest mountain climbing routes are:
- Trypiti – Catacombs – Historic theatre – Profitis Ilias – Venus of Milos (2.5 km / 45 minutes)
- Trypiti – Catacombs – Milos theatre – Klima village (2.5 km / 45 minutes)
- Zefyria – Agia Kyriaki seaside (5 km / 2 hours)
- Cape Vani – is positioned 25 km from Adamas and a dust street covers a lot of the route. Go away the automobile on the level that the filth street which ends up in Agkathia seaside intersects a smaller filth street that results in Vani. After a 40 minute stroll you’ll attain the previous manganese mines passing lush inexperienced environment with juniper forest. (3 km/40 minutes )
Maps with detailed routes can be found for buy on the present store of the mining museum in Adamas or in native kiosks or bookstores.
15. Be part of a pottery workshop
Whereas holidaying on Milos how about refining your inventive expertise? On the Home of Clay positioned in Adamas you may study all concerning the worth of ceramic artwork in historic Greece and learn to make your personal pottery. The programs are perfect for households and teams, and no particular data is required. The period of the course is 2 hours and is organized upon request. The artwork studio can be an ideal place to buy some distinctive items so that you can convey again house.
Tel +3022870 22431
E-mail: thehomeofclay@yahoo.gr
The place to Keep in Milos
Milos is an island which isn’t identified for large-size resorts, however quite affords guests a choice of smaller family-owned studios and boutique lodging. The port-town of Adamas affords quite a lot of smaller properties and its location is a handy base in an effort to discover the island.
Santa Maria Village Resort and Spa
This family-owned 4 star resort perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea is conveniently positioned, only a few minutes from Adamas. The lodging consists of a number of two storey buildings that are constructed round a well-kept backyard providing concord and leisure to the friends. The comfy rooms are embellished in mild colors, impressed by the aesthetics of the Cyclades islands. The resort encompasses a principal pool and spa services. Breakfast is served in a soothing, shaded space surrounded by olive timber. There’s a path that leads all the best way from the resort to the primary waterfront avenue of Adamas, very handy for friends preferring strolling to city. For availability and charges click on right here.
The place to Eat in Milos
The Melian culinary traditions return to the traditional instances, relying solely on the products produced on the island and enriched by the flavours introduced by vacationers. The encircling sea affords freshly caught fish and different pleasant treasures that are served in most of the family-owned tavernas scattered across the island. It’s virtually onerous to have a really unhealthy meal in Greece, however listed below are a few of our favourites which we tried and cherished.
Medusa (Mandrakia)
It is a true gem, positioned within the village of Mandrakia proper subsequent to the fisherman’s dwellings this small taverna with essentially the most spectacular view is a quintessential Greek expertise. Tables are restricted and no reservations are accepted. Strive the scrumptious octopus, smoked eel served with fava, tomato fritters and swordfish souvlaki.
Tip: most taverna’s in Greece serve shrimp of their shell, don’t be stunned in case you are require to peel the shrimp.
Oh! Hamos!! (Adamas)
Anybody you ask, will level you within the route of Oh!Hamos! – which interprets from Greek as chaos. That is by far top-of-the-line eating places to get pleasure from conventional Melian delicacies and absolutely one of many prime causes to go to Milos.
The meat served on the restaurant comes from the proprietor’s farm and the greens are sourced from Micheko’s backyard. Cheese too is made on the household’s conventional cheese manufacturing facility – all the things you eat right here is made and served with love.
Strive the dishes cooked in clay pots and the wonderful pies. The seaside in entrance of the taverna is a perfect place to begin your morning, the place you may get pleasure from freshly brewed espresso, contemporary juice and Melian breakfast with a incredible view.
Nostos Seafood Expertise (Adamas)
Positioned proper on the waterfront of Adamas, this contemporary restaurant serves seafood dishes ready utilizing regionally sourced merchandise. A stupendous minimalistic house, with beautiful sea views and glorious service. In case you are searching for a extra refined eating expertise, Nostos Seafood expertise is a superb selection. The salmon ceviche is very really helpful, so is the octopus served on prime of fava.
Mikros Apoplous (Adamas)
Set on the waterfront of the Adamas port this tavern is nice selection for a soothing dinner. The menu consists of contemporary seafood choices, grilled fish, ceviche, fish carpaccio and pasta with seafood or lobster.
Yialos (Pollonia)
A Mediterranean restaurant positioned proper by the ocean within the village of Pollonia, providing nice sundown view. This eating places takes a more-modern method to native dishes and the menu consists of a big selection of contemporary fish in addition to meat dishes.
We hope that our causes to go to Milos will encourage you to guide a visit quickly. Have you ever been to Milos? If sure tell us what you appreciated finest within the feedback under.
