Milos

The volcanic origins of Milos endowed it with great mineral wealth known even in antiquity when the island was known as a source of sulfur as well as the clay used to make amphoras. Obsidian, too: the ruins of a Minoan trading post where the volcanic glass was traded can be found at Filakopi on the island. Mining activity has continued even into modern times. Historians know Milos as the island that fought on the side of Athens during the Persian wars but then in the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta opted for neutrality—which didn’t sit too well with the Athenians who went on to besiege the island. On a more artistic note, Milos is the island where the famous statue of Venus de Milos (which is now in the Louvre museum in Paris) was discovered. Fast forward through the eras of successive Macedonian, Venetian and Turkish rule to the Greek War of Independence of 1821, for which Milos provided both materials and men. Today, exploring the seashore, sea caves and unspoiled landscapes of Milos is the highlight for most visitors to the island. As for settlements on the island, they are not large. There’s the small but lively port of Adamas, which sits astride one of the largest natural bays in the Mediterranean. This is the perfect spot for a laidback lunch or iced coffee facing the water. North of Adamas is hilltop Plaka, with the fishing village of Pollonia a bit further afield on the north coast.

On the southern coast, Firiplaka is a wonderful sandy beach renowned for its colorful sea cliffs and emerald water. Further south from Firiplaka you’ll find secluded Tsigrado beach which is like something straight out of a pirate movie: this beach you can only access by boat or by ladder! Speaking of pirates, the island’s most iconic spot for a dip is one without a lot of sand but where indeed pirates are said to have sought refuge in the days of yore—this is Kleftiko, a cluster of coves ringed by dramatic white cliffs and sea stacks. Dolphins, turtles and seals are regular guests in the electric blue waters here. Slightly north of Kleftiko but still on the south side of the island is Sykia, a fantastic sea cave of which the roof has collapsed but that makes for some spectacular swimming but like Kleftiko, you have to arrive there via boat excursion.