The volcanic origins of the island of Milos have endowed it with a very special geology. Rugged and hilly, it has a richly variegated coastline, ranging from curving sandy beaches to bleached smooth moonscape, from hidden lagoons to colourful rock formations erupted from the sea-bed. Precious obsidian has been mined here for 11,000 years, and the island is full of history.
Plaka, the old capital perched on its hilltop, is particularly atmospheric in the evenings, and we'd recommend climbing up to the 13th century Venetian castle to view the
sumptuous sunset before choosing one of the many tavernas, tables spilling out onto the narrow lanes, to dine.
Plaka, the old capital perched on its hilltop, is particularly atmospheric in the evenings, and we'd recommend climbing up to the 13th century Venetian castle to view the sumptuous sunset before choosing one of the many tavernas, tables spilling out onto the narrow lanes, to dine.
There is a lovely, if steep, walk down from Plaka - via ancient Christian catacombs - to the photogenic fishing hamlet of Plaka below (some remains of the old Roman port here can be seen beneath the waves). In Tripiti, the view from the Greco/Roman amphitheatre is breathtaking.
There are over 70 beaches on the island, and our featured village of Pollonia has its own sweep of sand shaded by tamarisk trees, with more beaches to either side. A charming fishing village, Pollonia is renowned for the excellence of its restaurants (four of the island's best are to be found here). The offshore islets of Kimolos and Polyegos are easily reached by boat and up to 9 buses run daily to the main port of Adamas and Plaka.
Several ancient paths traverse the island, uncovering ever more secluded beaches. Particularly noteworthy is the unique lunarlike region of Sarakiniko, with its white volcanic beaches and pale smooth rocks, crystal waters, deep-set caves and monumental outcrops and pillars.
Something of a geological curiosity, the island provides a fascinating backcloth to any “around the island” boat trip, which is a must for every visitor.
