Milos is famous for its bizarre rocks
The island on the south-western edge of the Cyclades is one of the destinations that is not being called at for a visit to its main harbour, Adamas. It's quite pretty, but not really worth the trip as a busy ferry harbour. The island's appeal lies more in its geology. Milos is of volcanic origin and has formed some bizarre landscapes. Probably the most famous destination are the huge stone archways in the south-west of the island near Kleftiko, which have been carved out of the soft stone by the elements. If you anchor there, you will find a fabulously beautiful backdrop and can snorkel or swim through the arches in the bright turquoise-green water. However, you are rarely alone there, as the destination is the most popular spot for day charters, which come over from Adamas with cats and yachts. So if you want to enjoy the spot, you should arrive very, very early, or as late as possible, otherwise it is overcrowded.
Snorkelling hotspot - if the weather cooperates
The weather also needs to be as calm as possible. The south coast was protected from the Meltemi, but if it blows from west to south to east, the coast is not feasible. If it is calm, however, you can drive along the south coast and visit the famous Firiplaka Beach. Over the centuries, volcanic activity has coloured the rocks there with sulphur and metals: There are yellow, bright red and contrasting grey-black or white rocks that form a truly unusual beach. If you snorkel in the water near the shore, you may be lucky enough to see other volcanic traces of the island: In some places, gases rise to the surface from the bottom in long chains of bubbles.
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Climate: Villa Kunterbunt in Greek
Another unusual destination on the island is the quirky fishing village of Klima, just a few miles from the main town of Adamas. Like a string of pearls, brightly coloured fishermen's houses, which are actually just boat sheds, are lined up next to each other right on the water, including the former net store. One floor above is finished, otherwise there are no buildings. The fishermen used to live further up in the main town of Milos. Today, some holiday flats are set up below. A single restaurant is open there in summer, an original place for a lunch stop at anchor (note the route of two submarine cables!), there is no harbour. Afterwards, simply drive to Adamas. The long pier there offers places for bow anchors with water and electricity, marineros help with mooring. If it is overcrowded, there is plenty of space in the huge anchorage bay in front of it. Just make sure that the wind is not blowing from the south or west, as this can make both places very choppy and dangerous in storms.
Another tip for the approach: Crews from the Dodecanese usually come over from the east. It is worth anchoring on the north-west side of the island of Polyaigos, which is directly opposite Milos to the east. The place is beautiful when the Meltemi is not too strong, almost snow-white rocks glow in the sun, a beautiful contrast to the crystal-clear water, which shimmers green-turquoise.
How to get to Milos
If you start in Athens or Lavrion, you will wind your way to Milos via the islands of Kea, Kythnos, Seriphos and Sifnos, from the latter it is just under 20 miles to Milos. This is best done during a 14-day cruise because of the long return journey against the Meltemi.
Worthwhile excursions
If you want to see the many facets of the island, a scooter or hire car excursion is a good idea. The trip to the church of Panagia Korfiatissa and the old capital of Milos in the mountains is worthwhile. The views from the church and the village are fantastic. Not far from Milos are also the almost 200 metre long catacombs of early Christian tombs (10-18:45 admission 10 euros) and the replica of the famous Aphrodite or better known as Venus of Milos, the original of which is now in the Louvre. There is also an ancient amphitheatre to see. Other beautiful destinations are Mandrakia or the snow-white pumice rock coast of Sarakiniko.
The island has been an active mining area since the 19th century until today due to its many mineral resources. The mining museum near Adamas offers lots of information about the history, rocks and mines (Tue.-Sun. 10 am - 2 pm admission 7 euros)
Restaurant tips for Milos
Adamas is not exactly famous for its restaurants. You can choose between those close to the bustling ferry harbour or a little further east on the coastal road with a view over the bay, such as the good but more expensive "Mikros Apoplus". A nice alternative: sundowners in the old village of Milos in the mountains in the "Utopia" bar. An amazing view. Then later to the Italian-Greek restaurant "Kyra".
