Mediterranean dream destinations: Milos – the island of colours in a volcanic crater

​Whilst Santorini impresses with its dramatic scenery and Mykonos entices with its glamour, Milos captivates with its diversity. Volcanic forces have shaped a landscape here that shifts between a lunar landscape, a Caribbean beach and rugged rock formations.

There is scarcely a more sheltered anchorage in the Cyclades than the vast natural harbour of Milos. The almost circular island is of volcanic origin. At its centre lies a deep, wide-open gulf that served as a safe haven even in ancient times. Today, Milos is the perfect stop for many crews to weather Meltemi days, fill up their tanks – and at the same time experience one of Greece’s most spectacular coastal landscapes.

• ​ Name: Milos, Greece
• Location: Cyclades, south-western part
• Coordinates: 36°43.9’ N, 24°26.3’ E
• Distance to Athens: approximately 83 nautical miles
• Area: approximately 150.6 km²

Shore leave and activities

Even in ancient times, obsidian mined on Milos was shipped out into the Aegean from the port town of Adamas. To this day, this is where the island’s maritime heart beats. But actually, sailors don’t usually call at Milos just to visit the bustling ferry port. From Adamas Marina, it’s about a 10-minute drive (approx. 4.5 km) to the far prettier Plaka, also known as Milos Chora. As you enter the sweeping bay, one of the largest natural harbours in the Aegean, the white houses lining the steep cliffs immediately catch the eye. The town was built high above the sea in the Middle Ages as a refuge from pirate raids. Colourful windows and doors and bougainvilleas adorn the typical white houses in the narrow streets. One photo opportunity follows another. From Kastro Fortress, you can enjoy one of the best sunsets in the Cyclades.

History buffs may wish to plan a visit to the Plaka Historical Museum. The striking building above the car park was designed in 1870 by the German architect Ernst Ziller and now houses important archaeological finds from the island.

Did you know?

On 8 April 1820, the farmer Georgios Kentrotas discovered one of the most famous sculptures of antiquity, the ‘Venus de Milo’ (also known as Aphrodite), near the village of Trypiti. Today, small exhibitions and replicas commemorate the discovery; the original is housed in the Louvre in Paris.

Other places of interest on Milos

• The surreal lunar landscape of Sarakiniko.
• The huge stone archways of Kleftiko: the ‘bandits’ den’ where pirates used to take refuge.
• Villa Kunterbunt, Greek style: One of Greece’s most iconic sights is the famous Syrmata of Milos – the colourful boathouses in the small fishing village of Klima.

Area information: Milos

Those setting off from Athens or Lavrion make their way via the islands of Kea, Kythnos, Serifos and Sifnos to Milos; from the latter, it is just under 20 miles to Milos. The sailing area is considered challenging, even though the individual legs between the islands are not too long. The density of harbours and marinas is manageable, but there are countless well-sheltered anchorages. Above all, the Meltemi is the dominant factor. Some sailors fear it, whilst others appreciate the wind, which blows very reliably in summer. The south coast is sheltered from the Meltemi, but if it blows from the west through the south to the east, the coast is not navigable. If, on the other hand, the weather is calm, you can sail along the south coast and also visit the famous Firiplaka Beach.

The Adamas town pier, located east of the ferry pier, has been extended further east. As a result, Adamas Marina – which is normally well sheltered from the Meltemi – has now become a safe haven even during strong southerly winds. Well-protected anchorages include, for example, Ormos Pollonia and Voudia in the north-east of Milos.

See also:

• Greece: The Cyclades for skippers – Sifnos, Santorini and Kythnos​
• Greek Islands: Five hidden gems – Syros is the heart of the Cyclades