Our first attempt to set a foot on the lunar landscapes of Milos didn’t start well, but as true explorers, we didn’t give up until we embarked on our skyrocket to this beautiful Moon Beach in Greece.
Mykonos is already a discovered for us territory, but we decided to visit it again and hopefully get less blown away by the Meltemi winds this time.
You might be asking yourself what possibly might’ve gone wrong throughout our journey. Well, where should I start from…
Our flight to Mykonos was early in the morning, at 6:15 AM. We had to find a way to get there on time as the airport of our departure is in Geneva and we live in Lausanne. By train, we would’ve been too late so we took the car. Once we arrived at the airport there was awaiting us a giant queue (plan to go even more ahead of time due to Covid checks). We started to worry if we will succeed to drop off the suitcase etc., but what we didn’t suspect is that we won’t be allowed to… Let’s say that vaccinated or not some countries have tons of other requirements, forms and papers and this time we acted as beginners in traveling. We knew that we are allowed to enter with a vaccine, but didn’t check before the trip that we have to fill up a PLF form at least 24 hours before departure. Congratulations to the people who got denied to get on the plane (us), because they didn’t have this form… We still tried and filled up quickly the necessary information, but despite everything, we were too late as we had to do it at least one day earlier.
Here is a link to all the regulations to enter Greece including the famous form in order not to get into the same situation: Protocol for Arrivals in Greece - travel.gov.gr
I got a small ‘’panic attack’’, but we booked straight away the next possible flight, filled up the PLF form, cancelled our ferry tickets and rearranged our accommodations. This time we booked a connection flight Geneva - Athens - Milos. Our plan A was supposed to land us in Mykonos and afterwards to take a 3-hours ferry trip to Milos.
With plan B we had to take our suitcase, check-in again in Athens and run because the time between the connection flights was 40 minutes. We thought that as usual the luggage will be directly sent to the next plane, but as in Milos there is no passport control, this is the only way to be checked and go on the island.
However, we did it… We lost almost 2 days in Milos, but we did it! Putting the struggle away and it’s time to unpack the good memories and travel info, I collected during this trip.
From wild and green in Costa Rica, we went to white and dream on the Greek islands.
Did you know that Greece has about 6’000 islands and islets? Only between 166 and 227 from those islands are inhabited.
There are 7 groups of islands spread on Greek territory. Each group share common characteristics such as architecture, culture, climate and cuisine. On the Aegean Seaside are the Cyclades, the Sporades, the Dodecanese, the Northern Aegean, the Saronic Gulf, and two of the main Greek islands which remain uncategorized – Crete and Euboia.
The last group is on the Ionian Sea – this is the Eptanisa.
Milos
Location: Located in the Aegean Sea, Milos is the southwesternmost island in the Cyclades group.
Keywords: volcanic; mines; minerals; raw; lunar landscapes; moon; hidden gems; escapism; white; pure
How to get there: By plane or ferry from Greece
WHERE TO STAY:
White Pebble Suites
White Pebble Suites is a boutique hotel located on the waterfront of Pollonia, Milos. Pollonia is a wonderful seaside town, perfect for couples/honeymooners and very family-friendly. I find it by far the best place to stay on the island. It is also a great starting point for exploring.
The design at the White Pebble Suites is timeless and minimalistic and includes local materials such as polished cement, cool marble, and warm wood.
Their breakfast is beyond and the choice of food is really incredible. I loved that they also offer a vegan menu.
The main pool overlooking the sea is the perfect spot to relax and have a drink, or if you wish you could do that from your private plunge pool, which we enjoyed a lot.
Instagram: @whitepebblesuites
Book here: www.whitepebblesuites.com
Other popular destinations to stay on the island are Adamas, Plaka, Tripiti, Klima, Firopotamos, Mandrakia etc.
HOW TO MOVE AROUND:
The most convenient way to go around the island is by renting a car, scooter or ATV. We chose to rent a car. We booked it online before departure / took it from the airport and dropped it back at the main port at Adamas.
RENT A BOAT:
This is the best way to discover the hidden gems of Milos. We decided to rent a private boat for half a day from Rent Boat Milos and this is one of the top decisions we’ve taken.
Some of the places are accessible only by boat. Keep in mind that this tour will satisfy all your explorer senses and will bring you to magical places you didn’t even know to exist.
Instagram: @rentboatmilos
Book your private boat tour: www.rentboatmilos.com
LIST OF THE TOP 10 MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE LOCATIONS TO SHOOT IN MILOS:
1. Sarakiniko
Sarakniko Beach is situated on the north shore of the island and is the first picture that comes into my mind when thinking about Milos. This place looks unreal. Its mesmerizing beauty, shapes and colour are giving the impression that you are landed on the Moon. There is no vegetation on Sarakiniko and the look of this breathtaking beach is created because of the island’s volcanic geology. The greyish-white volcanic rocks are shaped into out of this world lunar landscapes thanks to the waves driven by north winds.
How to get there: by scooter, car, ATV or by foot if you are a bit loco. There is no public transport to this beach, but there are plenty of parking spots for visitors. Coming from the parking, all the cool photo spots are on the left.
For best picture opportunity come before 8 AM, I would say 7 AM right after sunrise if you are keen to have the best light and do your thing undisturbed.
More:
- It’s perfect for cliff jumping and some salty water fun.
- Discover some of the tunnels of Sarakiniko Beach - to escape the heat or just because you are an explorer. Don’t forget your torch though.
2. Mandrakia
The tiny boat garages around this harbour are called “syrmata” and their architecture is traditional for any small port on the island.
On the hill above Mandrakia, you will find a very cute church called Zoodohos Pigi.
If you are a seafood lover, go to the tavern located on a small strip of pebble stones in front of the sea. There you can stay barefoot and simply enjoy the crashing waves.
I am plant-based so I haven’t tried this place, but I’ve heard that many people recommend it.
3. Papafragas
Papafragas is a sea cave that was used as a pirate base in the past. Next to this location is the ancient city of Phylakopi.
You can swim in the crystal-clear waters of Papafragas passing through the cave and exiting on the other side where you can see the nearby beaches.
Tips:
Come before 8 AM to have this mesmerizing place for yourself.
⚠️ Be careful as the way down to this beach is very slippery and tight. It’s a small sandy alley on the edge of the rocks. I believe that going down barefoot is the best option even if you are with good shoes.
4. Kleftiko / by boat
The only way to get to Kleftiko is by boat. You can choose from big boat tours or a private boat. We decided to enjoy the privacy of the private boat tour and escape the crowds. The best time to start your boat ride is in the morning. In the afternoon more people are chasing those magical waters, sea caves and rock formations.
Kleftiko similar to Sarakiniko is a complex of volcanic white rocks, created by the waves and the winds.
5. Gerakas Beach / by boat
Another heavenly beach that is only accessible by boat. I will let it speak for itself (the middle picture above).
This extraterrestrial vibe - no vegetation, white volcanic geology and crystal clear waters... we had all this only for our ourselves thanks to the timing of our skipper Paris.
6. Fyriplaka Beach
Fyriplaka is divided in two parts thanks to the rock in the middle. On the first beach, there are sun loungers, a bar and straw umbrellas for rent. The other part is free and quieter. Whatever you choose you will be amazed by the beautiful waters and impressive volcanic environment. Fyriplaka is located 15km away from Adamas.
7. Pollonia
Pollonia is where we stayed at. It’s a quiet village perfect for couples, honeymooners and very family-friendly. There you can find one of the best beaches on the island – long and sandy, and with plenty of trees. You can simply walk and enjoy the atmosphere.
8. Plaka
Plaka is a cute town with a lot of Instagrammable spots, charming streets and restaurants.
What it is the most famous for though are the sunsets there.
The Church of Panagia Thalassitra is located in Kastro, above Plaka and it’s one of the best sunset spots on the island. Inside there are paintings from the 17th century from the famous hagiographic workshop of Skordilidon, the wooden temple and the coat of arms of the Duke of Naxos.
This church is by far one of the most photographed and mesmerizing places to admire the last sunbeams before they disappear below the horizon.
9. Klima
Kilma is one of the most picturesque and colourful fishing villages on the island and it is divided into two parts by a restaurant in the middle.
The houses (syrmatas) were painted in different colours to be easily recognizable by their owners. The syrmatas’ first floors were used as boat garages and kitchens and the second floors as living spaces.
Nowadays those fishermen houses are used for different things, some of which are vacation homes.
Thanks to its strategic location in the past Klima used to be an ancient harbour of Milos.
10. Tsigrado Beach
Tsigrado is remote, difficult to reach and having beautiful caves to explore. Sounds exciting, isn’t it? It is located between the rocks and the only way to get down to the beach is to climb down using a rope and a ladder. Or well, if you go by boat you can save your heartbeat in case you are scared of this kind of adventure.
WHAT ELSE TO VISIT:
Adamas is the biggest and liveliest village on the island. The main port of Milos is located there and you could also find some cheaper accommodations if you want to do some savings. It’s the perfect location if you want to hop on the ferry to the next island.
Milos Sulphur Mines in Paliorema
As a volcanic island of rich geological value, the hot water termals in this area have resulted in the formation of many important minerals like Perlite, Kaolin, Bentonite, and Baryte. In the past, those mines were helping for the powerful economy of Milos.
Mykonos
Location: It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades islands.
Key words: party; fancy; white; loaded; luxury; exclusive; show off; famous
How to get there: By plane or ferry
WHERE TO STAY:
The TownHouse Mykonos
This year we chose to stay downtown and we spent 3 days in the heart of Little Venice, which was very convenient. The hotel we stayed at is The TownHouse Mykonos.
Instagram: @mykonostownhouse
Book here: www.mykonostownhousehotel.com
Below are the newest pictures, I’ve taken this year in Mykonos, but if you are interested to read more about the island including Athens, Paros and Antiparos, simply click here to get to my previous blog post about Greece.
I love the Cyclades islands and Milos is one of the most magical, peaceful and raw places, where I would love to return sooner rather than later. Mykonos is wonderful, but not exactly my place. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a beautiful island, but many of the things happening there are not what I stand for.
However, I will never say no to more fairy tale moments, white architecture, ocean air and salty hair. It seems that Greece is calling me back every year and the only answer I have to this call is… hell yes, I am coming! Which Greek island should I discover next?
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