Heres your ultimate guide to Milos, the low-key Cycladic island that became an Instagram sensation.
Rich in minerals and precious metals, Milos has been mined since the Neolithic era, starting with obsidian.
Its volcanic origins explain the kaleidoscope of colors gracing the rugged cliffs and coastlines.
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But tourism wasnt taken seriously here until recently.
Today, Milos features prominently amongTravel + Leisures Worlds Best Award-winning destinations.
Top of the list for travelers are two beaches: Papafragas and the lunar-like Sarakiniko.
Courtesy of Skinopi Lodge
And lets not forget the traditional technicolor boathouses.
Heres how to plan the perfect island escape to Milos, Greece.
Plus, its elevated location lends an air of seclusion and delivers panoramic views of Pollonia.
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Surrounded by olive trees, thyme, and lavender,Skinopi Lodgeoffers a contemporary take on traditional syrmata.
Even better, a private swimming spot lies just few steps away.
Sinuous lines flow between the 12 cream-hued suites of this design-savvy couple favorite in Pollonia.
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Earthy textiles, polished cement, and wicker accents make for a soothing blend.
Best Things to Do
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Visit an otherworldly beach.
Kids can explore old mining caves and marvel at a shipwreck washed ashore.
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See unique boathouses.
The fishing village of Klima is well-known for its syrmata, but minuscule Firopotamos is equally appealing.
Explore by boat.
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Go on an off-road excursion.
Milos western flank is so untamed that its off-limits to rental cars.
Instead, take anoff-road guided tour.
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End your day with a refreshing dip at a remote beach.
Uncover geological wonders.
Youll visit theMilos Mining Museum, salt pans, and a sunken crater, among other highlights.
Perhaps the most evocative sight is the abandoned sulphur mines, replete with rusted-out wagons and ghostly buildings.
At Totem, freshen up your wardrobe with a breezy cotton dress or colorful sun hat.
Meanwhile, Pliatsikos one-of-a-kind items such as cross-stitch embroidered earrings and macrame necklaces are hard to resist.
Tip: Dont leave without sampling the watermelon pie.
Best Restaurants
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Watch fishermen untangle nets and potter about their wooden caiques as you dine.
Dont miss the grilled eel with fava, fried calamari, and pitarakia (a local cheese pie).
Alevromilos
Chef Vassilis Papikinos showcases Milos wealth of produce through Cycladic cuisine that marries comfort and creativity.
For dessert, fresh local figs are served withxynomizithracheese and honey.
Best Time to Visit
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Agnos suggests visiting Milos between mid-May and early October.
Seasonality is less of a factor than it used to be, she said.
More clients are traveling in the shoulder season.
Summer is also the hottest time of year, though cooling northerly winds can take the edge off.
June is one of the best months to visit, with long, languid days and comfortable temperatures.
How to Get There
The quickest way to reach Milos is by plane.
Flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to Milos operate daily and take about 45 minutes.
Alternatively, take the ferry from Piraeus.
A fast catamaran takes around three hours and 25 minutes to reach the island.
Arrive early to nab a good spot.
Agnos suggests visiting the towns little shops, jewelry boutiques, and galleries.
Spend a day roaming around Pollonia village.
Take shade beneath tamarisk trees on the sandy beach and watch fishing caiques rhythmically bob on the water.
Pay a visit to the Kostantakis Winery and sample cave-aged wines.
When dinnertime rolls around, take your pick from the plentiful dining options lining the town jetty.
Kimolos
Jump in your rental and take the ferry from Pollonia to neighboring Kimolos island.
Make your way to the Goupa-Kara settlement and walk among picture-perfect boathouses.
I recommend a car rental on Milos.
For people comfortable with driving, its the best way to get around.
Otherwise, have a driver on call, said Agnos.
They may cost more if booked via a hotel.
Bus:Milos has a small yet relatively comfortablebus fleet.
Routes connect the airport with Adamas.
Tickets cost two euros.
