Chill Greek Holiday: Escape the Crowds in Milos
Let’s line up the well-known players: the fashionable sisters of Mykonos and Santorini still reign with beach clubs, DJs, late-night dancing, and private white-washed villas. Zakynthos also draws a party crowd; while Crete smacks of old-world charm and crumbling buildings. But these days, about 150 miles from Athens, you’ll find Milos – a once under-the-radar Aegean Sea destination that has been slowly gaining popularity for those seeking quieter days – and nights.
Not to mention Milos’ otherworldly, lunar-like landscape is blessed with over 70 beaches – most of which are accessed only by boat – and showcasing some of the bluest water in the Cyclades. Below, some of our favorite spots in the still sleepy (at least, relatively speaking) Greek island of Milos.
Eat and Drink
You’ll find most of the action centered around the port town of Adamas. Score a patio table at Medusa, known for its traditional dishes like grilled octopus served with white wine from nearby Ktima Gerovassiliou (and a complimentary soundtrack of lapping waves). Drop by Aragosta, the casual, veteran cocktail bar for live music and light bites. Or nab a seat at Akri, an energetic spot for cocktails in a trio of outdoor spaces (the rotating DJs kick off just after ten o’clock PM).
Request a balcony table with sweet views at Okto, a chic white-washed eatery helmed by two chefs from Michelin-starred kitchens – and including light desserts by Parian chef Jisun Sung. Meanwhile, Sirocco serves homespun Greek cuisine – baked in volcanic sand – and views of the Aegean Sea. Try the slow-cooked lamb or opt for the refreshingly classic feta and watermelon salad. Meanwhile, the always-crowded, family-run, no-reservations Oh! Hamos! is known for its tasty mezze-style dishes including a local makarounes pasta tossed with fresh tomato. Using Savvantiano and Roditis grapes fermented in clay, visit the handsome, family-run Kostantakis Cave Winery for a sip or two.
Beach Hopping
Alogromadra Beach and Gerontas Beach are both peaceful and mostly local spots for sunbathing and swimming. You can also rent a four-wheel drive and head to the even-less-crowded Triades, where a threesome of pristine sandy beaches awaits. Meanwhile, the tranquil, crescent-shaped Firiplaka Beach is known for its milky blue waters and white sands. The best way to explore Milos and its archipelago of nearby islands? By private boat of course. Head out and find the mythological-like caves of Kleftiko and Sykia, and then snorkel in the azure waters of Polyegos (meaning ‘many goats’) a deserted island known for its rocky formations and low hills.
Where To Stay
Set on 10 acres dotted with wild sage, native olive trees, and sweeping Aegean Sea views, drop your bags at the minimalist, glass-sided hideaway Skinopi Lodge – where a cluster of 7 rooms is situated on a high rocky bluff. You can also snorkel and enjoy the nearby natural sulfur springs. Or cool off in the swimming hole. Head to Verina, a cozy-chic cocktail bar that serves its Mastiha (a sweet, piney-like liquor produced nearby) on ice alongside gentle seaside breezes.
Milos Cove Resort includes 42 contemporary suites that seamlessly blend into the striking volcanic milieu. Outside, there’s an infinity pool and a private pebble beach (rooms also have private pools). Come evening, the casual by-day restaurant morphs into a polished fine dining experience for sunset cocktails and prime stargazing. Spread on a sandy shoreline, White Pebble Suites features a spacious sprawl of 12 suites kitted out with timber, polished cement, and chic wicker accessories. There’s also a chic boutique with equally chic Greek designers, spa treatments (the hot stone massage soothes what ails), and a seasonal Mediterranean eatery.