Mykonos

Mykonos is a whitewashed paradise and part of the Cyclades group of islands in the Aegean Sea. The island is known for its party like atmosphere and vivid nightlife, superb beaches and its iconic 16th Century Windmills, situated on a hill above Mykonos Town. The island took its name from the grandson of Apollo “Mykonos” and according to mythology the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules.

Famous all over the world the impressive white windmills of Mykonos create one of the most typical highlights of the Aegean Sea. They are situated between the Little Venice and the neighbourhood of Niochori. Alefkantra or Little Venice is one of the most famous and most charming areas in Mykonos with its picturesque setting by the sea. Created in the 18th Century this area is reminiscent of the Italian city of Venice and was once inhabited by rich merchants and captains. Not only will you have one of the most amazing locations to enjoy an Aegean sunset here but the elegant and beautiful houses that stand literally above the sea with enthral you.

There are a few cultural places to discover while staying on the island including the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos famous for its rich collection of vases, some dating back to the 17th Century and a unique collection of sculptures, jewels and ceramics. The Aegean Maritime Museum is situated next to Lena’s House, where they preserve and promote Greek maritime history and traditions. Lena’s House is an authentic Mykonian middle class 19th Century family house located in Chora close to the Tria Pigadia area. It houses European and local furniture from the 19th Century as well as a good range of decorative objects. Lastly the Folklore Museum is located in Kastro, close to the famous Paraportiani, it has an eclectic collection of handmade ceramics, Byzantine pictures as well as important manuscripts, photographs and furniture.

Mykonos Island has more than 70 Christian Greek Orthodox Churches, with a large amount that were constructed after the Byzantine period. The most famous of these Churches are the Mykonian Churches, which are known for their architecture, including Agia Kyriaki, Agia Eleni, Zoodochos Pigi, Saint Nicolas and Paraportiani. The 18th Century Monastery of Paleokastro is a Women’s Monastery north of Ano Mera.

While dining out in Mykonos you should not miss the opportunity to enjoy some local Aegean specialities! The Pepper flavoured Kopanistí, which is a soft cheese seasoned with pepper, is known to be the island’s gastronomic trademark. It tastes really good with tomato on a round rusk and is served as a favourite local Mezés (appetiser). Loúzes is a cooked pork fillet with spices and tasty local sausages sprinkled with oregano and pepper that has been sun dried are other local specialities. For those who are interested in good pastries then there are two exceptional ones to try, the Amigdalotá, which is a small round cake with ground almond, rosewater and caster sugar and a local honey pie.

The island is also known for being a paradise for water sport enthusiasts with snorkelling, diving, jet skiing and parasailing. The island also has many ideal fishing spots dotted around the nearby islets. There are secluded beaches to discover or why not soak up the unique atmosphere along the dynamic waterfront where you can also admire the beautiful azure waters and the fleet of fishing boats reading themselves to head out.

While in Mykonos take the opportunity to visit the tiny archaeological gem of Delos. It is only a short boat trip away. Delos was a sacred island in ancient times and according to mythology was the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo, Greek God of the Sun and Light and the Greek Goddess Artemis, the daughter of Zeus and Leto and the twin sister of Apollo. This entire island is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its archaeological significance.