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Milos is the most westerly island of the Cyclades. It is notable for its volcanic soil and for the rich deposits of minerals that lie beneath. It has a distinctive horseshoe shape, an abundance of beaches, and hot springs. Don't be surprised at the innumerable holes on the landscape; they are due to mining.

The civilisation of Milos is considered to be as ancient as that of Crete, and spans a period of at least 5,000 years.Its fame spread throughout the civilised world thanks to the masterpiece of the Venus de Milo, a statue found buried on the island in the 19th century, now exhibited in the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Adamas, the biggest natural harbours in the Aegean and one of the biggest in the whole world, is a charming spot, with whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys, balconies crammed with flower-pots. It's the most lively spot on the island, and it is here you will find most of the tavernas and bars.

Plaka, the capital of the island, today stands on a hillside overlooking the sea at the foot of the castle. It is a most attractive town, with architecture in the characteristic Cycladic style.

The Archaeological Museum has a copy of the Venus de Milo as well as other finds from various periods. The Historical and Folklore Mireum has a collection of folk artefacts, samples of the island's minerals, photographs and historical documents of the greatest interest. The church of Panagia Korfiatissa, near the museum, offers breathtaking views of the island's north coast and of the uninhabited islet of Antimilos.

Worth a visit is Phylakope, on the north coast, the most important centre of population in Minoan times. Next to the archaeological site is the spectacular Papafranga cave.

Off the coast is islet Glaronissia, a rare geological phenomenon composed of hexagonal volcanic stone bars. On the north coast, as well, you can visit Sarakiniko, a dazzling white landscape -or rather moonscape- where you can also swim, given that the wind does not blow from the north. It's one of the "musts" of the island, together with the sea-cave called Kleftiko, at the south end of the island, which unfortunately can be reached only by boat.

However, the most important monument on Milos is the island's famous catacombs, now open to the public. They are located at the village of Tripiti, 2 km. from the main town of Plaka and they are among the most important of Early Christian monuments. A short drive from the catacombs is the unspoilt fishing village of Klima, the port of Ancient Milos. The architecture here is idiosyncratic, as the buildings have boat houses on the ground floor, and the living premises are on the first floor.

Milos has excellent beaches at Hivadolirmi, Polonia, Adamas, Emborio, Provatas, Paleohori, Firiplaka and Agia Kiriaki. If you are courageous enough, try climbing down to the turquoise beach of Tsigrado, but make sure you'll be able to climb up again (the beach is right below a steep hill, and there is a rope for the fearless).

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