When choosing a holiday rental in Voudia, it is worth considering the themes of the wider destination of Milos, too. There, mining and settlement history meet volcanic coastlines, alongside water sports, boat trips and regional cuisine. Which of these aspects shapes your stay depends on your interests.
Mining and cultural history on Milos
The Milos Mining Museum presents the island’s geological character and mining history through objects, photographs and images. Visitors can explore independently with an audio guide in Greek, English, French, German or Italian. Theiorycheia offers a different perspective on mining: on the beach, visitors can see sulfur mine carts on their rails, old rusty tools and unused spare parts in the warehouse. The museum and preserved mining remains offer different points of focus. Mining on the island dates back to the Neolithic period, around 8000 BC, when obsidian was extracted and traded.
Archaeological remains and their time periods
Phylakopi is regarded as one of the most important settlements of Cycladic culture and as the most important city of the prehistoric Aegean. Visible remains there include the Cyclopean wall, a sanctuary and palace remains. The permanent exhibitions at the Archaeological Museum of Melos in Plaka are spread across three rooms; there is also a veranda and an open courtyard.
The Ancient City of Klima preserves ruins of ancient Klima, described as the island’s first port. In this area, visitors can see the citadels of Profitis Ilias and Pyrgaki, sections of the market wall, a temple from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and the findspot of the Venus de Milo. Parts of the ancient theatre are also among the visible remains. It was originally built by residents of ancient Klima, probably in the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic period. Following restoration work completed in July 2016, the theatre can accommodate around 700 spectators.
The early Christian catacombs, considered the oldest Christian monument on Milos, are near Trypiti. Visitors can explore Gallery B, known as the Catacomb of the “Elders,” and walk along a wooden platform there. As access may change, it is best to check before your visit.
Volcanic coastlines and different places to swim
Milos has more than 75 beaches. The island’s volcanic origins are evident in its bays and coastlines, with white, red, yellow and black rocks. Sarakiniko is particularly distinctive, with its entirely white volcanic formations, deep blue water and a small natural harbor enclosed by rocks. At Papafragas, visitors can swim in turquoise water between gray and white rocks that lead out to the open sea. The small bay of Paliorema has a beach with yellow pebbles and clear water.
The water conditions described also vary: Papikinou has gently deepening water and some of the calmest waves on the island; the beach is considered suitable for children. Achivadolimni is accessible by bus and is recommended for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The differences between the beaches can help you choose whether you prefer a beach stay, a water sport or a particular coastal landscape.
Activities, routes and regional cuisine
Guided day trips by canoe and kayak are offered on Milos from April to October. Boat trips around the island can take you to beaches that are inaccessible by land and offer the chance to explore caves. Check departure times in advance. Diving highlights include underwater caves, shipwrecks from the Second World War and earlier periods, as well as hot springs. Fishing takes place from boats or from land, as well as underwater.
For getting around on land: buses on Milos serve some areas; during the summer months, the services are described as quite frequent. Check the timetable before setting out. A network of unpaved roads leads to coastal spots, chapels and mines; road conditions may change. The 13 km Miloterranean Route 2, “Volcano,” is described as taking four to five hours to walk. Skoufomakarono is also a regional addition to the trip: this traditional pasta dish with myzithra cheese and browned butter is available at tavernas and festivals on Milos.
Discover more destinations: Artemonas, VathĂ, Cherronisos, Kimolos, Mandrakia, SĂ©rifos, Ganema, Firopotamos.
See the overview of the wider destination: Milos.
