A gorgeous Greek island is as good as major holiday hubs like Santorini but without the heaving crowds of tourists.
Milos, a volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, is regarded as one of the country’s hidden gems and boasts 70 beaches for sunseekers to enjoy.
The island was estimated to receive around 85,000 visitors annually as of 2011, while Santorini, which has become a go-to destination for scores of British holidaymakers, draws over 3.4 million every year.
While the likes of Santorini and Mykonos are facing growing pressures from overtourism, Milos is hailed as a serene retreat with unusual landscapes and dramatic natural beauty.
The island continues to be relatively underdeveloped, with natural hot springs and spectacular rock formations that make for stunning views.
Visitors are taken by its quaint harbour towns, azure shores, and rich cultural heritage. The iconic “Venus de Milo” statue was discovered on the island, and though she’s now on display in the Louvre in Paris, the scenic grandeur of the island is more than enough to make up for it.
As you’d expect from a seaside location, the local cuisine is fresh and superb, with plenty of unique local delights including the traditional cave-aged wine produced by Kostas Mallis’s family-run winery.
The Alogomandra beach is a favourite among locals, while the Gerontas beach, which is a drive of about 40 minutes southwest of Adamas, offers even more peace and quiet.
Sarakiniko, with its volcanic origins, pristine white sands and sparkling turquoise waters, is another must-visit spot, while Plaka, Milos capital, offers a charming village atmosphere, Santorini-style white houses and narrow streets.
Kleftiko Bay is also a major pull for visitors, with hidden sea caves once used by pirates and only accessible by dinghy as well as striking white volcanic rock cliffs, travel site Sand In My Suitcase reports.
Klima is another must-see area of the island, a picturesque settlement nestled right by the sea. It’s home to local fishermen and boasts traditional houses known as syrmata, some of which are even available for rent.
There are direct flights to Milos from Athens, where you can opt to stay in a hotel, or its various guest houses, self-catering villas and suites available for short stays.
Be advised Greek authorities have issued warnings over intense heat in the country as wildfires erupted in a front of over 10 miles on the outskirts of Athens. Follow local travel advice and take precautions to stay safe in the sweltering heat.