Cyclades Islands Charm

This Chora neighborhood is known as one of the most stunning places on the island. Overlooking the southwest end of the harbor, it was here that many early ship captains decided to settle down and built uniquely magnificent homes overlooking the sea. Today, many of these historic homes have been transformed into a variety of cozy restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs, making this a bustling place at all hours of the day.

These iconic windmills overlooking Little Venice date back to the 16th century when islanders used wind power to grind grain. There are 16 windmills in total, and while they are no longer operational, they stand as a monument to early innovation. The views here are spectacular: From this hilltop perch, you can see Chora and the harbor in the distance. While you’re here, you might want to check out the nearby Mykonos Agricultural Museum, part of the Mykonos Folk Museum.
On your way to the windmills, don’t overlook the surrounding neighborhood of Alefkandra. This historic area is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or a glass of ouzo as you head back toward Little Venice.

Oia, pronounced Ia, is the most famous of all villages of Santorini. It is known throughout the world for its quiet life and fantastic sunset, and is certainly the most beautiful and picturesque village of Santorini. The village is also situated on top of an impressive cliff and offers a spectacular view over the volcano of Palia and Nea Kameni and the island of Thirassia. Oia is situated on the north of the island, 11 km away from Fira. It is a traditional village with charming houses in narrow streets, blue domed churches, and sun-bathed verandas. Its streets have plenty of tourist shops, taverns, cafes, and other shops. Oia is much quieter that Fira and the busiest area is the main pedestrian that runs along its length. The volcano from here is much less imposing but you can still get some gorgeous views. Oia has several cultural attractions like the Maritime Museum which houses a small library, items from the maritime life of the area, and the vestiges of a Venetian fortress. Many artists fell in love with the area and settled there. For that reason, the village of Oia has many art galleries.

For beautiful views of the caldera, descend the 300 steps from the northern city of Oia to the tiny port of Amoudi Bay. (The hike can be taxing but it’s well worth it.) Surrounded by steep cliffs, this little fishing area features several quaint tavernas serving up the catch of the day. This is also a nice spot to enjoy the sun and some swimming, though the beach is rocky so you should bring appropriate footwear. Amoudi Bay is a great place to catch a Santorini sunset. “Definitely worth dropping in to see the sunset and enjoy an evening meal, or alternatively for lunch,” suggested one TripAdvisor user.
You can reach Amoudi Bay on foot or by car, thouogh you may have to park a little ways up from the beach. Access to the area is free and nearby restaurants vary in price.

The Church of Our Lady of One Hundred Gates is one of the oldest monuments of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture in Greece. Forty years ago, a major renovation revealed the existence of a 4th century church at this site, namely, two centuries before the Justinian epoch. Throughout the centuries, the temple suffered extensive damages, resulting in the distortion of its imposing style. In 1959, Professor Orlandos started the restoration of the temple in the Justinian style, a diligently work completed in 1966. The Church is situated northeast of the capital of Paros, Paroikia, near the island’s port. Many stories revolved around the foundation, the name and the architect of the church. However, a research conducted in the 20th century demonstrated that the church’s rightful owners were Saint Constantine and Saint Helen.

Don’t miss the opportunity to live experience an exhilarating touring all around the coast of the island by canoe or kayak! Enjoy the unusual natural landscape with impressive white rock formations on Kolymbíthres beach. The beach of Kalóyeros, surrounded by red and green clay rocks offers a really effective spa for free! Cover your body with clay and let it dry in the sun; after a while rinse yourself in the sea and your body will feel softer than ever!