Mykonos

Welcome to Greece’s most famous cosmopolitan island, a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. According to mythology, Mykonos was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. And did you know that the island took its name from the grandson of Apollo, ‘Mykonos’?

Set out on a journey to discover a fascinating world where glamour meets simplicity. On Mykonos, celebrities, young people and families mingle together to celebrate the Greek summer. Whether you come to Mykonos to enjoy clubbing or a visitor who wishes to explore the island’s history and traditions, Mykonos will meet your expectations.

Exploring the island’s capital town
In contrast to other Cycladic capitals, the capital town (Hora) of the island is not built in the shape of an amphitheatre but instead spreads out over a wide area. It is one of the best examples of Cycladic architecture and a spellbinding attraction for visitors. Stroll around its narrow marble streets and admire whitewashed houses with colourful doors and window frames, bougainvillaea trees in purple bloom and hidden churches. Pay a visit to the church of Panayia Paraportiani, the Town Hall and the castle situated above the harbour. Don’t forget to visit the Archaeological, Folklore and Maritime Museums to take in a little history. Wander around the pedestrian shopping streets of the Hora, always colourful and busy. The most glamorous of all is Matoyanni Street, lined with brand name stores, charming cafes and stylish restaurants.

Soak up the atmosphere along the lively waterfront and admire a fleet of fishing boats casting colourful reflections in the azure waters. This is where you will find the Kazarma building, which served as accommodation for the soldiers of Manto Mavrogenous, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence. The first floor served as her personal residence.

While you’re out strolling, don’t be surprised if you come across the official mascot of Mykonos, which is nothing other than a… pelican! Petros the Pelican was found by a fisherman after a storm in 1954, and eventually became the locals’ companion. When he died, the grief for his loss was so deep that a replacement was soon found. In honour of Petros, the locals have established a long tradition of pelicans wandering around the waterfront as an essential part of everyday life. So, whatever you do, don’t forget to take a picture with the successor of the famous pelican Petros!

One of the most scenic corners of the island is Alefkantra or Little Venice, an 18th century district, dominated by grand captains’ mansions with colourful balconies and stylish windows. With balconies perched over the sea, pictures of the famous Italian city spring to mind. Relax at a waterfront cafes and admire the view of the quaint windmills standing imposingly on the hillside above, set against a luminous blue backdrop.

The second traditional settlement of Mykonos is Ano Mera, situated around the historic monastery of Panayia Tourliani (a 16th century church with a brilliant carved wooden iconostasis). To the north, in Ftelia, lies an important Neolithic settlement, and a 14th-13th century BC Mycenaean tomb.

Panormos Beach

Using Hora as your base, set out on a trip to discover the beauties of the island, in particularly its sun-kissed beaches. Along the southern coast you will find a great selection of the most cosmopolitan ones. Here, parties keep the crowds rocking day and night. Paradise and Super Paradise may already be familiar to you. Ornos and Psarou are favourite spots for families. Try a visit too to Platis Yialos, with a well-organised beach where you can soak up the sun lazing on a sun lounge. However, if you are looking for a serene spot to unwind with a book, pick a less organised beach on the northern coast of the island, like Agia Anna, Houlakia, Kapari, Panormos, Agrari or Agios Stefanos.

Need an adrenaline rush?
The island is a paradise for water sport enthusiasts. It is only natural that the Island of the Winds should attract surfers and sailors from all over the world. There is a great choice of beaches for windsurfing; however, the most secluded ones are considered to be the best. Choose from Korfos, Ftelia, Megali Ammos and Kalafatis, where surfing lessons are also available. Play tennis or mini golf at Agios Stefanos, beach volleyball at Agia Anna or try sea parachuting or jet skiing at Elia or Kalafatis. Diving fans can do a little exciting exploration of the underwater magic of Mykonos. September is thought to be the best month for diving, as the water is warm and visibility is good down at the seabed.

On the island you can find many well-organised diving centres (some of them also offer snorkelling lessons) and stores specialising in diving equipment. Explore the island by caique or a boat and discover secluded beaches, or take a boat tour around the nearby islets, which are also ideal fishing spots!

What about food?
Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself to some local Aegean specialities. Pepper flavoured kopanisti, a soft cheese seasoned with pepper, is the island’s gastronomic trademark. Try it as a topping on a round rusk spread with grated tomato, a favourite local meze (appetiser). Meat eaters can sample louzes (cooked pork filet with spices) and tasty local sausages sprinkled with pepper, and local oregano that has been caressed by the sun and dried in the north wind. To finish off your meal you can sample two exceptionally good local pastries, amigdalota (small round cakes with ground almond, rosewater and caster sugar) and honey pie.

Dining in Mykonos

If you find yourself in Mykonos take the opportunity to explore the tiny archaeological gem of Delos, just 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 and Artemis.

Getting There
International flights fly into Athens’ airport. From here passengers can continue via plane or by ferry from Piraeus or Rafina to Mykonos (about five hours on the ferry).

Ground Transport
Cars are not permitted in the town of Mykonos, but you can leave your car in a parking place on the outskirts. Buses, taxis and small passenger boats provide transport around the island.

When to come
During summer (especially in August), Mykonos is one of the most crowded islands in Greece, so be sure to plan your holidays far in advance. To escape the crowds, visit the island during spring or autumn.

Courtesy of GNTO