The Cyclades island complex is one of the most famous worldwide, its iconic architecture presenting a blue topped, whitewashed paradise. The Cyclades is warm in summer with the strong North Wind (Meltemi) to drive your sails while sheltered bays and harbours are plentiful. This makes it a perfect sailing destination for intermediate and advanced sailors.
Mykonos and Santorini are wildly popular in the Cyclades and the first islands that spring to mind. The glamourous Mykonos offers a glitzy nightlife to rival Ibiza with marble streets, brand shopping and Michelin style dining experiences. Alefkántra, or “Little Venice, is a scenic must-see on a corner of the island where balconies perch over the sea, and traditional windmills stand guard on the hillside above. Santorini’s dry, sunny climate produces rich and flavourful cuisine, and you can explore the entire volcanic island by quad bike or scooter. Visit renowned wineries, the Three Bells of Fira Church, and the castle of Oia before a lively night sampling every cocktail known to man. For rejuvenation, drop anchor and dive into the cobalt waters to swim to the volcano and nearby hot springs of Palea Kameni.
Paros lies in the centre of the cruising grounds and is an ideal base to explore the region. The picturesque port offers an unforgettable sunset, and the beautiful beaches are the perfect setting for sea adventures like scuba diving, kayaking and windsurfing. Perhaps the most enticing reason to visit Paros is the traditional villages. Stroll through colourful Naoussa and medieval Marpissa and take in the stunning views at Lefkes. Sun-soaked beaches, Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria and Poúnda, welcome sun-kissed visitors who want to enjoy the calm crystal waters and on the sea bed at Alykí beach, you can even swim among the ruins of an ancient town.
The small island of Antiparos is big in character and entices voyagers with its beautiful coastline, sea caves and charming Greek tavernas. Popular treats are fresh, grilled octopus, spaghetti with shrimps and delicious local cheese, such as mytzithra. Ideal for a relaxing holiday or family vacation, Antiparos is just a stone’s throw from Paros.
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with high mountains, lush green landscapes and stunning seascapes. Villages perch on the hills and medieval churches, monasteries, and Venetian castes meld harmoniously into the classic Cycladic style. Sagri is a significant destination with traditional windmills and Venetian towers. Climb Zas Mountain, and don’t forget to visit the beautiful cave on your way to the top. A fertile island, Naxos boasts a wealth of quality cheeses, wine and olive oil. It is also famous for its cultural events, so don’t miss the Naxos Festival in September at Bazeos Tower and Dionissia.
In Kithnos, colourful flowers, golden beaches and bright blue waters seduce you with their colours and scents. Discover the narrow, winding streets and fairytale coves and fall in love with the island’s hidden beauty. Nearby Serifos is frequented by weekending Athenians and remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. With an Old Town high above the Livadi harbour, there is a breathtaking view of the Aegean. Grab some Greek meze in the square before taking in the sunset.
The relaxed atmosphere of the Little Cyclades can be a welcome respite from the buzz of the more popular destinations. Comprising about a dozen tiny islands, only four are inhabited: Donoússa, Páno Koufoníssi, Skhinoússa, and Irakliá. Unique and unpretentious, these secluded islands call to mind the Greek paradises of decades ago. A magical combination of local foods, mellow wines, walks, swims, and siestas make up warm, lazy days and transport you back into another time. This is true island life…
Paros Island
