CYCLADES

The Cyclades Greece is not only the most popular island group in Greece but in many respects the most beautiful one! It is located in the heart of the Aegean sea and it is relatively close to Athens. The Cyclades derives from the word “cyclos”, which means circle in Greek, as the islands of the Cyclades form a circle around Delos, the sacred island of the ancient Greek god Apollo.

Santorini and Mykonos are the superstar islands of the Cyclades, but this famous island group also includes very popular islands, such as Paros, Ios, Naxos, and Sifnos. All the Cyclades islands boast traditional Cycladic architecture. This means whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, colorful windows and narrow cobblestone alleys galore! Wandering around the paved streets of the picturesque villages is a unique experience! The capitals of the Cyclades islands are called Chora and are usually built on the slopes of a hill, boasting a breathtaking view to the natural surroundings and the Aegean sea.

The Cyclades islands are also popular for their stunning beaches! Cyclades beaches are mostly sandy and have crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming, while their ideal wind conditions make it a go-to destination for water sports. Super Paradise in Mykonos, Golden Beach in Paros, Mylopotas in Ios and the Red Beach in Santorini are among the most famous beaches in the Cyclades. Nevertheless, there are also many secluded beaches, where you can enjoy your privacy and relax in nature.

The Cyclades have an extraordinary natural setting, which makes them an ideal destination for activities such as hiking, climbing and extreme sports. As for sightseeing, there is a great selection of archaeological monuments and museums, where you’ll immerse yourself into the history of the Cyclades islands.

Read also: Small Cyclades: The Back Islands