Mykonos

shimmering pearl in the Cyclades

Exciting, vibrant, sophisticated. There are many such adjectives to describe this shimmering pearl in the Cyclades. Mykonos town has something for everybody within its 85 square kms amid the lovely sandy beaches combine to offer an unforgettable holiday in idyllic surroundings. The unusual Mykonos cubist architecture makes the town quite unique amongst Greek islands. It is spotlessly clean and dazzling white, a perfect backdrop for the bougainvillea and geraniums cascading down the walls. Mykonos at night is like a theatre. The curtain goes up, the lights go on, and the stage is set for the evening show. A large choice of restaurants from the most sophisticated to the simple await you, and there are many bars and night clubs to ensure that you don’t get home until the wee hours — unless you absolutely have to! Around every corner is an interesting boutique or jewellery shop, but you are never far from the waterfront overlooked by the famous Mykonos windmills.

There is a town beach but most visitors go out to the beach at Platis Yalos or take the caiques from there to Paradise and Super Paradise where beachwear is often noticeable by its absence. There is a frequent bus service to and from Mykonos town, 3 miles away. Platis Yalos has tavernas and bars overlooking the beach and is an alternative resort for those visitors not wishing to stay in the town. Good watersports facilities are available. Buses from Mykonos town also go to the beaches of Aghios Stephanos (13 minutes), Ornos (10 minutes) and Tourlos (10 minutes). They all have pleasant tavernas and Aghios Stephanos and Ornos both offer watersports. Taxis are always available and jeeps and motorbikes may be hired. In complete contrast to Mykonos, yet only 30 minutes away by boat, is the sacred island of Delos, at the centre of the Cyclades, and one of the most important centres of the ancient world. Its magnificent ruins go back to the 7th Century B.C. and should not be missed.