The Cyclades
Sailing the Cyclades
Taking up much of the Central Aegean Sea, the Cyclades Islands are exactly what most picture when they think of Greece. The islands are populated with white washed houses sat atop dramatic hillsides flanked on all sides by beautiful blue waters. This famous group of Greek Islands lives up to its reputation, with so many islands to explore you’ll find endless delight exploring the region on your own sailing yacht.
Some of the best known islands include; Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros & Ios but there are many more besides. Each island of the group has its own character and charm; from the world renowned gorgeous sunsets of Santorini to the late night parties of Mykonos there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Cyclades.
Highlights
Mykonos
Heralded as the location of a great battle between Zeus and the Titans, Mykonos was once the at the center of ancient trade in the Aegean. The ancient site of Delos lies on an island within a stones throw of the main town. The ruins of a holy sanctuary to Apollo on the island are well worth exploring if you find the time.
Today Mykonos is best known as Greece’s most cosmopolitan and stylish tourist spot. Drink a cocktail in one of the many waterfront bars and enjoy a bit of people watching. If you’re feeling like a party you could visit one of the many all-day beach parties that also go well into the night!
Santorini
You can’t talk about the Cyclades without mentioning Santorini, maybe the worlds best known sunset viewing spot! Santorini is actually a crescent shaped collection of islands that mark the rim of a volcanic crater or ‘Caldera’ that sits beneath the waterline. The volcano itself is still active, but don’t worry it only erupts once every 20,000 years. The last eruption having taken place 3,600 years ago.
Eruptions aside, because of this peculiar geography the islands are very tall with steep drops into the central crater. While you’ve probably seen pictures – nothing quite prepares you for the real thing. If you can find a place to settle down and watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand, then you’re probably doing it right!