by Kai Hockenjos
The sky cloudless, the sea deep blue, the houses blindingly white – these are the Cyclades, islands of light, islands full of mystique and magic – islands that enchant.
North of Crete and east of the Peloponnese, over 200 islets encircle like a ring the island of Delos, sacred to the god Apollo and the ancient center of the Cyclades.
This is also where the island group gets its name – "kyklos," Greek for circle.
It is said that the Cyclades were the playground of the gods and that Greek culture had its beginnings here.
Today, backpackers are the predominant visitors on the islands. Sometimes you can still feel the spirit of antiquity. On many islands, the air smells positively divine: of wild herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, mint, oregano, and lavender…
Centers of the Greek Island World
The most famous islands are the unique Santorini, born from a volcanic eruption, the nightlife islands of Ios and Mykonos, and lively Paros. But quieter islands like Antiparos and Naxos, mystical Amorgos, or stately Syros are also being discovered more and more and appreciated for their authenticity – here you can still experience the famous Greek hospitality.
The best sandy beaches of the Cyclades can be found on Naxos, the largest of all Cycladic islands. The atoll feels almost like its own continent – fertile coastal plains give way to steep mountain passes and lead to miles of white sandy beaches.
The neighboring island of Paros forms the transportation hub of the archipelago. After Santorini, Paros is the largest wine-growing region of the Cyclades, and the Parian red wine is delightfully drinkable. Ios and Mykonos are the high-life islands, where the international jet set and party-goers converge. Idyllic and peaceful holidays await on the small eastern Cyclades of Iraklia, Epano Koufonisi, and Donoussa. Special places can be found on Amorgos, a magical island in the deep blue sea.
Syros Island - Queen of the Cyclades
Situated in the heart of the Aegean ring of the Cyclades, Syros and its capital Ermoupolis, City of Hermes, serve as the seat of the archipelago's regional administration.
Despite its central location, Syros has been spared from mass tourism.
Here, it is mostly Greeks themselves who spend their holidays, giving the island an unspoiled atmosphere. Outstanding is the beautiful town hall of Ermoupolis, built by the Bavarian architect Ernst Ziller. Together with its marble-built main square, Plateia Miaoulis, it forms the stately city center.
With its neoclassical and picturesque buildings, Ermoupolis differs from the otherwise typical Cycladic appearance of whitewashed houses, lending the city an air of cosmopolitan metropolis – paired with Greek ease and hospitality, this makes the island one of the most charming spots in the Aegean.
Getting There:
Fly to Athens and continue by ferry or speedboat from Piraeus. To this day, "island hopping" remains the most popular way to travel, thanks to the excellent ferry connections. A classic Cyclades trip begins in the bustling world port of Piraeus, from where the larger islands are served several times daily during high season, and the smaller ones several times a week.
Accommodation:
Rooms and guesthouses are available on every island at quite affordable prices. The room providers always wait at the harbor, waving their brochures and loudly praising the virtues of their "rooms."
Special Tip on Syros:
Apartment complex "Kosmos" in Galissas. Warmly run by Tony and Mary Roussos. The rooms are affordable and lovingly furnished (air conditioning, shower, WC, kitchenette, double bed, TV, refrigerator, sink, etc.), quietly located yet only five minutes from the beach (the best on Syros).
Tony and Mary are truly warm-hearted people who spoil their guests whenever they can – here you can still experience the typical Greek hospitality.
"Kosmos Hotline": 0030 22810 43371 or (30)22810 43003.
Food:
The island-typical dishes are traditional and simple, yet very flavorful. The smaller islands in particular offer a traditional cuisine that goes far beyond tourist souvlaki dishes.
In the rustic tavernas, it is still customary to peek into the cook's pots and then order your meal.
Special Tip on Paros:
Restaurant "Levantis" in Parikia, near Market Street, Tel. 30 (22840) 236 13. A charming restaurant in a small vine-covered courtyard. Somewhat pricier than the typical souvlaki tavernas, but the exquisite dishes are worth every cent. Where else would you find fish ceviche, grape salad with avocado, and spicy lentil soup with cilantro in such outstanding quality? Many traditional dishes with modern twists – a must-try!
