Being one of the more popular destinations in Cyclades, Milos is no stranger to experienced travelers. The famous volcanic beaches of Kleftiko and Sarakiniko come to mind at the mere mention of Milos' name, while Venus de Milo, one of the most widely recognizable pieces of art ever produced has brought world-wide fame to the small Greek island. However, there is more to Milos than stunning landscapes and art of immeasurable value. Millennia of maritime tradition has permeated the Milian community and seafaring has been ingrained in its identity ever since.

Let us explore two fishing villages in Milos which combine the island's rich maritime heritage with fantastic aesthetics to create a sight worth seeing with your own eyes!

On the North peninsula of the island, just below the Ancient Theather of Milos, sits Klima, a picturesque village with a truly unique look. The road on the sloped hill leading to Klima ends up right in the water and it is not until you reach the shoreline that you can finally take a good look at the iconic fishermens' houses that have rendered this place famous throughout Greece. These colorful, two-story houses called Syrmata are built right on the water. The top floor served as the living quarters for the residents, while the ground floor was used as a garage for the fishing boats to be stored in  during days with stormy weather. The quirkiness of Syrmata is highlighted further by the diverse palette of vivid colors that adorn the doors, windows and balconies of each house. If you wish to explore the village, be prepared to get your feet wet, as you will have to traverse the narrow strip of land between the shoreline and the houses, with the few docks that exist along the way serving as vantage points to admire Klima's outline in its entirety.

On the opposite side of the same peninsula, but this time on a much more accessible road, you will find the village of Mandrakia. Sitting on a shallow bay facing the open sea, Mandrakia is constantly exposed to the Etesians - the strong dry North winds of the Aegean. Fishermen, to protect both themselves and their boats from the winds, carved their houses in the rocks, creating small storage rooms all around the bay. Much like in Klima, the fishermen chose to paint the doors in different colors, adding another layer of eye-catching beauty to the landscape.

On the North edge of the bay, a small observation deck offers views of the deep blue Aegean Sea, while the entire scenery acquires a spiritual note as the church of Zoodochos Pigi overlooks the bay of Mandrakia, giving the village a distinctly Cycladic touch. 

If you wish to explore the fishing villages of Milos yourself, check our offers below.