 Cyclades HolidayBy any measure, the islands of the Cyclades are small. Renting a small car may be advisable for the larger islands, or a moped will do if you can hang on two wheels. But the main reason holidaymakers come here is for the beaches, bathed in constant sunshine with warm turquoise waters rolling gently to the shore.
Exactly what kind of beach you are seeking can vary greatly, and this is the magic of the islands. If you want a raucous, noisy, rowdily hedonistic, non-stop beach party, head straight for Mykonos and Paros. If you want a calmer environment, Antiparos and Kea might lure you. The secret of all the islands is that you can always find secluded coves and beaches on each and every one.
Your tastebuds will also enjoy a unique experience in the Cyclades. Sitting on a patio, gazing at blue water and brightly coloured fishing boats swaying lazily in the breeze, you have an idyllic setting to enjoy the exquisite flavours of island cooking. Octopus marinated in olive oil, eggplant with cheese, and familiar favorites like mousaka and stuffed tomatoes offer a delicious lunch, while squid, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and feta cheese accompanied by ouzo is a great afternoon snack.
Lamb, roasted or baked in earthenware is always a favourite, but if you are dining at a seaside restaurant, you will always find a “catch of the day”, with a wide choice, such as mullet, swordfish and lobster.
Each island has its own characteristics, with the island of Santorini enjoying particular renown. The island’s fertile soil provides the freshest produce, leading to traditional dishes such as tomato balls, Santorini salads, split peas in all their variations, white aubergines, stuffed round courgettes, cooked capers, fresh cheese, and local specialities including apoxti (cured ham), sausages, wild rabbit with a cheese and egg sauce, brantada, sweet melitinia, and saffron bread rusks. Santorini is also bedecked by the low-lying vines that provide the island’s distinctive wine.
Cyclades Islands: Ios, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Syros and many more. How does one decide? Cyclades Islands Tourist Information Guide can help you search for your Cyclades holiday home, and help you discover what lies in wait in holidays to Cyclades. Syros sailing is well known and believe it or not, a golf holiday Santorini is new and great fun! A Cyclades ski weekend is traditionally the perfect weekend away, but now add a stop over to Ios Island, and a day on Mykonos beach and snorkeling in Paros to really make it the perfect getaway! |