When you first come to Melos, you have in mind the stereotipical image of the island, "the island of the catacombs" or "the island of Aphrodite (of Melos)", as it is advertised in tourist guides, but when you leave, you will always remember Melos as the island of geological contrasts: Flatlands and steep mountains, lagoons and gorges, steaming volcanos and bubbling sea bottoms, moonscape mines and multicolored fields and beaches.

The beach at Paliohori(above), to the south of Melos, is sourounded by multicolored walls, and the sea's bottom just off the shore, is bubbling with volcanic gasses. Don't come here without snorkeling equipment, but if you do, then borrow some from the beaute sunbathing next to you, to experience this unusual spectacle. To the extreme east is the nudist beach. Beware of stone fall while sunbathing there. Also beware of snorkelists while diving there.

An hour's walk to the west of Paliohori will take you to Agia Kyriaki beach, while passing you next to a steaming volcano. Before setting off be sure that your shoes can resist the heat of the burning ground.

Those who want to conquer the highest peak (700m) of Melos, should either take the road that leads to the top of it, or ascend trailless. Having enjoyed the view up there, seize on your available time and strengths, and descend either to the Agios Ioannis monastery and gorge to the west trailless, or again trailless descend to the famous Kleftiko sea caves to the southwest. You must also have a good map a good sence of direction and loads of good luck. If you're not so sure, return back.

Trekkers, folklore and entertainment meet; After walking the day against strong winds, dancing the night to the rythmes of syrtaki, hasaposerviko, sousta, kalamatiano, zeimbekiko!

Leading the dance. Melos Municipality Festival, Aug, 1995: �� ��������� �� �����!

Special thanks to Nader Bolouri, of Artline, 9 Aretousas Str., Iraklion (081-282474), for scanning my slides for this page.