Blown away in paradise: the Greek island of Mykonos



White shoreline buildings are a hallmark of Mykonos

“I’d like tell you that I don’t always look like this, but I do,” said Amaryllis, our lovely 20-something guide on the Greek island of Mykonos, whose long dark hair kept whipping across her face. It didn’t take long to understand what she meant as we struggled to keep our own demeanor during gale-force gusts that blew almost constantly across the island.

Still, wind from the Aegean Sea helps keep the climate moderate—and it adds a distinctive appeal to this old port town located five hours from Athens by ferry but only 40 minutes by plane.

Mykonos is the smallest of the group of islands known as the Cyclades, which are prominent in stories from Greek mythology. The nearby island of Delos, touted as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and now an uninhabited UNESCO site, has developed as a sacred center and archaeological site with remarkable Greek ruins, sights that bring many people to Mykonos.



Streets wind in a maze through town.

Tourists discovered Mykonos in the 1950s and 1960s and currently expand its population of 11,000 up to a million during the summer months. With rocky terrain and dry, windy, salt-infused air, conditions aren’t good for growing plants or animals, which means the economy depends on tourism—not difficult to achieve since the island is graced with beautiful scenery.

Despite its reputation as a cosmopolitan island, Mykonos has steadfastly avoided common traps of overpopulated destinations. You’ll find no fast food restaurants or neon signs on the island. Streets are narrow and curvy—to confuse pirates and protect homeowners in the old days—so it’s easy to lose your bearings. 

We chose a guided walking tour through the maze. For three hours we followed Amaryllis—think Sophie in Mama Mia!—whose British accent belied her life-long residency on Mykonos. After navigating safely through the city’s maze with her help, we felt confident to set off exploring on our own.

Southern beaches sport golden sand and crystal clear water, calm and sheltered from the winds.  These may be family-oriented or cater to those looking for less--clothing optional.  Gusty northern beaches tend to attract adventurous types like wind surfers or folks who prefer peaceful, unoccupied beaches.  Plentiful quaint shops and restaurants accommodate tourists and have helped build the island’s reputation for nightlife and partying.

Churches have the same look--white washed with a blue dome.

Mykonos strikes a captivating scene with its closely spaced white-washed buildings, all sporting flat roofs—conditions originally meant to keep homes cool and clean but now required by law on all new construction.  The lime wash still used to make buildings white, a stunning contrast with nearby deep-blue ocean water, is claimed to be an antiseptic that’s beneficial for people living in close quarters. Shutters and doors may add specks of color, and people have chosen mostly blue and red. 




Little Venice section of Mykonos

Among the most recognized of Mykonos’ landmarks are its windmills. Originally used to prepare grain for transport, the windmills are positioned near the harbor and at one time covered the entire western part of town. In the same vicinity, where town meets the ocean, is an area called “Little Venice” because its 16th and 17th century buildings were constructed on the edge of the sea with balconies overhanging the water.


Stunning white churches have a long history on Mykonos

Ancient chapels and the Orthodox Christian Monastery founded in the 1500s are jewels of the island.  Additionally, almost every family has a small private chapel dedicated to a specific saint. Families traditionally host large feasts and celebrations—open to the public--on their designated saint’s holy day. Festivals feature concerts, theater performances, and parties that attract visitors.

Whether you love soothing, old-world tradition or seek exciting contemporary fun, Mykonos can be your paradise.

Photos by Larry and Beverly Burmeier