They could easily be the setting for a fantasy film.
The Greek islands stand out for their gorgeous beaches, distinctive architecture and their picturesque villages that are a magnet for visitors. Amid all their beauties, there are some spots that look like…. alien landscapes. Places with an otherworldly beauty, full of colors and curious formations that fire the imagination. Join us for a tour of seven spectacular Greek island landscapes that look like they're from another planet!
Volcano, Nisyros
Nisyros is an island unlike any other in the Aegean. Its most important attraction is, without a doubt, the volcano, which you can visit. 25,000 and 15,000 years ago, two eruptions of the volcano «gave birth» to today's caldera. As you descend into the vast crater, you see yellow and white hues, bubbling vents, huge fissures, while the smell of sulfur makes the experience even more unearthly. Here you truly feel the earth's warm breath beneath your feet.
Faraklo, Lemnos
In the north of the island of Lemnos, after the village of Propouli, at Cape Falakro or Faraklo, as the locals call it, a beautiful geological phenomenon offers vistas from another planet! Millions of years ago, hot volcanic lava gushed from the earth's depths and, as soon as it met the sea water, it froze… This is how the impressive natural sculptures the locals call «frangokefala» were formed. The dozens of yellow shades of the frozen lava and the spheroidal geological formations, beside the sea's picturesque inlets, impress visitors.
Volakas, Tinos
A lunar landscape on Tinos? It really does exist! In the village of Volakas (or Volax) you'll encounter an arresting scene of scattered, large, rounded granite boulders (probably remnants of a volcanic eruption) that impress and spark the imagination. The settlement is small, with lovely houses, well-tended courtyards, cobbled lanes and traditional basket-weaving workshops.
Red Beach, Santorini
Near the archaeological site of Akrotiri lies perhaps the most famous beach of Santorini: the much-photographed Red Beach. The red of the cliffs, the blue of the sea, and an eye-catching mix of white, black and red sand create a striking palette of colors in this rare island landscape. You can reach the beach either on foot from Akrotiri's little port or by boats that depart from Kamari, Akrotiri and Perissa.
Vlychada, Santorini
Vlychada beach is among Santorini's largest beaches and is located in the island's southern part, 11 kilometers from Fira. The tall, white volcanic cliffs that surround it and reach almost to the sea recall a sci-fi movie set. These are nature's creations, carved over the centuries by rain and wind. The beach has fine black sand and dark pebbles, and it's organized at its start.
Skiadi, Kimolos
In the northwestern part of Kimolos, west of a hill called «Sklavos», a gigantic stone mushroom, which locals have named «Skiadi», dominates. It's a rare monument of nature, set in the middle of a windswept plateau in the island's interior, with wonderful views of the island's western shores and a large part of Milos. Its creation is due to the different rocks that compose it and the strong winds that blow in the area.
Sarakiniko, Milos
The «lunar» beach of Milos is one of the Aegean's most photographed landscapes. Snow-white volcanic rocks jut into the emerald sea, creating small and large caves. You'll find a small sandy strip, but mostly beautiful rocks to lay your towel on and dive into the crystal-clear waters. Sarakiniko is on Milos's north coast and is about 30 minutes from Adamas.
