Half-Day of Volcanic Wonders and Geological Treasures, Milos

Milos Island differs from the other Greek islands with its unusual morphology and abundant minerals, resulting in stunning combinations of breathtaking rock formations and caves and remarkable colors that seem almost surreal. With the help of a knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore the volcanic wonders of Milos Island! You'll start with a visit to the Milos Mining Museum and then continue to the stunning Salt Fields and the impressive Fyriplaka Crater. Visit the intriguing volcanic area of Kalamos, delve into the mysterious Sulphur Mines and the Aggeria Mine. Along the way, you will uncover the rich history of Milos and its mining industry, gain fascinating insights into its volcanic activity, and behold the breathtaking natural beauty that makes this island an unrivaled gem.

With its volcanic background and soil rich in prehistoric minerals, Milos is actually a vast open geological museum. It houses one of the top four largest and most active volcanoes in Greece, which has led to the formation of countless caves and, as well as a wealth of mineral resources that continue to sustain the island's thriving economy to this day. With the help of a local expert, you'll discover the geological formations of this unique island.

To introduce you to the geological wealth of Milos Island, the tour starts with a visit to the Milos Mining Museum. Here, you'll get to learn about the history and stories of the people of Milos. The museum showcases a brief documentary that captures firsthand experiences and perspectives from elderly individuals who previously worked in various mines, through a series of interviews. The museum showcases the impressive geological particularities of Milos and narrates the island's mining history.

You will proceed to the Salt Fields and learn about their history and the significance of the Kanava Port. This port played a crucial role from Medieval times until the early 20th century. Next, you'll arrive at the Crater of Firiplaka, known for its majestic century-old cedar trees. Your guide will take you through the steep entrance of the crater, then descend down a slippery road leading to the crater's center. Then you'll head to the ending point of the volcano, a spot called Kalamos. Feel free to take your time here to rest and enjoy the view of the Aegean Sea and the stunning Agia Kyriaki Beach.

Your guide will then take you to the southeast of Milos and the famous Sulphur Mines, one of the most important mines in the geological history of Greece. On this site, the miners created an almost completely independent community that thrived until the 1950s. However, when the site was abruptly abandoned, the mining operation ceased immediately. Today the area features a beautiful beach surrounded by the gaping holes of the mines and the abandoned facilities and houses of the miners. As you wander around this spooky site, your guide will tell you about the story behind this place and the miners who worked here.

And finally, you'll finish your day with a visit to the Aggeria Mine—the largest active bentonite mine in Europe—and the modern mineral processing factory. Your guide will drive you back to your accommodation.