You have most probably heard of the Greek holiday destinations’ “cliché”: Athens for the monumental, totally breathtaking Acropolis, Santorini for the stunning volcanic view, Patmos for the monasterial ambiance, Crete for its renowned cuisine and, last but not at all least, Mykonos for its rocking nightlife, celebrity visitors and luxury lifestyle. And while they all have in common the same amazing coastlines with gold-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, high level accommodation and excellent food, Mykonos has something truly unique and unexpected to offer: two closely neighbouring islands—Delos and Rhenia—each one being a small but wonderful Aegean gem with extraordinary characteristics.
Delos Island is a world-famous archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that, according to mythology, was the birthplace of ancient god Apollo and goddess Artemis. While in its time it was a major religious and commercial center, today it’s an uninhabited historical site—essentially an open-air museum—full of precious ruins that include temples and markets, houses with mosaics and the emblematic Terrace of the Lions. In Delos there is also an Archaeological Museum displaying impressive findings from the excavations that started in the ’50s. The experience of walking around this sacred Cycladic spot with the strong wind blowing and the view of maybe the most spectacular sunset of the Aegean is unparallel even for tourist “veterans”!
To visit Delos you can charter a yacht or helicopter, preferably with an experienced guide on board to tell you its most magical stories. The flight will last a very few minutes, while the sailing trip is about half an hour long, depending on the kind of boat and the weather. Organized tours are also popular, offering drinks and meals onboard, as well as snorkeling, diving adventures, and water sports upon request.
Even closer to Mykonos is the also uninhabited, historical, 14 km² long Rhenia island, ready to offer an authentic Robinson Crusoe experience to its visitors. Scattered around its rural landscape are a few chapels and farmhouses revealing a farming past, when the boats reaching the small harbor Kasari used to carry livestock sent by the municipality of Mykonos to support the former residents. There are also a few humble cafes and tavernas serving coffee and local food to those seeking a quiet, peaceful site, surrounded by beautiful beaches with turquoise crystal-clear waters.
Also reached by private helicopter rides or yacht cruises, Rhenia’s historical past is deeply connected with that of Delos. While both islands come in full contrast to their famous neighbor, the three of them form a most spectacular exclusive trio, made for the most demanding travelers!
