For a few decades now, the Cyclades have captivated the hearts and minds of tourists coming here for vacations in summer. These Cyclades islands are pretty renowned for their unique location in the Mediterranean region and the plethora of exotic landscapes that each of these Greek islands is blessed with. To any traveler, a vacation in these Greek islands would definitely be pleasurable.
Whether you come here with family and friends, on your honeymoon or if you travel alone, these Cyclades islands help you to relax and unwind in an unknown location with peace of mind and a sense of security. Each of these islands is very well developed as tourist destinations, especially the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Paros and Naxos. The Cyclades are located right on the Aegean Sea and cater mesmerizing sea views for the tourists to enjoy as they come here.
The architecture is the same on each and every Cycladic island. Tourists will come across white cubic shaped residential houses especially in the seaside and mountain villages. The islands in the Cyclades cluster have undulating landscapes and the mountain slopes are covered with dense fir and pine forests, over grown shrubs and flower plants among these forests. The valleys are found to be terraced and have many series of olive plantations and vineyards.
The wine of Cyclades islands is absolutely delicious and many travelers take back bottles of wine from these islands to their homes. Among these islands, Naxos wine is often regarded by locals as the perfect remedy for a broken heart. The beaches of the Cyclades are simply gorgeous and they have all kinds of sand from black, red, golden to white, depending on the island you are visiting.
The islanders of the Cyclades islands are very culture oriented and they have maintained their age-old traditions that have passed down from one generation to another. They are still involved with agricultural work and tend their sheep and cattle on the meadows. However, the younger generation residing in the capital towns is more inclined towards tourism business and has opened restaurants, car rental agencies, shops, studios and apartments, all for the benefit of tourists.
The Cycladic cuisine is very popular as most of the islands have their very own special dish that they serve almost everywhere in each restaurant and tavern. Ouzo, a favourite drink of the Greeks is probably found in every bar and tavern and often generous amounts are given to the tourists. As earlier mentioned, Santorini, Mykonos, Paros and Naxos tend to receive more tourists in the Cyclades.
Santorini is an island with an enchanting history and an even more enchanting landscape. The two popular villages Fira and Oia, are situated on the edge of the caldera on imposing cliff sides and offer spectacular views of the giant caldera and amazing sunrise and sunsets. A perfect island to get married or spend your honeymoon, Santorini offers the most gorgeous view to the sea, its sunken volcano and the famous sunset.
Naxos, equally gorgeous but with another sense of beauty, may not offer view to a volcano, but still it has lovely sunsets. Some of the best beaches in the Cyclades are found in Naxos, while the mainland is filled with mountainous, traditional villages and lush greenery.
The need for unending party atmosphere is fulfilled in the Cyclades in the islands of Mykonos and Paros. Most of the beaches here have nightclubs, bars and beach bars where day and night parties take place. Paradise in Mykonos and Pounta in Paros are the most famous beaches for their crazy nightlife and the party atmosphere. These are the favourite islands for young visitors in the Cyclades, however more calm places can also easily be found all over this popular complex of islands.
More information and photos of Cyclades islands and Cyclades hotels.
