Milos windmill

A simple but charming converted windmill with 2 bedrooms, kitchen-diner and, optionally, 2 small outhouses (sleeps 2-8); good beaches nearby

The island of Milos is famous for a perfectly-chiselled, 6-foot tall goddess. Before you get the wrong idea, we’re talking about a statue, sculpted 2000 years ago and found 20 years ago near Tripiti. Though she may have moved to Paris, there are still plenty of reasons to visit the island where Venus de Milo was found. Gnarled sea-cliffs, turquoise waters, smugglers’ coves, hot springs, picturesque villages and old churches all vie for your attention on an island which is bizarrely indifferent towards foreign tourism.

On the rocky ridge above Venus’ resting place stands a string of windmills, one of which has been converted into a 2-bedroom ‘villa’. It is a narrow, three-storey building with round rooms and a shaded terrace outside, offering views over the sheltered inlet of Adamas. Next to it are two small 1-bedroom outhouses, which can also be rented if you have a larger group. It’s owned and run by a reliable, English-speaking man named Gerasimos Marketos, and not sold outside Greece through any other channels. All in all, it’s a very special place, and ideal for families or groups of friends who are keen to explore a little-known but still very beautiful Greek island.

Highs

• The novelty of staying in a windmill
• Suitable for families or groups (max. 8)
• Excellent beaches on the island
• Off the tourist track

Lows

• It can be windy
• There’s no pool
• The island is not as ‘prettified’ as some
• There may be other guests staying in the outhouses