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As you step off the ferry into striking Hermoupolis, the administrative capital of the Cyclades you are welcomed by its two emerging hilltops, each topped by a dazzling church, with even taller hills rising behind. Hermes' City, named after the messenger Greek god Hermes, is a stunning cosmopolitan town full of architectural and culinary surprises. Buildings spread in a pink and white cascade in between, and the centre is a maze of stepped lanes and shopping streets all radiating out from the grand main Miaouli Square.
Syros stands out not only for the architecture of its gorgeous capital, Hermoupolis, but also for the medieval castle-city of Ano Syros, built to offer protection from the pirates and last but not least for the magnificent beaches with crystal clear waters it offers.
Galissas is one of the most popular beach resorts on the island of Syros, located approximately 5 km from Hermoupolis. It is actually a small bay; the waters are safe, therefore ideal for families with young kids. The beach has been awarded the EU Blue Flag award, which assures the cleanness of its waters. Windsurfing is a very popular activity on this resort and there are also chances to practice other water sports, horse riding, hiking, cycling, yoga and other activities.
Galissas is s a local vibrant bubble with a variety of traditional taverns, cafes and beach bars to ensure you get to experience culture, eating and relaxing as a local. The main Galissas beach stretches the entire cove with its soft sand and crystal clear waters. The seashore is golden sandy and short trees along the coast provide some sort of shade.
Up and over the small hill and picturesque church of Agia Pakou sits the hidden beach of Armeos. The beach is rocky and much smaller than its counterpart of Galissas. It is only a 10 minute hike, and the awesome view of Galissas and the surrounding mountain will compensate the effort. Although it’s less crowded, you might be in for a surprise. Don’t be shocked when you see everyone around you stripping down! This is a nudist beach so go with the flow! Just over an hour hike from Galissas you will find a one of a kind church on the hillside, Agios Stefanos Church. It was built by a local fisherman who was saved from the tentacles of an octopus after praying to the holy saint. A unique experience that never ceases to amaze even the most demanding visitor.
Syros is home to many nice beaches, some more isolated and others more vibrant. If you can, during your stay, explore as many as possible: Agathopes, Komito, Kini, Delphini, Vari, and Ampelaare all worth visiting as each one offers a unique experience to the visitor. For the more adventurous a trip to the breathaking unspoiled beauty of the beaches at the north part of the island. Grammata, Varvaroussa, Aetos, Lia never ceases to amaze. Take an afternoon to explore Herrmoupolis during your stay. Walk through the narrow streets and stop at one of the many cafes, museums, art galleries or grab a bite. There is no more engaging and rewarding way to see Syros island than cycling or even renting a vehicle and exploring the entire island! This is the best way to see all the landmarks, eat like a local, and discover all those secret swimming holes of your own. We are happy to help you plan your journey and experiences in Syros and design with you your adventures.
Συρίη λένε το νησί —αν το ‘χεις ακουστά σου—στην Ορτυγία πιο ψηλά στο γύρισμα του ήλιου, όχι πυκνοκατοίκητο, μα καρποφόρο μέρος, βοσκότοπο, πολύσταρο μ’ αμπέλια και κοπάδια.
Πείνα ποτέ δεν έπεσε στη Χώρα μήτε αρρώστια κακή, που τους ταλαίπωρους θερίζει τους ανθρώπους.
Μα σαν γεράσουν των θνητών οι φάρες, τότε ο Φοίβος θα ’ρθει ο αργυροδόξαρος κι η Άρτεμη μαζί του και με πυκνές σαΐτες τους, τους γλυκοθανατώνουν. Δυο πολιτείες είναι εκεί κιόλα σε δυο μοιράζουν κι είχανε τον πατέρα μου κι οι δυο για βασιλιά των, τον Κτήσιο του Ορμένου γιό, με τους θεούς παρόμοιο»
Ομήρου Οδύσσεια, Ραψωδία Ο'
