The Cyclades are the peaks of an underwater plateau situated
at a depth of 100-200m. They have high jagged coastlines and
are rather mountainous with mount Dias in Naxos reaching a height
of 1004m above sea level. They lie in a circle around Delo,
in fact their name comes from “kiklos” that in Greek
means circle. The scenery is characterised by rocks and sea,
high cliffs that break into inlets with crystalline water. Low
dry walls, bushy vegetation, cactuses together with the architecture
that has become a landmark of these islands complete the picture.
Whitewashed houses, little churches and fortress look-alike
monasteries can be found all over the archipelago. However these
common traits should not mislead into thinking that these islands
are all the same, this, in fact, couldn’t be further from
the truth as every single one of them has its own characteristics.
Their position in respect to the mainland, for starters, and
particularly their history have contributed to their individuality.
Some being more crowded and lively, while others are more peaceful
and therefore suited for a relaxing holiday. Those with elegant
holiday resorts and others characterised by villages where life
proceeds slowly coloured by the local traditions. Again very
busy beaches alternate with almost deserted small coves. The
Cyclades with their variety offer something to suit everybody’s
needs, all surrounded by that great contrast of deep blue sky
against the whitewashed houses, an image that time and time
again we find on postcards.
