On footSome essential tips for a pleasant day of hiking.
- Plan ahead. Obtain the MILOTERRANEAN GEO WALKS map for the route of your choice and study the guidance text on Side B. You will find estimated time required, distances and points of interest where you may wish to spend more time.
- Watch out for the MILOTERRANEAN GEO WALKS signs on the route and keep track of your progress on the map.
- Don’t stray away from the routes unless you have excellent navigation skills and equipment.
- Check the weather forecast.
- Hike with at least one partner. Pace yourself to the slowest member of the group.
- Keep your pack weight light.
- Take plenty of water. Don’t consume soda or alcohol as they tend to dehydrate you.
- Dress appropriately – dress in layers and wear the right shoes & socks. And don’t forget to wear a hat and sunscreen in uncovered body areas.
- Start early and avoid the 12:00 – 3:00pm time period during the summer months.
- Pack a small first-aid kit, especially for insect bites and band aids for blisters. Plan appropriately if you are allergic to insect bites.
- Pack high energy snacks, such as the traditional Greek ‘pasteli’ made of sesame seeds and honey.
- Last, but not least, preserve nature as you found it: don’t leave garbage behind and leave only footsteps as your mark.
By carParts of the MILOTERRANEAN GEO WALKS can be viewed by car.
- Check your tyres and your spare before starting. Also check the cooler fluids.
- A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, but not absolutely necessary.
- If you are renting a car, please ensure that potential roadside help is covered by your contract.
- Plan ahead. Obtain the MILOTERRANEAN GEO WALKS map for the route of your choice and study the guidance text on Side B. You will find estimated time required, distances and points of interest where you may wish to spend more time.
- Watch out for the MILOTERRANEAN GEO WALKS signs on the route and keep track of your progress on the map.
- Don’t stray away from the routes.
- Pack a small first-aid kit, especially for insect bites and band aids for blisters. Plan appropriately if you are allergic to insect bites.
- Last, but not least, preserve nature as you found it: don’t leave garbage behind and leave only footsteps as your mark.
Safety, and other, tips
Apart from tips on foot, or by car, there are some route-specific safety tips you need to note:
Route 1 “Vani”
Almost all of Western Milos (Halakas) belongs to the Natura 2000 network of protected areas “dedicated to the preservation of biodiversity […]”. Since many parts of the “Vani” route fall within this area, it is recommended that visitors are discreet and careful. Note that the endangered species Macrovipera Shweizeri (viper of Milos) is endemic, and hibernates to wake up in spring. It is not aggressive unless disturbed, nevertheless, long trousers and high but comfortable boots are recommended for preventive reasons.
At the final route section, namely the Vani abandoned and dilapidated mining complex, there is a risk of falling debris from the buildings’ roofs and walls. For your safety, you are advised to maintain a distance of at least 2 meters from the buildings. Due to the existence of numerous shafts in the area, there is also an increased risk of falling.
Route 3 “Sulfur Mine”
Completing the route “Sulfur Mine” you arrive at the homonymous abandoned industrial complex in Paliorema being the route’s final destination. Be very careful when walking around the old industrial buildings, the old extraction galleries, as well as the steep slope where the processing facilities were located.
Route 5 “Kimolos”
Skiadi is a unique geological phenomenon of which the island’s inhabitants are very proud, and which stands out from afar, like a striking, rocky, volcanic umbrella. You can admire this work of art carved by nature, but it is advisable not to climb on it, both for reasons of your own safety and so as not to damage it.