The Island of Syros

A Timeless Haven in the Heart of the Cyclades

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Syros is a quietly magical island in the heart of the Cyclades, revealing its beauty slowly and without spectacle. Once the commercial capital of Greece in the 19th century, the island still carries the elegance and cultural depth of a refined capital — setting it apart from many other Greek islands.

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Unlike nearby Mykonos, Syros is not shaped by trends or mass tourism. Instead, it offers an atmosphere of authenticity, space and understated beauty. Arriving at the port of Ermoupolis, you are greeted by pastel-hued neoclassical mansions cascading down the hillside — a first impression that immediately invites you to slow down and take it all in.

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Poseidonia – A Place to Arrive and Exhale

Villa Evangelini is located in the historic village of Poseidonia, also known as Dellagracia — a place long associated with rest and retreat.

 

In the late 19th century, prominent shipping families, including Aristotle Onassis, would escape the heat of Athens to spend their summers here, surrounded by gardens, sea air and quiet elegance.

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The village is characterised by graceful neoclassical summer mansions, wide gardens and a sense of timeless calm. Although Poseidonia is only ten kilometres from Ermoupoli, it feels as though you have stepped into a slower era — one that naturally supports rest, reflection and presence.

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Directly opposite the villa is George’s Taverna, a relaxed local gathering place serving simple, traditional Greek dishes. During the retreat, guests will enjoy an evening meal here, experiencing the warmth and authenticity of local island life. A nearby bakery provides freshly baked bread and pastries each morning.

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Nature, Beach & Gentle Movement

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A short, ten-minute walk through olive groves leads to Agathorpes Beach, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers both open space and shaded areas, making it an ideal place for swimming, resting or quiet contemplation during free time.

The surrounding landscape — olive trees, light-filled paths and the ever-present sea breeze — naturally invites gentle movement, mindful walking and moments of stillness between retreat sessions.

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Ermoupoli – Culture, Beauty & History

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The island’s capital, Ermoupolis, is well worth visiting during your stay. Built in elegant Venetian style, the town features cobbled streets, marble squares and stately buildings that reflect Syros’ rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of the town lies Plateia Miaouli, home to the impressive Town Hall, which still serves as the administrative centre of the Cyclades. Nearby, the beautifully restored Apollo Theatre, a miniature replica of La Scala in Milan, hosts opera, jazz evenings and a variety of cultural performances throughout the year.

Just above Ermoupoli sits Ano Syros, the original medieval settlement. Its whitewashed, cubist houses are linked by narrow alleys that occasionally open onto breathtaking terraces with sweeping views across the Aegean Sea toward Mykonos and Tinos.

Food, Flavour & Local Traditions

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Syros has quietly become a culinary destination, celebrated for its local produce and traditional recipes.

The island is famous for its loukoumi, a delicacy similar to Turkish delight, still handmade in copper cauldrons using 19th-century methods. Local legend says that Queen Victoria was so fond of Syros loukoumi that a rose-flavoured batch was sent to Buckingham Palace each year.

Wild herbs such as fennel, thyme and sage grow abundantly on the island, shaping its cuisine. Dishes such as fennel pie, cumin-spiced meatballs with oregano, and eggplant with sweet tomato sauce reflect the island’s deep connection to land and tradition.

Meals on Syros are simple, nourishing and deeply rooted in place — a natural extension of the retreat’s philosophy.

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Arriving on Syros

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Syros is easily accessible by ferry from Piraeus and Rafina, the port closest to Athens Airport. As a central hub in the Aegean Sea, the island is well connected to many other Cycladic islands.

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Many guests choose to fly into Mykonos and continue by ferry, with two daily connections to Syros (via Tinos). We recommend staying overnight near the Mykonos port to ensure a relaxed journey. Simple pensions such as Makis Place offer convenient airport pick-up and transfer to the ferry terminal.

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Upon arrival in Syros, guests are met at the port and escorted to Villa Evangelini, allowing the retreat experience to begin with ease and care.

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Why Syros Is Ideal for a Retreat

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Syros offers a rare combination of:

• cultural depth and natural beauty

• tranquility without isolation

• refined elegance without pretence

• accessibility without crowds

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