Klima

Klima is the best-preserved of the Milos syrmata settlements: two-storey structures built right at the waterline, the ground floor a garage where a fishing boat was winched up out of winter storms, the floor above a single room for the family, all in a continuous row under a cliff. The doors are painted in strong reds, blues, yellows and greens, traditionally so a fisherman could recognise his own from the sea, and the effect against the grey volcanic rock is the standard Milos photograph. A few units are now let to visitors. The village has no beach to speak of, no shop and almost no flat ground, and the approach is a steep narrow road down from Trypiti past the catacombs and the Roman theatre.

What you actually see

• The syrmata - boathouses at the waterline with living rooms above.
• The painted doors - strong colours identifying each family's berth.
• The cliff setting - the village pressed between rock and sea.
• The evening light - west-facing, so sunset lights the whole row.

When to go

Late afternoon and sunset, when the west-facing front catches full light; any month from spring to autumn. Winter storms wash the frontage and some units are shuttered.

Honest expectations

There is nothing to do here beyond looking: no beach, no shop, one small taverna that opens seasonally. The road down is steep with very limited parking, and turning is difficult. People live in some of the houses, so respect for privacy matters.

Nearby

The Roman theatre and catacombs are on the slope above; Plaka and Trypiti sit at the top.