CELLARS OF SAINT-JEAN AND DU CYCLOPE

Look for the sign: Σπήλαιο Αγίου Ιωάννη - Σπηλιά του Κύκλωπα". As you enter the village of Panaghia, look out for a wooden sign pointing to trail no. 3 at the first junction on the left. This 1h30 hike will first take you to the heights of the island, from where you'll have a panoramic view of all the Lesser Cyclades. Leave the junction with trail no. 4 behind you and continue westwards around Mount Papas. Soon, the path turns into a cobbled track, which the locals use every August 28 to reach the cellar of Saint-Jean. This part of the trail is magnificent, with turquoise coves below, including Vourkaria on your right. Suddenly, the path comes to a sort of rocky chaos surrounded by greenery. Then a large black opening... You've reached the Cyclops' cellar. The interior is unlit: if you wish to venture into the successive galleries, it's best to bring along the appropriate equipment, as a standard flashlight won't be enough to dispel the prevailing darkness. On your way out, look for the much smaller cave opposite, slightly to the left. This is the cave of Saint-Jean. You'll have to crawl into this impressive cavern of giant stalactites and stalagmites. Once again, suitable equipment is required. If you're lucky enough to be visiting on August 28, you'll see the cellar illuminated for the annual mass.