There is an island in the Cyclades where one can meet nature, almost “untouched” by time, and at the same time come face to face with a painful part of modern Greek history. The currently uninhabited island invites you to discover the treasures of nature on land and sea.
Rare species of birds, rich marine vegetation, reptiles and other important species of plants and animals coexist with ruins – pieces of evidence, a legacy of collective memory.
Gyaros has a story to tell you. Are you interested in learning it?
Gyaros Story is a complete guide for your digital and living tour of Gyaros.
In this guide, you will find information about the history and nature of the island as well as handy instructions for the safe organization of your visit.
Gyaros ...
Gyaros is an oasis of wild nature that few know about. It is the first designated Marine Protected Area of the Cyclades! 10% of the world’s population of the Mediterranean seal Monachus monachus lives and reproduces on the island’s caves and beaches.
The protected area
Gyaros is mentioned in the Odyssey, where Homer describes how Poseidon sank the rock of Gyaros on which Aedas the Locrus was standing to punish him for raping Cassandra.
The island
Since 2011, the five eastern bays of Gyaros have been protected as a historical site and all their buildings have been declared listed.
The historical site
I want to go to Gyaros.
Following the marked paths of the island, you will discover testimonies from a nightmarish aspect of our history, alongside an island full of secrets of nature that few know.
Gyaros Story will guide you to the imposing ruins of Gyaros and introduce you to its unique natural environment. The prison building, the infirmary, the power plant and the outposts coexist here with flying visitors, reptiles, endangered mammals, sea meadows and unique vegetation.
13
kilometers of route
5
trails
5
historic bays
15
information points
- Currently there is no ferry connection to the island. The approach to the island is either by private boat, rented boat or water taxi from the nearby islands.
- No traffic is allowed on the rest of the island beyond the mapped and marked routes.
- Overnight stays, free camping and lighting fires are strictly prohibited.
- Visiting and guided tours of visitors are allowed only during the day, for the purpose of environmental education, nature observation and recreation.
Before your visit to the Gyaros MPA, you can inform the Management Unit of the Central Aegean Protected Areas of N.E.C.C.A., which is the competent body for the management of protected areas in Greece.
In cases of organized activities, timely notification and consultation with the Management Unit of the Central Aegean Protected Areas of N.E.C.C.A. is required.
Email: mdpp.centralaegean@necca.gov.gr
Phone number: +30 2281083844
Address: Moni Iisouiton (Jesuit Convent House), Ano Syros, 84100, Municipality of Syros- Ermoupolis, Cyclades
before I start
- Ι study the route map and the distances of the trails.
- I inform someone close to me about my visit to the island.
- I take with me drinking water and food.
- I wear closed shoes and long pants.
- I have in mind that there is no mobile phone signal on the whole island.
- I turn my mobile phone into a tour guide by downloading the “Gyaros Story” app.
after I get to the island
- I make sure that I am well-prepared for my course.
- Throughout the visit to the island, I remain within the cleared of hazardous military material marked route. Movement to the rest of the island is not allowed
- To orient myself, I use the relevant information provided on the signs.
- There are no poisonous snakes on the island.
- I do not approach the wild fauna or disturb/cut the vegetation.
- If I accompany children, I keep them close to me and always under my supervision.
The water from springs and wells that I may encounter on my way IS NOT potable.
ATTENTION
Entry to prisons and other buildings is strictly prohibited.
What is the weather now in Gyaros?
... virtually ...
Following virtually the paths of Gyaros, you will witness the prisons, the ruins, the settlements, and the landscapes, while simultaneously experiencing the soundscapes of this unique place.
... and in your hands
Prepare your visit.
Find the next trail.
Read, see and listen about the secrets of the island.
Contact
Send us your message
WWF GREECE
Email: support@wwf.gr, Phone number: +30 2103314893, Fax: +30 2103247578 Address: 119-121 Charilaou Trikoupis, 11473, Athens
WWF Syros Office: Saki Karagiorgas 4, 84100, Ermoupolis, Greece, Phone number: +30 2281084180
Central Aegean Protected Areas Management Unit
Email: mdpp.centralaegean@necca.gov.gr, Phone number: +30 2281083844, Address: Monastery of the Jesuit Fathers, Ano Syros, 84100, D. Syros – Ermoupolis, Cyclades
Implementation
