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The Greek island of Mykonos may be best known as a picturesque cruise ship, upmarket shopping and beach party destination. But what many don’t realise: there is also a quieter, less crowded side to the island. All you have to do is hop on one of the public buses that connect Mykonos Town (also called Chora) with the villages across the island, or hire a car for the day and drive yourself around. If you’re a foodie, make sure to stop by Mykonos Vioma [Google Maps location], an organic farm and vineyard near the village of Ano Mera. We tell you all about it here.
Are you planning your trip to Mykonos independently?
Book your transport to/from and around Mykonos, keeping your carbon footprint in mind:
- Flights and Ferry Tickets
- Rental Cars
- To use one of the island buses, purchase your ticket from the driver (cash only) or the ticket offices at the Fabrika or Old Port bus stops (card and cash).
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Explore Mykonos off the beaten path with the best tours and activities powered by Viator. We recommend these sustainable options with local providers:
There is more to Mykonos than insta-worthy windmills, upmarket shopping and crazy beach parties
Where and what is Mykonos Vioma?
In our rental car, we drive along narrow, winding country lanes northwest of Ano Mera. Thanks to MapsMe, we don’t get lost. You could even walk here from the village: it’s only 2.5 kilometres from the bus stop in Ano Mera.
A big wooden sign over a driveway flanked by vines signals: we have arrived. It’s a beautiful, sunny October day. The temperature is just right.
Upon arrival, we are greeted by Dimitra Asimomyti [LinkedIn]. Her father, Nikos, once an inspector for the Bank of Greece in Athens, invested his retirement savings, and a lot of passion and dedication to establish the farm and vineyard. Measuring a total of 11 acres, the farm is made up of land belonging to Nikos’ family and land leased off the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani / Ιερά Μονή Παναγιά η Τουρλιανή [Google Maps location] in Ano Mera.
Map of Accommodation, Points of Interest, Eateries and Transport
Below is a map of the recommended accommodations, points of interest, eateries, and transport terminals or stops mentioned in this article.
Cultivated since the 19th century, the monastery’s historic vineyard was abandoned for decades. Nikos replanted it from scratch: watering the vines for three years and waiting another two years before he was able to produce his first wine. A true labour of love…
Dimitra joined her parents on the farm in 2013. From here, she runs her own business, Yummy Pedals, taking holidaymakers on guided cycling and hiking tours through the Mykonian countryside and to secluded beaches. Today, she’s showing a few other visitors and us around the farm.
Mykonos Vioma includes a historic vineyard leased from the Panagia Tourliani Monastery in Ano Mera
What is unique about the vineyard?
One of the first things we notice is that the vines are pruned low. Having owned its nickname Island of the Winds, Mykonos can get very windy (hence those Windmills of Mykonos / Ανεμόμυλοι Μυκόνου [Google Maps location]). Letting the vines grow as they do elsewhere would just destroy them.
Vines are pruned low to protect them from the strong winds Mykonos is known for
We also learn that Dimitra’s father planted special grape varieties, called anydres (άνυδρες) which means without water (aneu/άνευ = without and ydor/ύδωρ = water). Perfect for the dry, hot climate of the island, once established, these vines don’t require irrigation. They survive on the moisture they get from the air and out of the soil, thanks to their deep roots. The arid climate also makes the vines less susceptible to diseases.
The family grows five grape varieties (for five different wines): Agiannitis, Asyrtiko, Athiri, Malagouzia and Mandilari.
Asyrtiko and Athiri make up the Paraportiano white wine, while Agiannitis and Mandilari grapes make the Paraportiano red wine. These wines are named after the Greek Orthodox church Panagia Paraportiani / Παναγία Παραπορτιανή [Google Maps location] in Chora.
Vioma's Paraportiano wines are named after the Paraportiani Church in Chora
Mandilari grapes are also used to make Veggera rose wine.
Vioma’s white dessert wine is made of Malagouzia grapes, while Malagouzia and Mandilari grapes make up the red dessert wine. Aptly named Heliofilos (meaning friend of the sun), these grapes are allowed to sun-dry for 7-10 days before being crushed in the wine press, giving them the extra sweetness you’d want in a dessert wine.
Vioma makes five different wines from five grape varieties - we got to taste these four
The vines are cultivated using biodynamic principles: no chemicals are used, and the only mechanical intervention are the farm animals – Marika the donkey, Marousso the sheep, three generations of goats, and a few chickens and turkeys – which are allowed to roam freely around the vines once the grapes are harvested.
Not only that: Dimitra’s father had read in studies that vines grow healthier when exposed to music. Unsurprisingly, speakers dotted around the vineyard gently stream classical music.
The farm's animals are allowed to roam freely around the vineyard after the harvest
Keen to visit Mykonos?
Whether you’re planning to explore the island’s stunning beaches or want to discover its authentic charm and gems like Vioma Organic Farm, getting to Mykonos is a breeze with Ferry Hopper. Book your ferry with ease and discover a sustainable and relaxed way to travel between the Greek islands.
What else makes Mykonos Vioma special?
Being a farm, there is also a small veggie garden. Manure from the farm animals mixed with straw is used as a natural fertiliser, and crushed eggshells are spread between the plants for their calcium.
Produce changes with the season and is served on delicious tasting plates with local meats, cheeses and more on the shady terrace overlooking the vineyard.
Delicious tasting plates with local meats, cheeses and more are served on the shady terrace overlooking the vineyard
That’s where we relax after our farm tour, tasting different wines and devouring a plate of traditional mezze:
- Salty, air-dried Louza ham
- Various types of cheeses: Kopanisti (a salty, tangy Mykonian cheese), Feta, Xynotyro (a sour cheese from Mykonos) and Gruyere (plain and with chilli)
- Sun-dried tomatoes and olives, served with
- Mostra – a typical appetiser of Paximadi (double-baked barley rusk) topped with tomato and Kopanisti cheese.
By the way, the Louza ham, Kopanisti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and olives don’t require refrigeration (as in prior times, fridges didn’t exist). And the double-baking of the rusk means it can be eaten for months.
Our mezze plate included a fresh salad from the farm's veggie garden
Listening to Dimitra as she talks about her family and the farm, we also learn more about Mykonos, its history and culture, and how different (and hard) the life was on the island only two generations ago. While tourism has helped lift Mykonos out of poverty, it has also changed the face of the island – sadly, not always for the better.
Thankfully, there are still places like Mykonos Vioma where you can experience a slower, more traditional pace of life, away from the luxury boutiques of Chora and the crazy beach parties.
I’d love to visit Mykonos Vioma. What do I need to know?
Mykonos Vioma welcomes visitors every day from the beginning of May to the end of October, between 12:00 and 17:00 (the farm is closed to visitors from November to April). While cruise ship shore excursion groups visit about twice a week in the morning, most of the farm’s visitors are independent travellers.
Free guided vineyard tours in English are offered at 14:15 (May-mid September). As some days are busier than others, it’s best to contact Vioma via their booking form or email Dimitra to confirm availability on your preferred date/s – you don’t want to miss the tour (or be stuck among a large cruise ship tour group).
If you happen to visit in the second half of August, you could even get your hands dirty and help with the harvest. If that’s something that interests you, contact Dimitra and her family via email. You won’t get paid (and you’ll have to organise your own accommodation), but the family is super sweet, and you’ll get homemade meals and maybe even wine or honey to take home.
Want to be a harvest helper? Contact Mykonos Vioma for more details.
What else is there to do in/around Ano Mera?
Cycling and Hiking Tours
For those who’d like to combine a visit to the farm with a cycling or hiking tour: The Yummy Pedals tours run from early March to the end of October (there may even be tours in February and November – just ask).
Group sizes vary, but on average, there are 6 to 8 people. Dimitra even has a few e-bikes, a toddler seat, kids’ trailers and kids’ bikes. There is really no excuse – everyone can join. For details, check out the Yummy Pedals website and contact her.
Combine your farm visit with a cycle tour around the countryside and to secluded beaches - Join Yummy Pedals
Explore Ano Mera village, Panagia Tourliani and the surrounding countryside
Given you’re likely visiting the Vioma farm to see a quieter, more traditional side of Mykonos, also visit the village of Ano Mera while you’re here.
Right in the heart of the village, you can find the Panagia Tourliani Monastery (the one that owns part of the land on which Vioma’s vines grow). Founded in 1542, its whitewashed walls, marble bell tower and richly decorated interior make it one of the island’s most important historic and religious landmarks.
Tourliani Monastery is not the only religious site here. Red church domes are dotted all around the village. If you have a rental car, make sure to stop at one or two and have a peek inside (or just admire the beauty of the countryside.
Ano Mera can be reached by bus from the Old Port bus stop in Chora [Google Maps location], though having your own transport gives you more flexibility.
When visiting Vioma, also check out Ano Mera village, the Tourliani Monastery and other churches nearby
Relax on a nearby beach
Don’t worry – not all beaches on Mykonos are full of party people. If you’re craving some quiet beach time after your Vioma visit, head to Fokos Beach on the island’s quieter northern side.
There is no public bus, so you can only access Fokos if you have a rental vehicle. The final stretch of road is unpaved but fine for a 2WD. On a windy day, the sea can get rough, but on a calmer day, it’s a lovely place to finish your day experiencing the quieter side of Mykonos.
No party goer in sight: Mykonos' Northern Beaches, including Fokos, make for a quiet and relaxing getaway
How to get around Mykonos by public transport
Public transport on Mykonos comprises KTEL-operated buses that connect Mykonos Town/Chora with the western 2/3 of the island. The two main bus terminals in Chora are at Fabrika and the Old Port:
- Buses departing from the Old Port service the North (Agios Stefanos and Panormos), Centre (Ano Mera) and South-East (Elia, Kalo Livadi and Kalafati).
- Buses departing from Frabrika service the Airport, the South-West (Ornos and Agios Ioannis) and the South (Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach).
There are also buses that connect the Airport, Fabrika and the Old Port with the New Port, where the Cruise Ship and Ferry Terminals are located. You can check the timetables here. Bus tickets can be purchased from the driver (cash only) or from the ticket offices at the Fabrika and Old Port bus stops (cash and card). A journey costs up to EUR 3 (pending destination) – so bring small denominations, including coins.
Mykonos Vioma FAQs
Do you need to book Mykonos Vioma in advance?
Technically, you could just turn up (as long as you visit from May to October), but it’s best to book ahead. Mykonos Vioma welcomes independent travellers, but the family also services larger (cruise ship) tour groups, so some days are busier than others (and if you contact them, they can advise you accordingly).
How do you get to Mykonos Vioma from Chora?
The most convenient way is to hire a car (which lets you combine your farm visit with other activities on the island). You can also take the bus from the Old Port in Chora [Google Maps location] to Ano Mera and then walk the remaining 2.5 kilometres or arrange a short taxi ride from the village.
How long should you allow for a visit to the Vioma farm?
If you plan to visit Vioma farm, allow (at least) 2-3 hours, especially if you want to enjoy the guided tour, wine tasting and mezze without rushing (we spent here 2 1/2 hours on a quiet day).
Where can you buy Vioma’s wines?
While visitors can buy a bottle (or a case) straight from the farm, Vioma’s wines are also available at local supermarkets and even some hotels and restaurants in Mykonos. Just keep an eye out for the names listed above.
Mykonos is not only for party people - If you're interested in ancient Greece, the Delos archaeological site is worth a visit
Where to stay in Mykonos
It might be tempting to stay in Little Venice or elsewhere in the centre of Chora (because it is so picturesque), but unless you enjoy being among the hustle and bustle 24/7, we recommend staying a little outside the town centre – either within walking distance (even if it means walking a little uphill) or a short bus ride away. This makes for a much quieter and more relaxing holiday. Here are our recommendations for small-scale, locally owned options:
| Name | Property Features | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Angela’s Rooms | Quiet but convenient base just outside Mykonos Town, offering air-conditioned Mykonian-style rooms with a balcony or patio, plus handy in-room basics like a mini fridge and kettle. | Book Now |
| Casa di Angela | Peaceful aparthotel-style stay near Mykonos Town, with air-conditioned rooms, a kitchenette, and a terrace, balcony or patio for extra space. | Book Now |
| Germanos Studios | Cycladic-style studios in an elevated spot near Mykonos Town, with sea views, furnished balconies, air conditioning, and kitchenette options. | Book Now |
| Mytheo | Stylish adults-only stay near Mykonos Town, with sea-view rooms, terraces, private parking, and an easy walk to Fabrika bus station and key sights. | Book Now |
| Hotel Milena | Family-run stay in Drafaki, close to the airport and popular beaches, with air-conditioned rooms, in-room fridge, and a bus stop just outside for easy access to Mykonos Town. | Book Now |
Tell us about your Mykonos adventure off the beaten tourist path
Did you explore Mykonos Vioma? Or check out one of the island’s quieter beaches? I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your tips and insights to help fellow travellers discover the beauty of sustainable travel in Mykonos.
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