GLADSTN LONDON JOURNEYS TO SYROS

The Gladstonian Journal invites you into the stylish and exciting world of Gladstn London, sharing new experiences, connections and possibilities. We all have a weakness or two in life and ours is beautiful bags and travel! So we aim to inspire you by exploring diverse aspects of modern life and curating a distinctive style all enjoyed with a Gladstn London bag by our side.
If our bags could talk, where would they say they had been? For this Gladstn London Journey we’re in the Greek Island of Syros, a complex tapestry of cultures & eras known as “the Queen of Cyclades”

Be on the beach in the morning and in the theatre at night

Ermoupolis the capital of Syros was officially founded during the Greek War of Independence and is the perfect place to start your island adventures. It’s a living museum of neoclassical architecture and a cultural powerhouse, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The "Queen of the Cyclades," as it’s often referred to has had a prosperous past! To understand its story of trade, innovation, wealth and cultural richness head to Miaouli Square, the heart of Ermoupolis. Dominated by the impressive Town Hall designed by the renowned architect Ernst Ziller and the Apollo Theatre, a miniature version of Milan's La Scala it's a great place to visit, enjoy a coffee, and people-watch!

Take a trip into Medieval times then onto Little Venice

Until the early 19th century, the largest settlement on Syros was the small medieval Catholic village of Ano Syros, perched on a steep hill. An historical gem founded in the 13th century by the Venetians, it’s a labyrinth of winding, narrow alleys and whitewashed houses with the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George on the hill top providing a stunning panoramic view of Ermoupolis and the Agean Sea. It’s a beautiful reminder of the island’s diverse religious heritage. To witness the growth of trade and wealth following the establishment of Ermoupolis stroll along the narrow streets of Vaporia. Often referred to as the "Little Venice" of Syros, Vaporia is famous for its elegant neo-classical mansions built by wealthy shipowners in the 19th century. This area, along with the Church of Agios Nikolaos, one of the largest in Greece, exemplifies the island’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Or step into nature, one path at a time

Syros is a series of hills and valleys that fold down into small bays and beaches. Every day you can discover a new sandy beach with its shallow waters perfect for some time in the sun or with a good book in the shade. Whether it’s Kini, Galissas, Vari, Agathopes or one of the many other beautiful beaches there is always a good taverna on hand! For those who love nature and walking, explore the north of the island. It’s is a nature reserve, pristine and open. Walking trails take you along the coast, the inner valleys, or to the many sandy beaches that can only be reached on foot. It’s the perfect antedote to the cultural richness of the island.

Old world elegance meets contemporary design

The Aristide hotel

Our favourite play to stay – the Aristide hotel. One of the world’s best boutique hotels, with its dramatic marble staircase and Doric columns, it’s an architectural gem showcasing Greek Neoclassical and Art Deco styles. Located in Vaporia, it's ideally placed for the best of both worlds in Syros – art, culture and buzz combined with lazy days at the beach. With its amazing owner Oana and her team, it’s the place to be seen in Syros. If that’s all to much head to Ceil beach bar for drinks on the ocean or to Avant Garden for a beautiful meal in town. Or of course soak up the sunset on the roof top of the Aristide with an amazing cocktail.

And finally the very serious question of where for our aperitivo – we have many favourite places to eat and drink but for the cocktail it has to be with Konstatinos Kostopoulos at the Arisitide Hotel. He makes an amazing cocktail!

The cocktail bar at the Aristide, a favourite for Aperitivo Hour

Syros is the best of both worlds – Art, culture and buzz along with lazy days on the beautiful beaches. It is truly a jewel in the Aegean. Enjoy your trip!