Only 50 meters from where the sea laps gently on the sand of the long and very popular beach of Galissas, Hotel Benois is situated in a lively seaside site that honestly provides the world famous Greek island postcard scenery. Offering quick on foot access to the beach and to a range of modern and traditional cafés, family-run tavernas, casual and high-end restaurants, convenience shops and small stores with souvenirs and beach accessories, the Benois encourages guests to have it both ways; lay back and soak up the Greek summer or/and mingle with the crowds.
There is more reason than one why Galissas is so popular. In the Southwestern part of Syros, the sandy Blue Flagged beach offers shallow crystal-clear waters and trees for shade and is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas and equipment to rent if you're into water games and sports.
Up the hill above the beach, the tiny white chapel of Agia Pakou calls you to take the easy path up for an amazing view and instagram worthy photos. While you are there look to the other side of the hill - the small and untouched Armeos, a nudist favourite, is a wind protected and crowds-free cove with pebbles, sand and few trees. Although the path is somewhat rocky, the access is quite easy.
A favourite feature of Galissas, and romantic location for small weddings, is the teeny-tiny white chapel of Agios Stefanos squeezed literally in a cave with the sea right below it. Absolutely merged with its surroundings, the chapel has become one with nature using the rocks as ceiling and floor. Legend has it that it was built by a local fisherman who dedicated it to his namesake saint for saving his life. Reach it by boat or by walking the path from the beach of Galissas.
