Immersive 7-Day
Greek Language Retreat

Milos

From the 21st to 27th of May 2026

Greek Language Retreat in Crete by Philomilo: Zaros 2nd to 7th April 2026

Experience an Unforgettable Greek Language Retreat on the Island of Milos!

Step into the spellbinding beauty of Milos this June and dive into a week of exploration, culture, and language. Guided by our host your favourite Greek Language Teacher, you’ll uncover the island’s treasures while strengthening your Greek through real-life encounters and hands-on activities.

This is far more than a language retreat! You’ll wander through iconic archaeological sites, learning the stories that shaped the island. You’ll taste locally crafted wines, savoring the flavors that define Cycladic life. You’ll set sail on a boat trip around the island’s dramatic coastline—white cliffs, turquoise waters, hidden coves included, and stunning sunset included. And you’ll explore natural reserve of Achivadolimni and the charming Plaka, where traditional architecture, breathtaking views, and warm local hospitality await.

Whether you’re eager to deepen your Greek, meet native speakers, or simply experience the magic of Milos at its most authentic, this retreat offers a rich, engaging, and truly memorable adventure.

Learn, connect, and explore—Greek island style!

The Retreat Program

Day 1

Arrive at Ippocampos Studios in Adamantas, settle into your home for the week, and enjoy a light, easy lunch chosen together with those already on site. Spend a gentle afternoon discovering Adamantas with a stroll to the Nautical Museum, Saint Trinity Church, and whatever else catches your eye. In the evening, gather for a warm welcome, introductions and a first chance to meet our guides and guest lecturers, followed by dinner featuring local flavors at Trapatsellis.

Day 2

After breakfast and a first set of practical vocabulary, set out on a guided exploration of Milos’ remarkable archaeological heritage, including the Catacombs, the Ancient Theatre and the site where the Aphrodite of Milos was discovered. Enjoy a light lunch at a local taverna before visiting Plaka, the island’s capital village, with its panoramic views and winding streets. The evening concludes with dinner at Okto Restaurant in nearby Trypiti, with Greek practice woven naturally through the day thanks to our lecturers and guide.

Day 3

Begin with breakfast and a new set of useful expressions before driving to the seaside village of Pollonia, with a short stop at the dramatic Papafragkas Beach for photos. Visit Konstandakis Winery for a tasting accompanied by light snacks, then relax with coffee and local sweets at Kivotos ton Gefseon a renown local pastry shop and local products merchant. The day ends with an early dinner at Gialos Restaurant overlooking the sea.

Day 4

After breakfast and vocabulary, board the Aquatta Catamaran for a full day boat excursion around Milos and the uninhabited island of Polyaegos. Enjoy snorkelling as you explore hidden coves and crystal waters, returning to Adamantas after sunset. Lunch, snacks and drinks, will be served on board and you will finish the day watching the most beautiful sunset from the boat. The cruise day is followed by a dinner at a local taverna for those who wish (optional).

Day 5

Following breakfast and a short lesson, travel by car to Achivadolimni, a protected natural area of great beauty, then continue to Plaka for a leisurely morning of wandering and shopping. Visit the village of Mandrakia and share lunch at the well-loved Medusa taverna, known for its atmosphere and occasional celebrity sightings. Return to the accommodation for a relaxing afternoon with optional lessons and end the day with dinner in Adamantas.

Day 6

Enjoy breakfast and a relaxed final lesson before spending a free day in Adamantas to shop, explore, or simply unwind. The afternoon is open, with the possibility of one last Greek session if desired, and we gather in the evening for a farewell dinner at Mikros Apoplous taverna, closing the retreat on a warm and memorable note.

Focus on conversation and practice!

Our Greek Language Retreat focuses on conversation whether you are a beginner or already speak some Greek. Your teachers will assist you with grammar and vocabulary throughout. During the lessons the group will be split so that beginers can go through essential Greek bases and more advanced can practice conversation supported by a teacher’s guidance.

Every activities become a pretext to practice and expand your vobabulary. 

We are moving the classroom outdoor! You will learn through visits of historical sites, tasting and discovering Milos beauty.

Every morning, we will explore the vocabulary of the day so that each time you experience words in their context, they will be easier to understand and integrate.

At Philomilo, we truly believe that the more your experience a language while enjoying yourself, the more what you learn will stick with you. Studies have proven that what was learned through pleasure and fun would be better remembered. So, we created this amazing experiencial greek language retreat designed to help you grow your language skills while enjoying the culture and adventures.

 

Why would you want to come to Milos this June?

To discover an epic island of the cyclades while learning Greek of course!

Birthplace of the Venus de Milo

Milos is where the world-famous statue Aphrodite of Milos was discovered in 1820. The exact excavation site is still visible and part of local archaeological tours.

    Home to the largest early-Christian catacombs in Greece

    The Catacombs of Milos date to the 1st–5th century AD and are among the most important early-Christian monuments in the Mediterranean.

      A volcanic island with over 70 beaches

      Because of its volcanic geology, Milos has an extraordinary range of beaches—white, red, black, or golden sand; lunar landscapes like Sarakiniko; and unique rock formations.

      One of the oldest mining areas in the Aegean

      Milos has been known since antiquity for its mineral wealth (obsidian, sulphur, bentonite, perlite). Obsidian from Milos was traded across the Mediterranean as early as 8000 BC.

        Picturesque Cycladic villages with traditional "syrmata"

        Coastal villages like Mandrakia, Klima, and Firopotamos feature colourful fishermen’s houses carved into the rock, with boathouses at sea level—an architectural style unique to Milos.

        Consistently ranked among Europe’s top islands

        Milos frequently appears in major travel rankings thanks to its landscapes, warm hospitality, and authentic villages such as Plaka and Pollonia, making it a favourite for travellers seeking quieter, more genuine experiences.

        Why This Greek Language Retreat Is So Special?

        Small, intimate group – feel supported and connected
        Total language immersion – use Greek from day one
        Stunning, crowd-free location – far from mass-tourists locations
        Cultural deep dives – food, wine, music, traditions
        Optional adventures – from olive groves to ancient ruins
        Taught with love – I’ve poured my heart and soul into every detail

        This retreat isn’t just about learning Greek—it’s about feeling Greece: the warmth of its people, the poetry in its language, the richness of its land.

        As we mentioned, our Greek Language Retreat focuses on conversation and practice.

        Your Greek hosts and guides will tell you about the local historical sites, traditions and take you in the most scenic places and turquoise waters.

        The activities will be in Greek (of course, your teacher will assist you to ensure you understand everything).

        You will experience scenic walks through breathtaking scenery and landscape. Finally, you will enjoy the sea, good laughter, and delicious food.

        Whether this is your first retreat or your fourth, I can’t wait to share this magical corner of Crete with you.

        Let me sum up what you could experience:

         

        Learn

        Practice

        VISIT

        Taste

        Discover

        Relax

        Book Your Spot Now & Select Your Accomodation!

        We are using two location to host you, both part of the same compound.

        The number of rooms are limited so don’t wait any further to book yours!

        Solo Adventurer
        (make new friends & practice)

        Single Room with queen-size bed, all activities, teachers and meals included.

        Ippocampos Studios

        2,654.-

        Duo Explorers
        (for couples or friends)

        Double Room with one or two queen-size bed, all activities, teachers and meals included.

        Ippocampos Studios

        4’263..-

        This retreat is FOR YOU IF

        You want to focus on practising conversation.

        You have basic notions of Greek.

        You want to learn more about Greek culture.

        You want to learn while being relaxed.

        You are fit (without having to be sporty).

        You’d love to discover Molos

        FAQ

        What is the Greek Level Required?

        All levels are accepted.

        The group will be split by level during the lessons.

        What is the Cancellation policy?

        Cancellation by participant:

        • Full refund 60 days prior to the retreat (minus transaction fees).
        • 50% refund up to 30 days prior to the retreat (minus transaction fees).
        • No refund for cancellation less than 30 days before the retreat.

        Transfer option: You may transfer your place to another person (with our approval) without extra fee, if you notify us at least 14 days before the retreat.

        Organiser-cancellation / force majeure:

        If we must cancel or reschedule the retreat (weather, inadequate enrollment, emergencies), we will offer either re-scheduled dates or a full refund OR a credit for another retreat.

        All refund requests must be submitted via email to our contact address; refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 30 calendar days.

        Meet the people you will meet during the retreat.

        Our team comprises like-minded warm Creteans who love sharing their culture, beauty and crafts.

        Your Teacher: Poppie Raphaelaki

        Your Greek Language Teacher and organiser of this retreat is a dynamic Cretan women keen to make you discover the wonders of the region. She believes that the best way to learn Greek is through experiencing its culture and create wonderful memories.

        Your Scholar Guest Lecturer: Gianna Arakadaki

        Born and raised in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, she is now based in Thessaloniki. She studied Classical Philology with a focus on Linguistics at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and expanded her academic training through the Erasmus program at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona. Since 2001, she has taught both Ancient and Modern Greek.

        She is an active member of the association “To Paramikró: Creative + Learning Workshop,” where she helps design and lead language-centered activities, from creative theatre writing for teenagers to playful word-based workshops. She has also contributed to several volunteer groups in Thessaloniki over the years. Since 2024, she has joined Philomilo’s Language Retreats as a Guest Lecturer.

        Your Greek Dance Tutor & Guest Lecturer: Katina Dunkerly-Thompson

        Katina is a Greek American who has been dancing traditional Greek folk dances for over 35 years.  As a Greek American she has had a unique opportunity to learn the dances from every region of Greece as well as competing in international competitions, placing first in dance and costuming.

        She believes that dance connects us to our ancestors, as they danced the same steps we dance today. With each step we dance along with those who danced before us. This is her Κέφι, her passion. As an instructor she enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience with others to keep the dances alive so we can keep our ancestors' footsteps going. 

        Testimonials

        Let’s read what our students and guests have to say about their experience!

        I took part in the first session of classes and discovery of Crete organised by my Greek teacher, Poppie Raphaelaki.

        We were a small group of women of different nationalities, hosted in the beautiful house adjoining Michalis' farm in the heart of nature. The house was truly stunning, with authentic Cretan décor, charming rooms, a pool, and peaceful spots to recharge.

        Poppie introduced us to Cretan life: traditional restaurants in small villages, mountain excursions to discover plants, and visits to a nearby lake or a magnificent gorge. At Michalis and his wife Velina’s farm, we made bread, cheese, and meals and explored every aspect of the farm. There were many laughs, emotions, and sharing moments throughout the stay.

        In the morning, breakfast was more than generous, and the meals were an opportunity to learn about Cretan cuisine.

        Poppie is very caring and adapts to each participant; she has a real gift for organisation, ensuring a balance between activities and rest, and knows how to create a great atmosphere.

        Unfortunately, I couldn’t join the other sessions, but I will definitely return.

        Florence Delbos

        Retreat Zora - Crete 11 to 15 April 2024, France

        Another great trip for me. Staying on an eco-friendly farm in central Crete during the week running up to Easter, we took part in many Greek traditions, from cooking to visiting a local monastery on Palm Sunday.

        We went on a nature walk where one of our hosts, Michalis, showed us how to live off what the land offers, as well as explaining the history of the area.  We also toured around Velina & Michalis’s farm, cooking our own Easter breads and biscuits, watching the cheese being made and petting the animals on the farm, finally ending off the morning with the most amazing lunch prepared by Velina and her staff.

        Our guest lecturer, Katerina, was brilliant at lesson time, choosing innovative ways in which to teach us the language.  At other times, she would make sure she tested our Greek over lunch or dinner!

        If you have a little knowledge of Greek to begin with then you would gain more from the Greek language side of the Retreat.  If you simply want to immerse yourself in Greek life and culture, then this is another wonderful trip to go on.

        Jackie

        Zaros April 2025, UK

        The retreat's setting was stunning. It is in the south-eastern corner of Crete, a remote and beautiful area (and geologically very interesting!).

        The Retreat was very laid-back. You can partake in as much or as little as you wish. The excursions are great fun. We tasted olive oil, visited ancient sites and abandoned villages, walked the Zakros Gorge, ate very well, and, of course, had daily Greek lessons aimed at all abilities. Gianna, our guest lecturer, was enthusiastic and a very knowledgeable teacher.

        If the weather is kind, you can relax on the nearby beach, swim, or read up on your Greek!

        The one thing I would say is that this is not only a total immersion Greek language course, it is a cultural experience just as much.  And, if you are coming solely to learn Greek, rather than take in the whole itinerary, it would be better for you if you had a very basic knowledge to start with, as that would help with the mixed ability lessons.

        Jackie

        Xerocampos October 2024, UK