The Greek Islands
Beccy Miller
Cruise the Greek islands and be rewarded by bustling tavernas, whitewashed villages, sparkling blue seas and gorgeous beaches. Here are just a few of our favourites...
Mykonos
Measuring just 33 square miles in size, the sophisticated and cool Mykonos is packed with boutique bars, hipster clubs, sandy beaches and winding, whitewashed streets. The iconic white windmills are situated on a small hill, overlooking the harbour known as ‘Little Venice’, instantly recognisable as one of Mykonos’ most photographed.
If you want to step away from the busy beaches and learn more about the island’s culture, the Mykonos Folklore Museum is worth a trip, along with Lena’s House – a traditional 19th century Mykonian house which is preserved and named after its last occupant, Lena Skrivanou, who died in 1968.
Santorini
Officially known as Thira, Santorini is probably the most beautiful of all the Greek islands. The caldera, formed when a volcano erupted in 1650BC, is said to be the location for the mythical lost city of Atlantis.
Climb up to picture-postcard villages such as Oia - with its sugar-cube like white houses and brightly coloured roofs – and be rewarded with the most breath-taking views, especially as the sunsets. You’ll also find art galleries, a maritime museum and quaint little tavernas offering fresh fish served with one of the most stunning panoramas in the region. If you want a relaxing beach day, head over to Kamari. This unique, black sand beach is great for water sports and has a vibrant bar and café scene.
Kefalonia
Idyllic Kefalonia boasts a beautiful natural landscape, gorgeous beaches and lots of sleepy villages to explore, such as Fiscardo. Most of Kefalonia was flattened in a major earthquake in 1953, but Fiscardo was one of the few villages that escaped unscathed. A mix of traditional Greek and Venetian homes dot the shore line and the bustling tavernas sell the catch of the day.
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, with Antisamos and Myrtos leading the charge. The fabulous hues of blue of Myrtos beach make this a great choice for a lazy day. If you’re after a bit more adventure, then the Melissani cave can be reached by boat tour and was only discovered after the earthquake.
Crete
Amongst the largest of the Greek islands, Crete offers something for everyone. The old venetian harbour of Chania, with it’s palm tree lined promenade is a pretty entry point for visitors to explore and the maritime museum nearby offers great insight into the island’s history and importance through the centuries.
If you fancy a day trip out Elafonisi is the place to go. Thousands of broken seashells give the beach a pink hue and that, teemed with the most incredible turquoise waters, make this one of the most picture-perfect beaches in Europe. Elafonisi is actually a tiny island off the coast and the lagoon between them is perfect for swimming with children, as the water is relatively shallow.
Rhodes
Rhodes once held one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus, which was destroyed in an earthquake in 226 BC. Though now destroyed, the Old Town of Rhodes was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 and for the culture vultures amongst us, it offers castles, ancient ruins and a stunning acropolis at Lindos.
If you’re looking for some R&R, the thermal springs at Kallithea is a good place to recharge. The pristine waters are beyond inviting, afterwards why not wander around the lovingly restored gardens and grab a bite to eat and a drink at the café on site.
Zakynthos
You may know Zakynthos as Zante – the former being the Greek name and the later, Italian. It’s gorgeous shipwreck beach of Navagio is famous as are the Blue Caves, a fabulous spot for swimming, snorkelling or kayaking.
If you venture inland, the pretty squares of Zante town are easy to get lost in. Alternatively, take a trip up to the olive oil press & museum to learn the history of olive oil, trying succulent olives from the groves around you whilst breathing in the surroundings.
Corfu
The twin peaked island of Corfu was once a bustling trading port and for that reason, has a colourful history of sieges and invasions, which have all left their mark on the island. The Old Fortress is well worth a visit, this impressive garrison helped protect the island from three separate sieges by the Ottoman Empire.
If it’s beaches you’re after, Agios Georgios and Agios Stephanos offer respite from the busier waters such as Sidari. Both have gently sloping shorelines and a nice selection of Tavernas.
Did your favourite island make the cut? Let us know!
