MY 5 FAVOURITE GREEK ISLANDS
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MY 5 FAVOURITE GREEK ISLANDS
by Sorrel Ashton , Travel Counsellors
Occasionally when you travel somewhere , it will just grab you and not let go . Wherever you go in the Greek Islands you will find beautiful beaches and amazing restaurants , but some places just create an instant bond that make that holiday a little more special . Whether it ’ s the people and the warm environment they provide , the endless history and mythology , or just the intricate and uniqueness that each island has to offer . I recently travelled the Greek Islands , and am already planning to go back to at least one if not all of these favourites .
Tinos - Unspoilt beaches , historical towns , incredible hikes .
I ’ d never been to Tinos ( or really heard of it !) until recently , but I instantly loved it and will undoubtedly be going back . Everyone heads to its famous neighbour , Mykonos , but lying just to the north and only accessible by ferry , this hidden gem is worthy of bypassing the established and immersing yourself in culture , history and of course , beautiful beaches . The island offers multiple villages to visit and explore , each as unique and charming as the next . Traditionally Tinos has served only as a destination for pilgrims making their way to pray in the Church of Panagia Evangelistria , via rather unique methods is all I will say , and has remained under the radar in the tourism world . Whilst the ebb and flow of tourism can diminish a location ' s charm , a respectful visit away from the crowds of the established islands is very worth it .
Ios - Some of the best beaches in Greece to accompany the nightlife .
Ios is well known as the budget party island of Greece , and has been on hedonist map since the 70 ’ s . It ’ s a sophisticated island with a great nightlife , unbeatable beach clubs , and a characterful old town that has kept tourists of all ages coming back . However , in a similar vein to Ibiza and Zante , there ’ s more to Ios than partying . Whilst the rocky landscape may not be as pretty as other islands , the drive to the picturesque beaches of Manganari and Tris Klisies is an adventure in itself . The undulating and turning roads create a rollercoaster of a ride , and if an island ’ s authenticity is judged by goats blocking your way , then Ios is certainly authentic ! Whilst mainly a destination for those who want to see the wrong side of a sunrise , the island offers plenty to enjoy away from the nightlife .
Naxos - Great for beach lovers , explorers and hikers .
A Greek mythology central , with ancient ruins , a hike to Zeus ’ childhood cave and sleepy fishing villages next to pristine beaches . The old town is literally a
cobbled labyrinth of market stalls , coffee houses and shops to pick your way through . Despite being the largest island in the Cyclades region , it ’ s sparsely populated and allows visitors to explore without the crowds . The size and variance of the island allows a bit of something for everyone . Beaches and relaxed Mediterranean cuisine for the chilled traveller ( look out for the fresh catches from the pier restaurants ), or hikes , mountain biking and wind surfing for the adventurous . A boat trip to the neighbouring islands of Paros and Antiparos is also a recommendation .
Corfu - The greenest Greek Island .
Despite being an established holiday destination , the beautiful green island of Corfu still offers so much to enjoy . Its location at the mouth of the Adriatic near Italy and Albania , gives it an alternative flavour to other Greek islands , with Roman , French , Venetian and English influences providing a rich history and unique culture . For me , Corfu town is a great city break in its own right . This mediaeval fortress town is great for meandering down cobbled streets and alleyways , just absorbing the Mediterranean way of life . Due to the islands ’ idyllic reputation , tourist traps do exist however , so another recommendation is just to hire a car and drive . This is an excellent way to see the island and explore its amazing beaches and villages on some great road trips .
Crete - Great for variety , there is so much to do on Crete .
Of Greece ’ s staggering 6,000 islands , Crete is the biggest but holds just as much charm and intrigue as its many siblings . Perfect for either early or late in the holiday season , Crete offers beaches , hikes , mythology , UNESCO World Heritage sites and incredible hotels . You could spend two weeks on one corner and not get bored . My favourite is Agios Nikolaos on the east side of the island . A genuine fishing village with an abundance of tavernas , all selling fresh produce . It ’ s an idyllic place to people watch on the harbour front with a glass of wine . Crete is perfect as a destination in itself or as part of an island-hopping itinerary . You could keep coming back and see new parts of the island each time , or just return to that favourite spot .
Interested in going on your own Greek island hopping adventure ? Get in touch via email sorrel . ashton @ travelcounsellors . com or follow me on Instagram @ sorrel _ travel
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