GREEK ISLANDS
Scattered like pearls across the shimmering Aegean and Ionian seas, the Greek islands have lured many with their charms. From the times of Jason and his adventuring Argonauts and the Frankish Crusaders to incursions by Mamma Mia film crews, myth and enchantment enfold the islands much like their ribbons of sugar-soft sand. There’s nothing quite like spotting the shoreline from a sun-drenched ferry deck and sailing into a port. And, in Greece, getting there is an essential part of the adventure. There are reckoned to be 227 inhabited islands to choose from (and countless more specks in the sea), so read on to wise up on the fine art of island-hopping, and discover which of the seven main island groups beckons you most…
Cyclades
The visitor appeal of the Cyclades is undeniable: be prepared to share, especially in high season. Of all the island groups, the Cyclades most closely match what the world thinks of as the ‘Greek island look’: a minimalist, often stark landscape, with dazzlingly white houses and azure sea echoing the colours of the national flag. From , hop on a ferry to , most glamorous of Greek islands, overlooked by its iconic windmills. Keep an eye out for celebrity visitors as you explore flower-filled lanes, boutique shops and cafés. Away from its main town, the island is quieter, with twisting lanes ripe to explore by bike or on foot. Day-trip to the tiny island of with its sun-bleached ruins, a site of great spiritual importance to the ancient Greeks – the Cyclades were so named because they encircle Delos. Carry on to , the biggest of the Cyclades, with a walled seaside capital surrounding a hilltop castle. A quick hop west, source of much of the finest marble in history. The pretty bayside town of feels like Mykonos turned down a notch. Even further south, you’ll reach with its legendary sunsets, black-sand beaches, vineyards and incredible excavated town dating back to the ancient Minoan civilisation. Complete the loop after a stop in laid-back , with dozens of beaches and charming villages to explore.
