Island of Antiparos
The sister island to Paros, Antiparos is a small, picturesque and unspoilt island with gorgeous beaches. Antiparos and Paros are divided by a narrow channel of beautiful sea and this small island of about 35 sq kms has golden, sandy beaches and natural, unspoilt beauty. The main town Kastro, is an extremely picturesque village with a fishing port, very pretty waterfront and narrow, winding streets. All around Antiparos are many tiny little islands and there is the fascinating cave of Agios Ioanis. The island can be reached by boat and ferry from Paros.
The island has one small whitewashed village which is a typical picturesque Cycladic village with one main street leading up from the fishing harbour which is full of traditional fishing boats or caiques. Fishermen go out every weekday morning and on their return sell their catch on the waterfront. The main street, like most of the village, is completely pedestrianised. The houses which lead off it are all white-washed, and it is lined with cafes and restaurants, souvlaki kiosks and traditional shops. It has several minimarkets which sell everything, a chemist, a bakery, newsagents, a bank, hardware shops and several travel agents. There is a very efficient laundry. The small main square next to the church is encircled with cafes under the shade of the trees. The men sit and play cards and back gammon as the day cools. At night it is very busy. There are several bars and discos on the outskirts of the village.
The island is dotted with pretty bays and beaches and a sprinkling of houses and tavernas and a second, smaller and very quiet harbour. The sunset from here is spectacular. There are several tavernas where you can watch the sun disappearing over the horizon.
One of the attractions of the island is an enormous cave, which reaches deep into the hillside and has a stairwell constructed so that visitors can see the huge stalactites and stalagmites.
It is a short ferry ride to the bigger island of Paros, which has its own airport, and where the large ferries dock from Athens and the neighbouring islands. There are regular ferries from Paros to Athens, to nearby Mykonos, Santorini and other islands.
Zakynthos
ZAKYNTHOS
The northern part of the island is rich in pine forests and deserted beaches, while the southern part is less mountainous and more cultivated, with sandy beaches. The eastern coastline is beautiful with olive-clad hillsides and cultivated valleys sweeping down to sandy beaches both large and small. The most beautiful beach on the island is Gerakas bay on the south eastern tip. It would stand comparison with any other beach in the world. The coastline around the northern tip of the island and down the precipitous west coast is one of the most undeveloped and beautiful in the Mediterranean. The deepest part of the Mediterranean is just to the south west of the island.
Greek cuisine is not haute cuisine but is very good in all our local tavernas, simple, extremely fresh, using excellent local produce, and exceptional value for money. The advantage of this is that eating out is genuinely almost as cheap as self-catering. Greek wine is also improving all the time with a good selection of non-retsina wines and Zakynthos own wine is eminently drinkable. In Zakynthos town there are many outstanding restaurants catering to the international clientele – but unfortunately at more international prices!
Chios: History
The Island’s History
Chios is the probable birthplace of Homer, and, like many of the islands, has had a turbulent past. But it has also been relatively prosperous and in medieval times the mastic resin was exported and in the 20th Century shipping dynasties were built up in Chios. There is a strong maritime influence and many people did, and still do, serve in the Merchant Navy.
In 1822 the Turks committed an infamous atrocity, slaughtering 30,000 inhabitants and enslaving many more. The clifftop village of Anavatos is the site of a mass suicide by the villagers, rather than face surrender to the Ottomans. It is still deserted, and has spectacular views and is an eerie but fascinating experience. There are numerous Byzantine monuments, medieval villages and Venetian architecture to admire on this island.
Chios has suffered at the hands of nature as well. In 1881 much of the island was destroyed by a severe earthquake and in 1980 parts of the island were devastated by forest fires, from which it is gradually recovering with the help of the planting of new trees.
Chios: How to get there
How to get there
There is an airport on Chios, but it is not possible to fly directly from the UK. Olympic Airways fly into Athens and then there are domestic flights on to Chios. Numerous other scheduled carriers also fly into Athens, as do charter airlines.
Another route is to take a charter flight to the neighbouring island of Samos and then to take the ferry over to Chios.
Island of Chios
Real Greece, traditional and rural, unspoilt and unique, a little known jewel. It has wonderful beaches and is ideal for anyone wanting to get away from it all.
This is one of the largest and most fascinating of the Greek Islands. It is located in the north east Aegean, close to Turkey. Chios boasts beautiful and diverse landscapes, unique architecture and an extraordinary historical background.
It is little known outside Greece except by historians and dedicated hellenophiles and as a result is one of the few remaining places that is truly Greek and almost untouched by tourism. You will find friendly and welcoming people, unspoilt rural villages, secluded bays and hidden treasures of times past, all set amidst a magnificent landscape.
Chios is a hidden gem that suits all those who are looking for peace and quiet, stunning scenery and fascinating historical monuments, as well as plenty of gorgeous sandy beaches
Chios: The Beaches
The Beaches
Only a few minutes drive or about a 20 minute walk from Volissos is the beach of Lefkathia which is intimate and sandy and is the location of Zorbas apartments. The next cove is Limnos which also has a good beach and a couple of excellent tavernas.
Limnia, the little port of Volissos, has a few tavernas and a couple of bars which are perfect spots for an evening of ouzo and a delicious meal on the harbour whilst watching the fishing boats heading out to sea. A 1500 metre walk southeast of Limnia bring you to Managros, a seemingly endless stretch of sand and pebbles. 5km west of here is Agia Markella, a long stunning beach fronting the monastery of the patron saint of Chios.
All of the best beaches of the island are in this area surrounding the village of Volissos, but it is worth exploring others around the island such as Emporeio, on the south coast, which is great for snorkelling and the best beach in the north is Nagos. There are also some nice beaches near Chios Town but these are near the busier areas of the island.
Chios: What to do
What to do on the Island
A dramatic coastal drive to the northern part of the island leads to Volissos which is where our properties are located. Changes to this delightful rural village, situated below the Byzantine fort and declared a “Traditional Village” in 1988, are happening slowly and carefully, interfering little with the traditional way of life. Everything that one needs for a holiday can be found here, good tavernas and restaurants, grocers, a butcher and a traditional baker, where freshly baked bread is made in the old ovens everyday, a rare treat nowadays. It is a place of unique beauty and tranquility and home to hospitable and friendly people.
The island has many other secrets to be uncovered, a visit to the fascinating Medieval Mastic Villages is a must. This is the only area in the world where the mastic tree naturally produces its sticky, resinous gum which was originally used as chewing gum, but amongst other things is now used for medicinal purposes.
Almost exactly in the middle of the island is the beautiful monastery of Nea Moni, which was built in 1042 and is considered to be one of the most important monuments on any of the Greek Islands. Nearby is the deserted hill village of Avgonima which is being slowly restored.
A trip to the Cambos to see the faded Genoese elegance of this area is also a highlight. There is so much to see on Chios and there are numerous fascinating road trips and walking excursions around the island.
Island of Patmos
This island has a deeply religious history, spectacular and sophisticated. Home to the rich and famous, but with something for everyone. A very different island.
Said to be the most beautiful and atmospheric of the smaller Dodecanese islands, Patmos is well worth the journey to experience this unique and evocative destination with a powerful and ancient past.
Patmos attracts a mixed crowd, from the cosmopolitan and wealthy, to day trippers arriving on cruise ships and yachts. No one nationality dominates but an international mix of those drawn to the romance and history of the island.
As there is no airport, the development of the island has been preserved and it has not become a tourist hot-spot such as Kos or Rhodes.
This is a mountainous island with a ragged coastline, indented with many small coves, many of which host lovely sandy beaches.
Island of Skiathos
Lovely green island with wonderful beaches. Developed but privacy can be found. It has excellent facilites for young groups and families.
Skiathos is the most cosmopolitan of all the Sporadic Islands. It is composed of mountainous inland areas, beautiful pine forests and glorious sandy beaches. It is said that Skiathos has the best beaches in the Sporades, if not in the whole of Greece! Forays inland uncover stunning scenery and many fine untouched examples of the island’s history.
There is good nightlife on offer for those who are looking to dance until dawn. In fact this island has much to offer families of all ages as there is something to suit everyone.
If you are looking for peace and quiet, then it’s best to come out of season in the spring or autumn.
Skiathos: History
The Island’s History
There are numerous walks for those interested in the history of the island. The Evangelistria Monastery is about one hours walk from Skiathos Town. This was founded in the 18th Century and is exceptionally beautiful, situated in grand isolation. The Greek flag was proudly raised here by the heroes of the War of Independence in 1807.
Beyond Evanglistria is another lovely monastery, Agios Kharalambos and after this the ruined old capital of Kastro. Another way to get to Kastro is by kaiki to the beach just below.
Kastro is a beautiful and spectacular sight, situated on a windswept headland. The village was built in the 16th Century as a safe place from pirates, but was abandoned in 1830 after independence was achieved and the modern town of Skiathos was built. Only three churches remain intact and the ruins are overgrown but it is a very atmospheric trip.
Skiathos: How to get there
How to get there
Skiathos is easy to reach by direct charter flight direct from the UK. Alternatively fly to Athens and take an internal flight to the island. Another option is to take the coach from Athens to the port of Agios Konstantinos. There is a scenic trip by hydrofoil or ferry to Skiathos, and this journey takes about 2.5 hours.
Skiathos: The Beaches
The Beaches
Skiathos has sixty beaches, and many have watersports facilites. Many of the best beaches can get quite crowded and Koukounaries is reputed to be the best beach on the island. For the adventurous there is the trendy nudist beach, Banana Beach. The beaches of Paraskevi and Vromolimnos on the Kalamaki Peninsula are also recommended. There is a dive centre for scuba enthusiasts.
The north of the island has the quietest beaches as none are accessible by car. There is a kaiki service to these beaches. The most spectacular of these is Lalaria Beach which is covered with smooth white stones and backed by steep cliffs. For those in search of the most peaceful beaches, a boat can be hired to take you over to the islet of Tsougria.
Skiathos: What to do
What to do on the Island
There are good restaurants in Skiathos town, suitable for all budgets and tastes. The town offers a vibrant nightlife, especially in the peak months, and there are many lively clubs and bars. If you are interested in walking and exploring the quieter beauty of Skiathos it is possible to find a guide to take you on the best routes.
A boat trip around the island is a really good way to get your bearings. The Sporades are superb for sailing and chartering a yacht to some of the other islands for a day, or even longer, is very popular. There are some interesting excursions on foot for the adventurous, such as the beautiful monastery of Evangelistria and further inland to the old capital of Kastro.
Island of Skopelos
Larger sister island to Skiathos, less developed, spectacular scenery and lovely beaches. Low-key and peaceful with traditional villages and excellent for couples and families.
Skopelos is the larger and more rugged sister island to Skiathos. It has spectacular scenery, a coastline of rocky cliffs and a forested interior which is lush and also spotted with olive groves and fruit orchards. In fact olives are the main source of income for the island, rather than tourism.
It is a popular island, but not as busy as Skiathos as it does not have an airport and the islanders fiercely protect the traditional charm of their island.
It has beautiful beaches and lovely unspoilt villages and offers a low-key nightlife. It is suitable for couples and families alike.
Skopelos: History
The Island’s History
Skopelos has a chequered history having been occupied at various stages by French, Romans, Persians, Venetians and Turks. The island’s blackest hour was in the 16th Century when the Turkish Admiral, Redbeard, slaughtered the whole population and there is a walk from Glossa that takes you to a monastery where there is a well containing many human bones and skulls.
It is worth visiting the two convents and one monastery outside Skopelos Town. The monastery was abandoned but is now being restored. This is a beautiful walk.
If exploring the Vathia Forest, visit Revithi Hill with the fountains and churches as well as the fascinating ancient rock cut tombs which are thought to be pre-christian.
Skopelos: How to get there
How to get there
The easiest and most straightforward way to get to Skopelos is to fly direct from the UK to Skiathos. There is a ferry to Skopelos which takes about 1 hour and is very scenic.
Do bear in mind that the ferry stops at both Glossa and Loutraki. Another route is from Athens, the port of Agios Konstantinos and then the ferry to Skopelos.
Skopelos: The Beaches
The Beaches
Skopelos does have many larger and more popular beaches with tavernas and watersports, but it is also possible to find smaller deserted coves. The best way to do this is to hire a small boat and explore the coastline. Many beaches are only accessible by boat.
From Skopelos Town the closest beach is Stafylos which is a picturesque rocky beach with a taverna, but it can get crowded. Further west there is Agnondas with its harbour and some excellent fish tavernas, and one can take the kaiki from here to the wonderful beach of Limnonari.
Opposite the islet of Peristera is the recommended beach of Milia which is wide and shallow with pines coming right down to the beachside and is very picturesque.
Skopelos: What to do
What to do on the Island
The island has two main towns, Glossa and Skopelos, and they are amongst the prettiest towns in the Sporades with attractive houses clambering up the hillsides. There are supposed to be 123 churches in Skopelos Town, lending it a unique charm, as well as three monasteries.
The harbour area of Skopelos Town is crowded with tavernas and cafes but is worth exploring with charming back streets and interesting shops and little restaurants and bars. There is nightlife here in the form of some good late night bars. Glossa, situated high above Loutraki, the other port of the island, is a pretty and very traditional Greek town.
One can walk from Glossa to the monastery, Agios Yioannis Kastri, which is perched above a sandy cove. It is a spectacular walk. There are various jeep tracks and paths to Mount Dhelfi and the Vathia Forest if you feel like an adventure.
Island of Alonnissos
A retreat for nature lovers, it has a protected marine park. Beautiful scenery and views, crystal clear waters. Ideal for families and all those wanting to escape the crowds.
Long and narrow, the delightful island of Alonnisos is the perfect retreat for nature-lovers and for those seeking an atmosphere that is traditionally Greek. It is a mountainous island with beautiful views of the other Sporadic islands of which this is the quietest and most remote.
The island is green and covered with pine forests that go right down to the beaches! You will find the clearest waters in the Aegean and many opportunities for some of the best sailing in Greece.
Island of Alonnisos
The seas around Alonnisos are a Marine Park (one of the most important in the whole of the Mediterranean) which has been established to protect the local population of the threatened Mediterranean Monk Seal. Hence the island is a paradise for nature lovers and there is no danger of it being spoilt. Thanks to the natural environment and lack of human intervention, the island and its surrounding uninhabited islets are refuge to many endangered species of bird and animal.
Alonnissos: History
The Island’s History
Alonnisos was only given this name after the War of Independence and in ancient times it was known as Ikos. It was colonised by Cretans in the 15th Century BC, during the Minoan domination of the Aegean and it was at this time that the vineyards (the island has always produced excellent wine) and olive groves were established.
Its chequered history meant that it was then colonised by the Myceanans and after, the Dolopes who were to become dangerous pirates and the scourge of the Aegaen. They were routed by the Athenian Navy in 476 BC, and thus the island joined the 1st Athenian Alliance. In 190 BC, the Romans took the island and eventually it fell to the domination of Constantinople, which in turn was to pass it onto the Venetians. In 1538 Turkish authority was imposed by Barbarossa.
During the Greek Revolution (1821) Alonnisos was a refuge for many from all parts of Greece, and their descendants along with the native inhabitants form the present interesting mix.
Alonnisos has an unfortunate recent history, the vineyards were wiped out by disease in 1950 and then in 1965 tragedy struck in the form of a devastating earthquake. The Chora was almost completely destroyed, but luckily was rebuilt and some examples of traditional architecture still exist. The village was built in an amazing position, on high ground with views to the four points of the horizon.
Island of Evia
Second largest Greek island, undiscovered by tourism and very unspoilt- this is the Greek’s Greek island. Spectacularly green and forested in the North and barren in the South. Traditional villages and wild , wonderful beaches.
This is the largest island in Greece after Crete. It is almost like an extension of the mainland and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Evia is a most interesting island with a rich and independent history.
Despite its size, Evia has managed to retain all of its quintessential Greek flavour. The beautiful northern half of the island is unspoilt and unsullied by the hand of tourism.
There is something of interest at every turn – bustling towns, villages apparently forgotten by time, fertile valleys and wooded mountain sides, cool olive groves and sweeping beaches.
Mykonos: Getting There
How to get there
This island has the benefit of an international airport so you can fly directly from the UK with various charter airlines. Alternatively you can fly to Athens, and take a short internal flight on to Mykonos. Another option is to fly to Athens and then make your way to Rafina Port. There are several highspeed hydrofoils each day connecting to Mykonos and the scenic trip takes about 2.5 hours.
Mykonos: History
The Island’s History
Historically Mykonos has always attracted many visitors as it was a stop off point for those travelling to the neighbouring island of Delos. This small island is now preserved as a museum and classical site and one is only able to visit it as a day trip by boat.
This fascinating island has a turbulent history dating back to the ancient Ionians who made Delos their religious capital. It was fought over many times and was a great trading centre.
A visit to this island is a fascinating excursion back to the time of the Greek gods.
Island of Mykonos
The FUN island, sophisticated and glamorous. Barren but beautiful scenery with lovely beaches. Great nightlife, but privacy and seclusion can be found. Excellent for young couples and singles.
Mykonos is world famous; it is the most cosmoplitan of all the Greek Islands and attracts many visitors from across the globe, including large numbers of artists and intellectuals, and is a fashionable haunt for the rich and famous.
The landscape of the island is barren and rocky, which contrasts with small fertile areas covered with wild flowers and has a special beauty. It is dotted with superb beaches and beautiful white houses and chapels and the famous Mykonian windmills.
The island retains a great deal of charm with its traditional cycladic style architecture.
Mykonos: The Beaches
The Beaches
Beach lovers will find glorious golden sands at beaches such as Agios Stefanos, Kalafati and Ornos. The waters are wonderfully calm and safe.
Mykonos is unusual in that scuba diving is legal (in many islands it is prohibited due to loss of artefacts on the sea bed) and there are many good dive centres. There is an excellent bus service as well as a kaiki service connecting all the beaches. Platys Gialos is a good family beach and Psarou is a lovely beach with paths to the crazy party beaches of Paradise and Super Paradise Beach. Ftelia on Panormous Bay is best for windsurfing.
Elia is said to be the best beach on the island and is the last stop on the kaiki. It is the island’s longest beach and boasts an excellent restaurant, but is mainly nudist.
Mykonos: What to do
What to do on the Island
Mykonos Town is one of the most beautiful and sophisticated island towns in Greece. Wonderful small streets wind through the immaculately whitewashed houses, churches, tavernas and fashionable boutiques.
The Little Venice area of the town is one of the most expensive real estate spots in Greece and there are numerous characterful tall villas built right on the waters’ edge. You will find superb bars and restaurants in town and many are attracted to Mykonos for its wild nightlife in peak season.
Alternatively there are some interesting archaeological museums and quaint villages to explore, one of which is Ano Mera.
Islands of Paros & Antiparos
Lovely, gentle island, carefully developed and offering all you need for a Greek island holiday. Pretty traditional villages, lively small towns and wonderful beaches. Windsurfing and watersports. Ideal for families, couples and singles.
Paros is an island of great and gentle natural beauty and variety. Even though it is a popular destination for European travellers, the island has managed to retain a good deal of its inherent charm and character, and there are many areas that still remain relatively untouched by the hand of tourism.
July and August are busy months, but quiet corners can be found. The best times to visit are undoubtedly in the spring and autumn when one can explore the hidden-away corners on foot or on mountain bike, or even on horse-back. This island suits all kinds of visitor from families with children to couples looking for romance and peace, as well as groups of friends wanting nightlife, watersports etc.
Antiparos and Paros are divided by a narrow channel of beautiful sea and this small island of about 35 sq kms has golden, sandy beaches and natural, unspoilt beauty. The main town Kastro, is an extremely picturesque village with a fishing port, very pretty waterfront and narrow, winding streets. All around Antiparos are many tiny little islands and there is the fascinating cave of Agios Ioanis. The island can be reached by boat and ferry from Paros.
Island of Santorini
Breathtaking island with unique scenery – sunsets across the caldera (volcanic crater). Upmarket, romantic, but also lively and fun.
Santorini is famous throughout the world for its stunning beauty and is the ultimate location for romantic holidays and honeymoons. Santorini has the most dramatic scenery in Greece and the sunsets are superb.
Approaching the island from the sea, the cliff looms before you and the white cycladic buildings perch along the edge of the crater, suspended between sea and sky. It is a sight that everyone should experience at least once in their lives.
If peace and quiet is important, May, June and September are the times when the island is quiet and in the high season the main towns and villages become busy, bustling places, although quieter spots can still be found.
Island of Syros
Unspoilt, traditional with an old-world sophistication. Elegant and historically rich, this is the capital of the Cyclades. Lovely beaches, watersports, lots to do. Suitable for families with older children and adult groups.
Situated in the centre of the Cyclades, Syros was the capital of this unique group of islands and in the 19th Century was the capital of Greece itself. Hence it has much to offer in terms of historical interest and the capital Ermoupouli, is renowned for its architecture.
Syros is typically quite barren but is strikingly beautiful with a mountainous north and gentler and fertile south. It is little known as a tourist destination as it is not on the package holiday map and therefore has a really Greek atmosphere.
It has much to offer, fine beaches, peace and quiet, as well as nightlife and watersports if required. It is also famous for its local loukoumia (traditional sweet) and halvadhopita (sweetmeat pie). This island has a level of sophistication not found on many of the other islands.
Syros: Getting There
How to get there
There is a domestic airport on Syros, so it is possible to fly to Athens and then to take an internal flight over to the island. Alternatively fly to Athens and then take the ferry from Rafina Port. A high speed hydrofoil takes about 2 hours.
In the peak season there are normally a couple of these a day, otherwise the regular ferry service is rather slow and takes about 4.5 hours.
Syros: History
The Island’s History
Ermoupouli was founded during the War of Independence in 1824 and became the chief port in the 19th Century. Piraeus is now the largest port in Greece and has been so for many years, but Ermoupouli remains the capital of the Cyclades. Hence the grand architecture and rich history.
Medieval Syros was mainly Catholic and it was not until the War of Independence that there was an influx of Orthodox refugees. Now both groups live side by side. The twin city is divided between two hills, Ermoupouli being mainly Orthodox and Ano Syros on the opposite side with its catholic churches and community.
Syros: The Beaches
The Beaches
There are numerous unspoilt and uncrowded bays and coves to explore on Syros, as well as some more commercial beaches. Kini is one of these, and is a fine beach, but there are more secluded and sandy beaches in the north such as Delfini, Varvaroussa and Grammata.
Galissas is a great beach but is very popular and the nearby nudist beach of Armeos is much quieter. From the village of Possidhonia there are some lovely sandy beaches such as Agatopes, Komito and Ambela.
Syros: What to do
What to do on the Island
Ermoupouli, with its crumbling neo-classical mansions and elegant plazas, offers much of interest and charm. By day there are many interesting museums to visit and cafes and restaurants for lunch.
By night the city is beautifully illuminated and the smartly dressed locals stroll to meet friends and enjoy the cool of the evening. As well as traditional charm, there are many good nightclubs and bars, and thus plenty of lively fun for those who are looking for a little action.
Possidhonia, also known as Dellagrazzia is the favourite summer resort of the Syrians and has many ornate and flamboyant neo-classical villas surrounded by beautiful gardens. This is the area where our villas are located. This part of the island has many vineyards and greenhouses.
Island of Crete
The largest island in Greece, cosmopolitan & with a tremendous amount to offer.
More than an island, Crete is almost a country in its own right. It is the largest island in Greece and offers a varied landscape and atmosphere. This is a cosmopolitan island and the Cretans are a friendly and welcoming people. Being so large, it has a tremendous amount to offer, gorgeous beaches, stunning mountain scenery, historical sites and interesting cities.
As Crete is so far south, it has the benefit of having a long summer. The season lasts from April until the end of October.
