Finding your Greek island

There is no single Greek-island holiday. The bare, bright Cyclades feel entirely different from the pine-covered Sporades; the Ionian islands are lush and Venetian-influenced, while Crete contains enough landscape and culture for a journey in its own right.

Start with the pace you want

If walking to tavernas matters, begin with the village rather than the villa. For complete quiet, look for a house above a swimming cove and accept a little more driving. Families often value a gentle beach and shaded terrace; groups may prefer a house close enough to town for everyone to come and go independently.

Then choose the house

A compelling view is wonderful, but it should not obscure everyday practicalities. Ask about shade, steps, road access, the nearest shop and how the bedrooms relate to one another. The right match is where the landscape and the house support the same kind of holiday.