×

The best under-the-radar Greek island hideaways

Lili Marie Flax

Contributor

Greece is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It is rich in culture, has wonderful cuisine, and has beaches to rival Mount Olympus itself. The problem is that, in the tourist season, Greece gets extremely busy. Your amazing getaway loses its charm when you are engulfed in a mass of tourists. Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens are filled to the brim with travellers every year. Why not try something new? Holiday in Greece like a local. These islands offer all the best that Greece has to offer while leaving the masses behind.

Fall in love with Lefkada, the Caribbean of Greece

Lefkada has perhaps the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe. This beautiful island is linked to mainland Greece by a small bridge and easily accessed by car, making it a convenient stop on a tour of Greece. Located in the Ionian sea, this green Island is often referred to as the Caribbean of Greece because it’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves an exotic island getaway. This tiny island packs a punch. Not only does it have glorious mountainous forests and magical shorelines but it has a rich cultural heritage. Crystal Waters luxury resort offers the perfect base when you are exploring Lefkada. They offer unsurpassable views of the Ionian Sea coupled with authentic Greek hospitality and cuisine all enveloped in the lap of luxury.

Be spellbound with the miraculous Milos

Hidden in the Aegean Sea, Milos is Greece’s best-kept secret. This Island is ancient indeed. Its hot springs, which were praised for their healing prowess by Hippocrates himself, still bubble away all throughout the Island, rich in its history. There are treasures buried beneath these golden sands, and even the world-famous Venus de Milo was discovered here in the 1820s. The island is relatively undisturbed by the hordes of tourists who visit Greece every year. If you are looking to connect with the locals and experience authentic Greek cooking from sea-to-plate in a matter of hours, if not minutes, this is the spot for you. There are a few hotels scattered around the island and most are family-run and cosy. If you are searching for that extra luxurious experience, hire a villa through Serendipity Greek Villas. Not only does Serendipity offer the best selection of premier real estate in Greece but their concierge service provides unrivalled excellence. Their concierges will give you all the ins-and-outs of the area known only to locals, ensuring all your comfort needs are met, while going the extra mile to satisfy your whims. Anything you need, from a babysitter to a chartered boat, think it and it’s yours. 

Engulf your senses on the island of aroma, Spetses

When Greece was conquered by Rome, the Romans were so taken by the sheer quantity of flora on the island that they named it ‘Spetes.’ This translates directly into ‘the island of perfumes’. Floating in the Aegean Sea, it is easy to dismiss Spetses as just another magnificent Greek island, 1 of 200 floating around the mainland. This would be a mistake. Its beauty is unparalleled. This proud island has the stunning turquoise beaches and hospitality that the Greeks are famous for, coupled with a victorious history. Spetses was once a naval stronghold and, in 1821, it’s troops were essential in winning the war for independence. In fact, Dapia, the picturesque old harbour, was the first site where the Greek Flag was hung after their victory. Take a horse and carriage tour of the island. If you visit during the ‘Armata’ in September, you are sure to be amazed at the festivities surrounding the reenactment of naval battles and Greek victories. If you are the sporty type, every April the Spetsathlon takes place. This is the biggest triathlon in Greece and a fabulous excuse for a holiday. Armata Boutique Hotel is an awesome base when staying in Spetses. Not only does it offer all the opulence and luxury one wants on their Greek Island tour but, being a smaller hotel, it has more of an authentic charm than its bigger counterparts. 

Disappear into the ancient island of Patmos in the Aegean Sea

You would never think it when meandering down the beautiful cobblestone streets, but this is the island that inspired armageddon. To clarify, St John had his fabled vision of the downfall of mankind and wrote the book of Revelations here in Patmos. The island is shrouded in mystery and scattered with old churches dating all the way back to the early 17th century. Easter is a huge part of the Greek culture and Patmos is the centre of the action. Every year at Easter time, the island comes alive with Greeks and orthodox believers from around the world in a massive celebration. Witness the very cornerstone of Greek traditions in Patmos. Patmos Aktis, the only five-star hotel on the island, is the clear choice for accommodation during your stay.  

Disappear into paradise on the tiny island of Paxos

It seems incredible that this perfect island with its crystal clear waters is not swarmed by tourists. Paxos is one of the least busy of the Greek islands. One may almost feel as though you are the first non-Greek to discover it. The floating paradise has some beautiful natural landmarks, such as Tripitos Arch, an ancient, partially collapsed sea-cave. Glyfada Beach Villa is the perfect island getaway. Nestled in over 7 hectares of Olive Groves, you are sure to find tranquillity, peace, and Greek cuisine in this authentic resort. 

Become a member to join the conversation!

Become part of the world's leading travel & lifestyle community!