Now is the time to travel to Greece. The country may be undergoing an economic crisis, but many travellers who already visited emphasized that it did not affect their vacation. Maybe you didn’t know that Greece has about 1400 Islands, although only 230 of them is inhabited. And while everyone knows the islands like Santorini and Mykonos or Chalkidiki, there are also beautiful, less known Islands. These are some, for which you may not have even heard of, and you should consider them for the next trip …
Folegandros
In the shadow of Santorini, which is valid for the undisputed Mecca for couples, a mountainous island of Folegandros is the right destination perpetual for romance, with secluded, hidden beaches and incredible sunsets. The main village, Hora is situated at 200 m above sea level and its small streets is dominated by white houses with blue doors and windows. The Venetian castle of Castro is greatly preserved, and donkeys are here the main method of transportation. Unreal environment contribute to beach with crystal clear water.
Alonisos
Water and islets that surround these islands were declared a national marine park, full of seals and dolphins, which is surely the dream of all nature lovers. Crystal clear water and beautiful beaches are perfect for scuba diving, and luxuriant flora with thick forests are ideal for hiking. The rich landscape of the island is full of native plants, so the Alonisos is known for its traditional medicine, and home to International Academy of homeopathy.
Speces
This Bohemian Paradise more reminiscent of the Cote d’Azur than on the Greek island. Speces was extremely popular in the 1960s, when it had a boast of guests such as Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, and he remained interesting to Athenians to the present day, as a summer haven, full of fancy hotels, villas and yachts. Except for the few cabs that are owned by locals, less than 7 km long island has banned cars in the city, giving it so refreshing charm of the 19th century. The carriages pulled by horses here is a common sight.
Amorgos
The wreck, sea caves and clear waters make this island an extremely popular for all fans of snorkeling. However, the mountainous island is actually the perfect compromise between vacations and adventures, with one side that boasts beautiful beaches, and on the other hand, opportunities for hiking, diving and climbing on the rocks. One of the main attractions on the island is monastery from 11. century, carved in the rock.
Syros
Siros is little known to outsiders, but it is one of the favorite vacation places for residents of Athens and the former owners. An island full of fascinating houses known for its neo-classical architecture and perfectly preserved heritage. The island’s capital, Ermoupolis, built in the 13th century, by the Venetians, is an important commercial and industrial centre, with huge churches and impressive villas, breathtaking City Assembly and the beautiful labyrinth of streets and staircases.
Hydra
First thing you’ll notice on this beautiful island is the lack of cars, buses, motorcycles and other vehicles, as well as the tall buildings. The winding, cobbled streets, small, crowded with the impressive 18th-century villas, churches, cathedrals, museums, and art galleries. In past times, the island has attracted celebrities, such as Leonard Cohen and Sophia Loren, but somehow over the years fell into oblivion.
Ithaca
Ithaka is made up of two islands that are connected by narrow coastal belt. For this island, known throughout the world as the home of the Odyssey, is believed to have been inhabited as early as the second millennium BC, and many visitors, first of all, come here to see the legendary sites of which Homer wrote. However, this island is much more than a mythical place. Ithaca attracts visitors with hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, lush olive groves and sleepy fishing villages, full of Byzantine churches and monasteries.
Gavdos
Near to the much better known Crete, Gavdos is the most southern island of Greece, and also the most southern point of Europe, not including the Canary Islands. The Gavdosa can be just taken, and the island has only about 50 inhabitants, so that you may experience as a private playground. According to legend, Gavdos was home to the goddess Calypso. Today is a major tourist attraction for visiting a place believed to represent her cave. Concerning the accommodation, here you will not find luxury hotels, this relaxed island has rooms for rent, whose number is limited. In addition, this island offers great opportunities for free camping by the sea.