The Greek Islands are a rich mosaic of sun-kissed landscapes, fresh foods and vast culture set amongst the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Moving between islands is easy as skipping stones thanks to constant ferries, and the ancient culture is evident with an outlandish amount of museums and archeological wonders. Water sports are popular among all the islands with a variety of beaches of all colors and textures as well as lush valleys, mountains and romantic cities.
The CycladesNamed so for their circular formation, the Cyclades are the most famous of the Greek Islands. Freedom and celebration are popular themes here, with the party island of Ios bewitched by a buzzing nightlife and Mykonos featuring nudist haven Paradise Beach. For those looking to taste more of the island life but avoid the tourist traffic of lively islands like Santorini, set out to the volcanic island of Kimolos with its bright reptiles, soaring seabirds and the regal capital of Méssa Kástro built around a 17th century castle. This tiny island also has plenty of unique attractions such as the thermal springs of Prassá and the unspoiled red stone beach Kástro.
The Dodecanese
Located in the sunniest corner of the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese islands were formed by the mountain tops of the submerged Mt. Aigaiida. Rhodes, the region’s capital, is an impressive collage of medieval and Italian architecture. Apart from its coast of endless golden beaches, Rhodes features lush green valleys including the serene Valley of Butterflies, home to thousands of the fluttering beauties and at its most flamboyant throughout June. To the northwest of Rhodes, the island of Pserimos is attractively pitched with pine trees, rambling olive groves and white sand beaches sloping into a sapphire blue bay. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head for the island of Kalymnos, celebrated for its rock climbing and diving.
Crete
The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete is divided into four districts. Chania houses a romantic harbor with museums and local craft shops. The largest part of this district is inhabited by dusty White Mountains and Samariá Gorge National Park with its cascading waterfalls. Nearby is Rethymno with its hidden caves, 15th century fortress Fortezza and traditional mountain villages such as Prines. Further east, Heraklion combines coastal settlements with vast olive groves and vineyards. In the Lasithi district find the palm tree forest of Váï and luxurious resorts. Along with its scenic beauty, Crete has a rich history which can be explored in the extensive Iraklio Archaeological Museum and through a range of pirate ship boat cruises.
The Ionian Islands
Sitting along the western coastline of Central Greece, the Ionian Islands flaunt lush vegetation, fine sand beaches and milder climates. Each island has a distinct tradition, architecture and cuisine built from previous British, French and Venetian rule. As the cultural hub of the Ionian Islands, Corfu has a range of museums such as the poetic Dionysios Solomos Museum and the unique Museum of Asian Art as well as archeological sites like the regal Palace of St. Michael & St. George. Further north you’ll find the enchanting Blue Caves of Zakynthos and the international music festivals of Paxi at the beginning and end of summer.
