Looking to holiday in Greece but aren’t sure where to go? With its white washed houses, crystal clear waters, olive groves and some of the oldest historical sites in the world, Greece is ideal for the perfect holiday. This simple guide will help you to choose among three of the most beautiful and relaxing destinations: the Sporades, Athens and the Cyclades.
Each is stunning and more beautiful than the last, and if you’re looking for the best way to discover and explore these fantastic places, chartering a yacht is truly the way to go. Wind speeds range from gentle to challenging, and there are hundreds of picturesque anchorages to choose from.
Sporades
There are four major islands that make up the Sporades: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissor and Skyros.
In Skiathos you can expect to see many castles. There are also rock formations that were damaged by King Xerxes’ ship in the Persian wars. You can guarantee that there will be an array of beautiful, white sand beaches, among them, the nudist Banana beach. If you like to visit movie sets, venture north to Mount Athos, which is home of medieval monasteries and acted as the set of “Mamma Mia” the movie.
If you are there for the food, hit up Skopelos for the infamous cheese pie. You won’t regret it.
If in Skyros, visit the Faltaits Historical and Folklore Museum. Comprising an extensive collection of Skyros popular artefacts, this museum holds deep insight into the history and tradition of Skyros. It is considered one of the most beautiful and richest folklore museums in Greece and is a must-see.
In July you will want to head over to the Chapel of Agios Panteleimon, it holds a festival in honour of its patron saint. The locals organise a three-day celebration of food, wine and local delicacies.
Athens-Saronic
The capital of Greece and definitely considered one of the most interesting places in the world, Athens is a great holiday choice. Whether you choose to charter a yacht or stay among one of the many luxurious hotels, Athens offers many archaeological sites to explore, delicious food to indulge in, and lazy days sunbathing aboard the yacht or one of the many white sand beaches.
If you are looking for a Greek home-cooked meal, try Leonidas and Panagiota. This is as close as you are going to get to eating at someone’s house. Call in for a special order, Leonidas and Panagiota will go out to the shop for ingredients and home-cook everything. Choose between eating in their quaint dining room or the small terrace. You will want to try their best dish, their savoury tyropita or cheese pie.
If you are looking for a place that is a bit quieter, head to the relaxing fishing village of Perdika. The seafront is overloaded with taverns and bars to visit and explore; perfect after a day of sailing.
Cyclades
The most well known among the Greek islands, the Cyclades are home to white houses, seascapes, beaches and villages. From the lively nightlife on Mykonos, to the natural beauty and style of Santorini; either could be perfect for your holiday in Greece.
When visiting Santorini, you will want to check out the archaeological site of the ancient Akrotiri. It’s a whole ancient city that was buried under volcanic ashes, much of which is still waiting to be excavated.
Take a break from sailing to enjoy an opera or another event at the reopened Apollo theatre. In July, the famous Festival of the Aegean is held here, among many other summer cultural events.
While planning your holiday to Greece, consider these three unique and culturally rich islands. Full of history, beaches and archaeological sites, Sporades, Athens and Cyclades could be the sailing holiday you’ve been waiting for.
