Now is the perfect time to break free from routine travel and venture into exciting new destinations. Embark on an unconventional journey through Greece and trade the common path for a captivating adventure on these enchanting yet often overlooked islands…
Andros
Andros Island offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past, a precious relic that has not been confined to a museum. Unlike the typical sun-baked terrain of the Cyclades, Andros boasts a lush landscape with winding dirt paths that require a sturdy Jeep to navigate. Mèlisses, a quiet guest house, perfectly captures the island‘s hidden charm. Although secluded, it is only a short drive from the dazzling town of Chora. In Chora, locals with sun-kissed skin gather over icy espressos, laundry sways in the breeze, and the trendy Waikiki boutique offers hand-printed tablecloths, artistic pendants, and delightful fragrances from renowned brands such as Byredo. When the heat becomes unbearable, the calm, crystal-clear waters that lap the rocks at the bottom of the town beckon you for a refreshing dip. Don’t forget to grab some flaky tiropita from one of the timeless bakeries along the way to keep you energized throughout the afternoon.
Symi
This petite Dodecanese island may be small in size, but it more than compensates with its breathtaking beauty, providing a tangible representation of a Grecian daydream. The soothing sound of wooden fishing boats can be heard in the background, as the delightful Gialos harbor sparkles with an array of cafes and vibrant neoclassical houses that fade into the pine-scented hills. The best way to spend a summer day is to hop on one of the swift water taxis, shuttling back and forth between the streets and beaches, sharing the company of the occasional wandering goats. Marathounda Bay, located on the eastern edge of the island, is a pebble-covered paradise perfect for swimming. And, if you can manage to pull yourself away from the shores, you will discover a charmingly unpretentious taverna serving feta-topped salads and crisp local white wine. Although Symi has a few exceptional accommodations, The Old Markets stands out with its lofty, jewel-like spaces and unique treasures.
Greece Villas by Haute Retreats
Symis
Paros
Located in the heart of the Cyclades, Paros used to be nothing more than a marble-rich stopover en route to the more popular islands in the archipelago. However, it has now become a favorite destination for savvy Athenians who have grown weary of Mykonos’s flashy social scene. Start your day early by wandering through the sun-drenched hilltop villages’ maze-like alleys, with Lefkes being one of the most charming with its dazzling bougainvillea and splendid peaches-and-cream-colored church. Spend the rest of the day lounging on Kolymbithres’s golden shores, adorned with boulder outcroppings. As night falls, the island’s vibrant energy emanates from twinkling Naoussa. Mario’s grilled octopi is worth traveling the world for, Sommaripa Consolato is a must-visit for a couple of aperitivos, and for late-night revelries, sceney Agosta knows how to have a good time. When it’s time to retire, Parīlio, a cubist gem on the northeast coast, is everything you could wish for in a softly-tuned Cycladic retreat, complete with swaying bamboo borders and walls adorned with custom LRNCE tapestries.
Meganisi
Meganisi, a tiny island located off Lefkada’s southeastern coast, is a place where time seems to slow down. Its simplicity is what makes it so charming. This is Greece in its purest form – a destination to disconnect, unwind, and disappear for a while. The rocky coves with crystal-clear waters, where you can pluck glossy black sea urchins from the seabed, lead to winding trails shaded by ancient cypress trees. The harbor town of Vathy is simply enchanting. The tranquil, lantern-lit tavernas, some of which have remained unchanged for decades, line the waterfront. Errikos is a must-visit with its bold, rustic flavors and pastel-hued tablecloths that flutter in the breeze. But don’t miss out on the delicious shrimp saganaki at Tilevoes, a taverna entangled in lush greenery. Just a short distance away, steep steps rise from the azure Ionian depths to serene Panorea, a secluded island retreat that’s hard to leave.
Milos
Despite being a rising star on Instagram, Milos is still a relatively undiscovered gem when it comes to traditional island-hopping trips. The island’s cliffs and charming boathouses exude an ethereal charm, and Skinopi Lodge, with its glass-walled villas surrounded by fragrant vegetation, serves as an ideal base for exploring the island’s saltwater adventures. If you’re seeking pristine turquoise waters, the secluded Tsigrado cove – accessed by a rickety ladder – is a must-see. Additionally, the peaceful Triades is likely to be all yours, while the surreal, wind-battered Sarakiniko looks astonishingly similar to a lunar landscape. To experience the coastline’s unparalleled views, grab a small powerboat and zoom between hidden coves and towering sea stacks. On land, you can explore the labyrinthine maze of domed churches, catacombs, and picturesque fishing villages. Take a leisurely stroll up the winding streets to the stunning Plaka and observe the sun as it sinks into the Aegean from the castle’s rocky ramparts, then relax with a lime-muddled margarita under the twinkling fairy lights at Verina.
Milos Greece
Kos
Kos may have been overlooked by Instagrammers, but with the arrival of OKU, that’s changing. Tucked away on the north shore beaches, this village-like resort boasts a minimalist design with great interiors, making it a true Greek sanctuary. In a world of buzzing Ionian and Cycladic islands, Kos has always prioritized wellness. As a tribute to the god of healing, Asclepius, the world’s first hospital was built here, and the Greek physician Hippocrates called Kos home. Be sure to experience the nourishing therma hot springs, which offer a rejuvenating escape from the stresses of daily life.
