<![CDATA[The sheer number of Greek islands scattered around the Aegean and Ionian Seas is quite
staggering. In total, there are 227 inhabited islands for holidaymakers to choose from
and the vast majority have played a part in forming Greece's ancient and contemporary
culture.
In addition to impeccable sandy beaches and beautifully clear water, Greece's island
landscape also boasts some dramatic scenery, sheltered bays and coastal caves. If
you’re struggling to decide, here’s a round-up of five of the best Greek Islands to tuck
under your travel belt…
[box_dark]1. Crete[/box_dark]
Crete is the largest and arguably most historical of the Greek islands, as it was once the
centre of the Minoan people, thought to be the earliest recorded civilisation in Europe.
Today, you can enjoy visiting the traditional Cretan village at Hersonissos, or take a
more high-octane break with Malia holidays in the clubbing capital of Crete. Freshly-
caught seafood is the star of the show in ports like Hania, while the rugged peaks of the
White Mountains draw the outdoor crowds in the western part of the island.
[box_dark]2. Milos[/box_dark]
For holidays where you will spend the majority of the time at the beach, it is difficult
to look any further than Milos. Even though this volcanic island has magnificent white
sandy shores, there are some incredibly diverse coastlines featuring multi-coloured
pebbles and remarkable rock formations.
And if you’re interested in a truly unique experience, take the boat to Tzigrado or the
three beaches of Paliochori, where the sea is fed by hot underwater mineral springs.
[box_dark]3. Santorini[/box_dark]
Formed in 1600 BC after a volcano erupted, the remains of Santorini are a wonderful
sight to behold. White-washed buildings somehow cling on to the coastline’s sheer rock
faces, while the views across the clear turquoise water are quite spectacular as well.
The main town of Fira is the scene you’ll recognise from the postcards but if you get the
chance, take a trip to the labyrinthine streets of Oia in the north, where you can witness
a marvellous sunset as it disappears off the distant horizon.
[box_dark]4. Mykonos[/box_dark]
For the ultimate party experience, a holiday to Mykonos is highly recommended. During
July and August, the streets of Mykonos Town are packed with both young and old
looking to dance the night away in well-known nightspots like Cavo Paradiso. You’ll
certainly need plenty of sleep on Paradise Beach during the day, as the nightlife gets
going on the very same sands as dusk falls.
You can still visit Mykonos for a quiet and peaceful retreat; just head out of town to
quieter beaches like Agios Sostis or visit on either side of the hectic summer season.
[box_dark]5. Ikaria[/box_dark]
It’s perfectly possible to enjoy an adventure holiday rather than a beach break in
Greece, and the mountainous terrain of Ikaria features lush plantations and numerous
waterfalls perfect for exploring. Head to the hilly Raches region of the north-west for
some of the most scenic trails.
It’s this kind of exercise coupled with a healthy diet means Ikarian men are four times
as likely as American men to reach the age of 90. Perhaps that has something to do
with the mineral bathhouses of Therma too, which are well worth a visit after a busy day
trekking.
Natalie Carston is a regular blogger and writes on every travel subject, ranging from
unusual holiday activities to the best ways to backpack on a budget.
Image by George Mezilis, used under Creative Comms license]]>