#Hidden islands in europe Patch

I fell in love with this unique combination, and with Hora/Chora*, Astypalaia's main village. The butterfly-shaped island of Astypalaia lies in between the Cyclades (where Mykonos and Santorini are found) and the Dodecanese (where Rhodes and Kos are) and, though it technically belongs to the Dodecanese, is blessed with the gorgeous aspects of both. Dodecanese islands Astypalaia: the Aegean Butterfly There is also a direct ferry from Piraeus a few days a week, taking around eight hours. There is no airport on the island, but you can fly to nearby Naxos and catch the ferry from there. Lastly, don't miss the hiking trail between Panagia village and Aghios Ioannis, where you can enjoy the largest cave in the Cyclades region at your own pace. Irakleia is a very walkable island with easy access to beaches, and as well as the port area, I highly recommend Alikias for snorkeling and Livadi for its laid-back atmosphere. As a result, there are few facilities for visitors (as few come), and the place has maintained its authenticity. Named after the Greek hero Hercules, Irakleia is a tiny Cycladic island with around 100 permanent residents. There’s always something special about islands ports, but this one was uniquely welcoming. The first time I saw Irakleia port, I was impressed by the crystal-clear water and the locals at the nearby beach who were enthusiastically waiting for the ferry to cause some waves just for them. Alternatively, the direct ferry from Piraeus will take between five and eight hours. The island doesn’t have an airport, but you can fly to Milos and take the short ferry ride to Kimolos. Most people visit Kimolos from Milos on a daily boat tour, but I recommend spending more than a few hours here. Other beautiful beaches include Ellinika, to admire the submerged ancient ruins (snorkel and mask required), Bonatsa, Alyki and Mavrospilia for the sunset. My favorite beach? Undoubtedly, Prassa with its turquoise seawater and powder sand you can also swim to the Prassa-islet across the bay and wander around the abandoned buildings. Locals have showcased this volcanic landscape even more by building typical, Cycladic white houses and chapels with blue windows, and characteristic cobblestone streets along with colorful boathouses in the Syrmata area. Kimolos’ unusual geological formations have blessed it with rare natural beauty and, consequently, a unique history check out the archaeological and folklore museum in Horio, or hike to Skiadi, the famous “mushroom rock”. This type of chalk is renowned for its cleansing and pharmaceutical properties since ancient times, and the locals have been trading it ever since. Kimolos, the little gem next to famous Milos island, derives its name from the Greek word kimolia (chalk) because of the off-white argyle clay powder that can be found everywhere on the island, including on the beaches. I’ve managed to visit 53 so far, and here are some of my favorite, lesser-visited Greek islands for travelers who like to go off the beaten track.Ĭyclades islands Kimolos: mesmerizing landscape and history This didn't come out of thin air, since I am Greek, but let's not judge a child’s dream.

When I was little, I had a big dream: to travel to every Greek island. Shares Facebook Twitter Photo © Getty Images / George Pachantouria Please note that not all content is translated or available to residents of all countries. Visit early in the day for the sun on this eastern-facing beach and remember to bring everything with you, as there are no facilities at all.By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information. This is an especially good spot for swimming and snorkelling as it drops off quite quickly, and the unique green water is crystal clear. Once you get there, keep an eye out for the traditionally painted fisherman’s huts. The path to Cala Llentrisca leads around the back of a house and down a steep hill to the pebble beach. Drive to Es Cubells (or stay there) near Sant Josep and take the left fork into Es Cubells and park in the plaza. This is one of the most isolated and hardest to reach beaches on Ibiza island, but the sheltered bay surrounded by cedars is so worth the effort. Just don’t tell anyone we let you in on the secret. But, if you know where to look, you can search out the best beaches in Spain for your own coastal haven that only you and the locals are privy to. The drawback being that we all want them. There’s a reason people flock on holidays to Spain in droves, the Spanish sun, sea and sand are all a huge draw. Visit if you want to learn clases de español hechas a tu medida.

#Hidden islands in europe Patch

Finding a little patch of sandy Spanish paradise to call your own can be a tricky business.