Greece is home to many stunning islands, each waiting to be explored. The Aegean region, in particular, is dotted with coastal hotspots and luxury resorts.
From the charming Skiathos to the scenic Elounda and the historic Rhodes, each destination offers a unique mix of relaxation and adventure.
Skiathos: A Beachside Haven with Top-Tier Dining
Visitors to Skiathos are greeted with light, airy rooms, some offering views of Agia Paraskevi Bay. A pool surrounded by picturesque gardens and the golden beach steps away makes for an idyllic stay. Guests can book the Deep Tissue Apocalypse massage at Harmony Spa for £65 to unwind. Afterwards, the beachside restaurant Ammos is a must-visit for its mezze platters and tuna tartare, priced at £15.50.
Mornings begin with a buffet breakfast at Basilico, where barista-made coffee is served directly to your table. The stylish BU cafe bar in Skiathos Town, which has panoramic Aegean views, is recommended for lunch. Diners might spot dolphins while enjoying dishes like sea bass alla ghiotta with vine leaves, tomatoes, raisins, olives, and capers (£20), paired with a Jetlag cocktail (£8).
A walking tour of Skiathos’ old town is also available, featuring narrow alleys and whitewashed houses reflecting its Venetian heritage. The 2.5-hour tour, priced from £29 per person, includes visiting the marina featured in Mamma Mia! For nightlife enthusiasts, The Blind Dog bar offers live music and dancing into the early hours.
Elounda: Charming Village Life and Rich Historical Sites
Elounda, a 10-minute walk from the Princess Resort, boasts a picturesque waterfront and charming shops. Visitors can explore Paris Shell Shop’s sea treasures and enjoy the shell pick’ n’ mix. A mini-train tour, starting at £11 for adults, is available for exploring nearby villages.
Dining options in Elounda include Okeanis Bistro, known for its beef stifado (£13) and crab tortellini (£15). For a romantic yet family-friendly dining experience, Moon Spinners offers delectable dishes like lobster spaghetti, asparagus, and truffle risotto (£16). The meal can be concluded with the chocolate sphere (£12.50).
A notable excursion includes visiting Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony and the setting of Victoria Hislop’s novel ‘The Island’. Entry to the island costs £7 for adults, with return boat transfers priced at £12 for adults and £6 for children.
Rhodes: Luxurious Resorts and Historical Riches
On Rhodes’ northeast coast, the Amada Colossos Resort stands out with its 699 rooms, five restaurants, a waterpark featuring five slides, and a private beach. The resort’s sleek rooms feature natural woods and marble, and the spa offers a 45-minute salt scrub for £51. Guests can enjoy Greek dishes at the à la carte Greek Taverna, including squid with basil sauce and bulgur wheat or shrimp with orzo (£21 each).
A 20-minute drive from the resort leads to Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jewellery enthusiasts can visit Miracolo to see unique pieces by Greek designers. Socratous Garden offers a relaxing iced tea stop, while the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights, with entry costing £7, showcases ancient mosaics and statues.
As evening approaches, visitors can enjoy a Mythos beer (£5) at Mandraki Harbour’s Ronda Beach Bar, featuring soul and funk DJs.
Island Boat Trips: Scenic Maritime Adventures
For those interested in maritime excursions, Skiathos offers boat trips to hidden beaches, including Lalaria Beach and Kastro Beach, which are accessible only by sea. A visit to the Blue Cave and Tsougria Island is included in full-day trips starting from £57 per person.
BOOK IT
Family rooms sleeping four cost from £222 a night half-board (Eloundabay. gr).
Return flights from the UK to Crete cost £148.50 with Jet2 (Jet2.com).
Exploring Elounda: A Guide to Local Attractions and Dining
Just a 10-minute walk from your accommodation, Elounda Village offers a picturesque waterfront and a selection of shops featuring chic ceramics and local soaps. Visit Paris Shell Shop for unique sea-themed treasures and let the kids enjoy the fun shell pick ’n’ mix (Facebook.com/paris.shellsshop).
For a broader adventure, consider taking a mini-train ride to explore the surrounding villages, with tickets priced from £11 for adults and £6 for children over four. (Instagram.com/okeanis.bistro).
Regarding dining, Okeanis Bistro stands out with delicious options like beef stifado (£13) and crab tortellini (£15). For a memorable, family-friendly dining experience, reserve a spot at Moon Spinners. The menu features fantastic sea bass, lobster spaghetti, asparagus, and truffle risotto (£16). Finish your meal with the decadent chocolate sphere for £12.50 (Facebook.com/moonspinnersrestaurant).
In Rhodes, the hotel’s yacht offers a four-hour cruise, including a visit to Anthony Quinn Bay for snorkelling and the use of onboard inflatables. Boat hire starts from £80 per person for groups of up to 10, including lunch and drinks.
These destinations provide a rich array of experiences for travellers seeking relaxation and exploration in Greece.