privacy include Vatses, Psili Ammos and Vathi beaches.
HYPE: RHODES Why go? Rhodes is the largest and most-populated island in the Dodecanese archipelago. It’s been nicknamed the ‘island of the knights’, as it was occupied by the Knights of St John from 1309 to 1523. It’s ideal for those seeking to combine rich history and architecture – such as Byzantine churches and art deco apartments – with crystal-clear coves for swimming and water sports. Must do: A short drive from Rhodes Old Town is Kallithea Springs, which offers a hidden swimming bay, a seafront cafeteria-cum-cocktail bar and gorgeous pavilions and fountains that serve as photoshoot locations.
HIDEAWAY: SYMI What’s the vibe? Known for its ancient shipbuilding and sea-
sponge industries, Symi is only a 45-minute boat hop from Rhodes, and has recently been added to Jet2’s summer programme. Vibrant red, yellow, orange and blue neoclassical mansions fringe the quayside, while traditional fishing boats bob around in the water. The spirit of the island remains intact, with hidden beaches and welcoming hospitality awaiting visitors. Secret tip: Take the 500 painted steps of ‘Kali Strata’ (literally ‘good street’) up to Chorio hilltop. The colourful old doorways and scent of bougainvillea delight the senses on the way to the summit, but these simple pleasures pale in comparison with the views over the bay below.
HYPE: MYKONOS Why go? Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and luxurious hotels, the Cycladic ‘island of the winds’ is a magnet for honeymooners and Instagrammers. With bustling streets
lined with chic crochet boutiques and gourmet restaurants, Mykonos is the perfect high-end holiday. Must do: Go ‘out out’. From legendary beach clubs such as Scorpios and Super Paradise to the thumping bars and clubs of Mykonos Town, there’s a venue for every different kind of night.
HIDEAWAY: MILOS What’s the vibe? This year’s rising star, the Cycladic island offers an unusual selection of sights. There are lunar-like beaches, (such as Sarakiniko and Firiplaka), eerie early Christian catacombs, plus the petite fishing village of Klima and its syrmata (fishermen’s boathouses built into rocks). Secret tip: Visit Papafragas Cave. The roof of the cave has long collapsed, so it’s more like a natural swimming pool. And it’s less crowded than the fabled Sikia sea cave. Papafragas is easily
expert exper ASK THE
ELENI SKARVELI director, GNTO
“There is growing interest in
lesser-known gems. Travellers are craving authentic experiences away from the crowds – and Greece’s diverse islands offer
precisely that. We recommend flying to a large island and then exploring nearby islands. Easy
ferry and speedboat connections make travelling from hubs such as Mykonos to other destinations a delightful and enriching journey. Avoiding a day excursion offers a more immersive experience.”
56
4 APRIL 2024
travelweekly.co.uk
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68
