DESTINATIONS ISLAND-HOPPING | GREECE & CYPRUS
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Village in Halki; port of Emporio, Halki; Aretanassa Hotel, Halki PICTURES:
Shutterstock.com/Milan Gonda, Lubos K, George Sarmousakis
Where to stay: Iapetos Village A stone’s throw from Symi town’s tavernas, these four-star neoclassical houses encapsulate the traditional spirit of beautiful Symi – and feature a stunning indoor pool, sauna and a sun terrace. Pedi Beach Hotel This relaxed three-star hotel on the beach boasts 56 blue-and-white rooms with a balcony or terrace to take in the unspoilt mountain or sea sunset views.
iapetos-village.gr bluesearesorts.gr
HALKI
At a glance: Home to about 300 people and a handful of cars, Halki is one of Greece’s smallest inhabited islands. Largely untouched by tourism, it’s ideal for visitors seeking to escape the crowds – and modern life. A place ‘where time stands still’, as the locals say, Halki is all about age-old Greek island living, with a picturesque harbour, colourful 18th and 19th-century mansions and pristine beaches. Do not miss: Hiking along the rocky shoreline and the dramatic scenery was my highlight. Popular walks include Chorio, Kastro and the long walk to the Monastery of St John, built to protect the island and its residents from enemies and pirates. Clients can take a dip after a hike from the sandy beach at Pondamos –
travelweekly.co.uk
33The air of Nimporio’s little alleyways is filled with the scent of bougainvillea and baking from outdoor bread ovens
or at Ftenagia beach, a hidden pebbly paradise with cyan waters, sheltered from the wind. Nimporio’s little alleyways are also a must and are lined with pastel-coloured houses with red-tiled roofs – the air filled with the scent of bougainvillea and baking from outdoor bread ovens, which are shared daily by locals. Towards the harbour, travellers will find local fishermen preparing their catch of the day. Where to stay: Aretanassa Hotel Housed in an imposing historical building on the seafront, once used to store natural sponges, the hotel is locally known as the Queen of Halki, boasting 19 sunny sea-facing rooms with powder blue walls. Fourlanou House Fusing contemporary and traditional decor, the apartments are perfectly situated within walking distance to the harbour and Pondamos beach.
aretanassa-hotel.gr bit.ly/3jUYzFK
BOOK IT
Olympic Holidays’ 10-night Rhodes-Symi-Rhodes-Halki island-hopping holiday costs from £1,885 based on two people travelling on June 3, including flights from Gatwick and transfers.
A nine-night Romantic Greece package in Santorini, Mykonos and Naxos costs from £1,050 this summer, including flights and transfers.
A 10-night Emerald Gems package, visiting Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos costs from £984 this summer, including flights and transfers.
A seven-night Kefalonia & Zante package starts from £669 in the summer, including flights and transfers.
olympicholidays.com
12 JANUARY 2023 51
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