Those of us who are lucky enough to own holiday homes in Greece know what an incredible country it is. From the stunning beaches to the rugged countryside, every island and city has its own character. But if you’ve already visited the Acropolis and the palace of Knossos, or you’ve experienced all the delights of Kos and Santorini, you may be on the lookout for some undiscovered gems.
Here’s our pick of some of the most beautiful places that you won’t find in any guidebook but that are definitely well worth visiting!
The Athenian Riviera
A secret that only the locals know about, the Apollo Coast is a hidden gem that’s just a bus ride away from the heart of the city. Hop on a bus for Glyfada and spend the day enjoying five-star beaches and luxury spas without a tourist in sight! Great water sports and superb beachside restaurants complete the picture and mean that the Athenian Riviiera is well worth the trip.
Ancient Messene
If you’re fascinated by the culture and history of Greece, this collection of astonishingly well-preserved ruins is a rare insight into the past. Generally by-passed by tourists heading for the blockbuster sites such as Knossos, Messene in the Peloponnese is well worth a detour.
Aegina
If you’re based in Athens but want a taste of island hopping, Aegina is a great place to start. Beloved of the Athenians, this beautiful island has a lush and fertile landscape of olive and pine trees and is home to the Temple of Aphaia, a stunning site not unlike the much better known Parthenon and in a more complete condition than its better-known cousin.
Just 40 minutes ride from the port of Piraeus, this hidden gem is largely by-passed by tourists giving it an authenticity some of the more popular destinations can lack.
Paros
If Mykonos is too crowded and touristy for you, hope on the ferry to this charming little island just to the south. Explore the ancient capital of Parikia with its cobbled streets, old churches and lovely whitewashed buildings with the characteristic blue shutters.
The white sandy beaches are to die for and the parades of local musicians and dancers around the streets of Naousa are not to be missed.
Kythera
Fringed by stunning beaches and surrounded by turquoise seas, Kythera is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in a country that has plenty of them.
If you want to get in touch with nature and soak up the peace and quiet, this is the island to visit. Located in the south of the Peloponnese island group, you can fly or take a ferry to this special place that has hardly changed since pirates used it for a hideout hundreds of years ago.
Samothrace
Nestling in the northern Aegean, Samothrace is a magical and mystical place. Home to the famous statue known as the Winged Victory of Samothrace which is currently on display in the Louvre in Paris, this gorgeous island is home to hidden waterfalls and the highest peak in the Aegean – Mount Saos or Fengari.
This ethereal island is known as the home of the Great Gods and with its raging winds and savage beauty, this beguiling place will sweep you off your feet.
