Greek Islands

Okay, so you’ve eaten the freshest fish in the beachside Taverners, you swam in sparkling blue sea, and you soaked up thousands of years of ancient history. But there’s heaps more to explore in Greece – especially when it comes to action and adventure.

Sure, you could sunbathe; but did you know you could ski? And do you know you can snorkel, but what about rock climbing to an ancient monist tree? No matter what type of adventure you’re after, you’ll find it in Greece. Here are some ideas…

Beyond Greece’s whitewashed villages lies a whole world of history, Natural beauty and culture that just right for exploring.  Most of us will be Familiar with the stereotypical Greek island setting, with traditional stone buildings going against an azure sky. And wow this beautiful backdrop is very loved for a reason, there is a whole different side to this patient, mythical land that you might not have seen it.  Here are just a few of the under the radar activities you could get up to…

In search of this promised slice of heaven, we've meandered off the path from the pretty village of Ai Nikitas on the west coast of the island of Lefkada into thick scrub. Scratched and sweaty, we poke our heads through a clearing and the 1km-long, sandy and almost deserted beach of Kathisma appears like a mirage.  "Rebecca, this is the best beach in the world," implores Anthi. That's a pretty rich claim to make to an Australian, but I dare not doubt her. This petite but fiery Greek is frighteningly proud.

The Mediterranean is a mixing pot of culture, taste and entertainment. For those looking for a short break the region has something for any budget or taste. For those interested in the party scene Hvar, Croatia is worth a looking; Relaxation is available in the less obvious beach destination such as Montenegro; for food hounds Puglia, Italy and Istanbul awaits.

With only a fraction of its 6000 islands known to travellers, Greece is still one of the most under-explored places in Europe.  A journey across any of these six islands will take you deep into Greece’s history and the lives of its people. They would be a treat for hikers, bird watchers, snorkelers and those who just want to relax and take it slow.

If you find yourself in the middle of September with autumn just round the corner and you have not taken your summer holidays yet, you don’t have to put it off until next year.  We have found five places in Europe where you can go to get the last of the summer warmth.

PUGLIA, ITALY
Often over looked for its more manicured neighbour of Tuscany, but Puglia, the eastern region that stretches down to the heel of Italy’s boot, is the country’s  most underplayed gem, with temperature up the 27c its not bad.  Dotted with olive groves and ancient fortified towns, you can find many gems – such as the turquoise waters and quiet beach at Casalabate, the baroque beauty of the Chiesa di Santa Croce in Lecce and the enchanting seaside town of Polignano a Mare, which inspired everybody’s favourite singalong tune Volare.