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H
olidaying on an island is a magical experience;
but holidaying on a Greek island is truly
unforgettable. Blue-domed churches, cobbled
streets and pristine beaches are standard - but
distinct character and unique gastronomy is
what gives each island its individual personality.
From bus tling towns and villages to secluded beaches, the
islands o er some of the best travel experiences in Greece.
A short ferry ride from Athens, the gorgeous Cyclades are
made up of 30 islands including world-famous destinations
Mykonos and Santorini.
PARADISE
on earthHead to the Greek Cyclades islands
for a holiday of mythical proportions
Popular Demand
Mykonos is a whitewashed paradise, well known for its
glamorous nightlife as well as amazing sandy beaches. Stroll down
charming narrow streets and visit little white churches scattered
around its capital Hóra. There's plenty to see and do for all types
of holidaymakers - whether you want to watch the world go
by at a waterfront café in 'Little Venice' or get wet with diving
and windsur ng lessons on Kalafatis beach. Eating and drinking
is also an important part of any vacation and Mykonos doesn't
disappoint. Treat yourself to local Aegean specialities, such as the
island's gastronomic trademark: the pepper- avoured soft cheese
called kopanisti. For a mini adventure, blow away the cobwebs
with a short boat trip to Delos - a tiny archaeological gem.
Santorini, meanwhile, boasts its own archaeological site -
Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan town and it adds to the island's
famous, dramatic views. With its multicoloured houses and bluedomed
churches perched on the caldera slopes, it's no wonder
Santorini is one of the most visited islands in Greece. You can
enjoy exquisite clear waters from the rim of a massive active volcano
in the middle of the sea - or take a trip to the islets of Thirassia, Palea
and Nea Kameni. Santorini's seaside treasures boast deep blue waters
lapping red, white or black sand - or volcanic pebbles, spectacular
rock formations and lunar landscapes. You could even start your
honeymoon early; the island has a growing reputation as a wedding
destination and you can tie the knot with the famous caldera sunset
as the ultimate romantic backdrop.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Direct ights from the UK to Mykonos and Santorini run from April
to November. Flights to Athens are year-round and you can access
Mykonos and Santorini by ferry from Athens/Piraeus as well as many
surrounding islands.
Popular Demand
Mykonos
glamorous nightlife as well as amazing sandy beaches. Stroll down
charming narrow streets and visit little white churches scattered
around its capital Hóra. There's plenty to see and do for all types
of holidaymakers - whether you want to watch the world go
by at a waterfront café in 'Little Venice' or get wet with diving
and windsur ng lessons on Kalafatis beach. Eating and drinking
PHOTOS: GNTO/REGION OF SOUTH AEGEAN/MUNICIPALITY OF MILOS
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