Four Greek destinations ideal for those looking for the archetypal authentic Greek island vacation, the Telegraph newspaper highlights to the British public.
According to the relevant publication, the most popular resorts on the most famous Greek islands, such as Crete, Corfu and Mykonos, now place greater emphasis on their attractiveness on Instagram where wannabe influencers of the Gen Z generation willingly pay 150 euros for a sunbed on the beach, while the main streets of these islands are not lacking in large international shopping chains and even the “hidden diamonds” are now on most tourists’ wish lists.
For those interested in the lovely and lesser-known parts of the country, which tourists have not yet discovered, and where the dreamy Greece of yesterday lives, the newspaper suggests a selection of four destinations…
Skopelos | Skopelos, once unknown to the general public, experienced a tourist boom after the filming of Mamma Mia. Although popular, it retains its traditional charm, with 80% of its area covered by pine forests while the lack of an airport limits mass tourism. Panormos beach stands out for its clear, deep waters and the wreck of the cargo ship “Christoforos” that attracts divers. For authentic local items, the Rodios workshop in Skopelos town offers handmade black ceramics, with a technique that has been passed down from generation to generation since 1900.
Portaria and Makrinitsa | Although it is the third largest port in Greece and an important industrial center, Volos hides surprises beyond its urban appearance. It is the gateway to the lush Pelion, the mythical land of the Centaurs and the summer residence of the Olympian gods. Just half an hour from the city, the traditional villages of Portaria and Makrinitsa unfold like a painting, among springs, plane trees and small shops with herbs and local products. There, time flows more slowly and tranquility is almost mandatory.
Skyros | The fishing village of Linaria is the port of Skyros, from where you can reach Chora by taxi, with alleys and white houses climbing up to the Byzantine castle and monastery. In the small shops, handmade creations stand out, such as boats made of sea wood, traditional sandals and Skyrian macarons with cloves, walnuts and thyme-scented honey. The island’s old pedestrian streets lead to secluded beaches, while the rare Skyrian miniature horses roam the mountains, a unique sight for nature lovers and hikers.
Patmos | Patmos, also known as the “Jerusalem of the Aegean” or “the Island of the Apocalypse”, is an important religious destination. A visit usually includes the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. The museum exhibits rare relics, such as the Gospel of Mark and the skull of the Apostle Thomas. In addition to the religious monuments, Patmian House also stands out, a living museum that captures urban life and the inheritance of wealth to daughters rather than sons, revealing another aspect of island history.
