Islands of Greece
Ionian Islands
CORFU
West of Epirus, Central Greece (Sterea) and the Peloponnese,
seven islands of greece make up the insular region of the ionian. One of the most famous of
islands of greece
And
Corfu, an island full of greenery, a mixture of numerous civilizations
and several that have alternated on its land. The city enchants and impresses
the visitor with its two fortresses, the narrow streets ("kantounia"),
the tall houses, the arcades, the Venetian building of the Municipio, the church of the
patron saint Aghios Spiridon, the flowery courtyards and balconies with artistic gates.
Rich in beauty, Corfu is a small paradise on earth.
From Paleokastritsa to Kanoni, from Achilieion to Pontikonissi,
and on the northern coasts we find crystal clear waters, picturesque bays,
plants and vegetation that "sinks" into the deep blue sea.
On this cosmopolitan island one can easily combine tranquility together
to an intense life as night follows day.
Vacation
PAXOI
A small fantasy world
is the island of Paxoi.
A shelter covered in woods, ideal for finding something
of serenity and rest. A "small - big" flower garden. Sensational rocks
white and splendid coasts with transparent waters, small gulfs and sea caves.
Gaios, picturesque village, with beautiful houses and small streets. The old windmill
and the Venetian fortress, Ypapanti sea cave, are the highlights
of the island of rare beauty, before passing in front, in Parga or in the island of
Antipaxoi, with the beautiful sandy beaches and a small village. It's a virgin island,
quiet, ideal for a peaceful and restful holiday.
Tourism
LEUCADE
Among the other ionian islands of Greece we mention Lefkada,
rich in vegetation and regular coasts on the eastern side, while on the west the coasts are
craggy with immense beaches. Everywhere, however, a very blue sea.
A stately island with a sensational Venetian castle and the Faneromeni monastery.
A quiet and picturesque city is Lefkada, the capital of the island, with its own characteristics
multicolored wooden houses. Countries built along the sea. Paths through a vegetation
lush with many points of interest, such as the ruins of the prehistoric city and the circular tombs.
Picturesque fishing villages on the western pebbly baskets with transparent waters.
Trips
KEFALONIA
The largest of the Ionian islands is
Kefalonia .
Deep blue waters in which the
verdant steep cliffs.
Picturesque villages and splendid towns with stately homes or "humble" cottages and, nearby,
Byzantine memories and famous beaches rightly characterize it The island of contrasts. The capital is
Argostoli, with its famous "katavothres", natural underground channels, where the sea water penetrates
in the soil to reappear in the "wounds" of the earth, in the chasms of its bowels, creating a rare phenomenon
geological. The sun's rays sink perpendicularly into the clear waters of the Melissani lake
(an abyssal lake cave), one of a kind, where colors create magical images. drugged,
cave full of stalactites and stalagmites of rare beauty, and finally the very green Fiscardo, the splendid one
traditional village with its pretty little harbour.
Ithaca.
A famous island from Homer's Odyssey is Ithaca. Despite being a small and mountainous island, its enchanting bays make it a small paradise terrestrial. The western coast of the island, steep and almost bare, creates a contrast with the coast greenery of the eastern part, which descends gently towards the sea. Excursions to seaside villages traditional, with the intense color characteristic of the Ionian Islands, visits to the medieval monastery of Taxiarchon (of the Archangels), but also to magnificent caves to discover. Verdant Ithaca, a favorite place, with beautiful beaches and quiet villages, ideal for an unforgettable holiday.
Zakynthos
The southernmost island of the Ionian, with an almost triangular shape, is the idyllic Zakynthos , which enchants the visitor in a special way, remaining etched in his mind. Its emerald sea, its pine-covered mountains and its inhabitants hospitable and generous are not easily forgotten. High above today's town, fine buildings of characteristic Zakynthos architecture, squares and the Venetian castle; and everywhere churches, in the city of San Dionisio, the patron saint of the island. Small cafes and picturesque villages, among olive and almond trees, in or around fields with vineyards and vegetables. Numerous sandy beaches with clear and calm waters. LI, in one of these, you can meet the Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, a little before passing in front to get to know the beautiful Strofadi islands. Kythera, the verdant island in the extreme southeast of the Peloponnese, surrounded by extensive beaches and waters transparent, it offers a suggestive hinterland full of traditional villages, castles, monasteries and churches.
SPORADES ISLANDS
Euboea
It is among the largest islands of Aegean Greece, the second largest after Crete. It extends along the eastern coast of Central Greece (Stereà), from which it comes separated by the Euboean gulf and the famous Euripus channel. The whole island, from corner to corner, it presents many particularities and offers the ideal conditions for a tourist development. In the northern part of Evia we find cities with intense tourist traffic, almost villages affected by the rhythms of modern life, scattered among the olive groves that descend towards the shores picturesque and still traditional villages which intensely preserve their customs and festivals. Fertile green valleys. Wooded slopes and mountains that invite to mountaineering. Establishments bathing establishments and enchanting secluded beaches.
The northern part of Evia houses the mountainous part of the island: a luxuriant vegetation, plane trees, firs, pines, among which the streams flow. Paths in the middle of nature, among picturesque villages with a pure traditional character. Limni, a beautiful town with a long history and tradition, from the immaculate houses that reflect in the Euboean gulf, the fertile plain of Istiaia, and the beautiful Edipsos, renowned since ancient times for its thermal springs and miraculous waters with therapeutic properties. The southern part of Euboea for hundreds of years it has hosted important cities such as Chalcis, the capital of the island, and notable areas archaeological sites such as Eretria.
The old captains' houses, considered artistic heritage, and the seaside villages along the serene picturesque shores are a true adornment to the island. And here, inside of the southern part of Euboea, we meet pine, plane, fir and poplar woods. Streams such as the thermal waters of Choneftikos spring. Picturesque villages with churches and monasteries but also with a pure island colour, such as the port of Kymi, from which ships leave for the Sporades islands. Here the visitor has The opportunity to combine the pleasure of a quiet life on beautiful sandy beaches, under the sun, to the enjoyment of water sports and the possibility of tasting the delicious dishes local specialties and the freshest seafood, accompanied by a good glass of wine. The long period of sunny days that dominates the Sporades and the "meltemia" , a north wind, present in the Aegean sea, attracts large numbers of tourists in the summer tourists.
Skiathos
Always included in the Greek islands of the Sporades group, is the island of Skiathos, with more than 70 inlets or coves and three harbours, and nine small islets around which almost seem to be magnetized by the her beauty. A very busy tourist center full of life, especially at night.
Skopelos,
of special beauty, with splendid bays, white churches and monasteries in amidst picturesque farmhouses, which stand out on gentle slopes through the golden green of the olive groves, under the bright light of the sun.
Alonissos,
a long narrow island with steep coasts, and around scattered islets which together with the surrounding area make up the "Marine Park" which houses and protects from any human intervention the Mediterranean monk seal.
Ruins of an ancient city in Psathoura. Adorned by multicolored stalactites and stalagmites it is the famous cave of Kyklopas. Low hills and a sea suitable for spearfishing on Skyros. Here we meet the small horses, the "ponies", the only ones present on Greek soil. Remnants of the era Byzantine, picturesque villages with houses of particular local architecture resembling small folklore museums. Many shops and workshops with handmade "Skyriana" folk art items. Beaches sandy beaches, clear waters and further on small taverns along the sea. Magnificent coasts and sea caves go to complete the image of Skyros, the fourth island of the Sporades.
CYCLADES
An imaginary stone circle centered on Delos, the island bathed in sunlight and refreshed by the sea breeze. Here was born one of the most important Mediterranean civilizations, the Cycladic civilization. And around here, probably, was Atlantis, the lost continent. Clear blue waters, a bright sky, sunshine and sober architecture on the bare rocks. A place full of light, where the sun shines for a long time of the year. The climate of the Cyclades is dry and healthy, with mild winters and cool summers thanks to benefits winds "meltemia".
Mountain masses interspersed with small valleys with vineyards and fruit trees descend towards picturesque bays. One- or two-storey houses, tiled roofs, narrow streets paved uphill, solitary churches, windmills and monasteries, including the most important it is the monastery of Kastriani that offers an unforgettable view. Peaceful holidays and clean coasts offers us the island of Kea (Tzia), very close to Athens. A rough and mountainous ground we find in Kythnos, with patches of vineyards and fig trees scattered here and there. Rugged coasts, hot springs, beautiful churches with wooden sculptures and sacred paintings by the Cycladic painter Skordili (1700). Wavy bare mountains and small fertile valleys. Characteristic houses, paved alleys, beaches enchanting and the castle, with its strange charm that enchants you, and windmills all around. This is Serifos.
Gray paths on the rocks of Sifnos, interspersed with immaculate little churches. Here green yes alternating with dazzling white. Rare beauties, enchanting routes. Courtyards, alleys, workshops where the famous ceramics of Sifnos are made, 365 churches, isolated churches and monasteries important. Kimolos, mountainous islet, as immaculate as the chalk it produces. Houses built around the castle. Houses of pure Cycladic architecture. An island away from big waves tourist attractions. A volcanic soil, a subsoil rich in minerals. Singular monuments, such as the splendid catacombs, and still important finds such as the statue of Venus of Milo (Louvre Museum).
Finds from the early Christian years, clean beaches and numerous sea caves: this is what it offers you the island of Milos.The chains of mountains follow one another, with steep slopes interrupted from gorges and ditches. Valleys with olive, fig, orange, lemon trees, vineyards and abundant streams in contrast with the austerity of the landscape. Craggy mountains and gently sloping mountains rocky headlands. Valleys jutting out into sandy beaches. These are pictures of Andros, motherland of the famous sea captains. The sacred island of the Madonna, crossed throughout its length from an interminable chain of mountains. A stone decorated with small and large immaculate works of art, the dovecotes.
Beautiful villages, a unique example of popular architecture and numerous beaches. This is the island of Tinos. Mykonos, a favorite cosmopolitan centre, with low rocky hills and enchanting golden sand beaches. Grey-green rocks adorned with prickly pears and windmills. A dazzling light and cool summers. Crowded beaches but also lonely beaches. Very white houses, whitewashed cubes scattered here and there. Isolated, picturesque churches taverns, narrow streets with shops selling popular art and other luxury items. A modern holiday resort with an intense night life and worldly habits that originate from here they launch a fashion all over the world.
A large archaeological area is the island of Delos. For many centuries it was a Panhellenic religious centre. It is considered the center of the Cyclades, the land that gave to light Apollo and Artemis. Administrative, commercial and cultural center is Siros. The capital, Chora, is built amphitheatrically, with old, neoclassical houses stately buildings, squares with marble decorations and grandiose churches. The hills that alternate with the plains, fields and crops, they give great variety to the landscape. Beautiful towns and picturesque shores. A modern tourist center, mostly mountainous with endless vineyards.
Paros has been inhabited since ancient times, with its houses flooded by scents of basil plants and honeysuckle. The church of the Madonna is wonderful of Ekatontapiliani, who welcomes you to the island. Whitewashed walls under ai jasmine herald the summer festivals, such as the wine and fish festival, e the intense nightlife of the island, and at the same time invite the visitor to pick you up part. Opposite the golden beaches we find the natural beauty of another small island, Antiparos, made more complete by the splendid stalactite-adorned cave in the hill of Aghios Ioannis. The largest and most fertile of the Cycladic islands is Naxos. Byzantine churches and medieval towers. Meadows that accompany endless beaches. Rocks emerging from very blue waters. Fertile valleys, springs, picturesque villages. A singular beauty of the island are the two enormous ancient Kouroi, larger than life.
DODECANESE
The islands of the Dodecanese are located between the island of Samos, Ikaria and the islands of Fourni to the north, the Cyclades to the west, the coast of Asia Minor to the east and the island of Crete to the southwest. They constitute a magical world, made of images painted by the sun, a world that comes to life from the sea. Mild winters and cool summers suit the Dodecanese islands one of the healthiest climates in the Mediterranean. Here each island competes with the other in beauty. The largest island of the Dodecanese is Rhodes, known as the island of Elio. The city of Rhodes, the capital resembles a coin precious with two facades. One is that of the old city. A fairy-tale city surrounded by medieval walls and crossed by the street of the Knights of San Giovanni, the main road, around which collects the old city with the hostels, the hospital of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master. The other facade is that of the modern city with an intense nightlife, its wide comfortable streets, beautiful buildings, large hotels and hundreds of shops where you can find everything. The island is full of many interesting localities, important antiquities and stupendous beaches. The Butterfly Valley, the Rodini park, the ruins of ancient Rhodes, the Acropolis of Lindos, the archaeological areas of Kamiros, Ialissos and others.
And of course the characteristic element of all the islands is not missing from the landscape Dodecanese and all of Greece, the intense light and the splendid blue sea. Southeast of Rhodes is Castellorizo, with the picturesque town of the same name built like an amphitheater which reaches down to the sea. A small island where, however, there is no shortage of notable points of interest, such as the sea cave of Parasta or Fokiali, among the most beautiful caves in Greece, and the church of the saints Constantino and Elena.Between Leros and Ikaria we find Patmos, the island with the "ascetic form", the island called the Jerusalem of the Aegean, due to the atmosphere of compunction that dominates it and the great feasts of Christianity. Here, in one of the large caves found on the island, St. John received the vision of the Apocalypse. The impressive monastery of San Giovanni Evangelista dominates from above, above the beautiful picturesque houses and the sober stately homes that seem to cling to the roots of the sacred monastery.
The visitor will have a complete picture of Patmos after walking around its rocky bays and its beautiful beaches, and then move on to the nearby islets of Fourni, of Leipsi and Agaathonissi. A company of small islands consists of the islands of Leipsoi, of which Leipsos is the largest. A particularly beautiful island with lovely, picturesque beaches taverns where fresh fish is served accompanied by local wine. An island full of small hills, and of deep verdant gulfs, picturesque valleys, rugged coasts and a Frankish fortress - that dominates Chora, the capital: this is the island of Leros. The grey, a golden color and the green. Colors enclosed by the blue of the sea and the sky that make up the painting of Kalymnos. Bare rocks, golden beaches, very green valleys. The capital is Pothia, built amphitheatrically, with the geometric shapes of the colorful houses, churches and picturesque streets. Beautiful locations with picturesque villages, hot springs and everywhere idyllic landscapes for swimming, fishing and drinking peaceful holidays. Immaculate houses with colored windows open to the sun and, a little further on, a series of windmills complete the picturesque picture of the stupendous Astipalea, with its caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in Vathy and Vetses.
Verdant between Kalymnos and Nissyros, the island of Kos appears to us. Suggestive, with truly unique beauties, such as the Asklepieion, the houses of the Roman period and the splendid mosaics, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, the early Christian churches with precious frescoes and a thousand other things. With numerous countries, famous for their beauty, quiet fishing villages, quiet but also crowded beaches. Very white houses on the gray of its volcanic we find in the island of Nissyros. A contrast that strikes the visitor, just before you find yourself in one of the nice fishing villages to have a swim and rest. Beautiful sandy beaches, virgin nature and medieval castles in beautiful Tilos, the island where local customs are still respectfully preserved. Mountains and small valleys, magnificent coves, a long tradition and the monastery of the Archangel Michael with the Byzantine frescoes, reveal to you that you are in Symi island. West of Rhodes, a mountainous islet, the island of Chalki, a thousand times praised, a quiet holiday resort. Uses and customs, which are preserved with respect and love, in the wonderful Karpathos. Incomparable beauties, with high mountains in the north of the island but also beautiful beaches with picturesque fishing villages. The southernmost island, Kassos, concludes the list of the islands of the Dodecanese. The capital of the island, Fris, with its stone houses, it is built on the gulf of Boukas. The picturesque villages of the island offer us festivals of Kassos with a characteristic local colour.
AEGEAN ISLANDS
Five large islands scattered in the northeastern Aegean form the sea border of Europe with the East, wrapped in the deep blue of the Aegean, they represent the great legacy of a rich history through the ages. Built on the ruins of the ancient city of the same name we find Myrina, the capital of Limnos with the picturesque houses of the captains and the balconies in wood with narrow streets paved and its kind-hearted people. Everywhere on the island you will encounter picturesque villages.
Nea Koutali, a charming town covered in pine forests, with its clear waters. Moudros, the second important city of the island, with its beautiful houses and splendid beaches and finally Poliochni, with Neolithic ruins and the few traces of a settlement from the Copper Age. Between the islands of Limnos, Lesbos and Syros, we find the virgin island of Agios Efstratios with a single inhabited center and wonderful beaches. The third Greek island, by size, is Lesbos. Huge olive groves, thick pine forests, sandy beaches, monasteries, beautiful traditional villages and old stately homes. Everywhere on the island we find evidence of its ancient history. Mytilene, the capital, built on the ruins of the ancient city, it is the starting point for getting to know the infinite beauties present on the whole island. Northwest of the city we find the Roman aqueduct, further north Pirghi Thermis, with the old houses traditional and Loutra Thermon.
Everywhere picturesque seaside villages with splendid beaches, such as the beautiful village of Plomari, renowned for its ouzo. A mountain village is Aghiassos, built at the foot of Otimpo, with picturesque houses and narrow streets. Sandy beaches, such as Vateron and Kalioni, e then Mithymna appears to us and the famous Molivos, a picturesque place with a characteristic color, with a great tradition in folk art, an intense summer night life and meeting place of artists. Above, above, dominates the Byzantine fortress and below, a little further to the north, the rugged coast of Eftatous and to the south that of Petra. The beauties of the island continue until Sigri, where we meet the petrified forest, and up to Eressos, where we find important finds archaeological sites. South of Lesvos is one of the most beautiful islands of the Aegean, the island of Chios. Here the deep blue of the sea almost seems to touch the green of the trees. Here the verdant valleys they embrace the stupendous villages that smell of mastic, with countless mastic trees.
The very long history of Chios is lost in the depths of the centuries. Multicolored houses, fishing boats and nets stretched out in the old port. Modern houses and shops full of people al new port, in front of the castle. In the plain stately stone houses with gardens verdant and orange groves. Nice fishing villages like Vrontados, Pantoukios Langada. Beautiful beaches such as Kardamila; mountain landscapes with rare beauties and Volissos, such as the Venetian castle and the historic monastery of Aghios Gheorghios. Enchanting landscapes just before Nea Monì. Countries that have kept their medieval appearance unchanged ad Avato and Mesta. Ceramic workshops in Armolia and picturesque compositions in Pirghì. Beautiful beaches of pebbles or sandy shores and then by caique to Psarà, the small historic island.An island rocky with a single inhabited center, with an intense Cycladic color. East of Chios are located the islands of Inousses, of which Inoussa is the only inhabited one, with magnificent sandy coasts.
Very close to Asia Minor we find Samos the easternmost island of the Aegean. Images girded by bunches of Samos grapes, from the vine leaves and from the vines. Samos, the capital, is built amphitheatrically in the bosom of a large gulf, next to Vathy, the port. Plane trees, springs and houses neoclassical buildings coexist harmoniously with modern elements in Kariovassi. Beautiful beaches in Kokkari, pebble beaches in Potami, crowded beaches in Tsamadou and finally Chrissì, the most beautiful beach on the island. Fishing villages with sandy beaches, mountain villages with quaint narrow streets and houses given architecture characteristic. Numerous monasteries on the island, such as that of the Great Virgin, of Agia Zoni, of Vrontá, of the Madonna of Spiliant, by Zoodocho Pighi. Finally to the south, Pithagorio or Tigani, with the ruins of the ancient one acropolis and the pit of Eupalineo and further south I'Heraion, dedicated to the cult of Hera. Southwest of Samos we find Ikaria, with an incredibly varied landscape. Sheer, bare cliffs to the south and a gentle landscape serene north of the island, where magnificent beaches meet. In the capital of the island, Agios Kyrykos, we find numerous houses of the captains, with two floors. Thermal springs renamed since ancient times, to Therma. The green, interspersed with the white of the houses, reaches the blue of the sea in Karavostamo, on the coast north of the island. A small port is Evdilos, and next to it beautiful beaches and picturesque taverns. A thick pine forest, numerous streams and a splendid sandy beach in Armeni stì. Numerous scattered villages here and there with rich vegetation. Of particular interest, from an archaeological point of view, is Fanari, an area rich in natural beauty.
ISLANDS OF THE SARONIC GULF - ATTICA
In the south of the Attica region a group of small islands are located in the Saronic Gulf. Among the main ones we remember Aegina with its characteristic villages renowned for its pitchers, full of pistachio trees and plants, with beautiful villages submerged in greenery, and the important monument from the time of Afea, among the most famous of antiquity.
Very close to the coast of Attica we find Salamis, the largest of the Saronic Islands, where in addition to its beaches, we find the ruins of the ancient acropolis and the monastery of Faneromeni, adorned with precious frescoes.
A little further on is the verdant island of Poros, with its pristine beaches and the picturesque Zoodocho Pighi monastery.
And so here is Hydra, the island with its naval tradition. The capital Chora, beautiful and picturesque, with the high colorful houses of the captains that adorn its stark gray landscape. And in the midst of these, narrow streets with taverns and shops meeting place for foreigners who arrive in this fantastic little port.
Finally Spetses , with the picturesque carriages that cross the its alleys and its white houses and stately buildings, with bougainvilleas and i courtyards paved with pebbles, its beautiful port with dozens of fishmongers, taverns and the folk art shops and its beautiful beaches full of greenery.
Argomenti correlati - . ionian islands saronic islands malpensa airport
Ithaca.
A famous island from Homer's Odyssey is Ithaca. Despite being a small and mountainous island, its enchanting bays make it a small paradise terrestrial. The western coast of the island, steep and almost bare, creates a contrast with the coast greenery of the eastern part, which descends gently towards the sea. Excursions to seaside villages traditional, with the intense color characteristic of the Ionian Islands, visits to the medieval monastery of Taxiarchon (of the Archangels), but also to magnificent caves to discover. Verdant Ithaca, a favorite place, with beautiful beaches and quiet villages, ideal for an unforgettable holiday.
Zakynthos
The southernmost island of the Ionian, with an almost triangular shape, is the idyllic Zakynthos , which enchants the visitor in a special way, remaining etched in his mind. Its emerald sea, its pine-covered mountains and its inhabitants hospitable and generous are not easily forgotten. High above today's town, fine buildings of characteristic Zakynthos architecture, squares and the Venetian castle; and everywhere churches, in the city of San Dionisio, the patron saint of the island. Small cafes and picturesque villages, among olive and almond trees, in or around fields with vineyards and vegetables. Numerous sandy beaches with clear and calm waters. LI, in one of these, you can meet the Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, a little before passing in front to get to know the beautiful Strofadi islands. Kythera, the verdant island in the extreme southeast of the Peloponnese, surrounded by extensive beaches and waters transparent, it offers a suggestive hinterland full of traditional villages, castles, monasteries and churches.
SPORADES ISLANDS
Euboea
It is among the largest islands of Aegean Greece, the second largest after Crete. It extends along the eastern coast of Central Greece (Stereà), from which it comes separated by the Euboean gulf and the famous Euripus channel. The whole island, from corner to corner, it presents many particularities and offers the ideal conditions for a tourist development. In the northern part of Evia we find cities with intense tourist traffic, almost villages affected by the rhythms of modern life, scattered among the olive groves that descend towards the shores picturesque and still traditional villages which intensely preserve their customs and festivals. Fertile green valleys. Wooded slopes and mountains that invite to mountaineering. Establishments bathing establishments and enchanting secluded beaches.
The northern part of Evia houses the mountainous part of the island: a luxuriant vegetation, plane trees, firs, pines, among which the streams flow. Paths in the middle of nature, among picturesque villages with a pure traditional character. Limni, a beautiful town with a long history and tradition, from the immaculate houses that reflect in the Euboean gulf, the fertile plain of Istiaia, and the beautiful Edipsos, renowned since ancient times for its thermal springs and miraculous waters with therapeutic properties. The southern part of Euboea for hundreds of years it has hosted important cities such as Chalcis, the capital of the island, and notable areas archaeological sites such as Eretria.
The old captains' houses, considered artistic heritage, and the seaside villages along the serene picturesque shores are a true adornment to the island. And here, inside of the southern part of Euboea, we meet pine, plane, fir and poplar woods. Streams such as the thermal waters of Choneftikos spring. Picturesque villages with churches and monasteries but also with a pure island colour, such as the port of Kymi, from which ships leave for the Sporades islands. Here the visitor has The opportunity to combine the pleasure of a quiet life on beautiful sandy beaches, under the sun, to the enjoyment of water sports and the possibility of tasting the delicious dishes local specialties and the freshest seafood, accompanied by a good glass of wine. The long period of sunny days that dominates the Sporades and the "meltemia" , a north wind, present in the Aegean sea, attracts large numbers of tourists in the summer tourists.
Skiathos
Always included in the Greek islands of the Sporades group, is the island of Skiathos, with more than 70 inlets or coves and three harbours, and nine small islets around which almost seem to be magnetized by the her beauty. A very busy tourist center full of life, especially at night.
Skopelos,
of special beauty, with splendid bays, white churches and monasteries in amidst picturesque farmhouses, which stand out on gentle slopes through the golden green of the olive groves, under the bright light of the sun.
Alonissos,
a long narrow island with steep coasts, and around scattered islets which together with the surrounding area make up the "Marine Park" which houses and protects from any human intervention the Mediterranean monk seal.
Ruins of an ancient city in Psathoura. Adorned by multicolored stalactites and stalagmites it is the famous cave of Kyklopas. Low hills and a sea suitable for spearfishing on Skyros. Here we meet the small horses, the "ponies", the only ones present on Greek soil. Remnants of the era Byzantine, picturesque villages with houses of particular local architecture resembling small folklore museums. Many shops and workshops with handmade "Skyriana" folk art items. Beaches sandy beaches, clear waters and further on small taverns along the sea. Magnificent coasts and sea caves go to complete the image of Skyros, the fourth island of the Sporades.
CYCLADES
An imaginary stone circle centered on Delos, the island bathed in sunlight and refreshed by the sea breeze. Here was born one of the most important Mediterranean civilizations, the Cycladic civilization. And around here, probably, was Atlantis, the lost continent. Clear blue waters, a bright sky, sunshine and sober architecture on the bare rocks. A place full of light, where the sun shines for a long time of the year. The climate of the Cyclades is dry and healthy, with mild winters and cool summers thanks to benefits winds "meltemia".
Mountain masses interspersed with small valleys with vineyards and fruit trees descend towards picturesque bays. One- or two-storey houses, tiled roofs, narrow streets paved uphill, solitary churches, windmills and monasteries, including the most important it is the monastery of Kastriani that offers an unforgettable view. Peaceful holidays and clean coasts offers us the island of Kea (Tzia), very close to Athens. A rough and mountainous ground we find in Kythnos, with patches of vineyards and fig trees scattered here and there. Rugged coasts, hot springs, beautiful churches with wooden sculptures and sacred paintings by the Cycladic painter Skordili (1700). Wavy bare mountains and small fertile valleys. Characteristic houses, paved alleys, beaches enchanting and the castle, with its strange charm that enchants you, and windmills all around. This is Serifos.
Gray paths on the rocks of Sifnos, interspersed with immaculate little churches. Here green yes alternating with dazzling white. Rare beauties, enchanting routes. Courtyards, alleys, workshops where the famous ceramics of Sifnos are made, 365 churches, isolated churches and monasteries important. Kimolos, mountainous islet, as immaculate as the chalk it produces. Houses built around the castle. Houses of pure Cycladic architecture. An island away from big waves tourist attractions. A volcanic soil, a subsoil rich in minerals. Singular monuments, such as the splendid catacombs, and still important finds such as the statue of Venus of Milo (Louvre Museum).
Finds from the early Christian years, clean beaches and numerous sea caves: this is what it offers you the island of Milos.The chains of mountains follow one another, with steep slopes interrupted from gorges and ditches. Valleys with olive, fig, orange, lemon trees, vineyards and abundant streams in contrast with the austerity of the landscape. Craggy mountains and gently sloping mountains rocky headlands. Valleys jutting out into sandy beaches. These are pictures of Andros, motherland of the famous sea captains. The sacred island of the Madonna, crossed throughout its length from an interminable chain of mountains. A stone decorated with small and large immaculate works of art, the dovecotes.
Beautiful villages, a unique example of popular architecture and numerous beaches. This is the island of Tinos. Mykonos, a favorite cosmopolitan centre, with low rocky hills and enchanting golden sand beaches. Grey-green rocks adorned with prickly pears and windmills. A dazzling light and cool summers. Crowded beaches but also lonely beaches. Very white houses, whitewashed cubes scattered here and there. Isolated, picturesque churches taverns, narrow streets with shops selling popular art and other luxury items. A modern holiday resort with an intense night life and worldly habits that originate from here they launch a fashion all over the world.
A large archaeological area is the island of Delos. For many centuries it was a Panhellenic religious centre. It is considered the center of the Cyclades, the land that gave to light Apollo and Artemis. Administrative, commercial and cultural center is Siros. The capital, Chora, is built amphitheatrically, with old, neoclassical houses stately buildings, squares with marble decorations and grandiose churches. The hills that alternate with the plains, fields and crops, they give great variety to the landscape. Beautiful towns and picturesque shores. A modern tourist center, mostly mountainous with endless vineyards.
Paros has been inhabited since ancient times, with its houses flooded by scents of basil plants and honeysuckle. The church of the Madonna is wonderful of Ekatontapiliani, who welcomes you to the island. Whitewashed walls under ai jasmine herald the summer festivals, such as the wine and fish festival, e the intense nightlife of the island, and at the same time invite the visitor to pick you up part. Opposite the golden beaches we find the natural beauty of another small island, Antiparos, made more complete by the splendid stalactite-adorned cave in the hill of Aghios Ioannis. The largest and most fertile of the Cycladic islands is Naxos. Byzantine churches and medieval towers. Meadows that accompany endless beaches. Rocks emerging from very blue waters. Fertile valleys, springs, picturesque villages. A singular beauty of the island are the two enormous ancient Kouroi, larger than life.
DODECANESE
The islands of the Dodecanese are located between the island of Samos, Ikaria and the islands of Fourni to the north, the Cyclades to the west, the coast of Asia Minor to the east and the island of Crete to the southwest. They constitute a magical world, made of images painted by the sun, a world that comes to life from the sea. Mild winters and cool summers suit the Dodecanese islands one of the healthiest climates in the Mediterranean. Here each island competes with the other in beauty. The largest island of the Dodecanese is Rhodes, known as the island of Elio. The city of Rhodes, the capital resembles a coin precious with two facades. One is that of the old city. A fairy-tale city surrounded by medieval walls and crossed by the street of the Knights of San Giovanni, the main road, around which collects the old city with the hostels, the hospital of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master. The other facade is that of the modern city with an intense nightlife, its wide comfortable streets, beautiful buildings, large hotels and hundreds of shops where you can find everything. The island is full of many interesting localities, important antiquities and stupendous beaches. The Butterfly Valley, the Rodini park, the ruins of ancient Rhodes, the Acropolis of Lindos, the archaeological areas of Kamiros, Ialissos and others.
And of course the characteristic element of all the islands is not missing from the landscape Dodecanese and all of Greece, the intense light and the splendid blue sea. Southeast of Rhodes is Castellorizo, with the picturesque town of the same name built like an amphitheater which reaches down to the sea. A small island where, however, there is no shortage of notable points of interest, such as the sea cave of Parasta or Fokiali, among the most beautiful caves in Greece, and the church of the saints Constantino and Elena.Between Leros and Ikaria we find Patmos, the island with the "ascetic form", the island called the Jerusalem of the Aegean, due to the atmosphere of compunction that dominates it and the great feasts of Christianity. Here, in one of the large caves found on the island, St. John received the vision of the Apocalypse. The impressive monastery of San Giovanni Evangelista dominates from above, above the beautiful picturesque houses and the sober stately homes that seem to cling to the roots of the sacred monastery.
The visitor will have a complete picture of Patmos after walking around its rocky bays and its beautiful beaches, and then move on to the nearby islets of Fourni, of Leipsi and Agaathonissi. A company of small islands consists of the islands of Leipsoi, of which Leipsos is the largest. A particularly beautiful island with lovely, picturesque beaches taverns where fresh fish is served accompanied by local wine. An island full of small hills, and of deep verdant gulfs, picturesque valleys, rugged coasts and a Frankish fortress - that dominates Chora, the capital: this is the island of Leros. The grey, a golden color and the green. Colors enclosed by the blue of the sea and the sky that make up the painting of Kalymnos. Bare rocks, golden beaches, very green valleys. The capital is Pothia, built amphitheatrically, with the geometric shapes of the colorful houses, churches and picturesque streets. Beautiful locations with picturesque villages, hot springs and everywhere idyllic landscapes for swimming, fishing and drinking peaceful holidays. Immaculate houses with colored windows open to the sun and, a little further on, a series of windmills complete the picturesque picture of the stupendous Astipalea, with its caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in Vathy and Vetses.
Verdant between Kalymnos and Nissyros, the island of Kos appears to us. Suggestive, with truly unique beauties, such as the Asklepieion, the houses of the Roman period and the splendid mosaics, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, the early Christian churches with precious frescoes and a thousand other things. With numerous countries, famous for their beauty, quiet fishing villages, quiet but also crowded beaches. Very white houses on the gray of its volcanic we find in the island of Nissyros. A contrast that strikes the visitor, just before you find yourself in one of the nice fishing villages to have a swim and rest. Beautiful sandy beaches, virgin nature and medieval castles in beautiful Tilos, the island where local customs are still respectfully preserved. Mountains and small valleys, magnificent coves, a long tradition and the monastery of the Archangel Michael with the Byzantine frescoes, reveal to you that you are in Symi island. West of Rhodes, a mountainous islet, the island of Chalki, a thousand times praised, a quiet holiday resort. Uses and customs, which are preserved with respect and love, in the wonderful Karpathos. Incomparable beauties, with high mountains in the north of the island but also beautiful beaches with picturesque fishing villages. The southernmost island, Kassos, concludes the list of the islands of the Dodecanese. The capital of the island, Fris, with its stone houses, it is built on the gulf of Boukas. The picturesque villages of the island offer us festivals of Kassos with a characteristic local colour.
AEGEAN ISLANDS
Five large islands scattered in the northeastern Aegean form the sea border of Europe with the East, wrapped in the deep blue of the Aegean, they represent the great legacy of a rich history through the ages. Built on the ruins of the ancient city of the same name we find Myrina, the capital of Limnos with the picturesque houses of the captains and the balconies in wood with narrow streets paved and its kind-hearted people. Everywhere on the island you will encounter picturesque villages.
Nea Koutali, a charming town covered in pine forests, with its clear waters. Moudros, the second important city of the island, with its beautiful houses and splendid beaches and finally Poliochni, with Neolithic ruins and the few traces of a settlement from the Copper Age. Between the islands of Limnos, Lesbos and Syros, we find the virgin island of Agios Efstratios with a single inhabited center and wonderful beaches. The third Greek island, by size, is Lesbos. Huge olive groves, thick pine forests, sandy beaches, monasteries, beautiful traditional villages and old stately homes. Everywhere on the island we find evidence of its ancient history. Mytilene, the capital, built on the ruins of the ancient city, it is the starting point for getting to know the infinite beauties present on the whole island. Northwest of the city we find the Roman aqueduct, further north Pirghi Thermis, with the old houses traditional and Loutra Thermon.
Everywhere picturesque seaside villages with splendid beaches, such as the beautiful village of Plomari, renowned for its ouzo. A mountain village is Aghiassos, built at the foot of Otimpo, with picturesque houses and narrow streets. Sandy beaches, such as Vateron and Kalioni, e then Mithymna appears to us and the famous Molivos, a picturesque place with a characteristic color, with a great tradition in folk art, an intense summer night life and meeting place of artists. Above, above, dominates the Byzantine fortress and below, a little further to the north, the rugged coast of Eftatous and to the south that of Petra. The beauties of the island continue until Sigri, where we meet the petrified forest, and up to Eressos, where we find important finds archaeological sites. South of Lesvos is one of the most beautiful islands of the Aegean, the island of Chios. Here the deep blue of the sea almost seems to touch the green of the trees. Here the verdant valleys they embrace the stupendous villages that smell of mastic, with countless mastic trees.
The very long history of Chios is lost in the depths of the centuries. Multicolored houses, fishing boats and nets stretched out in the old port. Modern houses and shops full of people al new port, in front of the castle. In the plain stately stone houses with gardens verdant and orange groves. Nice fishing villages like Vrontados, Pantoukios Langada. Beautiful beaches such as Kardamila; mountain landscapes with rare beauties and Volissos, such as the Venetian castle and the historic monastery of Aghios Gheorghios. Enchanting landscapes just before Nea Monì. Countries that have kept their medieval appearance unchanged ad Avato and Mesta. Ceramic workshops in Armolia and picturesque compositions in Pirghì. Beautiful beaches of pebbles or sandy shores and then by caique to Psarà, the small historic island.An island rocky with a single inhabited center, with an intense Cycladic color. East of Chios are located the islands of Inousses, of which Inoussa is the only inhabited one, with magnificent sandy coasts.
Very close to Asia Minor we find Samos the easternmost island of the Aegean. Images girded by bunches of Samos grapes, from the vine leaves and from the vines. Samos, the capital, is built amphitheatrically in the bosom of a large gulf, next to Vathy, the port. Plane trees, springs and houses neoclassical buildings coexist harmoniously with modern elements in Kariovassi. Beautiful beaches in Kokkari, pebble beaches in Potami, crowded beaches in Tsamadou and finally Chrissì, the most beautiful beach on the island. Fishing villages with sandy beaches, mountain villages with quaint narrow streets and houses given architecture characteristic. Numerous monasteries on the island, such as that of the Great Virgin, of Agia Zoni, of Vrontá, of the Madonna of Spiliant, by Zoodocho Pighi. Finally to the south, Pithagorio or Tigani, with the ruins of the ancient one acropolis and the pit of Eupalineo and further south I'Heraion, dedicated to the cult of Hera. Southwest of Samos we find Ikaria, with an incredibly varied landscape. Sheer, bare cliffs to the south and a gentle landscape serene north of the island, where magnificent beaches meet. In the capital of the island, Agios Kyrykos, we find numerous houses of the captains, with two floors. Thermal springs renamed since ancient times, to Therma. The green, interspersed with the white of the houses, reaches the blue of the sea in Karavostamo, on the coast north of the island. A small port is Evdilos, and next to it beautiful beaches and picturesque taverns. A thick pine forest, numerous streams and a splendid sandy beach in Armeni stì. Numerous scattered villages here and there with rich vegetation. Of particular interest, from an archaeological point of view, is Fanari, an area rich in natural beauty.
ISLANDS OF THE SARONIC GULF - ATTICA
In the south of the Attica region a group of small islands are located in the Saronic Gulf. Among the main ones we remember Aegina with its characteristic villages renowned for its pitchers, full of pistachio trees and plants, with beautiful villages submerged in greenery, and the important monument from the time of Afea, among the most famous of antiquity.
Very close to the coast of Attica we find Salamis, the largest of the Saronic Islands, where in addition to its beaches, we find the ruins of the ancient acropolis and the monastery of Faneromeni, adorned with precious frescoes.
A little further on is the verdant island of Poros, with its pristine beaches and the picturesque Zoodocho Pighi monastery.
And so here is Hydra, the island with its naval tradition. The capital Chora, beautiful and picturesque, with the high colorful houses of the captains that adorn its stark gray landscape. And in the midst of these, narrow streets with taverns and shops meeting place for foreigners who arrive in this fantastic little port.
Finally Spetses , with the picturesque carriages that cross the its alleys and its white houses and stately buildings, with bougainvilleas and i courtyards paved with pebbles, its beautiful port with dozens of fishmongers, taverns and the folk art shops and its beautiful beaches full of greenery.
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