Greece’s hidden islands: three untouched gems beyond mykonos and santorini
Forget the throngs of selfie sticks and exorbitant beach chair rentals. While Mykonos and Santorini rightly deserve their fame, a significant portion of Greece’s 6,000 islands remains blissfully unexplored. I’ve spent years traversing these Aegean treasures, and I’m here to cut through the noise and reveal three destinations offering a genuineescape – places where the taverna menus are handwritten and espresso martinis are a foreign concept. These aren’t just islands; they’re experiences.
Astypalaia: mars from the aegean
From above, Astypalaia resembles a miniature Mars, a stark contrast to the vibrant Cyclades. This “Butterfly of the Aegean,” as it’s affectionately known, boasts arid terrain, dramatic shorelines, and a captivating collection of whitewashed homes. It’s a place where locals offer rides home if you look lost, impromptu bouzouki concerts echo through the alleyways, and the best beaches are accessed via a frankly challenging, yet undeniably rewarding, mountain path. Renting an ATV is practically mandatory to truly uncover its wild heart, with Chora serving as the island’s vibrant, albeit compact, hub. Don’t miss a sunset viewing from the castle, followed by dinner at Kafeneio Karai or Apanemia – order generously; the portions are legendary. A last-minute boat trip to Kounoupa and Koutsomiti, two uninhabited islets with impossibly clear waters, is an absolute must.
Ithaca: homer’s culinary secret
Ithaca, a remote island in the Ionian Sea, is arguably best known from The Odyssey, but it’s far more than just a literary footnote. This island offers a slower pace, a genuine connection to its history and a surprisingly delicious culinary scene – particularly its onion pie. Reaching Perachori, a charming village nestled amongst the hills, requires a somewhat adventurous dirt road (and perhaps a touch of Homeric inspiration). With no airport or ferry connection to Athens, the atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back, devoid of tourist traps. Rent a car and explore the island's diverse coastline, from the pebbled beaches of Gidaki to the dramatic cliffs of Afales bay. A motorboat is highly recommended for discovering secluded coves.
Syros: cycladic charm with a capital city
Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and authentic Greek charm. Unlike its more rustic neighbours, Syros boasts a year-round population, giving it a distinct cultural identity - a thriving music and film scene fuels a lively atmosphere. While more accessible than some of the more remote islands, it remains remarkably free of overwhelming tourist crowds. Head to Asteria for a dip in the Aegean, followed by a leisurely lunch at Vari beach. Explore the labyrinthine streets of Ano Syros, indulging in a slice of portokalopita at Elliniko Kafeneio. As dusk settles, find a seat at Theosis Bar, a uniquely designed cocktail spot carved into the cobblestoned streets, and settle in for an evening of local revelry. A stay at Bougainvillea’s Little Balcony offers a truly authentic experience, nestled above the historic Venetian settlement and boasting panoramic views.
These three islands represent a fraction of Greece’s untold beauty. While the well-trodden paths may offer a certain allure, sometimes the greatest discoveries lie just beyond the horizon. Don't settle for the postcard; seek out the soul of Greece.