I am writing today's newsletter at the end of a wonderful few days in Crete. Having explored the island – hiking gorges, chasing sunsets and drinking freddo espresso in little beach downs – I’m determined to spend more time on the Greek islands (rather amazingly this trip to Crete was my first to Greece in around three decades). The issue I find is the choice. With so many islands to visit – not to mention the gorgeous spots on the mainland and a fascinating capital city – it can be easy to become overwhelmed. Independent Travel has a guide to picking the right island for you, and we’ve also pulled together a list of what we think are the best hotels in Greece. Additionally, this week the Travel Desk has been swapping stories from our travels in Greece and we’ve shared our recommendations for the top places to visit below.
Which is the best Greek island for you?
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On the south side of Crete is the little beach town of Plakias. It’s got a laidback, surfy vibe, with lots of little cafes along the beach and boutique hotels. If you don’t mind a bit of a hike, you can catch the best sunset on the island by climbing a short way up the mountain that overlooks the town – it’s truly breathtaking.
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As a holiday destination, the Greek islands are both enduring and a mystery. This was especially true when I visited Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, in June. Its size isn’t indicative of its popularity: naturally, the area around the port is dotted with white-painted tourist shops and gazebo-covered bars, but otherwise is remarkably empty landmass, housing a stable population of just 20,000 people.
That combination of tourism and tradition is what made it such a memorable trip. It has its share of blockbuster history: it's famed as the birthplace of Dionysus, locals were keen to tell us, and the sixth century temple to Apollo on the shoreline is as alluring as any ancient site. But the villages were quiet and uninterrupted; its vast, scrubby interior occupied by fruit groves, wandering livestock and rocky outcrops.
This, I think, is why the Greek islands continue to delight us as a destination. There's potential for most kinds of travellers, and most kinds of holidays – classic fly-and-flops, hiking expeditions, nature spotting, history hunting. Travelling to the Cyclades or the Dodecanese could mean countless different holidays (and unless you're a very seasoned traveller, there will always be lesser-known spots to discover.)
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Butterfly-shaped Astypalaia
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This summer's heatwave, did, however, change how we feel about travel to the region. The shoulder season is looking increasingly attractive, with milder weather and fewer crowds offering respite. Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman has just returned from Crete, where she spent days exploring the island’s hidden corners and uninterrupted beaches. You’ll be able to see more from that trip in an upcoming TravelSmart film.
And, of course, the region is a favourite for sailing. Cruise editor Marc Shoffman recommends Delos, with its wind-smoothed statues of Eurasian lions and ancient mosaic floors. It is often suggested as an excursion from ships moored at Mykonos, offering a peaceful alternative to the popular party destination.
The islands are not a radical place for a holiday. But as our travel maps, and timings, change, it might be time to reconsider them. If you usually go for a beach holiday, try a walking trip next year. Or if you only ever travel during the peak season, the cooler months might offer up something entirely new.
Read more about Greece's lesser known islands here
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Treat yourself to a relaxing escape with a stay at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, set on the shores of beautiful Lake Windermere.
This highly rated hotel offers stylish rooms, dining options, a private jetty and watersports centre, plus wellness facilities. The deal includes breakfast, indoor leisure access and late checkout. Learn more.
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Jet off to Europe for less with these British Airways deals. Price is based on 2-night stays on selected November dates, departing from London.
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If you're anything like me, relaxing on holiday with a good book is one of life’s little pleasures. So, I’ve rounded up 16 of the best new books to read this autumn – all worthy of a little space in your suitcase.
And if you’re wondering what else to pack, I’ve got a few useful finds to make travelling that little bit easier. If you like to keep everything close at hand, my favourite affordable designer bag, the Longchamp Le Pliage shoulder bag, is roomy enough for all your essentials while still being easy to take on a plane. It also folds completely flat and comes in different sizes, making it particularly handy for travelling.
For carry-on trips, Aerolite’s £23 backpack is another practical option, fitting the cabin-bag restrictions of major airlines, including Ryanair. Then there’s the eternal holiday packing problem: creased clothes. If your best efforts at careful folding still leave you with a suitcase full of wrinkles, Tower’s handheld clothes steamer is currently reduced to £25 and is small enough to take away with you.
For a little extra comfort, our experts also recommend this three-piece silk set. It’s compact enough for travelling and a lovely way to make bedtime feel a little more luxurious, wherever you’re staying.
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