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Enjoy the stunning hilltop towns and breathtaking coastal drives around Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.
Southern Italy’s famous coastline runs from Punta Campanella to Salerno and includes the picturesque hilltop towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. Brave the narrow, winding coastal road and discover the hidden treasures of the terraced towns and villages along the way.
The Amalfi Coast remains an intriguing mix of sophistication and simplicity. A mere seagull’s spit from the super yachts, chauffeur-driven Mercedes-Benz and five-star hotels, another more rural reality exists. Around precariously stacked hill villages, farmers still cultivate small plots of steeply terraced land, and their wives make cheese; down on the coast, tiny fishing communities make a living from the sea. The link between these worlds is Strada Statale 163 – the ‘road of 1,000 bends’ – commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Naples and completed in 1852. It hugs cliffs and deep gorges for 40km, slicing through lemon groves and whitewashed villages, rising and dipping above the shimmering sea. It is only ever wide enough for two lanes of traffic, with little room for manoeuvre, so traffic jams are unavoidable. And if you happen to be in an accident, well, as the Italians say with a resigned shrug… buona notte.
Explore the coastline along the 50km winding coast road from Sorrento to Salerno. In summer, when tourist-coach jams and the lack of anything resembling a parking space add to the chaos, it is often quicker to walk – and anyone without a head for heights is strongly advised to travel by boat (there is a regular summer service between Salerno, Amalfi, Positano and Capri).
Heading east towards the Amalfi coast from Salerno, you will leave the built-up port area, and head leisurely past the town of Vietri and its ceramic workshops to the coast proper. The approach from the west, on the other hand, drops immediately into the most spectacular scenery, looping from Meta – just before Sorrento – up to the Colli di San Pietro and down again towards Positano, with dizzying views of the spume below.
Take a boat from the quay at Positano and visit the Grotta delle Matera (which you can explore) and the pretty, disconcertingly named cove Marina di Crapolla, with Roman-villa ruins on the beach. Also stop at the three small islands known as Li Galli (literally meaning the cockerels), believed by the Ancients to be home to the Sirens, whose song so enthralled passing mariners that they went weak at the knees and allowed their ships to drift onto the rocks.
The big tourist-pull along the rugged stretch of coast between Positano and Amalfi is the Grotta dello Smeraldo, a swimming spot accessible by boat (frequent tours from Amalfi and Positano) or from a car park on the road above.
Visit the Duomo in Amalfi. Most of its prize pieces are displayed in the Cappella del Crocefisso. You get to it via the exquisite 13th-century cloister Chiostro del Paradiso, with its interlaced Moorish arches, which flanks the Duomo. In the square outside, the Bar Francese is a good place to sit and muse on the passing of empires with a cappuccino and a copy of The Duchess of Malfi.
The Duomo of Ravello is equally impressive with its bronze doors and the two exquisite marble pulpits that face each other across the nave, adorned with mosaics; there is also a good museum in the crypt. But most people visit Ravello for its two famous villas, the Villa Rufolo and the Villa Cimbrone, which is now a hotel.
Positano had a brief moment of glory in the 12th and 13th centuries when its merchant fleet gave Amalfi a run for its money, but centuries of decline forced three-quarters of the population to emigrate to the USA in the mid-1800s. When John Steinbeck arrived in 1953 to write his famous article for Harper’s Bazaar, he found a pretty little fishing village known only to a few, mostly Italian, cognoscenti. But the cat was out of the bag and the dolce vita jet set moved in, big time, in the 1960s. Described by Paul Klee as ‘the only place in the world conceived on a vertical rather than a horizontal axis’, Positano is home to just short of 4,000 souls, although in summer thousands more pile in daily from Sorrento, Capri, Ischia and Naples.
But in spite of the crowds, Positano remains utterly beguiling. You don’t come to Positano to see the sights; there aren’t any to speak of. You come to drink in the matchless views along with your Campari, to shop for flowing linen and handmade sandals, or simply to watch the passing parade of tanned women in gold sandals and immaculately groomed men in pastel shades, cashmere sweaters draped over their shoulders. The only street level is the beachside walk, or at least it feels that way: just about anywhere else you go will involve lots and lots of very steep steps. There’s always a buzz down here on the grey-shingle Marina Grande, where restaurants, bars and tall pines line the curve of sand. In summer, the serried ranks of sunbeds fill up quickly; for the best swimming, take a boat to explore the many small coves up and down the coast, a trip that can easily be combined with a stop-off for lunch at Da Adolfo beach shack on Laurito Beach. Book a table and wait on the jetty for the gozzo with the red fish on its mast to come and pick you up.
For spectacular snorkelling in crystal-clear water, head to Li Galli, the archipelago of three tiny, jagged islands just off the Amalfi Coast where, according to Greek mythology, the Sirens (or Sirenuse) attempted to lure Odysseus to his death on the rocks. Odysseus may have resisted, but Rudolf Nureyev was less successful: he made the largest island his home for the last years of his life. Hotels will arrange the trip (in their private boat if you’re staying at the right place), or you can talk to one of the four Lucias at the Lucibello boat booth on the beach.
A few bends to the east along the Amalfi Coast road is low-key Praiano, which has a couple of very cool, rather new, rather fresh places to stay. There isn’t really a centre to the village (unless you count the busy Bar del Sole), but it has a huge church with a colourful dome, and a rocky beach, La Gavitella, at the bottom of 350-plus steps, where you can enjoy the last rays of the evening sun – bliss on this convoluted stretch of coast. To really understand the topography of the costiera here, you need to get down to sea level. You can pick up a boat in Positano or Amalfi, but you can also take a detour down to cute Marina di Praia (aka La Praia), a clutch of cottages and a small beach wedged between towering cliffs, where there’s a boat concession and a couple of simple restaurants to set you up for your trip. Heading west, you will eventually reach Punta Campanella, the wild, barren tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula and, beyond it, Capri.
But a gentle chug eastwards towards Amalfi takes you past some pretty impressive scenery. It’s liberating to be out on the water and there’s so much to take in that isn’t visible from the road: gorgeous villas suspended over the water; sea caves and grottoes tucked into folds in the cliffs; solid Saracen defence towers that speak of pirate raids and war; slivers of pebble beach begging you to stop for a quick dip; waterside restaurants perfect for lazy lunches. The jagged coastline to the east of La Praia is broken by the Vallone di Furore gorge, which shelters at its mouth a few ancient fishermen’s huts hewn from the rock face and a tiny scrap of beach. Further on is the Grotta dello Smeraldo (you’ll know you’re there from the tourist boats swarming around it), named after the intense, greenish light that filters into the cave from an underwater arch.
Just beyond the Capo di Conca headland lies the pretty fishing village of Marina di Conca, with a handful of restored fishermen’s houses, a couple of restaurants and a tiny, whitewashed chapel, all overlooking a shingle beach lapped by crystal-clear water. Back up on Strada Statale 163 (SS163), a towering viaduct crosses the Vallone di Furore, giving a bird’s-eye view of the fishing hamlet far below, and is a suitably vertiginous venue for the annual Mediterranean Cup High Diving Championship. In the hills directly above the gorge (to reach it you have to drive almost to Amalfi before doubling back) lies the little bohemian town of Furore. Beyond it is the fertile plain of Agerola, where soft-eyed, brown Agerolese cows provide milk for delicious cheeses such as the ovoid Provolone del Monaco and fior di latte Agerolese (cow’s-milk mozzarella). Apart from the dizzying views, there is a good reason for coming up here: a visit to Marisa Cuomo’s Gran Furor Divina Costiera winery, where Cuomo and her husband Andrea Ferraioli produce much-lauded DOC Costa d’Amalfi wines, rich with the tastes of sea and sun.
The lifeblood of Amalfi today is tourism, but between the ninth and 12th centuries it was a proud and glorious maritime republic with a population of 80,000, a rival to Venice, Pisa and Genoa. The Amalfitani learnt to make paper from Arab traders, producing bambagina, a thick, heavy parchment made from cotton and linen rags, and in the 18th century the steep, narrow Valle dei Mulini and surrounding area were clogged with paper mills. The hard sell in Amalfi these days is garish ceramics, neon-yellow limoncello in gimmicky bottles and the ubiquitous menu turistico. But it’s a very pretty little town with a fascinating history, in a spectacular setting wedged between the sea and the mountains, with several good restaurants and the wonderful Hotel Santa Caterina. And if you abandon the tourist-jammed main drag and climb up into the warren of narrow, tunnel-like side alleys and steep stairways, you will be catapulted back into the Middle Ages.
Life centres on the open-air salon of Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the flamboyant, striped façade of the Norman-Arab-style cathedral with its interlaced arches and a set of magnificent bronze doors cast in Constantinople in 1066. The best place to refuel and reflect is the charming old Pasticceria Pansa, whose delizie al limone, creamy cakes flavoured with local lemons, are legendary. Juicy Amalfi lemons make excellent limoncello, the local brew that will often be produced, homemade and straight from the freezer, at the end of a feast. To escape Amalfi’s crowds, take the stepped footpath that leads over the hill to Atrani, a fishing village with an atmospheric tangle of tightly packed buildings, tunnelled walkways and staircases and a brilliant trattoria, A’Paranza. If you are driving, you probably won’t even realise you’re in Atrani until it’s too late: the SS163 sweeps right over the top of it on a viaduct.
There’s a lot to be said for leaving the best until last, and for many Ravello is the jewel in the coastal crown. This ravishing town sits on a mountain buttress 350 metres above sea level, removed from the frantic hubbub below. If Positano is the glamour-puss of the costiera, Ravello is its refined, aristocratic cousin. Like Amalfi, the town used to be much larger and richer. Its once-elegant palazzi, secluded villas, dreamy gardens, magnificent views and romantic sense of faded glory have inspired a steady stream of A-list writers, artists and musicians since the days of the Grand Tour. Even now, once the tour groups have gone, there’s a real feeling of otherworldliness here, and you really should stay the night (there’s no shortage of excellent hotels). Most people come to Ravello to see its two magnificent garden estates.
In 1880 Richard Wagner famously drew inspiration for his opera Parsifal from the romantic garden of Villa Rufolo, restored in the mid-1800s by the Scotsman Francis Neville Reid. Another Brit, Lord Grimthorpe, bought Villa Cimbrone in 1904 and created an extravagant garden with dizzying views. The villa was a hangout for the Bloomsbury set in the 1920s and a love nest for Greta Garbo and the conductor Leopold Stokowski in the 1930s; it is now a hotel. Ravello is also home to the coast’s most beautiful church, the refreshingly spare 11th-century Duomo di Ravello, and its only distinguished example of contemporary architecture: Oscar Niemeyer’s futuristic New Energy Auditorium, a dazzlingly white, concrete-and-glass structure overlooking the Gulf of Salerno, designed to reflect the swell of the sea.
Just beyond Ravello, balanced on the opposite side of the Valle del Dragone, lies sleepy Scala. It is a real little charmer and was once an important outpost of the Amalfi Republic, evidence of which can still be found in its faded palazzi and disproportionately large 12th-century duomo. Steinbeck’s observation that ‘Positano bites deep; it is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you’ve gone’ could well be applied to the Amalfi Coast as a whole. In the height of summer, when sandwiched between two fume-belching coaches on the SS163, it’s tempting to dismiss the whole experience as being simply too much like hard work. But as the inimitable Gambardella sisters (doyennes of the Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi) point out: ‘There are bits of the old life left on the coast, but you have to know where to find them.’
Via: https://www.cntraveller.com/article/travel-guide-amalfi-coast
Discover the secret Italian islands where overtourism isn’t an issueJust off the northern coast of Sicily is the dazzling Aeolian archipelago, with something to offer in every season.
Italy truly has a timeless allure. The country has been through so much recently, so you could be forgiven for forgetting the features that make Italy one of the most geographically diverse and spectacular countries on earth.
Beyond the classic destinations like Venice, Florence and Rome — and even beyond the mainland ‘boot’ of Italy — there are gorgeous islands of various shapes and sizes that invite discovery.
And the Aeolian archipelago just off the northern coast of Sicily, is arguably the most bewitching of these. Here, overtourism has never really been a problem — and it certainly isn’t an issue at the moment.
The seven islands in the Aeolian chain include lush Salina, the jet-set playground isle of Panarea, and ethereal Stromboli, whose eponymous active volcano is a sight that has mesmerised travellers since ancient times. Gnarled, reddish lava formations grace many of these varied island coasts, sometimes jutting up right from the seafloor.
The Aeolian Islands are arguably the most pristine archipelago in the entire Mediterranean and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site too.
Go there by ferry from the Sicilian town of Milazzo or by flying into Naples or Palermo then taking any number of ferries from those cities to the islands, which include:
Stromboli’s volcano is rightly known as the “lighthouse of the Mediterranean” because every night, lava erupts from the top and streams down from the Sciara del Fuoco into the sea. It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight, especially when enjoyed from the outdoor deck of a night boat — it’s easy to find one in the little port of Ginostra.
The volcano is actually 8,000 feet tall, while only about 3,000 feet are above sea level. There are a couple of small villages and some decent black-sand beaches on the island, but basically, Stromboli is a giant volcano.
2. Sweet Salina
Two lumbering, extinct volcanoes form the spine of Salina. The taller of the two, Monte Fossa delle Felci, at 962 metres, is the highest peak in the Aeolian archipelago.
Unlike stern Stromboli, this is a lush and verdant isle. Its most famous products are capers and Malvasia, the sweet fragrant white wine made from dried grapes.
The main port is Santa Marina, but for the best vistas and most interesting places to stay, hop on a bus to the village of Malfa, where Hotel Signum has a pleasant al fresco restaurant and great spa. At the clifftop Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia, you may need to cross a vineyard get to your room — not necessarily a bad thing.
Movie buffs may also recognise Salina as the place where the classic 1994 movie ‘Il Postino’ was filmed.
Panarea is one of the smallest of the Aeolians. With its combination of stark geography and reputation for attracting A-listers like Uma Thurman and Giorgio Armani, it’s the Italian answer to Mykonos.
In fact, the whitewashed lanes of the main village are reminiscent of Greek island towns. It’s no surprise then that the before the ancient Romans were here, Panarea was settled by Mycenaean Greeks.
The breezy, eclectic Hotel Raya helped put Panarea on the map in the 1960s and is still the best place to stay.
Take a short boat trip to the deserted islet of Basiluzzo where you can swim in the clear blue waters. Above the water, Air Panarea offers helicopter tours of nearby Stromboli’s volcano.
At nearly 15 square miles, Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands and bears evidence of settlements long before the arrival of ancient Greek colonists.
Its main town, also called Lipari, is the commercial capital of the Aeolians and feels like a more down-to-earth version of Capri. It’s also home to a must-see archaeological museum, known for its displays of some ancient shipwreck cargoes and the world’s largest collection of miniature ancient Greek theatre masks.
From the Quattrocchi (Four Eyes) lookout point, about two miles out of Lipari town, you can get an eyeful of dramatic scenery and a view across the water to the island of Vulcano.
When approaching tiny, remote Filicudi, don’t miss La Canna, a volcanic rock that juts up like a sentry 243 feet above sea level. It’s a fitting introduction to an island that truly feels like it fell off the map, which is a bit deceptive, as this mountainous green island has been settled since Neolithic times.
You can inspect the ruins of a seaside Bronze Age village at Capo Graziano, about a 10-minute ride south from the small harbour. For the best seafood try Ristorante La Canna, perched just above the harbour, or La Sirena in the even tinier Pecorini a Mare beach.
Ancient Greeks called it Therassia and ascribed it to Hephaestus, god of fire. But the Romans renamed the island Vulcano and thought it was the chimney of Vulcan, their god of fire. It’s hard to argue with that as you hike or drive past smoking sulphurous fumaroles on the way to the Gran Cratere della Fossa, the biggest of the stratovolcanic cones.
On the north end is little Vulcanello, product of an eruption in 183 BC and connected to the main island by an isthmus. It’s there, at Porto di Ponente, where you can indulge in a therapeutic mud bath and work in a swim at a broad black-sand beach.
For those who like to plan ahead, the best place to stay in Vulcano is the Therasia Resort — the views from there across the sea to Lipari will blow you away. The resort reopens in April.
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7 days in the North Ionian IslandsZakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
Built in 1708, the church of St. Dionysios is a Venetian-inspired church equipped with a bell tower which is the exact replica of the St. Marks bell tower in Venice! The church is also beautifully situated on the city’s beach. The most famous church on the island, a large festival takes place every year in the city lasting three days starting on August 24th which celebrates the church.
The most famous attraction in all of Zakynthos is Shipwreck Beach, a picturesque beach on the north coast of the island which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! With its clear waters, white sand, and stunning rock formations, along with the famous withered ship on its beach, this is a must-visit attraction.
Another famous attraction on Zakynthos is the Blue Caves. Accessible only by boat, one can sail through stunning caves on deep blue waters and see colors on the caves so impressive you would have to see it believe it.
Gerakas beach is a golden sandy beach which is home to Loggerhead Sea Turtles. The beach is a nesting ground for their babies, and the beach actually closes at 19:00 to leave them in peace. If you visit between May and October, you can actually go and see the hatching of little turtle eggs and see dozens of newborns take to the sea.
Marathonissi island, a small uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas off Zykanthos island, has white sandy beaches, and beautiful turquoise waters. This is also another breeding ground for Loggerhead Sea Turtles.
Zakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in MykonosMykonos is one of, if not the, most famous islands in all of the Aegean Sea. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet of high profile guests since the 1960s.
It is no surprise then that it was voted as one of the top holiday destinations to visit. With its amazing beaches, award-winning restaurants, and mythical parties that last all night long, it is a must-visit destination.
The list of celebrities who visit Mykonos is constantly growing: Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Shakira, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, Monica Bellucci, Liam Nisson, Hugh Jackman, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Jean Paul Gotti, Giorgio Armani, Russell Crowe, and many more.
Particularly open to diversity, Mykonos is considered the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and is one of the most popular in the world.
Visit Mykonos Town and marvel at the white cubist architecture which engulfs the island. Mykonos is also home to many old churches and wells. Take a walk through its narrow streets and admire this beautiful city.
Shop in Chora and see the latest collections from brilliant fashion and jewelry designers. You will find plenty of branded clothes and accessories, jewelry, and other fashionable goods.
In Gialos you can see the famous Mycenae Pelicans and visit Aghios Nikolaos town, a town whose town hall was built in 1780!
See “Little Venice” and view tiny cute little houses built in the 18th century that have foundations in the sea! It is said that pirates used to come to this island and use the doorsteps of the houses on the water as miniature planks to make people walk off of. Today, the homes are filled with bars and restaurants.
The other trademark landmark of Mykonos, the Kato Myloi windmills, used to grate greats using the power of the north winds until the beginning of the 20th century! In the evenings, they are lit up with a beautiful glow.
Visit the beautiful quiet and secluded beaches of Agios Sostis, Kapari, and Fokos.
If you like busier beaches, however, visit Psarou, Ornos, Paradise, and Platis Gialos where there are parties all of the time!
See this ledgendary lighthouse which stands on the edge of Phanar. Enjoy stunning views of sunsets as you relax!
Scuba dive and see octopi, starfish, sponges, and maybe even Monachus-Monachus seals! There are many diving centers on the island which offer diving in reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
Visit Rinia and dive into its crystal clear blue waters and spend time relaxing on its beaches.
Visit Delos, what is considered the island of Apollo, the god of light, and visit its archeological sites.
Tradition says that anyone who drinks the water from the wells in the center of the village will never leave the island!
Enjoy!
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The Best Beaches of The British Virgin IslandsThe British Virgin Islands are a paradise. The sand is among the best on Earth. Despite having been affected by hurricanes Irma and María, the natural beauty of this paradisiacal destination remains intact. Here are five of the best beaches found in the British Virgin Islands.
The British Virgin Islands consist of 4 main islands: Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. The largest island is Tortola.
Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands:
White Bay
White Bay is a white beach located on a southern area of Jost Van Dyke. It is one of the best beaches to relax and enjoy a drink. Local joints like Soggy Dollar or One Love Bar and Grill will welcome you with open arms. So Just Chill!
Sandy Cay
Sandy Cay is known as the ‘Most Photographed Island in the World’. It is an uninhabited island of the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It is located halfway between the Tortola and Jost Van Dyke islands. It’s also known as the Honeymoon Island. Relax on its pristine beaches and exploring the untouched nature.
The Baths
The Baths is in Virgin Gorda and is listed among the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. It is without comparison: a series of transparent pools, hidden among the granite rocks.
Loblolly Bay
Loblolly Bay is the northern stretch of the infinite beach of Anegada. The lagoon is protected by the coral reef that runs parallel to the beach. In August, sharks come to mate.
The Caves
The Caves is actually a dry area of the Norman Island and under water it has many caves covered with coral. It is a marine reserve so you can swim among the coloured fish remaining on the surface.
Looking for a vacation on a beautiful set of islands in the Caribbean? The British Virgin Islands is your ticket to paradise.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in SantoriniSantorini, one of, if not the, most beautiful island in Greece, is sure to impress. Considered one of the ten best islands in the world to visit, Santorini has breathtaking views, unique architecture, authentic cuisine, delicious wines, and stunning sunsets. Geographically, Santorini is an island like no other. Santorini sits on the caldera of an erupted volcano, and its principal towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs on its coastline. Here, we give you a rundown of the ten best things to do on this wonderful island.
1. Take a Boat Around Santorini’s Caldera
To really appreciate all of Santorini, one should take a bout around the entire island and see its enormous Caldera, which at its base is 16 kilometers long! View its steep slopes upon which its villages sit and admire the beautiful blue and white houses on its coastline.
2. Visit Fira
Built on the caldera, at 260 meters above sea level, Fira has magnificent views of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea and the island of Nea Kameni. There is also plenty of shopping in Fira, where you can check out art galleries, and souvenir as well as jewelry shops. And if you’re more of a partier, Fira is also the center of nightlife on the island, with many bars and clubs open late nights for endless dancing.
3. Hike the Volcano
Hike around the caldera of Santorini and dive into some of its natural warm waters. Santorini’s volcano is one of the larges underwater active volcanos in the world! But don’t worry though, it won’t erupt any time soon. According to scientists, the volcano is supposed to erupt only every 20,000 years, and the last eruption was only 3,600 years ago.
4. Visit Oia
A traditional settlement of Santorini famous for its sunsets, Oia has many homes built in caves, as the volcanic rock of the island made it perfect for cutting away spaces for homes.
5. Discover Finikia
Close to Oia lies Finikia, a beautiful countryside village. Take a walk around the settlement and experience beautiful traditional old homes painted in earthy colors and see pretty little gardens and courtyards.
6. Visit Akrotiri
Known as the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea,” Akrotiri was once a Minoan village before it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption. The area of Akrotiri was first inhabited during the Late Neolithic period (around 4500 BC) and during the 18th century BC. Akrotiri’s remains still however somehow survived, and you can see what used to be warehouses, crafting tables, streets, and even a drainage system!
7. Discover Volcanic Beaches
Explore beaches with black, red, and white sand and enjoy the cool waters of the Aegean!
8. Honeymoon
Many couples honeymoon in Santorini, so it’s definitely a worthwhile destination to visit with your spouse!
9. Eat!
Grab a bite to eat from one of the wonderful seaside restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea and enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine as well as the unique red and white wines of Santorini!
10. View a Sunset
Cou0ples flock to Santorini every year to enjoy a beautiful sunset from the Caldera. You should definitely see one too: it is quite a sight to behold.
Enjoy Santorini!
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10 Best things to do and see in LefkasIf there is a paradise, I finally found him…
Wonderful climate, turquoise waters, scenic and gorgeous harbors. Traditional architecture, cosmopolitan places, green mountains, hospitable people, unique traditional cuisine and sea not sailing for sailing, diving and other water sports.
The island of Lefkada situated very close to the coasts of western mainland Greece, it is connected to a navigable bridge about 50 meters long. Together with Evia are the two unique islands in Greece where access is also possible by road.
The vibrant city of Lefkada invites you to its culture as to all the Ionian islands. Lefkada has the recipe for perfect holidays.
The island of Lefkada Situated very close to the coasts of western mainland Greece, it is connected to a navigable bridge about 50 meters long. Together with Evia are the two unique islands in Greece where access is also possible by road.
Walk in the beautiful alleys, which will take you to small squares and watch the traditional houses, the elaborate bell towers and the paved footpaths. Here you will see houses painted in colors gently, trimmed with flowers and neat. With a walk, you will discover other surprises.
The castle of Agia Mavra, which dominates at the entrance of the island of Lefkada, is one of the most imposing medieval buildings in Greece and is a standard of fortification art of that time. The castle is built in 1300 on an islet, next to the entrance of the island!
Nydri is considered to be the largest tourist resort on the island. It is ideal for diving and water sports, while there is also the pulse of the nightlife of the island! For sailing enthusiasts the islands of Lefkada are among the most popular destinations
Close to Nydri, one of the most famous islands in Greece and all over the world: Scorpios, the resort of the magnate Aristotle Onassis, his cherished island, his “shelter”. 2012 was bought by Russian mogul Dmitry Ribolovlev as a gift for his daughter’s birthday.
The island of Scorpio, acquired by the golden heir of Aristotle Onassis, Athena, is covered by a special protection regime, since the entire area it NATURA
The car is forbidden here. The traditional settlement of Agios Nikitas will get to know him walking. A picturesque harbor, green everywhere, fish taverns, cafes and bars in the waves, stone houses glued …
We are in Prigiponnisia, a small island complex that sails to the Ionian Sea. The tiny Meganissi is undoubtedly one of the hidden corners of the Ionian Sea, a place unknown to many, but it welcomes those who want to spend peaceful and carefree moments near it. It is known and loved by sailing enthusiasts looking for anchorage in its dozens of windy bays with turquoise waters.
And remember that behind the luxurious yachts and famous visitors there is an ancient history: Meganisi is inhabited since the Neolithic era and was first mentioned by Homer in the Odyssey. Two traditional settlements, also in the northern part, embellish your summer frame in the green island. Above Vathy, Katomeri reminds of a neighborhood of old with stone houses, small shops and bars for those who do not say “no” in the nightlife.
The most popular beaches of Lefkada.
Exotic beaches, coves, rocks cut vertically, pine trees that reach up to the water. Seat, Eggs, Mill, Peukouli, Mills, Amyglossa.
And the ”star” of the island, Porto Katsiki and Enkremnoi
Porto Katsiki is one of the most famous beaches.It has been ranked among the top six beaches of the Mediterranean. It is photographed and renowned all over the world.
… the un the unreal natural scenery and the stairs on the cliff. The beach has unreal beauty and wildness! turquoise waters, which we would say reminds of the Caribbean. One of the most beautiful beaches in Greece!
For a short drive from Nydri, a wonderful location welcomes nature lovers and ecotourist enthusiasts.
The Dimosari Gorge is an area with a wonderful natural environment, ideal for a pleasant and invigorating hiking trail. Follow the shady path below the plane trees to find yourself in a unique revelation: from the huge rocks, water drops violently into a blue lake. You will not resist swim.
For its uniqueness, the lentil Evelubi has been distinguished worldwide. Small production, but great … taste. They are cooked by the women of the village at the festival of Agios Donatos on the 7th of August, on the plateau with the big wells above the village. The feast on your plate.
Lefkada will also win your heart.
Enjoy your trip!
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The 10 Best Things to Do and See in CorfuIf there is a paradise, you will find it in Corfu. With its warm weather, turquoise waters, and gorgeous harbors, Corfu is a must-visit destination. Corfu, also filled with traditional architecture, cosmopolitan beaches, and great mountains, is the perfect destination to taste authentic Greek cuisine, play in its waters, and explore a unique island.
Cosmopolitan yet historic, Corfu has plenty of Venetian-inspired buildings, old fortresses, and other sites reminiscent of Homer’s famous works.
Top 10 Things to Do and See in Corfu
The architecture in the central city of Corfu not only has Venetian influences, but also English and French influences as well. Its main attractions include the Old Fortress, the town hall, Mon Repos villa, and Spianada park, the largest park in all of the Balkans. Moreover, St. Michael and George’s Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings left behind by the British Empire, is also a major attraction. In Corfu, Venetian mansions and building are painted in the traditional color ochre, a natural clay earth pigment with a color ranging from yellow to deep orange to brown. Corfu is so special, that it was actually named a UNESCO world heritage site!
2. See the Liston Monument
The Liston monument is a perfect place for romantic strolls, coffee, or a quick bite. People in Corfu are especially proud of their cuisine. Traditional dishes include “pastitsada,” “sofrito,” and “bourdeto”.
3. Walk the Islet of Blachernae
Probably the most famous attraction in Corfu, Blachernae is the island where the church of the Virgin of Blachernae is located, and is a must-visit destination.
5. Travel to the Natural Cove in Corfu
The natural cove in Corfu is ideal for fishing and/or diving. Add in a boat tour for a special visit to the island of and some delicious seafood.
6. See Palaiokastritsa
The most famous village in Corfu, Palaiokastritsa is a natural paradise famous for its greenery and blue waters. It has six small bays, and is perfect for divers and other watersports enthusiasts. The Achilleon diving center offers unique explorations of Palaiokastritsa’s marine life.
7. Visit the Islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa
The islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa are perfect destinations to visit by boat from Corfu. Characterized as small paradises, they are situated at the northwestern tip of Corfu. Shown below is the cave of Calypso, which is home to emerald waters and where, according to legend, the nymph of Calypso detained Odysseus (from Homer’s The Odyssey) for seven years.
8. See the Canal d’Amour
See the Canal d’Amour, a turquoise-colored canal where the wind and water smoothed the rocks to it’s sides, making the canal a famous “work of art” unique to all of Greece and the wider southeastern region of the Mediterranean.
Rovina beach is a small, beautiful, isolated beach hidden in western Corfu. The beach’s shoreline literally collapses into the sea, creating a natural dam on Corfu’s coast. Rovina is considered to be the most beautiful beach in all of Corfu.
Also, be sure to check out Corfu’s many other magnificent beaches, including Sidari beach, Stefanos beach, Kassiopi beach, and Kontokali beach.
10. Visit St. Gordios and Agios Stefanos
These two stunning beaches on the western coast of Corfu are nestled in the roots of lush green mountains and surrounded by golden-colored olive trees.
Enjoy!
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Greece Sailing Itinerary: 7 Days Through the Cyclades IslandsThe Greek islands are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Indeed, the Greek islands have topped countless lists as a top destination around the world. In this itinerary, we lay out for you a plan to go from Athens to Mykonos and see the most spectacular highlights the Greek islands have to offer.
The Athens Riviera is a coastal area in the southernmost suburbs of Athens. On this sailing route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, including Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi and Varkiza.
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece. Recently, the wider region of Cape Sounion was declared a national park, and is now protected by the Greek government. Cape Sounion is also home to the ruins of the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical Greek mythology. From the ruins, one can view the sunset over the Aegean Sea, a famous and beautiful view that many travel to see.
Kythnos, located in the Western part of the Cyclades, has perhaps the most beautiful beach out of all the Greek islands. This beach, a crescent- shaped isthmus, has extremely fine sand and warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are told to have healing properties.
Kythnos also has picturesque villages with cobblestone streets and white houses with blooming flower courtyards. Kythnos is warm, friendly, and simple. Walk through its quiet neighborhoods and dine on fresh food at waterfront tables.
Syros is located 144 kilometers (78 miles) southeast of Athens. Its capital, Ermoupoli, is a neoclassical town and one of the most beautiful settlements you will encounter in the Cyclades. Syros’s Roman quarter is home to the fortress-like St. George’s Cathedral. Go up to the top of the hill the Cathedral sits on, through the narrow streets, past the traditional whitewashed houses, and through the archways and open spaces to catch a breathtaking view of the entire island.
Syros also has beautiful architecture, such as the churches of St. Nicolas the Rich and Dormition of the Mother of God. On the hill that St. George’s Cathedral sits on, also sits the remarkable medieval settlement of Ano Syros, built during 300 AD.
3rd DAY: MYKONOS
The most famous island of the Aegean, Mykonos is bright and cosmopolitan, with exciting nightlife and stunning scenery. With its stunning beaches, award-winning restaurants, endless fantastical parties, and dream villas, it is no wonder Mykonos has been voted one of the top vacation destinations worldwide.
If the Mykonos nightlife scene isn’t for you, don’t worry. Mykonos is also home to the Ano Mera Village, a calm, authentic, and picturesque town home to the historic church Panagia Tourliani as its main attraction.
A very diverse island, Mykonos has become the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
Mykonos is also home to Little Venice, and its houses (which were built in the 18th century) have foundations in the sea! Today they offer bars, restaurants, and stunning views of the Aegean from their balconies.
The other trademark of Mykonos are the Kato Myloi, a series of windmills, that, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, milled flour up until the mid-1900’s. Today, they are home to locals and serve as vaults to numerous Mykonian heritage documents.
Moreover, Mykonos has tons of scuba diving, and its waters are home to some amazing creatures, including octopus, starfish, and Mediterranean monk seals! There are countless companies which offer diving expeditions through reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
4th DAY: MYKONOS – DELOS & RHENIA ISLANDS
Delos is one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece. Dolos is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis and has been a holy sanctuary for a millennium. Admire beautiful archaeological sites and watch the unique sunset on the island of the god of light, Apollo.
Charter your boat in Rinia, where you can dive into blue waters and cool off in the fresh air. Rinia is a peaceful, almost deserted island where one can recharge and catch a break from all the noise.
Naxos is the largest, most fertile, and self-sufficient island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, one is welcomed by Portara, a large marble frame and an ancient Apollo Temple, along with a view of a medieval castle. The island has a history dating back centuries, unique sights, varying landscapes, and delicious food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island which have been inhabited for centuries.
Naxos was rated the sixth best island in the world and the number two place to visit in Europe according to TripAdvisor, the popular travel site’s, users. It is also described as a critical culinary destination because it produces some of Greece’s most famous exports including many Greek cheeses.
Koufonissia is a well-hidden terrestrial paradise that is also definitely worth visiting. Filled with quiet beaches and caves, Koufonissia is an excellent place for relaxation and time to oneself.
Koufonissia, with its crystal clear waters, has plenty of opportunities for beautiful Mediterranean diving. With dreamy landscapes and tranquil music, Koufonissia is one of the most peaceful places to explore.
6th DAY: PAROS or SIFNOS
Paros also has beaches with crystal clear waters and magnificent beauty Also in Paros however, you’ll discover Byzantine footpaths which which connect traditional villages like Naoussa, a colorful village where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbor. Naoussa is also home to exquisite shopping opportunities in the town’s narrow alleyways and fine dining along its shores.
Sifnos combines picturesque views with folk art and tradition. It has many medieval remains and contains 360 churches, for the number of days in a year.
Sifnos is an island famous for its architecture and its beauty. Elegant but simple at the same time, Sifnos is full of stunning, pure beauty.
7th DAY : SERIFOS to ATHENS
Serifos is the ideal place for taking a stroll or stopping into one of its cafes, fish taverns, or pastry shops located next to the sea. Chora, Serifos’s capital city, was built on a rocky hilltop overlooking over the rest of the island, and houses a Venetian castle built in the 15th century. The most beautiful architectural building on Serifos however, is the ancient Hellenistic marble watchtower Aspros Pirgos, or “White Tower.”
Simply put, Serifos has beautiful, simple Cycladic architecture that has remained unchanged for centuries.
With magnificent views, archaeological wonders, and fantastic adventures, you’re sure to love this itinerary which takes sailors to all of the must-see Greek islands.
Enjoy!
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7 days in the North Ionian IslandsIonian Islands. If there is a paradise, I finally found it…
Wonderful climate, turquoise waters, scenic and gorgeous harbors. Traditional architecture, cosmopolitan places, green mountains, hospitable people, unique traditional cuisine and sea for sailing, diving and other water sports. The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
The cosmopolitan gorgeous island, exuding a nobility, with a venerable Venetian element, historic buildings, palaces, fortresses, romantic Canadas with arched galleries, amazing beaches and long history from Homer’s years.
The city of Corfu is characterized by its intense Venetian architecture element, but also by many English and French influences. It is a cosmopolitan city that exudes a sense of nobility, with its main attractions the old and new fortress, the Town Hall, the cannon, Mon Rope and the great square Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans. Also, Michael and George’s Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces left behind by the British Empire, is also a major attraction. In Corfu Venetian mansions and buildings are painted with the traditional Corfu color of the ocher.
In front of Kanoni is probably the most famous attraction of Corfu, the island where the church of the Virgin of Blacherna is located, which is connected with the land through a narrow strip of land.
Ponticonisi – tourist attraction of Corfu, which is a natural museum, on which is a small church, the Pantokratoras, of the 11th-12th century.
Palaiokastritsa In the most famous tourist resort of Corfu, the green overflows to the six small bays The beach of Paleokastritsa is famous for its waters
Favorite destination by boat north of Corfu.
The list of the wonderful beaches of Corfu is not over
… Sidari and Canal d’amour, Palaiokastritsa, Rovinia, Agios Stefanos, Kassiopi, Kontokali, Agios Gordios …
St. Gordios
Rovinia
The picturesque village
Corfu will amaze you…