WHILE new resorts pop up all over the place, the Greek islands still provide some of the best holidays on the continent.
Air travel around Europe has gathered pace and popularity over the last 30 years but Greece has remained the most attractive due to its pure quality and value for money.
Most of the 6,000 strips of sun-kissed soil surrounding the mainland are uninhabited, but with over 200 populated islands, there are also many impossibly beautiful gems to mention in one short piece. So let us then select a few of the most excellent destinations that the archipelago has to offer. These gorgeous nuggets of sand in the Mediterranean sit in the middle of a Venn diagram, which includes sightseeing, partying and relaxation. Each, however, has its own slightly distinct personality and charm.
If it's a lively time that you are after, then look no further than Mykonos. While many or most of the Islands have nightlife of varying types, Mykonos probably provides the most funky and fully-fledged fiestas. There are only 10,000 inhabitants on Mykonos but that figure bloats through the summer months as young people from all over Europe gravitate toward this party island to dance until the sun rises, without having to spend the sort of money that a resort such as Ibiza largely requires. Indeed, one of Greece's great virtues is that it remains an affordable option for accommodation, food and drink.
All good Greece holidays consist of sun, sand and relaxation, and Corfu is no different. Corfu is a lively island but, along with Santorini, it also has to be classified as one of the most naturally beautiful atolls in the world. Just off the west coast of Greece, it boasts pockets of throbbing nightlife in areas such as Messonghi and Kavos, but if this isn't your scene, here you'll find some of the best beaches and delightful surroundings in Europe. Hire a moped at a modest rate and enjoy the quieter parts of this island in all its glory. In a solitary day you can travel up both coasts and through local villages, which seem to have been in stasis for centuries.
The Cyclades islands lie to the south of the mainland and the most southerly of these is Santorini. Santorini is essentially a massive lagoon with steep cliffs on three sides, created by a huge volcanic eruption some 3,600 years ago. It's not the cheapest of the Islands but it doesn't really need to be, because it is a picture perfect setting that sells itself. Santorini is definitely one of the more serene and exclusive members of the Greek islands.
The more adventurous among you would probably favour Tilos. As many sites, including the excellent Top Travel Blogs will testify, this is a particularly vibrant island in terms of wildlife, flora and fauna. It's typically mountainous and therefore offers lovely vistas and great walks. It has a small surface area of around 65 square kilometres and the permanent population of the island is tiny so don't expect to find to big a party here, but if you want relax and trek, Tilos is a perfect choice.
Whichever island you opt for you will find simple, tasty cuisine – fresh fish from the surrounding shores, inordinately sized Mediterranean vegetables and superb, understated service from friendly locals.
Many tourists return to Greece year after year, even those who have travelled extensively around the world because a holiday there is invariably such an enjoyable experience. Despite its popularity, it really feels like an unspoilt gem when you get out of the busiest areas. There are few better countries in Europe for beaches and while always warm, it's never too hot due to the cool breeze that perennially brushes the islands. If it has been a while since you last enjoyed Greece or are yet to visit, consider taking your next holiday here; for sheer quality and affordability, few destinations can top it.
