Off the beaten track alternatives to Rhodes, Corfu and Santorini.

Looking for untouched beauty, seclusion and quiet for your next holiday? There are a whole host of Greek islands overlooked by tourists that make for an off-the-beaten-track island escape in Europe.

Forget the hordes of holidaymakers in Kos and Corfu. These undiscovered hideways offer picturesque harbours, authentic villages and traditional Greek cuisine. Love beaches? The pebbly and sandy stretches on these remote islands are just how you like them: tranquil, unspoilt and totally sun-drenched . There's no shortage of ways to stay active on your Greek island getaway, either, as the nature and wildlife on these islands are just waiting to be explored: think waterfalls, hiking trails with sunset views and thermal springs.

If you're in need of a true island escape in Greece, these are the secret places for you. Folegandros (pictured) boasts sugar-cube whitewashed houses, pristine beaches and one of the most appealing clifftop villages in the Cyclades. In unique Chios, you can observe the beautiful village of Pyrgi, with its buildings finely decorated in grey and white geometric shapes. For those who appreciate a pretty harbour, don't miss Symi. This island has one of the most picturesque harbours in Greece, showing off impeccable architecture, cafes and a slow pace of life, unlike its neighbour Rhodes.

Want to experience the Greek islands without the crowds? Here's where you should go...

Kastellorizo
The pretty island of Kastellorizo, which lies 110km east of Rhodes, has a main town that unfolds around the natural harbour with unique architecture and colourful houses. The island's is home to a cluster of islets and offers a wealth of marine life to discover in its clear blue seas. Around the island you'll find cafes, tavernas and shops. The medieval castle and archaeological and folklore museums are several top attractions to visit when you're not at the beach. As tourism is yet to develop you'll only find a selection of hotels - a good place to experience true Greek island life.

Chios
The lesser-known isle of Chios is a unique gem in the north-eastern area of the Aegean Sea. It is best known for its cultivation and production of mastic, an aromatic resin that comes from trees that grow in the Mastihohoria region and forms in teardrop shapes. Pyrgi is one of the island's most beautiful villages, characterised by the fine decoration of its houses featuring grey and white geometric shapes.

Hydra
One of the most romantic places in Greece, Hydra overlooks the Argosaronic gulf and is home to traditional stone mansions, narrow cobbled streets and secluded squares. Cars are banned so people get around by donkey and its heart is the waterfront, featuring picturesque streets, museums, churches and cafés. Hydra is a popular day trip destination from Athens and its best beaches include Limnioniza, Spiliá and Ayios Nikolaos.

Karpathos
Karpathos is part of the Dodecanese complex and lies east of Crete. It is one of Greece's best-kept secrets, a mountainous island full of fresh water springs, vineyards and pine-tree forests. Karpathos' rock caves are home to Mediterranean monk seals and around the island there are marvellous hiking paths, secluded beaches and pretty villages, such as Othos and Olympos.

Schinoussa
Schinoussa is a small island that lies to the south of Naxos and boasts stony landscape that is both beautiful and unspoilt. It is part of the Minor Cyclades group of islands and has just three villages: Chora, Messaria and Mersini. As the island's port, Mersini, once a hideout for pirates, is a haven for small boats and a popular mooring spot for sailing enthusiasts. While on the island, enjoy hiking to observe the unspoilt natural beauty of the island, discover the 15 idyllic beaches and don't miss a walk through the picturesque village of Chora.

To read more, please visit: TravelAol

Rhodes is officially in the running for the title of European Cultural Capital 2021, after municipal authorities submitted the Dodecanese island’s bid.

Rhodes Mayor Fotis Chatzidiakos described the bid as a “journey that has just set off from its first port”.

“This is the result of painstaking work done over many months… Rhodes aims to establish itself as an influential destination historically, one of intellectual development in the sciences and the arts, and as a center of dissemination of European ideals,” the mayor added.

“At the moment, the world is observing Greece and Europe as a whole struggling with massive issues: immigration, refugees, religious dogmatism and extremism, conflicts and economies of different speeds. It is vital that Europe regain its credibility as a strong economic center and one of compassion,” Mr Chatzidiakos said.

To read more, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

Hot air masses from Africa that reached Greece on Sunday will affect the weather until Wednesday, according to the National Observatory's Meteo weather service.

Temperatures are expected to drop significantly on Thursday.

Click here for central Athens forecast.
Click here for northern Athens forecast.
Click here for southern Athens forecast.

Greece is made up of a half a dozen archipelagos making it easy to see how there are a plethora of amazing uninhabited islands around Greece that visitors can add to their list of places to visit on their next Grecian holiday!

Located northwest of Amorgos, Keros island is a part of the Koufonissia islands and boasts important archaeological sites and excavations. Archaeologist have uncovered ruins from the Early Cycladic period 3200-2000 BC and in ancient times, it was called Keria. The beaches have white sand and the water is turquoise. People may visit the island on their own boat or by hiring an excursion boat. Overnight stays are not permitted by the Archaeological Authority that watches over the island.

Lihadonisia is an island complex located across from Kamena Vourla in Evia. The islands are dotted with beaches that were created by volcanic inlets. Often referred to as the “Maldives” of Greece, the islands emerged as a result of a massive earthquake thousands of years ago and volcanic activity during the Cenozoic century. Thought to have been named after the servant of the God Hercules, Lihas, the islands can be reached via boat excursions operating from the harbor of Kavos in Evia.

Gramvousa

Gramvousa is part of the Cretan islands archipelago. The two islands it refers to are Imeri and Agria Gramvousa, literally “tame” and “wild” Gramvousa. You can take a one day boat trip leaving in the morning and returning at night from Kissamos port and arriving at Gramvousa and Balos beach & lagoon. Day tours are available from May to October. Known for spectacular beaches, flora and fauna, and the remains of the Venetian castle and fort that tops Imeri Gramvousa peaks, these two islands are not to be missed.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter

The Solidarity Cities initiative was recently announced at a press conference in Athens in October 2016, following a closed political session gathering 23 mayors and vice-mayors of the EUROCITIES network. The Mayor of Athens, Georgios Kaminis, and Vice-Mayor of Barcelona, Laïa Ortiz, presented to journalists the concept of the initiative and the main demands of European cities in terms of direct funding for refugee reception and integration, as well as better involvement from cities in the shaping of migration policy at the European and national level.

Solidarity Cities embodies a humanitarian response to the refugee situation, advocating a fairer sharing of responsibilities among EU member states. EUROCITIES published an open letter on World Refugee Day 2016, calling to refocus the debate on the refugee situation in Europe so as to reflect common European values of solidarity, humanity and dignity. Many cities are already taking steps to ensure the safe reception and passage of refugees through their territories, as described in the April 2016 report, ‘Refugee reception and integration in cities.'

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek News Agenda

 

Please click HERE for more information on Solidarity Cities.

Launched in September 2017, Akapnos is dedicated to promoting and rewarding all shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. that don't allow smoking inside. They are by no means anti-smoking - they just want to help those who want to have a smoke-free environment. Listed on their site, the venues they include have the following requirements:

Akapnos is a group of Greek citizens who wish to improve the self-image of its citizens, as well as the image of Greece from foreigners. They care immensely about the long-term interest in Greece and wish to preserve its legacy and heritage.

To explore the 244 verified smoke-free venues in Greece (so far), please visit: Akapnos

The Byzantine church of Hagia Kyriaki on the Greek island of Naxos recently won the 2018 European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage/Europa Nostra Awards for its unique frescoes that were reconstructed by a Greek and Swiss team.

This restoration meant Greece was one of the outstanding European heritage success stories in the awards’ Conservation category for 2018.

Hagia Kyriaki will be honored at a ceremony in Berlin in June 2018 during the first European Cultural Heritage Summit.

Below is a video showing the details and reconstruction of the church.



For more information about the Europa Nostra Awards and Hagia Kyriaki, please visit: European Heritage Awards

Article source: Greek Reporter

During an inspiring and emotional celebration by the Peace and Sport Organization on the island of Rhodes, ACS Athens was honored and recognized for organizing the “Color of Peace” event that took place on April 20, 2018. All JK-Grade 12 students participated in an event dedicated to promoting peace through sport and to highlighting the importance of education for ALL children while empathizing and actively supporting those young individuals who have lost their home because of war.

“Peace and Sport” is an independent and international organization that promotes Peace through the power of Sport and it is based in Monaco, functioning under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco.

Each year, the “Regional Peace through Sport” initiative rewards a company, a foundation, an institution or an event that has demonstrated its commitment to benefit society through sport and uses its assets and experience to promote sustainable peace and social awareness. ACS Athens was among a select group of organizations/institutions from all five continents that were considered for this prestigious award and was honored to receive it. The award was accepted by Dr. Stefanos Gialamas, ACS Athens President, Ms. Annie Constantinides, Director of Athletics and Ms. Manya Louvari, Member of the ACS Athens Board of Trustees.

ACS Athens participated in “Peace and Sport” initiative by creating and promoting the “White Card” campaign to promote the positive and constructive values of sport around the globe. During the “White Card” celebration on April 20, 2018, the entire ACS Athens community of more than 1000 students and faculty participated in a school-wide event sending a strong message in support of empathy and peace and against discrimination. The celebration included a soccer match with students and unattended refugee minors who live at the shelters of "The Home Project" Organization, an ACS Athens partner for the “Youth-to-Youth” Program. The ACS Athens student body consists of over 65 nationalities, and it is an example of respecting and celebrating different cultures, while it fosters an environment that respects and promotes universal values and principles for humanity. Leading to the "White Card" celebration, the school organized several activities in support of the Youth-to-Youth Program, as well as educational activities throughout the different grade levels, where all students addressed the significance of peace in a troubled world and the power of sport in uniting cultures across the globe.

For more information, please visit: ACS Athens

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Santorini will be found once again at the heart of the global sports map, in October, through the organization of “Santorini Experience”.

Amateur and professional athletes will discover the athletic side of the island for the 5th year, from October 4-6, 2019, through running races, admiring the Cycladic architecture overlooking the Caldera and through a swimming race in the deep blue sea with the necessary volcanic energy.

“Santorini Experience” ensures every year the best service for all participants, creating ideal conditions for all travelers. All those traveling to the island by ferry for the 5th “Santorini Experience”, will be able to enjoy once again this year the safety and comfort of Blue Star Ferries. The top Greek shipping company offers 50% discount on the ferry tickets, from/to Santorini and 30% discount on vehicles to all those visiting the event and the island from October 1 st to 10th 2019. Each person who has completed his/her registration is entitled to the same discount for 3 more people (if these are his/her escorts) or for 4 people (if these are family members).

Participants who wish to book their tickets must complete their registration and timely contact the following port offices, at least 3 workdays before departure: Piraeus: GELASAKIS SHIPPING & TRAVEL, tel. +30 210 4222440, Santorini: DAKOUTROS TRAVEL, tel. 22860 22201, Paros: ERKYNA TRAVEL, tel. +30 22840 23112, Syros: VASSILIKOS PREMIUM SERVICES, tel. +30 22810 844444, Naxos: ZAS TRAVEL, tel. +30 22850 23330. For bookings on the day of ferry’s departure, the discount offer will not be applicable.

At the same time, Avance gives the opportunity to participants in the 5th “Santorini Experience” to make their reservation, for any vehicle of their choice regarding their travel to the island during the period of the event (pick up service from the airport or port), with a 15% discount on the official price list. In terms of bookings, participants may send an email to sales@avance.gr.

On Friday, October 4, 2019, the awarded Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa as the official sponsor of “Santorini Experience” will give the opportunity to people to admire the enchanting view of the famous sunset in Oia, by hosting a Sunset Pilates Session with the exceptional instructor, Mandy Persaki. Limited seats will be available for the session. Interested parties can call: +30 28975 02151.

Hospitality sponsors are the keystone to the prominence and development of sports tourism in Santorini and one of the most important factors for the success of “Santorini Experience”. Until now, this year’s effort is supported with special offers and prices by: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, Andronis Arcadia, Vedema a Luxury Collection Resort, Mystique a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santo Houses, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, Sienna Resort, Esperas Santorini, Loizos Stylish 2 Residencies, Iokasti Villa, Olive Cave Houses and Mesana Stone Houses, while participation continues.

Travel to Santorini, under the ideal weather conditions from October 4-6, and take advantage of the accommodation offers from hospitality sponsors and partners of the event like VitaNTravel which offers accommodation packages starting from 130€ per person for three days, including accommodation and ferry tickets.  For more information click HERE! 

Santorini is an island in which use of means of transportation is necessary and DNA Travel provides its services for this purpose. Participants will be able to take advantage of the special offer created by DNA Travel for the days of Santorini Experience and arrange a transfer from/to their hotels and from/to the airport or the port they arrive at a cost of €30.00 for up to 4 people and with €5.00 extra cost for every extra person. Reservations can be made at info@dnatravel.gr and info@dnatravelgreece.com , but also at the following telephone numbers: +306972245343, +306980027609, +302286021179.

2019 Santorini Experience offers
Take advantage of the offers available on ferry tickets, car rentals and accommodation for “Santorini Experience” HERE!

“Santorini Experience” as an event has many difficulties, but the pleasure and experience someone gains from his participation are even more.

Enjoy some backstage moments at the following video by clicking HERE!

Registrations for swimming and running continue
From 1/6/2019, participants may register in the event according to the final wave of registrations which lasts until the start of the event.

Attend Real Madrid’s camp in Santorini!
In the framework of “Santorini Experience”, and in cooperation with MGC Soccer Central, head coaches from the academies of Real Madrid will visit Santorini for the first time and specifically the facilities of the athletic center Playland, from October 3-6, 2019 and teach football to children aged between 6 and 16, using the coaching methodologies of Los Merengues! Register now. For more information visit: http://www.frmclinicsgreece.com

Samsung is the event’s official technology partner for one more year.
Official sponsors of the event include Ford Motor Hellas, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Blue Star Ferries and Alafouzos Sport. For another year, Luanvi is the event’s official sports supplier.
Official supporters of the event are: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts and Boatmen Union Santorini.
Avance Rent A Car is the official rental partner.
National Geographic is the strategic partner of the event and 24 Media its premium media partner.
DNA Travel is the official transport partner.
“Santorini Experience” is assisted by West East Suites, Lifeguard Patrol, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Mediterranean Dive Club, Atlantis Dive Center and Santorini Nautical Club. 3 “Santorini Experience” has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2019 program of the European Commission and is under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports. “Santorini Experience” is a co-organization of Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) and Active Media Group.
The event is held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation.
More info at: www.santorini-experience.com
Official Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience
Photo credit: Thanos Rivios