The Great Greek Escape 2021
Greece has an undeniably natural beauty that’s profound within its collection of sun-drenched islands, each with their own unique character and charm. Steeped in history and with a landscape that captures everything from rugged coastlines to lush olive groves, this jewel in the Mediterranean has the ability to pull at the heartstrings of every visitor.
The real beauty of Greece is that it accommodates everyone seeking a sun-kissed escape, whether you’re planning a holiday for the whole family or a romantic couples retreat – so you can guarantee that our luxury Greek Island holidays will tick every box. Whether you’re looking to spend time sinking your toes into the golden beaches of Crete, exploring the wonders of chic Santorini, or soaking up the laid-back luxe of Mykonos, you’ll find what you’re looking for with our list of Greek Island escapes. Prepare to sample the sunsets, dine on delicious local cuisine, or simply indulge in some R&R on an all-inclusive Greek Island holiday…
Above: Carpe Diem Hotel
If you’re looking for an escape that takes care of everything, Santorini holidays are sure to hit the spot. Famous for its picturesque setting that clings onto the rugged edge of a Volcano’s caldera, you’ll fall in love with the picture-postcard views on offer here. Its fairy-tale setting is just the beginning though, as you’ll be met by blue-domed churches, chalky white cliffs, quaint towns and historical ruins that allow you to explore all that this island has to offer.
Dining here is an experience itself, with a host of boutique restaurants dotted across the island where you can sample the freshest seafood while admiring panoramic views over the Aegean Sea. With a handful of Moet and Lobster Bars on the menu too, there’s plenty of classy venues to sip on cocktails underneath the stars.
Venture out of our stylish hotel and you’ll discover plenty to see and do. A visit Oia is a must, where you can spend a laid-back afternoon exploring the famous clifftop town. Time it right and you’ll be able to watch the sunset before heading to a local restaurant for a romantic meal. If you love to explore, the Akrotiri Archaeological Site provides a glimpse of the past with ancient settlements and hints of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the world.
Santorini is known for its rugged landscape, but you cannot truly admire it until you take to the water. To see the island in style, hop on a boat and explore the island from its crystal-clear waters – whether you book a private catamaran, go on a caldera cruise or opt for a romantic sunset boat trip.
Above: Nana Princess
Crowned as the largest of the Greek islands (and one of the most beautiful), Crete boasts a wealth of gorgeous sandy beaches lapped by inviting azure waters, quaint harbours and lively tavernas. Along with its popular attractions, this family-friendly island also provides an abundance of luxury – especially when it comes to its resorts.
The island capital Heraklion is sprinkled with chic boutiques and upmarket stores to wander, just a 30-minute drive from the beautiful village of Gouves – where you’ll find a host of adults-only hotels. Chania is another resort that’s popular for its deluxe hotels and villas, with the pretty Platanias Beach nearby. If secret villages, cobbled streets and bundles of history are your thing, Rethymnon Old Town is well worth a visit for its awe-inspiring ruins, with Fortezza – the biggest Venetian Castle – still standing. History lovers can also travel back in time with a visit to Spinalonga; this rocky islet is a former leper colony which houses an ancient Venetian fortress as well as an archaeological site. Or if walking is your thing, grab your boots and hike Richtis Gorge. This playground for walkers boasts a tropical vibe with bright greenery and a mesmerising waterfall, all of which has to be seen to be appreciated!
So, whether you want to spend time relaxing by the pool or exploring the all-encompassing island, Crete has the scope to become anything you want it to be.
Above: Avra beach Hotel
Rhodes is known for being one of the more popular Greek Islands, which makes it an ideal choice for luxury Greece holidays 2021. When you touch down here you’ll find a perfect blend of sunshine, beaches, history and luxury too. It’s suitable for families and couples making it a versatile option for those looking for a touch of everything. You’ll notice the glistening blue ocean and sandy beaches at first, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find so much more.
Escape the tourist trail with a trip to Kalithea or head to Rhodes Town where you’ll stumble upon tavernas and alfresco restaurants that serve up freshly prepared seafood dishes and local delicacies; or watch the sun go down with a cold glass of wine at one of the many bars along the front. You’ll find your fair share of designer shops here too, although the island doesn’t fall short when it comes to history and sugar-cube villages that are waiting to be explored.
Soak up the history at Rhodes Town’s Old Quarter where you can visit the opulent Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes and admire the Suleymaniye Mosque before settling down for a bite to eat. If you like to keep things adventurous, you’ll find plenty of water sports available to make a splash, or if dry ground is more your thing there’s lots of hiking trails to discover too – perfect for those who like to keep active. Prefer to keep things low key? Spend the day on the pristine beaches and take a dip in the ocean, bliss.
Kos
Michaelangelo Hotel
Positioned in the Aegean Sea, Kos serves up breath-taking scenery, impressive beaches and enough history to keep you entertained for days (or even weeks). The great thing about Kos is the way that it appeals to everyone; if you like a little peace and tranquillity, escape to one of the many hidden private coves and spend an hour or two unwinding, or for a more upbeat pace, make your way to a beach bar for a drink and some music.
The lure of the glistening waters and sandy beaches might be enough for some, but those who like to mix up their beach days with a bit of exploration will be content too – since the island boasts a perfect blend of old meets new. Centuries-old Roman ruins and castles rub shoulders with whitewashed hamlets, pine forests and coastal hiking trails in Kos – not to mention the chic boutiques, bars and restaurants that are thrown in too. Whether you want to sightsee or saunter around the shops, there’s something for everybody here.
If you want to plan a day of entertainment that’s fit for the whole family, or simply spread your wings and visit somewhere new, book a boat trip from Kardamena to the Turkish town of Bodrum. Or if history is more your thing, head to Asklepion where you’ll find a host of ruins and even more history to explore. For a leisurely afternoon of wandering visit Kos Town, with architecture, charm and history all bundled into one, it’s a great way to escape it all for a few hours!
Above : De-light resort
If you’re seeking an A-list escape where you can rub shoulders with the rich and famous, Mykonos is undoubtedly the pick of the bunch. This beautiful island delivers incredible weather with endless sunshine and golden beaches at Plati Yialos. This might be one of the smallest Greek Islands, but it certainly packs a punch.
Grab your sunglasses and spend a day relaxing on one of the island’s white-sand beaches or coves, or go for a walk along the many clifftop coast paths that wind their way across the countryside. Head to Mykonos Chora, the capital, and you’ll discover a harbour that’s packed with colour, fishing boats, and a wealth of popular restaurants that offer everything from fine-dining to options that are more suited to families – all of which offer mesmerising views of the crystal-clear ocean. Within the whitewashed villages you’ll find cobbled streets that pave the way to boutique shops and bars and beautiful buildings showcasing Grecian architecture, an example of how tradition meets modern day.
Escape the island for a while with a boat trip to the tiny island of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo. It’s an island steeped in history and well worth a visit. The main attraction on the island is the Church of Panagia Paraportiani and it won’t disappoint – its curving dome and whitewashed exterior give it real character, but its the history within it that really captures the imagination. For those who prefer nothing more than a day relaxing on the pristine white sands, then you’ve got plenty of options on this star-studded isle.
Greece Won’t Disappoint
Greece captures it all; from the luxe of Mykonos, to the popular island of Rhodes and golden-hued beaches of Crete, you’ll have no problem finding somewhere that ticks all of your boxes – the only problem you’ll have is deciding which island to visit first!
Feeling inspired? contact chicretreats.com
