Greek Island hoping
Athens: A Brief Encounter with History Though our stay in Athens was fleeting, the city left a lasting impression. The highlight was undoubtedly the Acropolis, an awe-inspiring historic site that dominates the cityscape. For future travellers, I highly recommend booking your visit in advance as the site occasionally closes when it becomes too crowded. Despite our limited time, we explored the city's charm on foot, discovering quaint shops and vibrant streets.
Tinos: A Hidden Gem in the Cyclades A 3-hour and 15-minute fast ferry ride from Athens brought us to Tinos, a little slice of heaven. This island captivated my heart with its authenticity and deep religious roots. Tinos is renowned for its pilgrimage site where devotees, having had their prayers answered, crawl from the base of a hill to a church at the summit in gratitude. The island is dotted with unique pigeon houses and boasts fertile soils, a testament to its rich history of mountain dwellings designed to evade pirate attacks. Among the island's few remaining basket weavers, we met 75-year-old Ludwig in the picturesque town of Volakas, my personal favourite. Panormos, famous for its marble, offers postcard-perfect scenes and lazy days spent in charming squares. Tinos is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with options for surfing, hiking, climbing, and diving, all complemented by fantastic food. The evenings in this sleepy port are surprisingly lively, with cocktail bars and fairy-lit streets. My favourite memory is a simple one: enjoying a takeaway gyros while watching the sunset over the port.
Mykonos: A Return to Glamour A short 30-minute fast ferry from Tinos took us to Mykonos. Having visited a decade ago, I was excited to return. The island still pulses with its vibrant party atmosphere, though it now carries a more prestigious price tag. Despite its commercialization, Mykonos retains its stunning beauty. We were treated to a site visit at the luxurious Domes Noruz Mykonos, where we indulged in a sumptuous lunch.
Naxos: Growing Fond of the Busy Island Initially, Naxos didn't captivate me as Tinos did, perhaps due to its larger and busier nature. However, I soon discovered its charm. The island's beaches are breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving. We enjoyed a sunset catamaran cruise, spotting dolphins despite a hazy sky. Naxos is ideal for exploration, with options to hire quad bikes, mopeds, or cars. The highlight was visiting the Apollo Temple, a must-see landmark. I look forward to returning to hike Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, and try my hand at windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Santorini: A Dramatic Finale A 2-hour Blue Star ferry ride from Naxos brought us to Santorini, a stark contrast to the other islands. With its dramatic coastlines, volcanic beaches, and upscale hotels, Santorini is a visual and sensory delight. Despite the bustling streets filled with cruise ship visitors, the island's beauty remains unparalleled. The walk from Fira to Oia in Santorini amazing. It is approximately 10-kilometer (6-mile) hike offers breathtaking views of the caldera, picturesque villages, and the Aegean Sea. Here are a few tips to make the most of this stunning walk:
Timing: Starting at sunrise or sunset is ideal. Not only will you avoid the heat of the midday sun, but you'll also witness the incredible colors of the sky and landscape. Preparation: Water: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, as there are few places to refill along the way. Sun Protection: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Comfortable Shoes: Ensure you have good walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in places. Route: The path is well-marked, but it's helpful to have a map or GPS for reassurance. The walk typically starts from Fira, passing through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli before reaching Oia. Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views. The light at sunrise and sunset can create spectacular photo opportunities. Pace: Take your time to enjoy the journey. There are many spots to stop, rest, and take in the scenery.
Ferry Travel: Smooth and Enjoyable Traveling by ferry was surprisingly easy and enjoyable, akin to hopping on a bus. The only exception was Santorini, where the popularity of the route made for a slightly more chaotic experience. We used fast ferries and Blue Star Ferries for our island-hopping adventure: • Athens to Tinos: 3 hours 15 minutes • Tinos to Mykonos: 30 minutes • Tinos to Naxos: 2 hours 5 minutes • Naxos to Santorini: 2 hours
Traveling with G Adventures: A Seamless Experience Our trip was made effortless and enjoyable by our guide, Sam. His wealth of knowledge about local culture and area, combined with his organizational skills, allowed me to relax and fully immerse myself in the experience. Sam's daily briefings and WhatsApp messages ensured we never missed a detail. This tour offered a great balance of activity and relaxation!
Thanks to G Adventures, our island-hopping journey was both enlightening and relaxing. I'm now eagerly planning a Vietnam trip with G Adventures for my family.