With the news that Greece may be re-opening its borders as soon as mid-June, we’re already daydreaming about sandy beaches, turquoise waters, lush mountainous interiors, and white-washed buildings dotted along the coastline...
Though international travel may not yet be 100% confirmed, now is the time for clients to start thinking about booking a visit to sunny Greece and be first in line once we get the official go-ahead.
But with so many stunning Greek destinations to choose from, where should clients be jetting off to? We’ve rounded up our selection of the best private villas where guests can relax in luxury, away from the crowds, yet still experience the best that Greece has to offer; all whilst being looked after by highly-trained teams of staff.
Santorini
White-washed buildings with blue-domed roofs along the cliff tops is probably one of the most iconic sights of the Greek Islands. Santorini is also known for its red and black sand beaches, it’s lava cliffs and its spectacular pink-hued sunsets. Visitors can take a private boat tour to explore the famous caldera, the hot springs and the surrounding islands, or explore the depths of the turquoise waters on snorkelling or diving trips. A hike along the 10 km Caldera Path from Fira to Oia is another great way to escape the crowds.
Our pick in Santorini: Villa Erosantorini
Mykonos
Though often hailed as Greece’s “party island”, there’s a lot more to Mykonos than bars and beach clubs. The island offers spectacular clifftop views and golden sand beaches with crystal-clear waters. There are plenty of secluded coves where visitors can escape the crowds, and vast landscapes ideal for hiking and cycling.
Our pick in Mykonos: Villa Fleur de Sel
Paros
Paros is known for being one of the quieter Greek Islands, relatively speaking. Though its landscapes may not be quite as dramatic as some of its neighbours, the view from the island’s ring road - overlooking the sea to the dozens of surrounding islands - is simply spectacular.
Yellow-sand beaches welcome visitors, and the calm waters are perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing. Ideal for wandering away from the pack, a network of walking trails leads visitors up to a 19th century lighthouse on Cape Kórakas for unbeatable views.
Our pick in Paros: Villa Delion
Antiparos
Just a ferry ride from Paros is the relaxed island of Antiparos. Life moves at a slower pace here than some of the more touristy islands, making it the perfect destination for leisurely exploration and relaxation. Visitors can stroll through bougainvillea-lined streets, unwind on less crowded beaches, or explore the famous Cave of Antiparos, which is filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites; this includes the oldest stalactite in Europe, estimated to be 45 million years old!
Our pick in Antiparos: Villa Astir
Sifnos
Sifnos may be renowned for its food scene but there’s more to this island than its waterfront restaurants. Traditional villages with whitewashed houses and chapels are dotted across the island, whilst inland there are sprawling mountains with terraced olive groves and almond trees. The island’s bays offer sparkling azure waters and spectacular views.
Our pick in Sifnos: Villa Verina
Corfu
One of the most popular Greek islands, Corfu boasts picture-perfect landscapes. Pebble and sand beaches meet crystal-clear waters, whilst olive groves and dense forests spread across rugged mountainous interiors. The terrain lends itself to scenic bike rides and hikes, though the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Old Town is ideal for more leisurely strolls.
Our pick in Corfu: Villa Ultima Corfu
Crete
With one of the longest summer seasons in the country, visitors to Crete can travel off-peak and still be guaranteed sunny weather to enjoy from one of its many pink-sand beaches. The region’s temperate climate and varied terrain lends itself to a host of outdoor activities and adventure sports from hiking or horse riding, to rock climbing or canyoning, and of course a range of watersports. For those looking for a more relaxed getaway, the island’s countryside is home to rolling mountains and excellent vineyards, as well as stunning frescoed chapels and Minoan palace ruins spread throughout.
Our pick in Crete: Villa Terra Creta
Rhodes
The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes features vast stretches of coast dotted with beach resorts, complemented by a forested, mountainous interior that provides plenty of space to wander away from the crowds. However, the island is also renowned for its ancient ruins and historic sites, including the walled city of Rhodes, which is another of Greece’s UNESCO World Heritage-protected sites. The cobbled streets are perfect for exploring on foot, and getting a taste of history, along with a taste of local cuisine!
Our pick in Rhodes: Villa Seven
Diaporos Island
Just across the water from mainland region of Halkidiki, Diaporos is one of the more untouched islands of Greece. Soft sand beaches with warm waters provide plenty of space to avoid the crowds. With its coves protected from the wind, the sea surrounding the island is gentle and calm making it ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can rent a private boat and explore the many surrounding islands, where there’s sure to be a secluded beach or hidden bay to relax on.
Our pick in Diaporos: Villa White
Western Greece
Greece isn’t all about islands; there’s plenty to see and do on the mainland as well. Western Greece comprises the western part of continental Greece and the northwest of the Peloponnese peninsula. Here, visitors will find a temperate climate with lush valleys, deep-set rivers, and stunning lakes. Western Greece is also home to Olympia, the original site of the Olympic Games founded in the 8th Century BC, and where the Olympic Torch is still lit for the modern games. For those who still want a taste of the island life, Zakynthos and Kefalonia can easily be reached by boat.
Our pick in Western Greece: Louiza Estate
