10 Day Island Hopping

The beautiful island of Santorini was created by the eruption of a super volcano called Thera in ancient antiquity. This eruption has been estimated to have ejected 100 cubic kilometres of material, making it one of the four most powerful eruptions of historic times. The concentric shaped islands that remain have created one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world, so it is no surprise that water activities are so popular here. Whether partaking a sailing charter, relaxing on a beach, or taking advantage of the many spectacular viewpoints, Santorini is a delightful location to enjoy the Mediterranean. Famed for the beautiful sunsets, be sure to find a good vantage point as the day winds down.

Many people believe Santorini to be the location of Atlantis from Platonic myth, and the ancient ruins of Thera, although dated to after the eruption, lend credence to that theory. The uphill walk is rewarded with a fascinating archaeological site which includes Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. For those who prefer, it is a short taxi drive to the top.

The quaint and charming way of life on Paros belies the dramatic history of this destination. Often on the wrong side of wars throughout history, Parians sided with Persian forces in both the Greco-Persian Wars. This caused the island to come under heavy demand for tribute from Athens over the ensuing decades. Having been ruled at various times by Ptolemies and Hellenistic dynasties who also ruled Egypt, followed by the Romans, Byzantines, a Venetian Dukes (granted Paros as part of a fiefdom by the Crusaders), and the Ottoman Turks, it was not until 1832 following the Greek War of Independence that Paros became part of the Kingdom of Greece. This was the first time in over 600 years that the islands had been ruled by fellow Greeks.

These days, Paros is a wonderfully relaxed destination to soak up the Mediterranean sun on one of the many idyllic beaches, or sample some of the local wares at a winery. For the slightly more adventurous travellers, horseback riding tours are a great way to explore the countryside.

Naxos, with its comparatively reliable rainfall and fertile soil, is the most self-sufficient of all the Cycladic islands. With many varieties of fruit grown locally, the ubiquitous olives, and famed throughout Greece for its cheese, Naxos is a great place to pack a hamper and find a quiet place for a picnic. The main centre is a delightful port town filled with white-washed houses and Venetian mansions and is a great place to wander about exploring galleries and cafes.

Some believe that Naxos is home to the cave in which the young Zeus was raised. The purported cave can be found on Mt Zeus and makes a great day hike. At 1004m high, this mountain is the highest in the Cyclades and the effort of the hike up the well-marked and safe path is rewarded with stunning views. For those wanting less exertion, the elegant Fish and Olive Gallery has fast become a favourite shopping destination amongst our clients. With beautiful handmade ceramics, jewellery, and other arts on display and for sale, this shop is a great place to pick up a memento or present.