The best time to visit Kefalonia?

August 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Dreaming of Kefalonia and wondering when is the best time to visit? Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Kefalonia enjoys dry, hot summers and mild winters, but if you visit later in the year, you may need to pack layers in your suitcase as the nights get more chilly. Sun lovers and beach goers will prefer late spring and summer, when the temperatures are warmer. The best time to visit Kefalonia is in July, when the mercury pushes up to an average of 31°C during the day, with temperatures coming down to 21°C in the evenings. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds then you will love Kefalonia during the autumn and winter. The quietest and coolest month of the year is January, which can see highs of 14°C.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is undoubtedly the best time to go to Kefalonia if you like sizzling temperatures and spending your days doing watersports, swimming in the sea or topping up your tan. The mercury climbs to a red-hot 30°C by August, and throughout the whole of summer you should expect daily temperatures of between 26-29°C. This time of year is also the driest, and most of the island sees virtually no rain at all during July, with just 5mm of rain in June or August. There is also little in the way of breeze, making the days even hotter! The sea can reach temperatures of up to 26°C in August, making it an ideal time for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day. Attractions and beaches are usually more busy this time of the year, so get to places early in the morning if you want to beat the queues. On 15^th July, the island hosts the Festival of Argostoli, while on the 29^th August, there is the festival of Aghios Ioannis in Ratzakli.

Spring (April – May)

Spring sees sunnier and drier weather in Kefalonia, with average temperatures of between 12°C and 18°C. As the season progresses into May, temperatures climb to a balmy 22°C, and it can be the best time of year to visit Kefalonia for wildflowers and walks in national parks and gardens as the whole island comes to life and in bloom. Expect plenty of natural daylight and sunshine, with up to 12 hours per day. Sea temperatures also rise during this season, and the water can be up to 19°C for a refreshing dip. Spring is still a quiet time of year to visit, and the days should be warm enough for you to enjoy the private pool in your Villa Michou Thalassa . Spring also marks Easter, and is a deeply spiritual event right across Kefalonia (as it is in all of Greece). Expect folk dancing, egg-painting rituals and religious processions on Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Autumn (September-November)

Many believe that autumn is the best time of year to visit Kefalonia, as it is warmer than spring, not as sizzling as the summer, and less crowded. Expect highs of 26°C in September, gradually falling to 22°C in October. As the season progresses, nights may get more chilly, so do bring a light jacket.. Tourist attractions, shops and restaurants should be less crowded, as the peak of the tourist season ends. Some places may even be closed, so you may want to spend more time cooking with loved ones at your Villa Arion . In early September, the island hosts the festival of choral singing, while on 24^th September, there is the feast of Theotokos Drepaniotissa that takes place in Argostoli.

Winter (December – March)

Winters in Kefalonia are mild, with some rainfall, which is how the island manages to remain so lush and green in comparison to other Greek islands. The month in which you travel will have a great effect on daily temperatures. Travelling in January during the peak of winter will mean temperatures of between 5 and 7°C. Wrap up if you feel like taking walks along the coast or decide upon sightseeing. In February, temperatures are higher, and fall between 8 and 14°C. Winter on the island sees 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. Winter is also carnival time in Kefalonia, so expect many of the squares and streets to be filled with people, dancing and music during this time. You’ll find the most action in Argostoli and Lixouri, which host processions of masked people and ‘Kavalieri’ with their ‘Dames’ dancing traditional island performances.

Now you’ve discovered the best time to visit Kefalonia, you can browse our selection of luxury villas in Kefalonia and get booking your dream holiday in Greece.

Best Beaches in Zante

August 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

If you’re longing to feel the sand between your toes and refreshing azure waters on your skin, it’s time to book a beach holiday to Zante. Beaches here are among the most beautiful in all of Greece, and come with epic views, watersports options and plenty of shallows for snorkelling. Beaches on the east of the island are popular with beach-club goers and have plenty of facilities, while sandy shores on the west side of Zante are more secluded and quiet. Here’s some of the best beaches in Zante that you should visit while on holiday.

Navagio Bay

Otherwise known as ‘Shipwreck Cove’, this stunning beach is often the poster-child of Greece and is one of the most famous shores in the Mediterranean. Situated on the west side of the island, Navagio is one of the best sandy beaches in Zante and is frequently on the bucket-list of many travellers who come to witness its iconic shipwreck, which became washed up on the shore in 1983. Tours of the shipwreck can be booked if you are more interested in its history. The bay is also popular with swimmers and snorkellers thanks to its calm, turquoise waters. To reach Navagio, you need to take a taxi boat from the port of Porto Vromi, which leaves every hour and takes 30 minutes.

Kalamaki

Located just 6km from Zante town, towards the eastern side of Laganas bay, Kalamaki is a popular beach with families and watersports lovers because of its calm waters. The beach is part of the National Marine Park and also blends into Laganas beach. Expect epic rock formations and plenty of facilities such as toilets, showers and a cafe should you feel like a bite to eat. The beach is generally underdeveloped, with a lush green backdrop and plenty of natural wildlife, so taking food and other essentials with you for the day is a good idea.

Porto Zoro

With a reputation for being one of the best Zante beaches on offer, this beach is ideal for escaping the crowds and having a calming swimming experience in beautifully clear waters. Located around 17km away from Zante town, this quiet cove has just a couple of tavernas on offer in terms of amenities. Expect dramatic rock formations that emerge from the sea, lush green surroundings and white powdery sands that are wonderful examples of Zante’s charming natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to head to when you feel like venturing a little further from your private garden and pool in your Villa Vilenia Harmony .

Tsilivi

Considered to be one of the most popular and best beaches in Zante, Tsilivi is located around 6km from Zante town, and is very popular during the summer months. Expect a lively and buzzing atmosphere, especially in the evenings when happy hours, cocktails and music are all around. Tsilivi itself is one of the most popular resorts on the island, with lots of restaurants, bars and shops that are open late. Watersports lovers will have plenty to do here, while keen snorkellers will relish the crystal-clear waters.

Limnionas

This beach is considered one of the best beaches in Zante because it is largely unspoiled by tourism. You need to access the beach by car, as it is a little more off the beaten track, which makes it quieter and more secluded, so you have more of the sands to yourself. There is a car park available, and from there you can walk down a steep path carved out of the rock face, heading towards the beach. For this reason, this beach is better for adults than families with young children. The bay has many beautiful coves and small caves that are just waiting to be explored, with calm waters that make it an ideal spot for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day.

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Best Beaches in Rhodes

August 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Beach holidays to Rhodes are relaxing thanks to the island’s calming natural landscape, azure waters and golden sand that greets you when visiting its coastline. Popular with locals, tourists and Greek nationals, Rhodes beaches are among the best in all of Greece, and it isn’t hard to see why. No two beaches are the same – each has its own unique character, and whether you want a quiet cove or busy nightlife, clear waters for enjoying water sports or a snorkelling session, there is a beach for you on this beautiful Greek island. Here are some of the best beaches in Rhodes.

Agathi Beach

An ideal beach for swimming and families, the fine sand and shallow waters of Agathi make this beach a very popular stretch of sand and one of the best beaches in Rhodes. As you make your way to the beach, you’ll find the Castle of Feraclos, which is also worth exploring. There are a few restaurants nearby offering a mix of international fare and refreshments. These restaurants also rent out sun loungers, and have toilets and showers. Apart from this, the beach has little amenities, so make sure you pack your beach bags accordingly. On the right side of the beach, you’ll find small coves and rock formations that are perfect for exploring and spotting fish and marine life when snorkelling. You’ll also find an 800 year old chapel right at the end of the beach!

Agios Georgios Beach

Agios Georgios is a wonderful place if you crave solitude and a quiet, laid-back vibe away from the bustle of other resort beaches. Expect golden soft sands and majestic cedars as a backdrop. Accessed via a long 7-8km dirt road (so a car is essential), it is named after the small church you pass en route to the beach. There are no restaurants or nearby shops or facilities, so make sure you pack food, water, towels and sun cream with you for your day on the beach. Part of the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, so bring your goggles and gear with you. The other part is soft, powdery sand, which is why it has a reputation for being one of the best sandy beaches in Rhodes.

Faliraki Beach

Faliraki beach is one of the most popular Rhodes beaches. Stretching more than 5km, this vast shoreline has entertainment, restaurants and amenities aplenty. Leave your Villa Alexia and spend the day enjoying the mixture of beach clubs, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, water sports, adrenaline sports, shopping and more. Sun loungers can be rented for the day, and the beach has plenty of showers and toilets should you need them. As evening falls, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dinner, with a wide range of tavernas serving up traditional cuisine.

Gennadi Beach

A mixture of fine sand and pebbles, this beach has two different sides to it, but is one of the liveliest beaches near Rhodes, where you can always find an evening party. There’s plenty of sand on offer to lay your beach towel on or rent a lounger during the day. At night on certain days, beach parties are hosted, and everyone is invited! The nearby village of Gennadi has plenty of tavernas and amenities should you need refreshments. Gennadi is very popular with swimmers thanks to its crystal-clear waters, but the coastline is ample enough that you are likely to enjoy your swim in peace.

Explore some of the best beaches in Rhodes on a villa holiday in the Mediterranean sunshine. Let us tempt you with our exclusive range of Rhodes villas.

Best Beaches in Kefalonia

July 21, 2021January 25, 2022chiracshah

Kefalonia beaches are among the best in the world. Think beautiful, unspoiled turquoise waters, dramatic landscapes, powdery-soft white sand and an abundance of marine life just waiting to be explored. Beach holidays to Kefalonia are truly breathtaking – when you’re not relaxing on the sand taking in the epic views, have a refreshing swim in the island’s clear Ionian waters, enjoy a snorkelling session or hire equipment for watersports. Here’s our guide to some of the best beaches in Kefalonia.

Antisamos Beach

Positioned on the north east coast of Kefalonia close to the attractions, restaurants and shops of Sami Port, Antisamos is an ideal beach for a day trip if you feel like having a day on the sands away from your Villa Katrina. Known as one of the best Kefalonia beaches for swimming, expect azure waters that are crystal clear and ideal for taking a dip and snorkelling. The beach is famous for being featured in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, and is very popular with visitors from all over Europe and locals, especially in the summer months. Getting here early is well worth it. That said, the beach is very well organised in terms of umbrella and sun lounger availability.

Avithos Beach

Situated around 12km from the island’s capital of Argostoli, Avithos beach is surrounded by lush greenery and staggering mountainous backdrops. Sink your toes into the soft, golden sand and place your towel on one of the best sandy beaches in Kefalonia. It’s an ideal place for young children given its soft sands and clear and shallow waters for paddling and playing. While the kids are kept busy, you can sit back and relax with a summer’s breeze in your hair and gorgeous views of Zakynthos and Dias. Parasols and loungers can be hired for the day, and there are plenty of nearby tavernas selling lunch, nibbles and drinks.

Petani Beach

At 850 metres long and with Blue Flag status, Petani beach is one of the best beaches in Kefalonia. Sitting on the Paliki peninsula with soft white sand, calm waters and lush green surroundings, it is easy to see why this beach has so many visitors and keen photographers frequenting its shores. Get ready for jaw-dropping blue waters that look out of this world, while making perfect conditions for snorkelling and swimming. Children will love the soft sand scattered with pebbles and shells. Close to the beach are a few tavernas selling food and light refreshments. You’ll also find showers and toilets just a few steps away from the shore. Our top tip is to get there early for a morning swim, before making your way up to the surrounding villages and monasteries for some local exploration as the beach gets more crowded.

Myrtos Beach

This is one of the most popular Kefalonia beaches, and it isn’t difficult to see why. It’s likely you’ve seen this stunning coastline on travel magazines and tourism board images of Kefalonia. In reality, the views, beautiful blue sea and soft golden sands are even more spectacular. Nestled between the mountains of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros, this stunning beach is located around 30km from Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital. Place your towel on the sands and soak up the majestic scenery while your family play in the water. There is a snack bar available, as well as sun loungers and umbrellas, but it is advised that you bring food with you, as it is more remote than other beaches on the island.

Xi Beach

Due to its higher clay content, the sand on this memorable Kefalonia beach is a gorgeous red hue, making for beautiful holiday photos. You can also use the sand as a natural exfoliant and give your skin a free spa treatment! There’s plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach, as well as lively bars and cafes playing music and serving up a range of food and drinks. Water sports lovers are well catered for with various facilities on offer, including jet-skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding and banana boating.

Discover our range of premium holiday villas in Kefalonia where you’ll find your home from home while discovering the best beaches in Kefalonia.

The Best Time to Visit Corfu

July 21, 2021July 21, 2021chiracshah

This lush Greek island in the Ionian Sea is a favourite with beach-goers and sun-seekers thanks to its sunny and warm Mediterranean climate that offers hot summers and milder winters. If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Corfu, the answer depends on what you want from your villa holiday.

Winter (December – March)

Corfu offers visitors mild winter weather, with highs of up to 15°C and generally clear skies making ideal conditions for exploring the great outdoors. That said, January can be the coldest month with temperatures of 10°C. If you prefer the cooler weather and exploring the quieter towns in-land on foot, this can be a great time for a break. Winter season is also Carnival season for the locals, so more popular towns can be crowded, but offer a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Greek culture.

Spring (April – May)

Spring is a popular time of the year to visit Corfu, with many tourists visiting in the month of May, as temperatures can climb to between 19°C and 25°C, and days have up to 13 hours of sunshine. It is a great time to visit the beach if you want a quiet stroll on the sand, without the visitors and sunbathers that flock to the beaches during the summer. Little rainfall and clear skies make spring the best time of the year to go to Corfu and explore walking trails, historical ruins and nature parks around the island as everything comes into bloom. The 21^st May is a national holiday for the Ionian islands, as it celebrates the unification of them with the rest of Greece. An annual parade takes place on this day in the centre of Corfu town, and many banks and shops close, although restaurants and tourist shops remain open.

Summer (June – August)

The months of July and August are the best time of year to visit Corfu, as these months are the warmest times of the year, with scorching heat pushing the mercury to 31°C on the average day, and very little rainfall for weeks on end. The sea can be a balmy 25°C in the height of summer, making it perfect for a refreshing dip in the afternoon. Many people flock to the beach to enjoy the optimum temperatures, so booking your premium villa accommodation and planning your trip in advance can help you to avoid the crowds. Also be prepared for bustling and vibrant nightlife in the resorts in the evenings, with restaurants, bars and shops. On the first weekend after the 15^th August, the villages of Kato Garouna and Ano Gerakiana hold a festival to mark the return of previous residents of Corfu who may have moved away to the Greek mainland or other places around the world. The festival is designed for people to pay tributes to their home island, with a mood of excitement and gratitude.

Autumn (September-November)

By autumn, the crowded resorts empty out, making for a relaxed and quiet holiday with ideal beach weather. Early autumn is when the temperatures are still in mid twenties, so you can enjoy days at the beach and swimming in the sea. As October and November approach, temperatures start to dip, and you may need a warm jacket for the evenings but the weather isn’t too chilly for getting outdoors to hike and sightsee!

Now you know the best time of the year to go to Corfu, you need to book the premium villa you’ll be staying in. Discover our collection of properties in Corfu.

Best Places to Visit in Kefalonia

April 27, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

As the largest of the Ionian islands and one of the most verdant, Kefalonia has long been a must-visit destination that is on the bucket list of many travellers. Many have discovered the epic landscape, stunning unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, caves and historical culture of this beautiful Greek island, which keeps visitors coming back, time and again. Because it is a relatively small island, getting around and exploring the sights is fairly easy, especially if you hire a car. Here are our recommendations for the best place to visit in Kefalonia while enjoying your villa holiday.

Lassi

A popular resort village on the southern coast, Lassi is very popular with Kefalonia newbies thanks to its abundance of restaurants, shops, cafes and mini markets, with everything you could need right on your doorstep. Exploring Kefalonia from here is easy if you don’t have a car, as the village offers rentals and day trips and excursions for those who don’t feel like driving, especially if you want to explore the island’s main capital of Argostoli. Beach and sunbathing lovers are well catered for on this part of the island, which boasts the beautiful white-sand beaches of Platis Gialos and Makris Gialos, offering nearby beach bars, tavernas and water sports for all ages.

Just outside of Argostoli, you’ll find the famous Katavothres Sea Mills, which is one of the island’s most popular attractions, featuring mills that pump sea water to the Melissani Lake, which lies 15km uphill. Lassi is also home to the island’s first travel agency, Panem, which has been running for the last 35 years. They offer family-friendly trips to the iconic Shipwreck Bay, Blue Caves, or even a day trip to the island of Ithaca, the legendary birthplace of Odysseus.

Sami

If you’re wondering what is the best area to stay in Kefalonia, this desirable town is considered to be more Greek in nature, and is home to more locals than expats. Wander around and discover an abundance of traditional tavernas, cafes and restaurants offering their catch of the day. Sami also offers plenty of jewellery and souvenir shops selling beautiful hand made ornaments, pots and lace, as well as a small beach named after the town. The nearby Antisamos beach is the location where the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed on the island. If you hire one of our beautiful properties such as Villa Ambrosia Sami, all of this is just short drive away.

History lovers will delve into the classical sites of Sami, including the Agrilia Monastery, and the Roman baths and town ruins of ancient Sami, which were referenced in Homer’s texts. Also worth exploring is Karavomilos Lake, which is home to many wild birds, fish, a quaint local church and watermill. If you’re into hiking and want to explore the nature of Kefalonia, the 2.5km Watermills Trail makes for a fantastic walk, covering stone bridges, mountain views, lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters.

Assos

Want to experience a very quiet and laid-back side to Kefalonia? Assos is the ideal retreat for couples and those who want to avoid the busier resorts, and is arguably one of the best places to go in Kefalonia. There isn’t much in the way of amenities, which means you’ll see more locals than tourists. A handful of tavernas are dotted here and there, and a mini market stocks local produce you can enjoy when you return to your Villa Kristola. We recommend hiring a car to explore this area of the island properly. Park up and wander around Assos, taking in the picture-postcard alleyways, stunning views, turquoise waters, castle ruins that date back to the Venetian era, and olive groves buzzing with cicadas. Indulge in a spot of lunch on the pebble beach, backed by epic limestone cliffs.

Plan your next getaway and discover the best places to visit in Kefalonia on a luxury villa holiday. Why not see more of our Very Villa Plus holiday villas on this beautiful Greek island?

Best Places to Visit in Crete

April 27, 2021April 27, 2021chiracshah

Crete has it all – glorious sunshine, beautiful beaches and some of the most delicious fare in the whole of the Mediterranean. As the fifth-biggest island in the Mediterranean and the largest in Greece, there’s plenty to explore, including ancient civilisations, majestic gorges, mountain vistas and white-sand coastlines. However you like to spend your holiday, Crete is abundant in treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to go in Crete!

Chania

If you’ve already decided on one of our villas based in Chania, like Villa Aggeliki, you’ll have so much to discover right on your doorstep. When you feel like heading out and away from your private pool and gardens for the day, Gerani Beach is just 300 yards away, and the nearby Platanias Resort is just a short drive away, offering plenty of restaurants to choose from and a mini-market so that you can cook up a feast back at your villa.

As one of Crete’s four provinces, Chania is an ancient town that dates back to Venetian Rule, and is surrounded by the epic White Mountains natural park, which takes up much of the western quarter of the island. Lose track of time wandering around the alleyways and winding roads of Chania Old Town, taking in majestic churches, Venetian mansions, souvenir shops, museums and architecture. Chania’s harbour and municipal gardens are also worth a visit in the sunshine. If you love great food, Chania has plenty on the menu for you to enjoy, including mini cheese pies, lamb with chicory and eggs with stàka. Should time allow, visit one of the many wineries located in the region for a tasting tour, where you will learn about different Cretan varieties and vintages – making Chania undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Crete for couples.

Matala

Take a drive to the south of Crete and discover the tranquil seaside village of Matala. This region’s most popular attraction is the Minoan Palace in nearby Phaistos, which dates back to 1900-1700 BC. It was excavated by an Italian archaeologist called Halbherr at the start of the 20^th century, and offers a fascinating glimpse into life during its time. History lovers will also appreciate the nearby famous archaeological sites of Gortys, Phaistos and Agia Triada, which is a Minoan villa.

The village of Matala offers visitors a quieter pace, and is one of the best places to see in Crete if you want to get away from the busier resorts. Visit the Grottes de Matala, Matala or Red beaches for warm and calm waters that are great for swimming, sunbathing and water sports, without the crowds. There isn’t a large nightlife scene here – just a few bars and hotels offering live music and cocktails up until a respectable hour.

Hersonissos

Positioned east of Heraklion, Hersonissos is one of the best places to go in Crete for families. Once a sleepy town, this is one of the most buzzing resorts in Crete, and is home to around 3,000 permanent residents from abroad. Even outside of peak season, when the resort quietens down, there is still plenty to see and do. After a relaxing morning having breakfast on your private pool terrace at Villa Danae Blue, indulge in a spot of shopping at the many markets, shops and stores offering everything from handmade jewellery to clothing and Greek clay pots. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to food, with a range of tavernas offering British, Italian, Greek and Mediterranean fare for even the youngest and fussiest of eaters.

An ideal place to stay with children, Hersonissos boasts the Labyrinth theme park, complete with a crazy golf course, maze, pottery workshop and eco-garden, as well as the Hersonissos Aquarium and Cretaquarium, hosting more than 2,000 organisms across 60 tanks.

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Best Beaches in Crete

April 20, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

As the largest and most southern of the Greek islands, Crete is renowned for its pleasantly warm temperatures on both land and in its surrounding waters. Whether you are after a safe spot for swimming with the kids, Blue Flag beaches with tavernas galore or a more isolated spot with a good wind for surfing and water sports, Crete has it all. Here are some of the best beaches in Crete to discover on your trip.

Falassarna

Located in the charming Chania region of Crete and surrounded by olive groves, this beautiful stretch of beach is the ideal retreat for you and your family if you want an afternoon in the sun following a spot of lunch on the terrace of Villa Anni. Enjoy warm, azure waters and plenty of room to spread out on this lengthy beach that spans over 1km. A sprinkling of tavernas and villas dot the hills overlooking the beach, and the fewer numbers of facilities certainly keep the crowds away. Take a picnic that you prepared earlier in your villa if you are coming for the day, along with plenty of sunscreen and water. If you are looking for one of the quietest beaches in Crete, this certainly makes the list. Water sports fans are well catered for here with sea kayaking, paddle boarding and banana boating. You’ll also find a handful of quiet coves should you prefer a secluded snorkelling experience.

Preveli

Arguably one of the most beautiful and lush beaches on the island, if you’re wondering where to go in Crete for beaches, Preveli will wow with its stunning cliffs and swaying palm trees. Set to the backdrop of Kourtaliotiko Gorge, getting to it is not for the feint-hearted, with a steep path to climb down (which is even more challenging to climb back up!), so bring walking boots, as well as your flip-flops. The work is worth the effort though, as you are greeted by pristine-white sands and glistening waters that are perfect for snorkelling and swimming. If you’re into culture and history, the nearby monastery is worth a visit too, offering stunning views overlooking the Libyan Sea. Aside from a taverna located near its car park, the beach is fairly remote, so pack plenty of snacks and drinks if you’re thinking of a long visit.

Vai

If you have chosen to stay in one of our luxurious villas in the Agios Nikolaos region, such as Villa Desire, Vai beach is ideal for couples, families and sun-seekers. This glorious beach is often on many visitors’ to-do lists, and features Europe’s biggest forest made up of natural palms, giving it a very tropical, Caribbean-like vibe. If you’re wondering which part of Crete has the best beaches, this surely has to be one of them. As a Blue Flag beach, you’ll find plenty of tavernas and restaurants nearby, where you can indulge in Cretan cuisine and refreshments. As a smaller beach, Vai can get more crowded during peak season, but if you head up the trail to Itanos, an ancient Minoan site, you’ll find more secluded coves where you can swim and snorkel in peace.

Plakias Beach

Whether you are looking for a day trip on one of Crete’s beaches, feel like taking part in some water sports or just want to relax and top up your tan for a few hours, Plakias beach is certainly one of the best beaches in Crete. Once a fishing village, Plakias now offers a lively scene for families and couples alike, with a mountainous landscape and the Lybian sea caressing its white-sand shores. There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained with nearby tavernas, rock climbing, a diving school and kitesurfing on offer. Unwind at a beach-side bar with a cocktail while the kids play and splash about in the water. At this beautiful beach, time stands still as you take in the epic views.

Ready to book your next escape? Discover our range of premium holiday villas on the beautiful island of Crete, where you can find your perfect beach.

Food Guide: Greek Islands

April 20, 2021April 20, 2021chiracshah

Good food is yet another part of what makes an unforgettable holiday. With its fresh seafood and grilled meat, locally sourced olives and other Mediterranean fare, (not forgetting sweet Baklava), Greece and the Greek islands are a culinary heaven for food enthusiasts. Get everyone around your private villa’s outdoor dining table and cook up a storm with some fresh ingredients from the local markets, or eat out in one of the many tavernas. However you like to experience culinary delights on holiday, here’s our guide to the best Greek island food

Cretan Cuisine

Crete food is all about delicious dishes made with fresh local ingredients such as cheese, fish and olive oil, which is consumed in such large quantities, each Cretan person consumes around 25 litres of it per year! Relax in your alfresco seating area by your private pool in Villa Akali and indulge in dakos for lunch, using ingredients you picked up from local stores in Istron. Dakos is meze consisting of soaked dried bread or barley rusk, topped with tomatoes and feta or mizithra cheese. Other Crete food delicacies include goat stew (sigariasto), snails (kochlioli) and a pilaf made with white rice, vegetable broth, lemon, chicken, dill and garlic.

Corfu Gastronomy

Food in Corfu has been greatly influenced by international visitors from the UK and surrounding Mediterranean countries, including Italy and France. Must-try recipes include sofrito, which is fried beef, cooked with garlic and onion. Pasta lovers will love pastitsada, which is pasta in a red sauce with marinated chicken or beef. Meatballs (inspired by Italy), are also a favourite on many taverna menus, and are known as porpetas. If you fancy something sweet, you’re also on the right island. Tempt your taste buds and indulge in meringue with caramelised almonds, candied kumquat and loukoumadesm, which are Greek doughnuts with honey.

Sweet flavours in Zante

Snacks and sweet treats are all the rage in Zante. If you don’t feel like eating out in a restaurant and just want to pick up some nibbles to enjoy while lounging by your private pool in Villa Vilenia Horizon, pop into a cafe or bakery in Alykes and pick up some tyropita, which is a staple of Zante food and a puff pasty traditionally stuffed with feta, spinach and ham. It can be served hot or cold, and filled with other meats and cheeses of your choice. Focacce (focaccia) bread is also a local favourite. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget baklava, cinnamon cake and puff pastries stuffed with icing sugar, cream and cinnamon.

Marvellous Meze in Rhodes

Meze is big in Rhodes food, and is a staple on most menus. Many restaurants serve a wide variety of dishes and you can choose as many meze selections as you like – from greens and veggies, to seafood, meat, fruits, cheeses and dishes made with Greek yogurt and honey. Meze is a great way to share food at the table with friends and family, where everyone can come together to enjoy Greek delicacies. Wine is considered the holy liquid of Dionysos, and is often served on the Rhodes dining table. If you’re into wine, there are plenty of vineyards on offer where you can visit and take part in tasting sessions. Rhodes wine is considered to be among the best in the world.

Local delicacies in Kefalonia

Kefalonia food is dominated by fresh local produce that is home-grown, reared or caught, including olive oil, vegetables, meat, fish and cheese. When you’re wandering around the island’s towns and villages, don’t forget to pick up products such as local olive oil, honey and sheep’s yogurt, as these are staples in many dishes. Try a traditional Kefalonia meat pie, or taramosalata, which is a meze made from roe, cod or grey mullet mixed with lemon juice and olive oil. Of course, locally-made Tzatziki made from garlic, cucumber and yoghurt is always worth a try, as is the seafood on offer. The island offers plenty of grilled fish dishes made using ingredients that were caught that very same day.

Have we tempted you? Discover your perfect holiday villa in the Greek islands and get sampling some of the delicious cuisine on your next adventure.

Best Places to Visit in Corfu

March 16, 2021March 16, 2021chiracshah

Known as one of the greenest Greek islands, Corfu is nestled in the north of the Greek archipelago, and is renowned for its sweeping green vistas in the south, and rugged olive-laden limestone rock formations up in the hilly north. Lush flora and fauna and a mild climate make it a popular destination even into the late summer and early autumn, while the island’s beautiful white-sand beaches and caverns make resorts like Nissaki Bay one of the best places to go in Corfu for families and couples alike. Here’s our round-up of the best places to go in Corfu.

Nissaki

Located on the eastern side of the island, Nissaki is a quiet fishing village tucked away from the busier resorts and towns of the island, making it one of the best places to go in Corfu for couples. The town offers a small cluster of local tavernas and restaurants, where you can sample delicious dishes such as dolmades (stuffed grape or vine leaves), or kolokythokeftedes (courgette balls). Of course, no taverna visit is complete without music, dancing and the sound of a bouzouki! The village’s small shingle beach is usually rather quiet, with plenty of coves for shelter from the sun during the heat of the day. Hire a boat for the day and explore Nissaki’s coastline and famous caves. If you’re staying in one of our villas such as Villa Melina, when you want to take time out from your private pool and indulge in a spot of souvenir shopping, Nissaki’s taverna, beach and shopping is just a 10 minute stroll on foot. At the end of the day, return to your home-from-home surrounded by olive groves, as you sip champagne beneath the stars on your spacious outdoor terrace.

Agios Stefanos

A popular resort with one of the longest sandy stretches on Corfu, Agios Stefanos is one of the best places to go in Corfu for families. Spend all day lounging on almost 2km of soft white sand on its blue-flag award beach, before enjoying refreshments and delicious Greek fare at the many nearby tavernas and restaurants. Take a day-trip to Corfu town from Agios Stefanos, where everyone can enjoy the local festivals, history and shopping on offer. If you’re into hiking, take the whole family for a hike through the hilly olive groves to the church, square and island houses of Agios Stefanos. Enjoy the epic views of Corfu as you take plenty of photos. When you’ve tired of exploring, head back to your luxurious Villa Maria Corfu and take in the epic views of the hillside while enjoying some Greek Ouzo that you bought earlier. After a night’s rest, the coastline is yours to explore again, just 500 yards from your front door.

Kassiopi

You and your family may be staying in the spacious Villa Priodi, complete with large heated pool, sun terrace and pool table, but what if you’re up for a little adventure? Hop in the car and explore the surrounding area of Kassiopi – a lush, green resort with picturesque coastal roads and plenty of olive and citrus plantations. Wander around the cobbled streets of this historic resort, which are overlooked by an ancient castle. The shingle beaches here are blue-flag approved and safe for family members of all ages. As evening rolls in, Kassiopi harbour is the place to be, and is one of the best places to go in Corfu for nightlife thanks to its mix of trendy bars, restaurants and tavernas. All tastes are catered for – with a host of dishes served up including Mediterranean and Greek fare, as well as English, Spanish and Mexican food. The fish is always worth trying, as it’s likely that the local fisherman caught it the very same day.

Looking for more ideas for your next Corfu getaway? Discover our exclusive range of villas in Corfu.