On this TravelSampler.world page you will understand how much we’ve loved sampling the Greek Islands! These pictures come from Alonnisos, Skiathos, Schinoussa, Koufonisia and Naxos. All of which we’ve enjoyed immensely when we’ve visited to ‘Swim Trek.’ Instead of hiking a swim trek does indeed mean one swims place-to-place. We’ve found swim trekking to be a terrific way to see some out-of-the-way places, feel fabulously fit and be able to eat whatever we like after swimming 5+kms during the day! Whatever your travel choice, the Greek Islands are a terrific holiday, whether you are swimming or not.
Our first stop in the Greek Islands, Naxos is where ‘…the Temple of Apollo – Portara, a huge marble gate and the single remaining part of an unfinished temple of Apollo of 530 BC, is the island’s emblem and main landmark.’ It’s easily accessible (and visible) from the waterfront where you may be joining other travellers enjoying a meal and music by the sea. We hired a motor-scooter and were able to explore beaches and villages around the island.
Naxos is well serviced by ferries, and is also the stepping off point for smaller, less frequented islands like Schinoussa and Koufonisia. The water surrounding these islands really is as blue as it appears. Next to the white-washed buildings, blue and white are quintessentially Greek colours and are reflected in the flag. Naxos, Schinoussa and Koufonisia are located in the Cyclades Islands group, southeast of Athens.
Skiathos and Alonnisos are located a short flight to the northeast of Athens. If you have seen the first ‘Mamma Mia!’ film, you may recognise some of the locations on Skiathos including the clock tower. Today Skiathos (and Skolepos) still reverberates with the music of ABBA, with boat trips to film locations on offer. But if that’s not your thing, there’s plenty of other options on Skiathos, and on Alonnisos.
Skiathos is often the entry point to the Sporades Islands as it has a small international airport, albeit with one of the shortest runways in the world. This means that planes taking off are a tourist attraction! ‘Beware the jet blast’ is a very real warning – you may find yourself blown down the road or fishing your belongings out of the harbour. Very funny really, as long as there are no injuries. Revive yourself at a nearby taverna.
Skiathos ranges from sandy beaches to steep hills. There are cars, scooters, and motorbikes available to rent and explore the island.
Alonnisos can be accessed by ferry from Skiathos. The big inter-island ferries are a much more comfortable option than the ‘Flying Dolphin’ hydrofoil service. Alonnisis has two main settlements – the harbourfront Patitiri, and the old town set high on hill overlooking the island. In days gone by towns were often built inland on hills to protect against pirates rampaging in the Aegean. You’ll also find tavernas scattered around the island if you venture further afield. Swimming here meant we saw more marine life than in the Cyclades, and the (small number of) commercial fishing boats are testament to the health of the seaway. Bareboat chartering is popular in this area with catamarans and yachts coming into the harbour every night. Quite idyllic.
Have you traveled the Greek Islands? Which did you like best? Send us a photo and tell us your story at ideas@travelsampler.world
