Reflections on Greece, a land of ancient history, natural beauty and enchanting islands

The summer is finally here and I’m excited to be setting off with my family to the Greek Islands for our much-anticipated summer holiday together. We have been planning this trip for a while and now I can’t wait to see it with my own eyes, taste the food I have heard all about, admire the incredible scenery and swim in its azure waters.

While Greece has so much to offer, we’ve chosen three islands to visit. Our journey begins on the island of Skiathos, continues to Mykonos and concludes in Kefalonia. My travel notes capture the colours, places and emotions of this new adventure…

Week 1: Skiathos – Verdant pine trees & golden sands

Our trip starts on the stunning island of Skiathos, part of the Sporades archipelago in the northwest Aegean. Clad in verdant pine trees and fringed by over 60 beaches, it feels like paradise.

We are staying in Villa Ligaries, a dreamy villa nestled in an ancient olive grove set just above the golden sands of Ligaries Beach. Navigating the winding country roads to reach the villa adds to the excitement. Upon arrival, I am captivated by the scenery and colours. The villa’s modern design, with its long pool is perfect for morning swims. From inside, its floor-to-ceiling windows give you stunning views of the azure sea and verdant mountains – it is truly breathtaking.

Evenings at the villa are magical. We enjoy cool drinks together on the terrace, followed by a barbecue under the stars. Some of us gather in the home cinema to watch our favourite films while others stay outside, enjoying the gentle sound of the sea lapping the shore and trees rustling in the breeze.

One day we head out to explore the island by boat, swimming and diving in hidden coves. I discover that there are over 60 beaches on Skiathos and it is covered with pine trees, giving it a pristine and unspoilt feel. Whether hiking on a forest trail or admiring the scenery from a boat, the scent of the pines is everywhere.

Away from the beaches, we explored the island on foot, walking up to the dramatic medieval ruins of Kastro and discovered some of Skiathos’s monasteries. Another fun day of exploration and natural beauty took us to the nearby Sporades islands of Skopelos and Alonissos which are connected to Skiathos by ferry.

Skiathos town was nearby the villa so we stocked up on fresh seafood at its excellent fish market to enjoy back at the villa with a fresh Greek salad. Skiathos town is lively, with charming shops, narrow streets and a bustling vibe. One evening we had drinks and a sumptuous seafood meal by the sea in Skiathos Town before returning to our peaceful villa. Another day, we had a delightful lunch at a taverna on Ligaries Beach.

I have just found out that Mamma Mia! was filmed on Skiathos and Skopelos – I loved that film and will watch it again when I am home, to remind me of this magical time we have spent together on the islands.

Week 2: Mykonos – White villas & azure skies

Next, we travel to the island of Mykonos, part of the Cyclades and I have heard it is the most glamourous. The island looks and feels completely different from Skiathos with its dramatic rocky hills, open views and white villas. Its 16th century windmills, azure skies and sandy beaches are an appealing combination. I am curious to discover more.

Our home for the week is immaculate and stylish – Villa Kalafitis, a classic, white villa perched on a hillside with expansive views of the deep blue Aegean Sea. The villa’s contemporary style, with its sleek terraces, open-plan living spaces and inviting infinity pool sets the scene for our stay, giving us an extremely comfortable base.

We are mesmerised by the views from the dining terrace extending out to the sea. Evenings are special as we gather around the built-in bar, sharing stories and enjoying the stunning sunset views, where shades of orange and pink blend into the twilight sky.

One evening, we visit a beach bar with a DJ and another day we explore Mykonos Town, or Hora, with its gorgeous, whitewashed houses and chic café-bars. Mykonos is lively and fun, but the serene retreat of our villa provides a perfect balance.

Mostly we explore beaches, swim in the sea and unwind in our own pool during our stay on Mykonos, but we loved exploring the superb food scene on offer in Mykonos too. It’s bursting with delicious artisan specialities such as ‘louza’, a spicy cured pork and ‘kopanisti’ a spicy soft cheese. We love the fresh seafood here too, from the lobster and prawns to the octopus and squid, it’s all extremely tasty. It was the smooth, frozen, Greek yoghurt which I will always remember though – an absolutely delicious treat after a stroll through the streets of Mykonos town.

Week 3: Kefalonia – Natural beauty & delicious flavours

Although it is sad to leave Mykonos, our final destination awaits – the island of Kefalonia, where we stay at Villa Pessada. This exquisite villa is amazing for its style and facilities but the location is the highlight – just a few steps from Pessada Beach and surrounded by five acres of lush gardens.

A luxurious bonus in this villa is the hammam, where we unwind and relax after a day of exploring. The poolside fire pit becomes our evening gathering spot, where we sit around the sunken sofa, chatting and enjoying the breeze under the starry sky.

In preparation for this part of the trip, I read “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” and I’ve seen the film, set on Kefalonia. Just being here reminds me of its touching story. The sapphire waters of Kefalonia are steeped in history. This large Greek island was home to Odysseus, the legendary king hailed in Homer’s “The Odyssey”. One day, we explore the enchanting caverns of the Drogarati caves. Another day, we sail to Ithaca on a glass-bottomed boat, marvelling at the ancient artefacts inside the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, Kefalonia’s main town. But our favourite activity is exploring the private beach coves, feeling like we’ve discovered secret spots just for us.

As we adore Greek island food, we are keen to explore the island’s culinary delights. We feast on grilled octopus, sea urchin pasta and fried squid at charming beachside tavernas. The flavours are incredible! The simple, classic dishes are the best – fresh Greek salads, chicken souvlaki, gyros, pitta bread and creamy tzatziki. Everything tastes better under the warm Greek sun.

As our holiday comes to an end, I reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve had. From the tranquil beauty of Skiathos to the stylish allure of Mykonos and the hidden paradise of Kefalonia, Greece has left an indelible mark on us. Each villa we stayed in offered its own unique charm, making our family holiday truly unforgettable.

Until Next Time, Greece

Saying goodbye to this enchanting country is hard, but I’m already looking forward to our next adventure. For now, I will cherish the memories of our Greek holiday. From the azure seas to the warmth of the sun and the joy of discovering new places with my family, this trip has been a memorable chapter in our travel diary.