Greek Islands: Off the Beaten Track

There are few places where the past comes to life in quite the same way as in Athens. Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation, it’s a city bursting at the seams with culture, intrigue, and beauty. It’s not just a place for history buffs, however, it’s also one of the liveliest European capitals. A thriving café culture ensures you’re not left waning in between all the sightseeing and you’ll never have to venture far to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Put the best of science, art and philosophy together in one creation and you have the definitive monument of human civilisation - the Acropolis. The Acropolis, and the Parthenon in particular, is the most characteristic monument of the ancient Greeks and it continues to stand as a symbol of democracy, Western civilisation and European unity. You'll also visit the New Acropolis Museum, which is housed in a state-of-the-art building designed by Swiss-born architect Bernard Tschumi.

The island of Milos sits in the middle of the Aegean Sea. The southwestern-most of the Cyclades, it encapsulates the beautiful beaches, rustic white-washed houses, cyan waters, great food and rich history of its neighbours, without the crowds of Santorini or Mykonos.

Its landscape is sublime, with over 70 beaches including some of the most stunning in Greece, often dramatic coastline dotted with idyllic fishing villages and volcanic interior. The famous Ancient Greek Aphrodite of Milos, better known as the Venus de Milo which now stands as a centrepiece in Paris’ Louvre, was found here in 1820, and the rest of the island has thousands of years of history to discover.

Spend a day exploring the stunning coastline and waters around Milos on a full day private sailing tour. Spot traditional fishing villages, swim off of idyllic beaches, venture into the famous Skykia sea cave and snorkel along the coves and cliff faces of Kleftiko, with a delicious lunch on board.

Folegandros, despite becoming more popular in recent years, remains a wonderfully untouched island. There are three villages Karavostasi (the port), Chora and Ano Meria, as well as a number of hidden beaches and historic relics and rustic terraced farms on almost every sun-bathed slope. The pace of life here is traditionally laid back, perhaps best enjoyed in the evenings with a glass of wine and some wonderful food in one of Chora's three linked squares.

Embark on your rib boat for a day of exploring the amazing rock formations, the beautiful beaches and the breathtaking caves. During the tour visit various places of the island of incomparable beauty that can only be reached by boat or hiking. You will learn about the island, its history, its interesting geology, as well as its underwater life. You can navigate on the surface using mask and snorkel, swim in crystal blue waters or go underwater by scuba diving (at an extra cost).

Floating in the southern Aegean Sea is a little slice of Greek heaven. A huge volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago left a caldera which turned the then- circular Santorini into a crescent shaped island, one that has been charming visitors since they first arrived.

Santorini is the largest island of a small archipelago, wrapping its arms protectively around the islands of Palea, Nea and Thirasia. Sheer cliffs hundreds of metres high shield coves and beaches made up of red, white and black sand, while pretty villages of limewashed cubic houses creep up the sides, nestled into every nook and cranny.

This cruise, which lasts about five hours, combines swimming and snorkeling, dinner on board and cruising across the sea while the sun is setting.

During your tour you will have the opportunity to visit the hot springs, sail past the volcano and admire the beautiful coastline and beaches, while swimming at various locations at your leisure. As the sun is setting you will make your way back towards the port and enjoy the dreamy view.