Greek islands like Corfu and Mykonos have long been hotspots for sunseeking Britons during the summer months, but one lesser-known islet offers all the natural beauty and stunning beaches of its more famous counterparts – without the heaving crowds.
The volcanic island of Milos remains one of the country’s hidden gems and is known for its unusual landscapes and dramatic natural beauty.
As yet, the island remains relatively underdeveloped, boasting natural hot springs and spectacular rock formations which make for a stunning view.
It’s also dotted with quaint harbour towns with fishing boats sat on its sky blue shores, and even has a rich cultural heritage, having been the place where the iconic “Venus de Milo” statue was discovered.
Sadly, she is now displayed in the Louvre, but there’s more than enough scenic grandeur to make up for it.
The island has a number of lauded and authentic restaurants, and if you’re partial to a tipple you can even try some of the traditional cave-aged wine at Kostas Mallis’s family-run winery.
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet at one of the islands less visited beaches, you can head to local favourite Alogomandra beach, or the even less known Gerontas beach, which is a drive of about 40 minutes southwest of Adamas – though you should factor in a 20-minute walk.
Visitors also recommend taking a tour of Kleftiko Bay with hidden sea caves once used by pirates (accessible by dinghy), and striking white volcanic rock cliffs, according to travel site Sand In My Suitcase.
You can get a direct flight to Milos from Athens, with a hotel, various guest houses, self-catering villas and suites available for short stays, CN Traveller reports.
Holidaymakers looking for something off the beaten path have also been taken with the Greek island of Antiparos.
Antiparos has an impressive selection of stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the tranquil coastline.
The island has a number of charming villages featuring traditional Cycladic architecture, with charming cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings.
And according to Condé Nast Traveller, Antiparos’s “quiet beauty” has increasingly attracted “seclusion-seeking celebs” over the years.
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson reportedly invested in a villa on the island 15 years ago, while Madonna, Matthew McConaughey and Bruce Springsteen have visited for discreet getaways.