Greek hidden gems include 'floating village' and 'some of the best beaches in the world'

As the summer season inches closer, folks across the nation are busy pencilling in their holiday itineraries for this year or even mapping out plans for the next.

It seems that is enjoying quite the buzz, with searches for 'Greek island hidden gems' on surging by 100% over the past three months.

Claire Shields, Base Manager at Sunsail, is unveiling her top picks for Greek islands that she reckons are brimming with untouched splendour and serene vibes.

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Her selections include Kastos, described as a "floating village" where "time slows down," Atokos, which stands uninhabited with wild pigs freely wandering, and Paxos, deemed one of the Ionian Sea’s least commercialised spots, offering picturesque vistas that turn it into an "artist's paradise."

Six 'hidden gem' Greek islands Lefkas

Claire highlights Lefkas as "one of Greece's best hidden gems", pointing to its spellbinding natural wonders, genuine Greek atmosphere, and spectacular beaches minus the throngs found on more popular islands. Conveniently reached with Preveza airport just a hop away and solid links to the mainland, Lefkas is a prime choice.

Aside from its striking beauty, Claire asserts Lefkas is host to "some of the best beaches in the ," advising visitors to make tracks to Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma. Don't miss out on Sivota's quaint harbour, nestled among olive grove-clad hills and dotted with isolated villas, reports .

Meganisi

"Meganisi is a small island near Lefkas with hidden coves and sea caves, great for sailing, seafood and snorkelling," the expert reveals. "It is one of the few Ionian islands that remain untouched by mass tourism, which is why it's such an underrated hidden gem."

This island boasts an authentic Greek atmosphere, complete with villages, quaint family-owned tavernas, and subterranean caves ready to be discovered. The island's most notable cave, Papanikolis Cave, served as a submarine hideout during World War 2 and is accessible only by the sea.

Atokos

Atokos, a privately owned, uninhabited isle nestled between Lefkada and Ithaca, welcomes travellers. Its pristine beauty offers a tranquil retreat and makes for a picturesque visit.

On its eastern side lies One House Bay, famous for its resident wild pigs, presenting a quirky and unique attraction amidst the Greek archipelago.

Kalamos and Kastos

Close to the coast of Lefkada stand the petite islands Kalamos and Kastos. Forested with pines, Kalamos exudes tranquillity, whereas Kastos boasts just a single village. Sailing around Kalamos reveals secluded beaches, hidden sea caves, and flawless spots for swimming in solitude.

For those seeking a 'slow living' experience during their getaway, Kalamos is the perfect destination. Free from bustling beach bars and large resorts, you'll meander along local tavernas serving up freshly caught fish, house-made wine and locally grown vegetables.

Claire describes Kastos, with its mere 100 permanent residents, as nearly a "floating village." She adds: "With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here. You'll also find unspoilt beaches with clear turquoise water only reachable by boat or by foot."

Paxos

Paxos is seen as the least commercial of the Ionian Islands, which Claire dubs an "artist's paradise." She divulges: "It's a perfect place to wind down; nothing is done quickly here.

"Sit and drink an iced coffee in one of the seafront cafes, watch a local fisherman bring his catch in to sell or queue in the local bakery for your fresh bread baked in a wood oven. This is the beauty of Paxos."

Agifa Efimia

Agia Efimia, a stunning fishing village on the east coast of Kefalonia, offers another chance for visitors to embrace some slow living. Here, people can unwind while watching beautiful boats navigating the marina and sampling local treats from waterside cafes and bars.

Concluding her insights, Claire remarks: "Want to channel your inner adventurer? There's still plenty to be explored here as there are two sets of caves, the Drogarti inland and the Melisani caves, which you can be taken to by a boatman.

"Many describe this as entering Hades itself. The water is dark and inky with turquoise patches where the sun hits, and the caves are linked to the Melisani Lake further inland by underwater passages."