Last updated on July 27th, 2024 at 11:07 am
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Greece is a country with some of the best islands in the world with distinct characteristics that make it a standout among many other tourist destinations.
But if you think you know everything there is about, there is another hidden Greece, and you might need to make another trip to the islands and discover that other gems are waiting for discovery.
We’ve prepared a list of twelve other beautiful and unspoiled places in Greece you probably never knew existed, but surprise! They do exist, and it’s worth a visit.
1. The almost Secret Elafonisos Beach
Elafonisi Beach is a tiny island off the coast of Cape Malea and Vatika. It’s a different paradise, but it is just as stunning as the famous pink sands.
The thing with Elafonisos is that because it’s less famous, there are lesser tourists around which means you can sometimes enjoy the island all to yourself.
Those who know about this tiny gem in the middle of Peloponnese and Kythira love the sandy beaches surrounding the island.
With crystal clear waters, you can surely have a taste of fresh fish straight from the ocean. There are plenty of Greek tavernas around town where you can get a fresh serving of fish dishes that will make your mouth water.
2. Imerovigli
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Sure, Santorini is one of the most famous villages in Greece, but did you know that you can have a better view of the whole of Santorini’s beauty when you hike going to Imerovigli?
Just when you thought Oia and Fira could give the best views of the island, you probably haven’t been to Imerovigli, also known as “The Balcony of Santorini.” It gives you a spectacular view of the entire volcano and caldera.
But like its neighboring towns, Imerovigli also has many restaurants and cafes where you can have your lunch or afternoon drink while enjoying the immaculate view of nature right in front of you.
Honestly, if you ask us, it’s the best seat in the house.
3. Pelion
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Get your hiking poles ready! Mountains in Greece are deserving of your love and attention. One of which is the lush peaks of Pelion.
Pelion is a mountain on a small peninsula. Attractions around this peninsula are all about natural paradise and havens. Unleash your outdoor-loving self. Pelion has many sites where you can hike and then swim in beaches and waterfalls right after.
Pelion was the summer residence of the Gods and the homeland of the Centaurs.
It is a high mountain and has a high-quality ski center. Can you imagine a ski resort where you can see the seaside where others are swimming?
Greece is not only for summer but a beautiful winter sports destination too in its many snow skiing centers.
So get ready for skiing in Greece and imagine that you are here with the help of your Skiworld Coupons.
There are also springs on the mountain where you can take time off from your hectic tour schedule to relax and breathe fresh air from the mountains. It’s not every day that you can inhale goodness into your body and soul, so take advantage of it as much as possible.
Aside from the spectacular natural display of this land, the residential area is like walking into an ancient era where villages with stone-built houses are the trend. For someone who also likes the vibe of old towns, this is where you should go.
4. Tinos
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Tinos has always been just a stop for travelers going to Mykonos and Athens. It’s time to highlight this island to convince you to intend your visit here fully and not just treat it as a stopover.
It might make you want to stay here for the rest of your Greece adventure once you find out that excellent barrels of wine in the country come from Tinos. There’s even a town on this island where olives and artichokes are everywhere, which you could pick and pair with your bottle of wine!
Tourists also go here for some pilgrimage. The Church of Panagia Megalochari is usually packed with visitors every March 25 and August 15 in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
5. Epirus
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When you hear the name, it sounds like a fictional town in some Greek mythology chapter. It’s a real part of the country, and a big one, with mystic charms and untouched sceneries where you can instantly feel like you can meet with your favorite Greek gods and goddesses hiding behind a bush or under the water.
The first attraction on your list should be Dragon Lake. No, there are no dragons around this area, but its incredible beauty surely feels like a dragon is about to emerge from the waters at any time. The picturesque view is unbelievable, and the only way to make you believe is when you visit the place. Let your own set of eyes be your witness.
6. Kalymnos
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Remember to bring out your sturdy hiking boots and your big bag of confidence when visiting this tiny Kalymnos island. Why? Because it’s becoming a popular rock climbing spot for adrenaline junkies.
Fulfill your Spiderman dreams on this island and get a unique but interesting point of view of the island while hanging from a solid rock from Armeos or Gefyra.
If you’re not into all the daredevil climbing stuff, you can also take a safe and conservative hiking route that can lead you to abandoned castles and churches, which makes for a great photo opportunity.
7. Ikaria
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If you think that the name Ikaria has something to do with Icarus from Greek mythology, yes, you are right— at least according to tradition.
Ikaria is notorious for having citizens who live a very long life, probably even longer than the Japanese people who are also known to have an extended life span because of their ikigai lifestyle. It’s yet fascinating how this island is sometimes known to be where people forget how to die.
We’re betting it’s because of the awe-inspiring natural sources of fun and relaxation you can find on the island. Their beaches have turquoise waters that will make you shy to even wade your feet in it. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the world, and we couldn’t also give it justice just by describing it.
8. Cephalonia
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Colorful houses and establishments lining the hillside are the first things that you will see when you arrive in Cephalonia via ferry.
It might interest you to kayak to the famous roofless cave of Melissani after you feast at one of the impressive tavernas by the sea. You should not forget to try the sensational Kefalonian meat pie while you’re here.
The good thing about this island is that the local government has advocated limiting the rise of commercial resorts around its beaches to preserve its grace and charm.
9. Karpathos
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Away from the maddening crowd of popular Greek tourist spots, Karpathos remains one of the many hidden gems of Greece where you can walk peacefully by yourself without worrying about bumping into a crowd of giddy tourists wanting to take photos at every corner.
You can take a boat ride from the town’s center to Saria’s inhabited island and bask in its glory with almost no one to bother you. This island also has monuments from the olden times, which makes it even more attractive.
10. Loutro
Suppose you’re dreaming of a town where you can cover the whole area just by walking, head over to Loutro. It’s a tiny fishing village located in the southwest of Crete.
It’s a 100% guarantee that you won’t be seeing any cars around the town since there are no roads big enough to accommodate them. The only way around is by riding a boat or using your foot.
It’s a quiet haven for people looking for peace, especially when you have had enough time to explore other busy Greek islands.
11. Diapontia Islands
Diapontia Islands is a cluster of 3 main islands, plus many small, laying northwest of Corfu. Yet another ocean paradise for the lovers of the sea. The waters on these islands are so clear; you could right through the bottom of the seafloor without squinting.
We know how hard it must be to take you away from the beautiful sandy beaches, but you also need to see how pretty the villages are on these islands and that they deserve to be seen by travelers like you.
You might be surprised to find a hamlet during one of your evening walks. Diapontia is also where you can get inspiration on living a simpler life, especially when you engage yourself with a conversation with locals.
12. The Island Of Ithaca
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You probably know this to be the home of Odysseus, the famous poem written by Homer.
If you’re a fan of Greek mythology, this is enough reason to visit the island; that’s for sure. But more than being recognized as part of a famous mythology book, the Island of Ithaca is home to phenomenal beaches and coves where you can spend an entire day just chilling out with friends and then heading to a nearby taverna by the ocean to grab lunch or dinner.
It’s probably better than the one in the book because here, you won’t have to come face to face with a mythical creature and get killed in an instant if you say the wrong words or be cursed for the rest of your life if you eat a forbidden fruit of some sorts.
Discover Greece
Mykonos, Athens, Santorini, and all other more popular Greek attractions are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful towns in the world. But if you try to see beyond these famous tourist spots, you’ll realize that there are plenty more options to discover the raw and unspoiled beauty of Greece.
PUBLISHED BY
Jean Deruiter
Jean Deruiter is a brand consultant and an outdoor enthusiast from the US. She writes about high quality and innovative travel gears, as well as the dos and don’ts of outdoor traveling.
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