Grown up Greek island hopping
Does “Greek island hopping holiday” conjure up images of backpacks, Lonely Planet guide books and tiny rooms in a hostel (or is that just us after a trip in 1992..?) In reality hopping between the wonderful Greek islands by ferry is a simple and cost effective way to get to see a few of the islands and experience their individual characters and charms.
Working with three of our stylish and inclusive places to stay we’ve created a luxurious itinerary taking in Crete, Santorini and Syros, with each partner offering up a special Further Afield treat. Proper grown up travel.
Stop 1: Crete, Galini Breeze
Travel: Fly to Crete’s Heraklion International airport either direct or via Athens (1hr) – and hire a car and drive just over an hour to stay at Galini Breeze.
What’s there: Boutique, adults-only resort situated on the edge of the pretty harbour village of Agia Galini. The surrounding scenery is incredible and you can enjoy both sea and mountain views from your private terrace. Crete, the largest of the Greek islands has hugely diverse scenery and culture to explore.
FA bonus: Marc and Monique offer Further Afield guests a guided 6-hour walking tour to the 2.456m summit of Mount Psiloritis (above) with the option of car hire if you prefer, OR a half-day private boat tour to a remote, secluded bay which is unreachable via land. There you can snorkel, swim, sun bath and enjoy a complimentary picnic lunch or sundowner drinks.
Price: €150 per night for a 3-night stay
Stop 2: Santorini, Carpe Diem
Travel: Take the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (from 2hrs) and it’s a 15 minute car ride.
What’s there: This cool, calm resort is Santorini at its finest, 10 luxurious suites, all with private terrace and plunge pool. The volcanic landscape and dramatic coastline make Santorini simply stunning.
FA Bonus: Travellers quoting this package receive 10% discount off the cost of their stays plus free use of the spa suite and 2 complimentary 45-minute aromatherapy treatments during their stay.
Price: Prices vary according to the season, ranging from €150 per night dependent on suite and season. Check in with charming owner Sotiris for the best deals.
Stop 3: Syros, Pino di Loto B&B
Travel: Take the ferry from Santorini to Syros (2.5hrs) and then it’s a 15 minute car ride.
What’s there: Six private, luxurious suites with jaw-dropping views of the Aegean sea and a perfect pool by which to enjoy a cocktail. Two of the Suites also have private patios and mini plunge pools. The Rigouzzo family offer hiking to the wild “upper” part of the island and a swim or boat trip to the beautiful northern beaches. Syros, with over five centuries of history, is a fascinating and unspoilt way to end your tour.
FA Bonus: Enjoy a bespoke Hiking Experience during your stay, arranged by the fantastically friendly Terezdina.
Prices: Prices vary according to the season, but start from €128 per night dependent on suite and season.
Where to next?: Fly (30 mins) or take the ferry (2 – 4hrs) to Athens direct from Syros.
Notes
Planned with the idea of a three night stay at each property, travellers have the choice to also take up the Further Afield bonus if they decide to book a longer stay at any of these Greek partners.
Ferry information
For the best Greek ferry information visit https://www.ferries.gr. Each of our partners are happy to assist with the booking of ferries, taxis, car hire, etc.
