We go island hopping with Matthew Zorpas and get an insider guide of where to swim, eat, and drink and explore when travelling Matthew's favourite Greek islands.
Hydra
A very unique element of this breathtaking Greek island is the way in which they kept the tradition alive by not permitting vehicles on the island. You will find people on foot, using donkeys or boats to travel around the island. The lack of cars and the beautiful stone houses add to an already charming and serene atmosphere on this island.
Where to eat... "Oraia Hydra translates as 'Beautiful Hydra' and this small bistro lives up to its name! Personal favourite dish, the prawn spaghetti dish."
Where to swim... "Paralia Avlaki. One of the most beautiful beaches in my opinion!"
Where to visit... "The DESTE project space Slaughterhouse currently hosting Jeff Koon's new exhibition is not to be missed!"
Where to drink... "Papagalos has excellent cocktails by the sea. Highly recommend the Negronis!"
Hidden treasure... "My personal favourite hidden treasure is Veranta Restaurant, great views and excellent food."
Image courtesy of T Vass
Milos
Only in the past decade has Milos Island become the hot spot for tourists that it is now. In 1820 the famous Venus de Milo sculpture was discovered on Milos dating civilisation on this island back to 150 BC. Nowadays it is a paradise for tourists and locals with 70 spectacular white sandy beaches, considered as some of the best in the Aegean, and hundreds of out-of-this world restaurants, it is quickly becoming one of the Mediterranean's most sought-after holiday spots.
Where to eat...
"Oh Hamos, the best traditional plates in Milos! Try their traditional fava and pitarakia."
Where to swim... "Sikia cave, accessible only by sea."
Where to visit... "Kleftiko Sailing cruise with snorkelling and lunch on the boat!"
Where to drink... "Utopia cafe, great cocktails and the best sunset bar in Chora.."
Hidden treasure... "Kimolos, a very low-key yet exceptional island across Milos, 15’ by ferry."
Koufonisia
Image courtesy of Christos Karagounis
With out-of-this-world turquoise waters, soft white sand and Cycladic architecture, Koufonisia is a breathtaking island to relax and unwind. Only a short ferry ride from Athens, this hidden gem of an island is an absolute must-visit on your next island hopping trip.
Where to eat... "Kalofego, the greatest food on the island if you manage to get a table! Best Ntakos salad you will have!"
Where to swim... "The Eye of the Devil is essential for diving lovers!"
Where to visit... "Milk beach, the impressive beach that foams like milk!"
Where to drink... "Sorokos, the perfect spot on the island, my go-to is always their margaritas."
Hidden treasure... "Kato Koufonisi, then inhabited sister island of Pano Koufonisi. Taxi boats conveniently run every 30 minutes."
