Enough with the popular, much-advertised islands of the Cyclades! In this article, we are going to uncover some lesser-known destinations that have nothing to envy from the popular ones.
Without further ado, let’s dive into some crystalline waters, unspoiled sceneries, and lush, inviting nature!

Samos

Starting from the Northern Aegean, Samos is a large island that boasts a rich heritage and pristine beauty. The birthplace of Pythagoras, the renowned ancient Greek mathematician, is dotted with colourful villages and ancient sites; mind to visit Pythagorio with its ancient port and theatre that bustles with life during summer months.

Stay in…
Villa Mirabelle, a stunning home for 20 guests, is located in Karlovasi, the main settlement of Samos, hidden within the lush nature of the area and offering stunning views of the sea and the verdant slopes. Apart from its astounding environs and proximity to the cosmopolitan Karlovasi, this luxury villa in Samos actually comprises 3 separate homes offering privacy and comfort to its guests.

Alonissos

Maybe one of the most untouched islands of the Aegean, Alonissos, in the complex of the Sporades, bursts with untamed greenery and turquoise waters. Calm and quiet, this is the ideal destination for those who want to unwind in the soothing breeze of lush forests and cooling waters. Plus, it hosts one of Greece’s most precious and popular marine parks making it ideal for nature lovers and diving aficionados.

Stay in…
Villa Luna is an utterly secluded estate hidden within the lush forest of Leftos Gialos. This enthralling villa in Alonissos is ideal for 12 guests that seek the most relaxing and pampering holidays as it features 3 independent sleeping units and the main building with common living areas as well as a Chef, an assistant & a waiter preparing breakfast, dinner & a non-served gourmet lunch.

Serifos

Known for its countless sunkissed shores (the island counts more than 70 beaches), Serifos is an alternative destination that has managed to keep a low profile and a laid-back ambience although preferred by thousands of visitors – mostly Greeks – each year. Its authentic Cycladic charms combined with its crystalline waters and easy-going atmosphere promise the most relaxing summer break.

Stay in…
Narayan is a private luxury villa in Serifos that enjoys panoramic views of the rough Cycladic hills and the cobalt Aegean Sea. Located on a hilltop, the property is only 20’ on foot from the beach of Kalo Ambeli, the most popular beach on the island, while it boasts utter privacy and seclusion. Its 10 guests will unwind in the main house, two separate guesthouses, and the mesmerizing pool terrace that breathes in the invigorating Aegean Sea breeze.

An alternative for a group of 10, Villa Naya is a property hidden within the rugged, rocky shoreline of Agios Sostis, offering direct access from a private path to the homonymous beach. Naya also offers privacy and autonomy to its guests as, apart from the main house with the 3 bedrooms, there is also a separate guesthouse with two interconnected master suites with en-suite bathrooms and direct access to the sunkissed pool terrace. There you will succumb to the pristine landscape and endless sea views while plunging in the refreshing waters of the villa’s 32sq.m. pool.

Folegandros

Another Cycladic island mostly preferred by Greeks, Folegandros is one of the smallest yet it manages to attract dozens of visitors each year that are left totally enchanted by its dramatic landscapes and fairytale-like ambience. Authentic and boutique the island does not feature large hotel chains nor massive tourism while its beautiful, paved alleys and graphic squares in the scenic Chora will host you from early in the afternoon for a coffee until late at night with its vibrant fairs with local music and food.

Stay in…
One of the most scenic villas in Folegandros, Circle is an exciting home located on a hilltop that offers unobstructed, 360̊ views of the cobalt Aegean Sea. This sublime property is an ode to Cycladic architecture and minimalism majestically paired with country-chic style and laid-back ambience. Ready to host 8 guests, 2 of them in a separate guesthouse, the villa’s highlight is its pool terrace that literally hangs above the sea.

Amorgos

What can be said for Amorgos…this is an island blessed with everything but most of all its unsurpassed energy which you will instantly feel as soon as you set your foot on its harbour. Isolated from the rest of the Cyclades, far away within the Aegean, Amorgos is a stunning destination that will leave you astounded. Its absolutely graphic Chora with the vibrant energy of youngsters – mostly Greek – playing, attending, or dancing folk dances to live music and drinking local raki within its narrow, whitewashed alleys will steal your heart forever and ever!

Stay in…
Just a breath away from the popular beach of Agios Pavlos, Villa Chelsea is an exquisite summer home for 10 that masterfully blends within its setting. Soft earthy colours, low-key decorations, authentic Cycladic style, and a stunning, voluminous pool terrace that seems to be the continuation of the villa’s environs make up the perfect home for you and your family and friends. Plus, this luxury villa in Amorgos offers three completely independent levels with separate facilities to cater to the guests’ autonomy and privacy.

Meganissi

Our last stop in the trajectory of Greece’s hidden insular gems could not but be Meganissi; eclectic and premium, this small island is found between Lefkada and the western coast of Greece. Literally a turquoise and green paradise, Meganissi is one of the most elite Greek islands that has managed to preserve its immense natural beauty and low profile. Carpeted with thriving nature and boasting a rugged shoreline of white coasts and emerald waters, this is the place for nature lovers!

Stay in…
Take your pick among Villa Bay I, Bay II, or Bay III, or head for the entire complex that can host 30 guests in total! Those sublime villas in Meganissi enjoy a setting of untamed nature within a thick pine forest and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Each of the 3 villas can host 10 guests in a beautiful home of local architecture and an enthralling terrace with a private swimming pool. There is also a communal Yoga area, a private jetty, a common playground for the little ones, and paddle boards and kayaks.