In the Ionian Sea there are «gem» islets with untouched beaches and tranquil landscapes, for those seeking the ultimate relaxation. Here are five small islands unknown to many where you can enjoy peaceful holidays even in August.
Close to its famous islands, the Ionian Sea hides little paradises, where time seems to have stopped and life flows at a slow pace. Lush nature, untouched beaches that offer relaxation and tranquility even in August, sea caves, old settlements and picturesque paths through the olive groves await visitors seeking the authentic and the exceptional on their holidays.
If you are tired of the classic and overhyped, and all you are looking for this summer is the trio sun - sea - serenity, then it is worth discovering these five little Ionian islands that promise delightful holidays far from the crowds.
Kalamos
Kalamos is a small island that belongsadministratively to the Municipality of Lefkada and lies directly opposite the village of Mytikas in Aetolia-Acarnania, from where it is accessed. The island is mostly mountainous (the peak of the mountain that dominates the island reaches 745 m.) and boasts distinctive nature, an old-world atmosphere and small beaches with white pebbles and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The scent of pine and sea salt is everywhere in the air. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys and strike up a chat with the locals about life on the island. It is worth walking to Episkopi through an unspoiled landscape. By bicycle you can visit the southern tip of the island, the abandoned settlement at Kefali. There you will see ruined houses, old olive presses, stone threshing floors and half-collapsed windmills still standing, as if time had suddenly stopped.
Kastos
Kastos, the smallest inhabited islet of the Ionian Islands, south of Kalamos, still keeps the pace of past decades. Like neighboring Kalamos, the island connects with the coast of Aetolia-Acarnania by caiques, to and from the opposite village of Mytikas. The only settlement, with its stone houses and little tavernas, is built around the harbor. On Kastos you will enjoy nature walks, see lovely little churches, old olive presses and windmills, and dive into untouched beaches: Ampelakia, Fyki, Limni, Kamini, Vrisidi and Agios Emilianos are some of the most renowned. On Agios Emilianos beach lies one of the island’s main attractions, Fokotrypa Cave, which has a small sandy beach inside.
Othonoi
The largest of the Diapontia Islands - and the westernmost point of Greece- lies 12 nautical miles from the northwestern coast of Corfu. Ruins of Venetian castles, small settlements with beautiful old houses, ancient olive trees, many paths and dreamlike shores with turquoise waters offer the ideal setting for a break from everything. The little boat from Corfu will drop you off at Ammos, a small cove with a lovely beach and a few shops. On Othonoi you will definitely swim at Aspri Ammos - one of the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian - and visit by boat the impressive Calypsos Cave. For swimming, the uniquely beautiful Fyki cove on the northern coastline is also ideal. If you take the road toward the eastern coast, you can visit Cape Kastri and the island’s lighthouse, which was constructed in 1872.
Erikousa
Erikousa, the most densely populated and the northernmost island of the Diapontia, lies 8 nautical miles northwest of Corfu and is lush with olive and cypress trees. The island took its name from the heather plant, which blooms on Erikousa in October and dresses it in purple. The small size of the island (about 5 sq. km) allows you to explore it completely in a short time. Get ready to dive into crystal-clear blue waters and walk along heavenly verdant paths. Erikousa has two wonderful beaches, Porto and Bragini.
Mathraki
Mathraki is the smallest and southernmost of the Diapontia Islands. It is just 5 nautical miles from Agios Stefanos in Corfu and 6 nautical miles from Othonoi. Like the other two, it is covered in dense vegetation that hides its picturesque settlements within. A concrete road climbs from the port and, after reaching the settlement of Benatika, branches out to traverse the island along its entire length. The beaches of Portelo and Apidies are ideal for serene and indulgent swims, while hiking the old stone paths will reveal a magical and quiet interior.
