Mountains and beaches, cities and villages with distinctive beauty, are showcased in the British Times feature on the most impressive places in Greece.
Some of the most beautiful and impressive places in Greece are presented in a recent article by the British Times. The newspapers travel expert, after 30 years exploring Greece, has singled out and recommends 12 places, from one end of the country to the other, that are worth visiting: spectacular natural sights, archaeological sites, picturesque villages and world-famous islands of the Aegean and the Ionian.
Arcadia
The Times article notes that Arcadia has been known since antiquity as «earthly paradise» thanks to its unparalleled natural beauty. According to Greek mythology, this part of central Peloponnese was the birthplace of Hermes, the home of Pan, and of the nymphs who have lent their names to the regions rivers and springs. Arcadias villages and rich nature are ideal for exploration, while there are many activities you can do in the area: from rafting and walking by the river to stargazing and skiing in winter.
Delphi
History goes hand in hand with beautiful scenery in Delphi. Known as «the navel of the Earth» in antiquity, Delphi is one of the most important archaeological destinations in Greece. Beyond the archaeological site, youll be impressed by the village and the breathtaking view of the Delphic landscape, where mountain meets sea.
Monemvasia
The castle town that stands on a rock on the southeastern shores of the Peloponnese enchants visitors at first glance. Monemvasia is a wonderful destination for all seasons. Inside the castle you will find cobbled alleys, strikingly well-preserved houses, 40 Byzantine churches, and the home of the great Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos. «Dont expect a lively nightlife: this is a place for relaxing escapes», writes the British newspaper.
Meteora
The rock pinnacles where the monasteries of Meteora have been built are a spectacular sight in themselves. They are in Thessaly, near the city of Trikala, and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Until the 16th century more than 20 monasteries operated, but only 6 remain active today. Before you decide to visit any of the monasteries, check their opening days and hours, because not all are open daily. You will walk quite a bit, but the views of the landscape will reward you.
Pelion
Roughly midway between Athens and Thessaloniki, youll encounter Pelion, a region famed for its beauty. Pine-covered slopes that reach the sea, cliffs and coves coexist with scattered fishing villages that have remained untouched by time. In the villages of the Mountain of the Centaurs, plane trees offer shade to central squares with tavernas, and the narrow alleys are filled with shops selling local products. As the British Times mention, Pelion is a place far from mass tourism, ideal for activities in nature, such as hiking and swimming on the beaches beneath the mountains. Whether you stay by the coast or up in the highlands, in Pelion youll escape the citys pace.
Vikos Gorge
The mountainous region of Zagori is a World Heritage Site, with the gorge of Vikos its most impressive attraction. The view towards the gorge is imposing, with verdant slopes and precipitous rocks that plunge to great depths. The centuries-old stone bridges along the way are ideal spots for photos. In the area, besides the striking flora, there is also interesting wildlife.
White Mountains
The Lefka Ori (Madares) mountain range forms the backbone of western Crete, extending for 60 km. It is a natural divide between the northern shoreline and the southern rocky coasts. Under the summer sun, the peaks take on color. The Lefka Ori are a magnet for hikers, as this is where the famous Samaria Gorge is found, one of the largest and most impressive in Europe.
Athos
Halkidiki is divided into three peninsulas, or legs as the locals call them. The easternmost and quietest is Athos, best known to the public for the monasteries of Mount Athos. It stretches between the gulfs of Strymonic and Singitic, with a landscape blooming and green thanks to the regions climate. The place is ideal for long walks in the forest, as well as dips in pristine blue waters.
Lake Kerkini
The beautiful lake of Serres, with Mount Beles as a backdrop, was born from a dam created in 1932. Lake Kerkini has been declared a National Park and is a highly protected wetland. It hosts pelicans, cormorants and flamingos, as well as about 300 species of birds. You can explore it by canoe and take a ride on the plava (the traditional boat)or rent a bicycle and discover the villages around the lake. Dont forget to try the local yogurt made from buffalo milk.
Santorini
«You cant talk about beautiful places in Greece and not mention Santorini», write the British Times. The volcano, the Cycladic villages with their all-white houses spreading along the cliff, the view from the Caldera, the sunset, as well as its hidden «secrets», such as the inland village of Pyrgos, bewitch visitors from every corner of the world.
Navagio Beach
The Navagiois a beach that came to prominence mainly through social media and put Zakynthos among the most popular destinations in Greece. Hidden in a cove beneath steep cliffs, the beach with the rusted ship on white sand beside turquoise waters is a unique sight. You can admire it from the top of the hill, while there is no possibility to get close to the beach as it is closed and you are allowed to approach only to a short distance by boat.
Epirus Riviera
The Epirus Riviera, the section of coastline that stretches from Parga to Palairo, with Preveza at its heart, is one of the most beautiful places for summer holidays in Greece. The view you will enjoy from there is impressive - opposite you lie Paxoi, Lefkada and Meganisi. The real beauty of the area lies in the combination of forest and sea, and the charming villages that remain unexplored.
