Considering a holiday to Greece’s sun-dappled beaches and crystalline shores? With temperatures still reaching 24ºC during October, the Greek islands are the perfect place to enjoy a late summer break. Here’s which islands to visit for the best beaches and sunshine…
Why visit Greece in October?
With the peak travel time being July and August, you might be wondering what the benefits are of booking a holiday to the Greek Islands in October. Although the islands cool down considerably during September and October (the shoulder season), you can still enjoy a balmy average of 24ºC on most days. The resorts will be quieter and more peaceful, which means that you’re also unlikely to encounter hordes of tourists. In many cases, you’ll have the islands’ beautiful beaches to yourself! Travelling in October, outside of the scorching summer heat, is also a good idea if you’re interested in a walking holiday. You’ll be able to hike without getting hot and sweaty, meaning you can enjoy every step of your journey.
Corfu
Known as the ‘Emerald Island’ of the Mediterranean, Corfu is one of Greece’s most popular islands – and for good reason. Rugged mountains, lush scenery and scenic walking trails nudge shoulders with sandy coves and turquoise waters, making this the place to go for a cocktail of beach bliss with a sprinkling of adventure. Rest and restore along the resort-studded coastline or follow in the footsteps of Gerald and Lawrence Durrell on Corfu’s beautiful Durrell Trail, named after the famous family and stars of the hit comedy-drama ‘The Durrells’.
Join us on our Solos Exclusive holiday to Corfu
Zakynthos
Zakynthos (or Zante) is known for its idyllic beaches, impossibly turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife. Naturally, this has made it one of Greece’s most popular islands, but if you step away from the crowds you’ll discover a different kind of beauty. Forested wilderness, traditional villages, rugged coastlines and spectacular limestone cliffs lie just beyond the tourist-heavy resorts, making Zakynthos a great destination to explore on foot. However beautiful the island’s lush interior may be, don’t miss out on a visit to Navagio beach – an exposed cove that’s made all the more picturesque by the abandoned shipwreck which washed up on the shore in 1983. And, for a chance of spotting the endangered Loggerhead Turtle, head to Laganas Bay – the most important breeding ground in the whole of the Mediterranean.
Join us on our holidays to Zakynthos
Crete
The largest of the
Greek Islands, Crete is also the most diverse. An ever-changing landscape of white sand beaches, craggy coves, rugged canyons and lush green mountains make this dreamy island so much more than a sun-kissed beach escape. When you’re not sinking your toes into the powder-soft sand, buckle up your walking boots and soak up the island’s unspoilt countryside and wonderful coastal views. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a trip to the bright turquoise shores of Elafonisi beach – one of the most idyllic stretches of sand in the whole of the Greek isles.
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Santorini
Santorini, perhaps Greece’s most photographed island, never fails to conjure up images of pure paradise. You’ll probably want to spend most of your time in Fira, where Santorini’s iconic white-washed houses cling to dramatic cliffs and the sunsets are truly out of this world. The striking black-sand beach of Perissa is also a great place to base yourself, lying just a 13km drive from Fira. Over many centuries, the molten rock from volcanic eruptions hardened and then eventually broke down to create the uniquely black sand Perissa is so famous for.
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Kos
Predominantly flat and only 64km long, the Greek island of Kos is easily navigable for budding explorers. While beautiful beaches are aplenty here, the island is a historian’s paradise. Ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine ruins are scattered all over Kos Town, and the landscape is punctuated with millennia-old Corinthian columns. Then there’s the 15th-century medieval castle that looms over the town’s harbour, not to mention an array of fabulous museums. On your days off from the beach, jump on a bicycle and pedal around the coast, or take the leisurely option on an island tour or sailing trip.
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Kefalonia
If you’re craving clean, unspoilt beaches carpeted in powder-soft sand, Kefalonia is the Greek island for you. Even better: visit in October and you’ll be greeted with near-empty stretches of sand and a peaceful atmosphere – perfect if you prefer to avoid the crowds when on holiday. One beach not to miss is Myrtos Beach. Dazzling white sand and turquoise shores have made it famous worldwide; this is beach that you’ll fall in love with at first sight. That’s not all the island is good for though; high mountains, secluded coves, forests of cypress trees, endless vineyards and colourful fishing ports make it a great destination for a walking holiday with a difference.
Join us on a walking holiday to Kefalonia
Ithaca
Measuring just 18 miles from top to bottem, the tiny island of Ithaca is best known as the home of Odysseus – one of Greece’s most famous mythical heroes. As a result of this, it’s scattered with numerous Odysseus-themed attractions – a cave, a spring, the ruins of a castle – which join the island’s picturesque harbour villages and scenic walking trails.
Join us on a walking holiday to Ithaca
Don’t delay; book your Greek Island holiday today! You can browse our full selection of holidays to Greece here, or give our friendly sales team a call on 020 8951 2900.
