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Greece is a varied and wonderful yachting
destination for the wandering sailor as it offers
four principal yachting regions to choose from: the
Ionian Islands, the Sporades, the Cyclades and the
Dodecanese. Each has its own unique charms and
attractions to tempt the traveller.Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands comprise twelve islands. There
are six large ones to consider first: Zakynthos, Ithaca,
Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Paxos. The smaller
ones are: Antipaxi, Erikousa, Mathraki, Othoni, and
Meganisi, plus Strofades, which is uninhabited.
These islands are blessed with deep waters (in fact
they are deepest waters to be found in the Med), a
mild climate and the gentle, north-westerly winds
the locals call meltemia. Added to this are lush green
landscapes, majestic mountains, and clean beaches
that are suited for water sports or diving. Kefalonia
is known for its Melissani Cave, a cavern with has
two lake-filled chambers, one with a collapsed roof.
Lefkada is much more relaxed and relaxing, especially
if you visit the mountain tavern, Panorama, in Athani.
Paxos is a popular and busy place. If you drop your
anchor in Corfu, head to Corfu Town for a visit to
Moni Theotokou, the 13th century monastery.Sporades Islands
If you have a hankering for quiet and quiet beauty
than the Sporades Islands are a good choice to visit.
Altogether the Sporades comprise eleven rugged
islands lying on the north-western region of the
Aegean. They are more tranquil than most other
Greek islands, but they enjoy some of the most
spectacular views Greece has to offer and are ringed
by glassy waters. Only four of the Sporades are
inhabited (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros).
The Sporades are ideal for viewing and interacting
the resident marine life that include whales, dolphins,
seals and turtles.The Cyclades
The Cyclades Islands (39 in total) lie in the Aegean
Sea, close to Athens. They are popular not only
because of their proximity to Athens, but also because
of their picture perfect nature – whitewashed houses
and azure bays that contrast nicely with blue painted
church domes and striking beaches. Each of the
islands offers something unique. Santorini provides
black pebble beaches, while Mykonos is perfect for
night owls with plenty of nightlife and fine restaurants.
Folegandros is gaining in popularity and Sikinos,
and its population of 300 people, remain largely
undiscovered. Once you have seen the sights on the
bigger islands, the surrounding waters hold numerous
little islands to explore. Oia is romantic and from the
ruins on Thira you can experience remarkable sunsets.
Then there is Kea and its shady oak forests, and
Kythnos with its relaxing hot springs. The Cyclades
also benefit from the warm meltemi winds from July
through into September.The Dodecanese
One of the better known groups of islands, the
Dodecanese is made up of over a dozen large islands,
plus several small ones. Lying in the Aegean close to
Turkey, are the archetypical Greek island destination:
they have notable archaeological locations that run
the gamut of myth, folklore and history, as well as
giving the traveller stunning beaches, magnificent
mountains, all surrounded by deep, refreshing
waters and covered by blue skies. The most famous
destinations are Rhodes and Kos. Rhodes captivates
one with its gorgeous beaches and its walled medieval
town. Meanwhile, Kos has sandy beaches, charming
old settlements and accessible archaeological
sites to fascinate visitors. The Dodecanese Islands
also contains Kalymnos (famed as a rock climbing
destination), Leros (popular for diving) and Patmos
(celebrated for its peaceful and religious atmosphere).YI28_pp52-58 EAST MED HIGHLIGHTS v5 NB.indd 53 09/06/2018 00:17