Summer is a great time for island hopping. And there are fewer places as beautiful and accessible as the Med when it comes to holiday islands. For beach bums, sun queens and ocean dreamers, here are 5 of our all-time favourite islands in the Mediterranean.
1. Cyprus
The island nation of Cyprus is best known for its amazing white sand beaches, its rich and interesting history, and also its inner wine regions such as Akamas Laona, Pitsilia, Vouni Panayias and Limassol. The island is also divided by Turkish Cypriots in the North and Greek Cypriots in the South, so there will be language differences for those travelling across the country. Some of our favourite beaches to go to include Aphrodites Rock and Beach in Paphos, Konnos Bay or Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa (South and South West) and Burhan’s Golden Beach on Karpas Peninsula (North).
2. Corfu
Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands in Greece, is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Med. This island is a great place for every type of holiday maker because theres so much to see and do. Defined by its rugged mountains and striking colonial architecture from French, British and Italian rule including the UNESCO listed Corfu Old Town plus its sophisticated restaurant and bar culture, Corfu is a great place for families and couples alike. For long stretches of sand, shallow water and secluded coves, head to Ayios Georgios or for party vibes and a festival atmosphere, head to the resort village of Kavos.
3. Malta
Quite often a forgotten destination, Malta is a tiny little archipelago set in the Med between Sicily and the North African coast. Its most notable attractions are the stunning Blue Lagoon on Comino Island and the wonderful historical sites from Roman times as well as historical and colonial sites from being ruled by the Moors, the Knights of St. John, the French and the British. Some must-see sights are the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum temple, the Ħaġar Qim ruins, the Tarxien Temples and the Rotunda of Mosta.
4. Hvar
Hvar really is an up and coming destination in Croatia, and after somewhere like Dubrovnik or Split, its probably one of the trendiest places to go to. Summer attracts crowds in their hundreds of thousands so now is the time to go before the island becomes too busy. Hvar Town is where it all goes down; with a glamorous bay, striking 13th Century Walls and rich history, its beautiful cobbled and marbled streets made for leisurely walking, and its sophisticated restaurant and bar culture. For party beaches and young crowds, go to Carpe Diem Beach.
5. Kefalonia
This Greek Island in the Ionian Sea is one of our best kept secrets. Soft white powdery sands, azure blue coastlines, crystal clear waters perfect for swimming in, and magical caves and lagoons secreted from the rest of the world; Kefalonia is simply paradise. For families with kids or loved up couples, its the perfect Greek island for relaxation. For the outdoorsy types and nature lovers, its Greeces finest destination for hiking and outdoor exploration. And for party animals, theres an endless choice of lively resorts and nightlife spots.
Christos Hajipapas is Head of Business Development & Strategy at Cyplon Holidays.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
