Lesser-Known Greek Islands

Lesser-Known Greek Islands That You Should Visit… and Why!

The following are some of the most beautiful islands in Greece that have managed to remain relatively free from mass tourism. In no particular order, these are three of my favorite ones. 

Best Greek Island For Foodies… Sifnos

Sifnos’ foodie reputation is in no small part down to the fact that it was the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes – the man who wrote the first-ever Greek cookbook back in 1910.

He veered away from the everyday simple recipes at the time, opting for more exotic ingredients and ways of cooking instead.

Now, people flock to Sifnos for its food. The islanders produce their own terracotta cookware dishes, which are used for all sorts of recipes, especially hearty stews like revithada and soups packed with chickpeas, one of the most commonly used ingredients on the island.

While you’re there, be sure to try their sweet treats too. The almond-based amygdalota and their honey cheesecake known as melopita are delicious.

Aside from the food, you’ll also find some incredible, unspoiled sandy beaches and a calming atmosphere.

Best Greek Island For a Different Way of Life…Ikaria

Ikaria is known as the island of long life, as, on average, inhabitants live ten years longer than those elsewhere in Europe. 

They also have lower levels of illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and dementia. It has been suggested that their diet, habit of taking afternoon naps, and general lifestyle are the reasons for their extended lifespans.

Visitors to Ikaria talk about how different the way of life is. Long, slow conversations, the communal habit of leaving doors unlocked, and not prioritizing setting appointment times. 

You can even book yourself onto a longevity retreat to learn the secrets of a longer, healthier life. 

Best Greek Island For True Beauty…Milos

Milos, in the Cyclades cluster, is known as the island of colors and it’s easy to see why. The island features crystal-clear emerald waters and bright white rock formations.

The reds, oranges, and pinks of the volcanic rocks that line the beaches — not to mention its incredible sunsets — make Milos a beautiful place.

There’s plenty to do while you soak up its beauty, too. Visit Byzantine castle remains, explore the island’s pirate caves and swim in the Fonissa or Neraida waterfalls. 

The village of Klima is known for the fact that every house has a different colored door. While the island’s mining museum and the dormant volcano are well worth a visit for geology fans.

Like many of the Greek islands, Milos also has its own food traditions. These include ladenia (a tomato, onion, and oregano-topped flatbread, almost pizza-like) and pitarakia (small cheese and herb-filled pies). 

Read more about Greece

• The Most Fabulous Things to Do in Santorini
• Insanely Useful Travel Guide to Santorini
• Best Family Beaches in Greece for an Unforgettable Vacation!

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