Uncover Greece's best-kept secret: Folegandros, a paradise rivaling Santorini, sans the crowds
The Cyclades' most popular islands, Santorini and Mykonos, are often swamped by crowds during the holiday season, leading to skyrocketing accommodation and restaurant prices.
Folegandros: The undiscovered Greek island
Consider more obscure alternatives if you're unwilling to sacrifice a Greek vacation due to overcrowding. Near Santorini lays an island, Folegandros, that rivals its beauty, characterized by white houses and turquoise bays. Folegandros remains relatively untouched by the influx of tourists, offering picturesque beaches and serene tranquility.
The Times reports, "Greeks don't head to tourist-packed Mykonos, Rhodes or Corfu, but to Folegandros, where they can avoid swarms of foreign tourists."
CNN included Folegandros on its list of the seven most beautiful villages in Europe, saying, "The streets of Santorini are crowded with tourists, but on the nearby island of Folegandros, one can experience similar architecture, sans crowds."
Indeed, Folegandros still retains its untouched charm, and the typical Cycladic architecture provides a perfect backdrop for stunning photographs.
Folegandros' lesser popularity stems, in part, from its lack of an airport. However, it remains easily reachable by ferry from Athens, Piraeus, or Santorini.
When visiting, include Karavostasi and Angali beaches in your itinerary, and do try matsáta, traditional handmade pasta served with chicken, accompanied by raki - warm brandy with honey, a local favourite.
Sea-view apartments are affordable, starting as low as $35 per person per night.
