Archive for 'Architectural Gems in Greece'

Santorini is one of the world’s most famous and beloved holiday destinations that is at the top of a lot of bucket lists and lists of desired vacation spots. Its endless blue skies, crystal clear waters, cute white-washed architecture, flowers, and famous sunsets have been captured and shared by countless visitors and continue to attract more looking for a slice of that romantic perfection offered by this incredible place. If you have found a villa in the South Aegean, make time to head to this beautiful island in Greece and see what all the hype is about for yourself. You’ll encounter crowds that you might not have imagined in idyllic daydreams about the place but we think you’ll still be pretty impressed. It is quite the sight to behold, after all.

One of the key destinations in Santorini is Oia, the island’s northernmost village. This is likely the place that you will see pictured in most images of the island that are featured in articles, guidebooks, social media posts, and television shows. It is an exceptionally photogenic town that is a maze of little shops, restaurants, cafés, other businesses, houses, and those iconic white churches topped by blue domes. A pedestrian town, it is famous for its sunsets, the amazing sweeping views over the rest of the island and the caldera from its position along a cliffside, the crowds gathered to take in those views, and the chic and expensive restaurants and little stores. It is synonymous with style and glamour and is the destination of choice on the island today, particularly among the rich and famous.     Read More

If you are looking to take in a fascinating medieval monument as well as some incredible panoramic views over the coast, go for a short but very gratifying hike, and then spend some time on a truly stunning beach and you have found a vacation rental in Peloponnese, then you need to head to the lovely coastal town of Pylos. This is where you will find the ruins of a 13th century fortress perched on a cliff called Old Navarino Castle and the utterly beautiful natural surroundings that you can admire as they unfold below when you reach the ancient building.

Navarino Castle was built in the strategic location in which it stands today in the 13th century by the Franks. It was positioned for observation and defence and endured centuries of attacks and sieges before being taken by the Venetians in the 15th century and then passing back and forth from Venetian and Ottoman control. Once Pylos Castle was built nearby, Navarino lost its significance and, over time, fell to ruin. It is known by locals as “Paleokastro”, “the old fortress,” and is a romantic ruin.     Read More

What is Greece without her ruins? The majestic remnants of the architectural gems of Ancient Greece are iconic and fascinating and must-sees for anyone who has found a vacation rental in Greece. In particular, if you find yourself in the capital, you'll be within reach of some of the most characteristic and important ruins in the country. Among them, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is especially famous and beloved and something that anyone who has found a vacation rental in Athens should set aside some time to go and visit.     Read More

All this week, we have been talking about Folegandros, a gorgeous lesser-known Greek island in the Aegean Sea that is wonderfully rugged, boasts incredible views, pretty towns, and plenty to keep those with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore in the most serene of settings entertained. If you have found a vacation rental in the South Aegean or a holiday rental in Crete, Folegandros is well worth exploring and after focusing on the capital in the last post, here is what else the island has to offer...

Then there is Karavostasis port, the first place you'll arrive when you come to town where you will find some of the best restaurants on the island; excellent little tavernas and eateries with tables spilling out onto the streets, serving up handmade pasta, snails, orange pies, almond treats, white goats cheese, capers, fried watermelon, and delicious local red and white wines. You'll also see fishing boats lined up next to yachts and few international tourists but plenty of Athenians, who have been holidaying in the area for a long time, writers, artists, and the odd celebrity turning up aboard their own yachts.     Read More