The perfect holiday starts with good planning, and if you have been thinking about the Greek Isles there are a few things you should consider before you board your plane. Do some research to find out which islands are best suited for your holidays. Corfu is popular with tourists, but the history is amazing. Kefalonia is home to Greek artists, sculptors and musicians which add to its artistic charm. Of course if you want to walk your way around Greece like I did, take a holiday on Paxos.
The tiny island is a mere eight kilometres long and just three kilometres wide. You can literally walk from end to end. The magical island is only three hours from Corfu by sea. There are over 40 pebbled beaches that frame the azure blue ocean. Before you spend your entire trip walking, you may want to take a boat along the east coast so you can explore the caves.
The capital village of the island of Paxos is Gaios. Before you head out on your trek, stop for a bite at a restaurant or taverna, and be sure and shop for goodies to take back home as there are some wonderful little shops in the coastal village.
The dense olive groves are a sight to see, and make for interesting walks. None of the ancient trees are sprayed which results in families all over the island producing award winning olive oils. I arrived in late March, and was amazed at the beauty of the flora and fauna.
There are literally hundreds of walking tracks and paths that criss-cross the island. When I got into town, I bought a map which was very helpful. I wasn’t really worried about getting lost. The island is so small, that I knew if I lost my way, I would eventually run into someone. Also make sure that you bring plenty of water, as it can get quite warm during the summer.
I stayed in a villa and was able to walk to the beach, restaurants, shops or tavernas, as the majority of properties are about 25 minutes away. On the way, I was in awe of the green grass, wild flowers and olive groves that grow alongside the well-worn walking paths. I adored strolling along the lanes of abandoned villages that are lined with stone walls. Do not forget your camera, because you are going to want to get pictures of the old Venetian houses which were ruined by the windmills and olive presses back in the day. My favourite walk took me from Loggos to a 17th century church. I climbed the bell tower and was in awe of the spectacular views to Corfu. Other sights that you must not miss on a walk include the Tripitos Arch, simply stunning, and the migrating birds that flock to the island in the early spring.