Grecian Honeymoon

Ahhhhh… the Greek Isles; with it’s idyllic beauty, warm sun, and even warmer people, the Greek Isles make for a storybook Honeymoon. Luis and I have been exploring and discovering the unique charms and endless adventures that await amongst these stunning jewels since 2001, and we still can't get enough! So, if romance is what you're hoping for on your next getaway, here are a few of our recommendations: 

Your first introduction to Greece will likely be at the Athens International Airport, but before you rush off to frolic in the crystal clear waters that await, you should make time to shake off the long flight and stay one night or two. The Acropolis in Athens, complete with its iconic scenery, indelible past, and winding paths filled with interesting boutiques, authentic restaurants, and bustling ambiance, is a "must-see." 

After a long day of exploring the incredible historical sights, you may stay casual for your evening meal. Arcadia is one of our local favorites for a consistently delicious meal in Plaka; they offer authentic and tasty food with a smile. A must-try: their baklava was the best we had throughout Greece! And if you feel a little like a Hobbit who enjoys "second breakfast", lunch, and dinner, etc., and you desire "second dessert" then make your way to Divinci's in the Plaka for some of Europe's best gelato (speaking from the perspective of an amateur gelato connoisseur).

In keeping with the goal of making this the most romantic experience for you and your love, we suggest ending your fantastic day of historical and cultural exploration by taking a short cab ride (approximately 30 minutes) back to your secluded 5-star hotel in Glyfada, rumored to be "the best" suburb on the Athenian Riviera! One & Only Aesthesis offers Bungalow guests personalized, impeccable service. Michelin-lauded chef Ettore Botrini unveils their restaurant Ora, which consistently provides fantastic food and spectacular sunset views. You will want to take advantage of an opportunity to recover from your travels pampered by the French luxury beauty house Guerlain; they brought their exceptional wellness philosophy to the Athenian Riviera with the first Guerlain Spa in Greece. 

Now that you have been introduced to Greek culture, it's time to continue your adventure to the more remote and idyllic destinations that await. Did you know the country includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Greek Seas?! That is an incredible sum, but don't worry, there are "only" 227 of them that are inhabited. Even better, we have selected only a few favorites to highlight now...

SANTORINI

Although Santorini is overrun by visitors in the high season, it remains a top-rated destination because of its unique combination of geographical beauty, stunning seascapes overlooking the Caldera, and a wide variety of things to see and do.

You will want to take full advantage of this dramatic setting by chartering a private sunset catamaran cruise in the Caldera and surrounding area. We recommend Luxury Catamarans . We sailed on the "Silver Pearl" with Captain Wayne Adonis Dos Passos and his crew, Helen, George, and John- they were incredibly professional and created a memorable experience for us. That said, the sunset views of Santorini are INCREDIBLE, and viewing them from your private vessel is one of the most romantic experiences one can have.

If you and your love like to include a little excitement, you should rent a four-wheeler and drive to the lighthouse to enjoy the incredible island views. If archaeology interests you, visit the Akrotiri Bronze Age archaeological site; it is surprisingly well-preserved and offers a valuable glimpse into everyday life from a bygone era. 

And, if you enjoy the wide world of wine (like we do), you must visit one of our favorite places in Santorini, Santo Winery. They offer wine-pairing tastings overlooking the Caldera, and we have been known to sit, sip, and enjoy this dreamy local for hours at a time. The wines and ambiance are unmatched!

Laokasti restaurant in Oia is hands down the best informal meal we had on the island, and the dining ambiance was charming. Don't miss it! And, if you are looking for a fine dining experience, look at the only French fine dining restaurant on Santorini, La Colline . The famous chef Jerome Coustillas created a delicious menu that blends French, Greek, Mediterranean, and Spanish flavors.

Even though there are many beautiful experiences to be enjoyed in Santorini, you may struggle to leave your love nest, especially if you stay at Villa Bordeaux . 

MILOS

Milos is another volcanic showstopper in the Cyclades island chain, and it is increasing in popularity as travelers look for alternatives to Santorini and Mykonos. The most significant difference is that Milos has one big draw: sandy beaches! Milos is also known for its great food, pretty villages, and unique "sirmata" (colorful boat garages) carved into the natural rock formations. It's a perfect destination for couples who like to explore, rent a car, or ride a 4-wheeler for a few days to seek out the more remote beaches in various corners of the island.

For a memorable stay, the newest premiere luxury hotel on Milos is Domes Resort; each suite at Domes White Coast Milos, Adults Only - Small Luxury Hotels of the World, has a private swimming pool and sea views.

 HYDRA

If you have a little extra time, Hydra's charm has made it a popular spot for a short romantic break – it's just 2 hours by high-speed ferry from Athens, making it easy to combine with the capital or a mainland trip. Hydra Town is notoriously pretty, set around the main harbor like an amphitheater, with its resident braying donkeys, but there is not much to see on the island beyond Hydra town. It is interesting to note Hydra is famously a vehicle-free island, so you won't be disturbed by continual scooter horns or late-night traffic here; a perfect place to pause, relax, and enjoy the local flavors and sights in a peaceful setting.

This brief highlight of a few gems within Greece will help inspire your next adventure; we would be honored to plan that adventure for you, so all you have to do is pack and be present to create memories that will last a lifetime!