An Island Odyssey

Shimmering Seas and Timeless Landscapes

The hum of ferries, salt on the breeze and the glow of whitewashed walls – island life in the Cyclades carries its own quiet rhythm through its valleys and temples, villages and golden beaches.

Wander the streets of Parikia on Paros, explore the ruins of Naxos, and uncover the café-lined harbour and marble squares at Ermoupoli the neoclassical heart of Syros. This is Greece at its most local, lived-in and endlessly inviting.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick into Santorini, where we board a ferry to Naxos (approx. 2 hours), the largest island of the Cyclades. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy your first evening soaking in the island’s relaxed charm.

Day 2: We start our visits exploring picturesque Naxos town, the capital of the island, with its Venetian castle, winding alleys and waterfront tavernas. Later we enjoy a scenic drive to the southeast of the island to discover more of what this lovely island offers.

Day 3: Today we explore the scenic interior of the island visiting first the impressive Kouros at Melanes before discovering traditional villages such as Apiranthos, the ‘jewel’ of Naxos with its Venetian influence and marble houses, and Halki, a beautiful traditional village with neoclassical architecture that was once the capital of the island.

Day 4: Take a morning ferry to Paros. Explore Parikia, the island’s charming capital, with its whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, and lively harbour. Check-in to our hotel in Paros.

Day 5: Today, explore Paros’ interior villages and take a short boat ride to Antiparos, known for its laid-back vibe and sea caves. Return to Paros for a relaxed evening.

Day 6: Travel to Ermoupoli, Syros, the elegant capital of the Cyclades. Spend the afternoon exploring Ermoupoli, with its neoclassical architecture and vibrant squares. Check-in to our hotel in Syros.

Day 7: Today we spend the morning exploring the interior villages of Syros including Posidonia (also known as Dellagratsia), an undisputed highlight on the west coast, dotted with aristocratic villas. San Michali in the Apano Meria region in the north famous for its stone houses and San Michali cheese, and picturesque Ano Syros, a medieval hilltop town overflowing with Cycladic architecture and Venetian charm.

Day 8: Take a short ferry ride to Mykonos (approx. 30 mins) and fly home from Mykonos to London to Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 18 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to time spent walking and standing for viewing. 

INCLUDED

• Flights from London Gatwick to Santorini, returning from Mykonos to London Gatwick
• Three nights’ accommodation at Nastasia Hotel, Naxos, two nights at Paros Bay Hotel, Paros and 2 nights at Hermes Hotel, Ermoupoli, four star hotels on bed and breakfast basis, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Two dinners
• Airport transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Tour manager Jane Freeman throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £350
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTELS

Nastasia Hotel, Naxos 
Nestled just a stone’s throw from Chora and Agios Georgios beach, Nastasia Village exudes serene Cycladic charm with its minimalist, white-washed architecture and lush private garden filled with lavender and thyme. The boutique retreat offers 18 elegant rooms and studios—some with kitchenettes and sea views—each providing modern comforts such as air-conditioning, Wi‑Fi, and high-quality mattresses. Mornings begin with a homemade Greek breakfast served in the flower-filled courtyard or on your terrace, while evenings might be spent sipping local wines beneath the stars. With attentive, welcoming staff and a peaceful yet central location, it’s an idyllic base for relaxed island exploration.

Hotel Website

Paros Bay Hotel, Paros
Nestled atop a gentle cliff just steps from Parasporos Beach, Paros Bay Hotel is a serene, Cycladic-chic retreat offering uninterrupted views of the Aegean. Its 63 tastefully furnished rooms, each opening onto a balcony with garden or sea views, blend traditional style with modern comfort. Guests can bask by the salt-water pool, indulge in spa treatments, and dine at the Mediterranean restaurant or poolside bar serving fresh, local flavours. With a soothing atmosphere, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to Parikia and Naoussa, it’s an ideal base for relaxed island exploration.

Hotel Website

Hermes Hotel, Ermoupoli
Set along the charming harbour of Ermoupoli, Hotel Hermes offers a gracious neoclassical welcome with sweeping Aegean or port views. Its 70 tastefully updated rooms—many opening onto private balconies—combine maritime elegance with modern comforts like air-conditioning, Wi‑Fi, and daily housekeeping. Guests begin the day with a generous buffet overlooking the yachts, then unwind in the garden with sunloungers and easy beach access. On-site dining serves Mediterranean fare in both indoor and outdoor settings, while a friendly, 24‑hour team ensures a seamless stay. With its superb location—just steps from the ferry terminal, town centre, shops, and the airport a short drive away—this elegant retreat strikes a lovely balance between classic charm and island exploration.

Hotel Website