Greece: Small islands in the sun

ASK a client to name a Greek island and they are bound to mention Rhodes, Crete, Kos or even Corfu. But while these islands are large and well-known, there are more than 100 others for holidaymakers to choose from.

Some of the smallest islands can be found in the Cyclades, where several now rival old favourites for popularity.

Selling points: Mykonos is the glitziest of the Greek islands and is home to Louis Hotels’ four-star boutique hotel, Theoxenia. High spenders won’t be disappointed by the accommodation or the beaches.

Fly to: Mykonos town via Athens.

Best for: couples and high spenders.

Sample product: Argo Holidays offers three nights at the five-star Louis Theoxina from £415 per person twin-share including flights and breakfast in May.



Selling points: a typical Greek island with white-washed houses clinging to volcanic cliff tops over a glistening blue sea. The island attracts more discerning clients as it competes on the hotel front for style.

Fly to: Fira from London or Manchester.

Best for: couples and high spenders.

Sample product: Manos Holidays has seven nights from £385 per person, twin-share including flights, transfers and breakfast in May at the three-start Veggera Hotel.



Selling points: the largest of the Cyclades, Naxos was one of the first islands to use marble; a huge marble gateway dominates the harbour. Its landscape is rich with citrus orchards and olive groves and the beaches south of Naxos Town are popular with sailers. Inland are traditional villages and a wealth of historic sites.

Fly to: Naxos Town via Athens.

Best for: families and couples with an interest in history and culture.

Sample product: Kosmar Holidays offers seven nights from £249 per person twin-share in a self-catering studio, including flights and transfers in May.



Selling points: the main activity of the island centres on the harbour, where fishermen deliver their catch to restaurants. The island has more than 800 chapels and some good beaches, ideal for a peaceful getaway. Tourism has yet to take off, so sell on its authenticity.

Fly to:Athens and transfer by boat to Mykonos or Naxos and on to Tinos town.

Best for:those after peace in an area unmarred by tourism.

Sample product: Argo Holidays offers three nights at the Tinos Beach Hotel from £385 per person twin-share including flights, in May.



Selling points: the flat terrain of Paros makes it ideal for families. Naousa, seven miles northeast of the capital Paroikia, is a cosmopolitan destination, with designer shops and relaxed bars. The beaches are ideal for families and surfers with miles of golden sand.

Fly to: Parokia via Athens.

Best for: families and water sports fans.

Sample product: Sunvil offers seven nights at the Yria Hotel from £781 per person twin-share, including flights, transfers, five-star accommodation and breakfast in May.