A glance at the map shows that the scattered islands of the Cyclades group are indeed the heart of Greece itself. The white cubist architecture of islands such as Mykonos has come to signify the essence of Greece for the rest of the world, but on islands such as Crete the Venetian influence is evident in the pastel-washed houses of the harbour fronts.

Beneath it all, something far more ancient lies; something whose origins are lost in time but that is still visible in the mysterious Minoan palaces of Crete, and in the evocative ruins that cover every inch of Delos, lying off Mykonos. Perhaps the phrase ‘the cradle of civilisation’ is not so inappropriate here. Civilisation, however, has grown up and while the fascination with our origins remains, people want to be amused on holiday as well as educated. In Mykonos, certainly, there is no lack of heady entertainment in summer, while Crete, almost too big to be called an island, has something for everyone, whether it is to ponder on the past or take advantage of superb beaches and challenging terrain for sports of all kinds.

Our Mykonos Recommendations:
• A photographer’s dream location, especially at sunset when the white
buildings reflect the gorgeous hues of the evening light
• The neighbouring island of Delos was once one of Ancient Greece’s most
important centres. Today it is literally covered in remarkable ruins, amongst
which the ‘Terrace of the Lions’ stands out. The mosaic floors display
some of the finest examples of this type of work
• The churches and chapels of Mykonos are said to number 365. Amongst
them the Church of the Panagia Paraportiani stands out – 5 small
churches in one
• ‘Little Venice’ is wonderful – its colourful buildings with their first floor
balconies overhanging the sea now house some of the island’s best bars
and clubs
• For a small island, Mykonos has an amazing number of fantastic beaches,
of which Paradise Beach is probably the best known
• Shopping in Mykonos covers everything from locally made items to the
creations of cosmopolitan jewellers and dress designers
• Walking the coastal paths is an unexpected pleasure, especially in the
early morning before the revellers of the previous night have woken up.
• Mykonos is one of the liveliest places in the Mediterranean when it comes
to night-life – there is something new to do every night
• Once the effects of a night of clubbing have worn off, there is excellent
snorkeling and scuba diving to be experienced