> > by Ben and Joanna Hall
With more than 6,000 islands and islets scattered haphazardly across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the Greek Islands has become synonymous with great beaches, wonderful food, unique wines, friendly people, and a fascinating and rich history which is heavily influenced by its maritime surroundings. Around 230 of the islands are actually inhabited and combined they provide the most diverse landscapes of any island group with thousands of kilometres of beaches with black sand, white sand and pebbles, sheltered by stunning bays and coves, volcanic mountains, lush forests, deserts, and of course the deep blue of the Mediterranean.
Of all the Greek Islands, Santorini stands out for its natural beauty and the natural phenomenon is undoubtedly best seen from a cruise ship, and usually features in most itineraries in this region. The island was created out of a cataclysmic event 3,500 years ago when a volcanic eruption wiped out all human life on the island and in the cities of nearby Crete, and Santorini now rises dramatically out of a massive sunken caldera. The sheer scale of the towering volcanic cliffs is put well and truly in perspective from the ocean, as is the realisation that you’re actually floating above an active volcano. Perched along the rim of the caldera are whitewashed homes, churches, cafès, restaurants and hotels with arguably the most stunning views in the world. That’s not to say the other Greek Islands don’t have their own seductive appeal. The home of some of the great ancient civilisations, the Greek Islands are where history and mythology combine, and where you can also find quiet beaches with traditional tavernas set up in the sand. Most romantic Greek Island cruise: Windstar’s 7-day voyage from Istanbul to Athens on board the Wind Spirit departs on August 21, 2010. Prices start from AU$4,022 per person and includes port charges and taxes.
For more info, visit www.windstarcruises.com and for bookings go to www.traveltheworld.com.au or call 1300 766 566.