Have your Mamma Mia summer in Greece by the turquoise Aegean Sea. The birthplace of Aphrodite, it’s no wonder this place is overflowing with beauty. You won’t be able to help but sing out ABBA’s famous tunes as you dance through the gorgeous white-washed streets and dive into the silky sea.
Santorini
Santorini is famous for its postcard-perfect sunsets. So if there’s one thing you must do here, it’s watch the setting sun cast its glowing light in shades of pink, orange and yellow over the cascade of whitewashed buildings, windmills and colourful blue dome churches. The Castle of Oia is an incredible vantage point to watch the show. But just a few streets back, the Three Blue Domes offers a view that captures even more of the scene with lesser crowds. My advice is to scout out a spot early. Pop into a local market for some Greek wine and snacks (think tzatziki, crackers, dolmades and grapes)! You’ll be set for sunset.
Paros
One of my favourite islands in Greece was oh-so-pretty Paros. I loved wandering the cobblestone streets of Naoussa which weave through the charming town up to the colourful harbour. The sweetest local boutiques, restaurants and markets can be found here – not to mention cats on every corner!
If you’re after a quintessential Greek dining experience, book into Barbarossa for a dinner by the sea that will end in napkin twirling and dancing! Or for a trendy, healthy food spot, check out Almond which gives major Bali vibes. Finish off with a drink at the popular pink Linardo bar right by the water. This is also the place to boogie later.
Milos
Island hop to Milos and you might just find yourself on the moon. Sarankinko Beach is out-of-this-world magic with its milky-white rock and crater-like formations. Dare to jump off the top of the white rock into the ocean depths below or simply find a sunlit spot to relax, read and swim.
Zoom over to Tisgardo beach by ATV (arguably the best and most fun way to get around the island). It’s a steep climb down a ladder but worth it for the clearest blue sea you’ll ever see. You can even swim out a short distance around to the left to some incredible rocky caves; what a mermaid moment!
There are some divine dining spots in Milos. If you’re after a seafood spot with a view that the locals love, head to Mikros Apoplous. Or simply allow yourself to wander along the harbour and choose a restaurant that calls to you; you’ll be spoiled for choice! But don’t leave Greece without trying as many local specialties as you can – think yiros, gyros, Greek salad and baklava
Ios
Typically an island that people go to party, we visited just outside of peak season and were pleasantly surprised to stumble upon a quiet island with serene views and almost empty beaches. Just near the ferry port is the sweetest white cathedral straight from a Mamma Mia wedding. For a secret beach spot, walk over to Tzamaria Beach. It has the clearest water that laps at the shore, with a beautiful blue door tucked away on the shore (the perfect photo spot)! You might be lucky enough to have it all to yourself like we did. Cue “Lay all your love on me…”
Finish your days with a dining spot along the harbour. There is a great variety of local Mediterranean restaurants to choose from with cute tables set up by the sea and fairy lights twinkling overhead.
You’re Mamma Mia summer isn’t over yet, Croatia calls! Blog coming soon, here we go again… x