Set Your Sights on Symi

When you think of Greece you may imagine the most well known of the Greek Islands like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu. However, beyond these undoubtedly beautiful and popular islands are the hidden gems of Greece.

 

Symi is undoubtedly one of Greece's hidden gems. The small, quaint Island remains pure, taking you back in time and allowing you to soak in the unhurried, tranquil way of life.

 

Symi has no airport. The Island is accessible via ferry from Rhodes and the trip takes just 2 hours, 30 minutes. As your ferry approaches the harbour, you may feel that you are heading towards the most magnificent painting you have seen. The hundreds of white Italian-style mansions built up on the hills around the quayside is a sight that you will never forget.

 

Busy during the day with day trippers from Rhodes, Symi relaxes in the evening with a wide choice of charming cafes and traditional taverns nestling around the focal point of the island, "Yialos Harbour".

 

The charming local architecture, picturesque fishing villages and endless kilometres of sandy unspoiled beaches create the perfect ambience for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday with an unspoilt, traditional flavour.

 

However, Symi has much more to offer than relaxing settings. The island is brimming with character and areas of interest just waiting to be discovered.  The waters are crystal clear and there is an abundance of sea life providing fantastic opportunities for a great day snorkelling. The best places to visit would be Yialos, Pedio, Emborios, Marathounda and Nanou, as well as the nearby islets of Agina, Marina and Nimos.

 

Mountain climbing enthusiasts should head to St George's Disalona - well known worldwide for its unique quarried rock face.  Other areas of interest that you may wish to visit include the Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis (a working monastery originally built in the 6th century), the Nautical Museum, the Archaeological and Folk Museum, the Catacombs (the twelve caves) and the Roman Mosaics at Nimborio.

 

For those looking for peaceful, relaxing sceneries, unspoiled beaches, traditional villages untouched by time and ‘off the beaten track' hideaways; the Island of Symi would be a great choice.

 

Voyager Travel Direct offer "Olympic Holidays" to Symi from £239 per person. Call the Voyager Travel Direct Greek Island Specialists on 0114 250 4066 for a friendly quotation. 

 

(Information and Images provided courtesy of Olympic Holidays) 

written by: Maria Pilidou

Added: 24 May 2007 - 12:02