5 secret Greek islands to visit

Did you know that Greece has more than 6,000 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas? I find it surprising that most tourists head blindly for Santorini or Mykonos. Yes, Santorini is spectacular, with its one-of-a-kind caldera, its whitewashed houses and its beautiful beaches. And yes, Mykonos has extraordinary nightlife. But I promise you there is so much more to see in the Cyclades.

With just a little effort, you can discover hundreds of Greek gems that are home to only a handful of residents and a few visitors. If you are looking for colourful fishing boats and vine-covered tavernas, well, on these islands you can have them (almost) all to yourself, and for next to nothing. Here is my personal pick of the five best secret, little-known islands in Greece. But shh, keep them to yourself!

• Have you thought about health insurance?

01Alonissos: a secret island in Greece

Although it is a large island compared with other Greek islands, Alonissos rarely sees many travellers. It is perfect for anyone who wants to leave their mobile phone, and their everyday worries, behind. Here you can truly immerse yourself in peace and quiet. This mountainous island is lush, covered in Aleppo pines, fruit trees and rows of vines, while its rocky coastline is dotted with pretty harbour villages. If you are into wildlife, you are definitely in the right place. You won't have to look far to spot dolphins leaping happily in the bay, monk seals lounging on the beaches and rare seabirds nesting along the cliffs.

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02Pano Koufonissi: a Greek island not as deserted as you might think

Pano Koufonissi is a small island, but it packs a punch with its large fleet of fishing boats that keep the tavernas stocked with the fresh catch of the day. Just like Santorini, it offers perfect views of whitewashed houses and a turquoise sea. Its dry, rocky coastline is punctuated by hidden bays and little beaches with shallow water. Whether you want an action-packed day of snorkelling, hiking and cycling, or simply want to relax on a stretch of sand with a good book, Pano Koufonissi has it all.

03Schinoussa

If you want to immerse yourself in the life of a Greek islander, you really must not miss Schinoussa. This little island, part of the Small Cyclades, lies just south of its more famous cousin Naxos. Once a refuge for smugglers and pirates, the little island now welcomes travellers in search of authenticity. Here you'll spend your nights in a guesthouse or in one of the island's luxury hotels, and your days sailing along its rocky coast, feasting on fresh seafood or stretching out on one of its many beaches without having to fight for a patch of sand or a sunbed at €50 an hour.

04Folegandros: Greece's clifftop island

Staying on Santorini but still want to discover a gem not too far away? Well, at the southern tip of the Cyclades lies Folegandros, rising dramatically above the sea. Unspoilt sandy beaches, secluded bays and fabulous coastal hiking trails await you there. If it's your first visit, you simply can't miss the clifftop village of Hora, whose typical whitewashed houses sit on a magnificent rocky spur overlooking the rest of the island. It is without a doubt a serious contender for the most picturesque places in Greece. And while you are there, don't miss the island's signature dish: a hearty slow-cooked lamb shank served with Greek pasta.

05Sikinos: a lost secret Greek island

Sikinos may be part of the popular Cyclades archipelago, but it is a world of its own. Isolated, quiet and completely off the tourist radar: if you are looking for near-total solitude, you will find it on Sikinos. Mind you, that doesn't mean there is nothing to do! You can visit the temple of Episkopi or spot Byzantine chapels and marble sculptures. The scattered villages offer rustic accommodation, and you can rest in the shade of the tavernas, enjoying large glasses of Greek wine while watching the sun go down.