Euro summer is in full swing and OB Travel’s favourite place to visit? The Cyclades.
But, comprising of 220 islands, big and small, it can be hard to narrow down the spot just right for you. Luckily our team are quite the experts on the area and have shortlisted the four islands you should book in 2024 – including the popular-for-a-reason, the one you might have never heard of before and the ones that sit happily in between.
Scroll now to discover Mykonos, Paros, Antiparos and Folegandros, plus the Villas and resorts to stay in each area. Then, consult with a member of our team who can work to curate the perfect Greek holiday for you.
Mykonos
Located in the heart of the Cyclades group, Mykonos maintains the hot spot Jackie Kennedy made it 60 years ago. Though known for the glamorous nightclubs and uber chic crowd, in 2024 you’ll find the island boasts a well-loved quieter side too. We say to think of it as Greece’s answer to Ibiza – yes, it can party, but it knows how to slow it down for a night or two as well. Plus, the sleep-all-day, party-all-night mindset of most visitors means a visit to the ancient ruins or Panagia Paraportiani can be achieved sans huge crowds.
Where to stay
Villa tamara
Located in the exclusive and tranquil pocket of Aleomandra, this lavish seven-bedroom property occupies a privileged perch shared by no other accommodation on the island. Suspended above a semi-private sandy beach, the dreamy hillside haven has been exquisitely renovated with a spectacular array of prestigious amenities and thoughtful touches to inspire an unforgettable barefoot-luxury stay for up to 14 guests.
Paros
Not only is Paros less touristy than its neighbours Santorini and Mykonos (at least for now), it’s also rich with beautiful beaches, landscapes and historical villages. Our team loves visiting the village of Lefkes – a quintessentially-historical inland village complete with the picturesque twisty white streets and blue-roofed houses the Greek islands are known for. We recommend making the most of before it becomes top of every travel magazines to-visit list.
Where to stay
Villa Eos
Discover the epitome of luxury living at Villa Eos, a stunning 5-bedroom villa nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Southern Paros. Boasting panoramic views overlooking the pristine beaches of Trypiti and Faraggas, this exquisite villa offers an unparalleled experience of tranquility and beauty.
Antiparos
If a trip to Paros is sounding up your street, it’s also worth taking the short ferry and discovering Antiparos too. Here, you’ll find a true authentically-Greek atmosphere with privacy you’ll be hard-pressed to find at any other European island in the summertime. Come for the promise of ultimate relaxation and stay for lazy lunches, warm waters and white sand beaches.
Where to stay
The rooster resort
The Rooster hotel is built within a 30-acre land of hills, ruins, rocks and sand dunes located above Livadia, a magical unspoilt beach. Complete with 16 superbly camouflaged private houses, the building structure creates a respectful feel towards the islands’ aesthetic and heritage. Count this a haven for those who aspire to personal growth through travel, art and culture and where happiness can be appreciated in small details and simple pleasures.
Folegandros
Almost untouched by tourists, Folegandros surprisingly sits right in the middle of the more-popular Paros and Santorini. But, don’t let its under-the-radar status fool you, those in-the-know are visiting Folegandros and experiencing clear-as-glass seas, traditional (very good) food and postcard views on every corner. Plus, its central location means it boasts the perfect base to island hop from.
Where to stay
Gundari
Gundari is a luxury hotel wrapped in 80 acres of spectacular, raw nature on the secluded island of Folegandros. Set high on rugged, soaring cliffs overlooking the azure depths of the Aegean Sea, this extraordinary oasis is designed to inspire and invigorate, with wellness, gastronomy and sustainability at its heart.