A stone’s throw from the coast of Asia Minor, in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, large and smaller islands offer an authentic holiday experience like no other. Enchanting, lush landscapes, beaches with crystal-clear waters, traditional villages and a rich history that comes alive at every turn. Despite their geographical location, modern connections by ferry or air make them particularly easily accessible destinations.

Mythology and Ancient Glory

At the crossroads of civilisations, Samos, the birthplace of Pythagoras and Hera, impresses with the Eupalinian Aqueduct – a masterpiece of ancient engineering – and the imposing Heraion (Temple of Hera), both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The volcanic island of Limnos offers an otherworldly landscape with Pachies Ammoudes and prehistoric Poliochni, while the Byzantine castle of Myrina is home to small free-roaming deer.

On enigmatic Samothrace, the Sanctuary of the Great Gods – where the famous Winged Victory (Nike) was discovered – is surrounded by the untamed nature of Mount Saos and its renowned vathres (natural freshwater pools). Thasos, known as the Emerald of the Aegean, captivates with its ancient agora, the theatre in Limenas, and the Giola natural pool, which is also known as Aphrodite's Tear.

History, Architecture, and Memory

Chios, the homeland of mastic gum, stands out for its “painted” houses in Pyrgi, the medieval atmosphere of Mesta, and aristocratic Kampos with its maganopigada (well water-drawing systems). Lesvos is a UNESCO Geopark in its entirety and offers a rare combination: the Petrified Forest, the elegance of Molyvos, and a long tradition in ouzo production. On Inousses, the island of shipowners, maritime pride is reflected in the mansions of shipping magnates and the rich Maritime  Museum.

The heroic destinations of Psara and Agios Efstratios are living places of historical memory. On Psara, Mavri Rachi and the house of Konstantinos Kanaris evoke the glorious past of the 1821 War of Independence. Ai Stratis (Agios Efstratios) is a destination for peace and reflection. It is home to the Museum of Democracy, the impressive and unique oak forest, and sea caves that serve as refuge for the Mediterranean seal.

Nature, Longevity, and Authenticity

Ikaria is world-renowned as the island of longevity, where the slow pace of life, thermal springs, and wild panigyria traditional festivals invite you to participate in a unique way of life. The Fourni island complex, once a pirate stronghold, remains an oasis of tranquillity, famous for its large fishing fleet and unsurpassed lobster pasta. From Samiopoula to Thymaina and Antipsara, the smaller islets of the North Aegean offer pristine seabeds and idyllic havens. Here, gastronomy takes centre stage with products such as thyme honey, fine cheeses, boureklikia pies, and renowned Samos wine.