There’s nowhere quite like the Mediterranean for a relaxing holiday. The appeal of languid days with nothing on the agenda but swimming in clear waters, sunbathing on sugar-soft sands, eating al fresco and venturing out for some sightseeing will never fade. But the Eastern Mediterranean offers ever-increasing allure, from familiar spots such as the Ionian Islands to undiscovered gems in Eastern Crete and on Turkey’s spectacular Turquoise Coast, where the vibrant town of Kalkan takes centre stage.
Come with us, if you will, on a voyage from coast to unspoilt coast, in pursuit of the elusive road less travelled. Leading the way is Simpson Travel, which has curated a selection of villas and boutique hotels that are the equal of the most idyllic destinations across the Med. That’s no mean feat – but by visiting every property, forging longstanding relationships with owners and ensuring the highest levels of service, this lofty aim is achieved.
The coastal odyssey begins in Sivota, a little-known part of the meandering west coast of Greece. Beyond this little fishing village lie unexplored beaches, islets and small fjords that are best explored by boat. For a stylish, intimate base from which to experience it all, check into one of the eight one-bedroom suites at the White Orchid Hotel. Or try Villa Anthilia, a rare two-bedroom find with its own private pool-terrace that looks out across the glistening sea to one of the most magical Ionian islands: Corfu.
Here, tales of gods and goddesses abound in the fertile valleys and the coastline is dotted with picturesque coves. Though it has long drawn travellers,it still has plenty to discover, from chic hillside hideaways to cool kid-friendly hangouts by the beach. The House @ Bella Mare offers all the allure of a large villa by the sea, with the added bonus of access to the facilities of the Bella Mare Hotel, exclusive to Simpson Travel. Another option is The Rou Estate, a restored hamlet of otherworldly beauty with 14 elegant houses to rent.
Journeying south from Corfu we reach Paxos. It may be one of the tiniest Ionian islands, but it packs a punch with the electric-blue sea and three pretty waterfront villages. Take it all in from Villa Heleni, a three-bedroom villa with plenty of space for dining outdoors, or Purple Apricot, one of the few hotels on the island, which features just seven eclectically designed suites.
Next on the road less travelled is Lefkada, with its car-free, bohemian main town and two beaches that are frontrunners for the most beautiful in Greece: Mylos and Egremni. It’s also the home of Callista, one of Simpson Travel’s most exclusive villas, with its far-reaching views over the Ionian Sea through soaring floor-to-ceiling windows. A short hop away from Lefkada is the tiny island of Meganissi, where there are just a handful of luxurious stays, including Villa Mimi, a Simpson exclusive that sleeps eight and looks out to the islands of Kalamos and Kastos.
Meandering south on the Aegean side of mainland Greece, Crete encapsulates all the hallmarks of the perfect island getaway. The east side, where fewer tourists tend to venture, is perfect for those seeking an offbeat holiday with a flavour of traditional Greece – although, like the rest of the island, it’s home to places with astonishing sea views, including Melitina. For hotel stays, head west to adults-only Arosmari Village Hotel, located in the foothills of the White Mountains and offering an array of walking, meditation and mindfulness programmes.
The journey across the Mediterranean continues east to Turkey, where the quieter spots of Lycia await in the country’s south. This striking region sets itself apart with unspoilt and seldom-visited ruins, many without so much as a signpost or ticket kiosk. At the heart of the region is Kalkan, a former fishing village on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, which has developed into a characterful resort of genuine charm. Families with teens flock to the pedestrianised Old Town, located within walking distance of many of Simpson Travel’s larger villas.
One of these is Villa Zaffre, which sits above Kalamar Bay in a dramatically elevated position; with four en-suite rooms and its own rooftop bar, it feels like a mini hotel. Another standout destination is The Korsan Kuzey, a five-bedroom villa with the major advantage of its own beach platform and jetty, as well as direct access to a private waterfront that stretches for 50 metres along the scenic bay.
These are just some of the extraordinary places to stay along Simpson Travel’s Eastern Mediterranean route. Taking the notion of the road less travelled one step further, Simpson always goes the extra mile to deliver exceptional service – its Trustpilot scores and reviews speak for themselves – so your trip to an undiscovered spot will be delivered in memorable style.
Book your holiday with Simpson Travel here