June: A Prelude to the Most Beloved and Anticipated Season of the Year

For those dreaming of an eternal summer, June appears as a rehearsal for the most beloved and anticipated period of the year, that of vacations. Bathed in light, carefree, and optimistic, free from the promise of the approaching summer, it declares that the season everyone awaits is already here. It demands, without excuses or hesitation, travel and excursions at every opportunity.

To persuade even the most hesitant, it offers the best reasons: temperatures that are already soaring, delightfully long days, schools closing, exams ending, and the long weekend of Pentecost (June 22-24), all enticing for both nearby and distant getaways.

For the rest, those who don’t need reasons, have already responded to June’s call, enjoying the endless array of enchanting destinations in our country, overflowing with summer light, colors, flavors, and unique experiences.

Lakkopetra: What to do in one of the most beautiful places in the Peloponnese

With a dynamic presence on the tourist map of the Greek summer, Western Greece stands out as one of the most experience-rich regions of our country. Kato Achaia, with its significant historical role as a member of the Achaean League, is one of the most beautiful parts of the area extending west of Patras, just 20 kilometers from the large urban center, with Lakopetra being the most ideal spot. Its enchanting beach with thick sand, clear, calm waters, and full organization for relaxation and water sports, along with the pristine shores that surround it, picturesque seaside settlements, and the exciting variety of the natural environment nearby, justify Kato Achaia’s rise as a destination for everyone.

Why Visit?

The major advantage of its proximity to Athens and the low cost of travel compared to an island or other distant mainland destinations make Kato Achaia a favorable choice for our first summer getaways. For those planning to dedicate their vacation to the islands and for those still searching for a holiday destination, the weekends of the already hot June and the long weekend of Pentecost offer the opportunity to discover an area with endless options for our first dips of the season.

Things to Do

Although the successive spectacular beaches of the area will tempt you to stay put and not get back into your car except for the return journey, it is worth exploring more than one. Search for the one that impresses you the most among:

• Kato Alissos with its turquoise waters,
• Kalamaki with its easy access,
• Niforeika with its fine pebbles,
• The sandy and family-friendly Lakopetra, and even further west,
• Gianniskari with the striking contrast of golden sand and the dense forest that surrounds it,
• The seemingly endless, exotic Kalogria with its impressive dunes.

Each offers unique charms and is worth the exploration to find your favorite spot.

In Kalogria, you will also find the famous Strofilia pine forest, renowned for its rarity across Europe. This forest stretches along the beach and spans over a kilometer in width. Nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike will be thrilled by the setting created by the unique umbrella-shaped pine trees of this beautiful forest. Surrounding it are 8 hiking trails and 3 cycling routes. This is an excellent opportunity to discover a habitat of great ecological value, as the Strofilia forest, together with the Papa or Kalogera and Prokopou lagoons, is part of the Kotychi-Strofilia Wetlands National Park, a protected area under the Natura 2000 network.

Where to Stay

You’ll pass through a field of watermelons and zucchinis, cross the lush plain, and find yourself at an idyllic resort that seems like a natural gateway amidst the fertile lands you left behind, facing the Blue Flag-awarded beach of Lakkopetra.

What better way to start the carefree season than at an all-inclusive beach resort, where everything has been prepared for you and your family in advance? Spread across 80 acres, welcoming, spacious, and relaxed as a beachfront accommodation should be, yet meticulously maintained with high-quality services as guaranteed by Grecotel, Casa Marron emphasizes unwinding, relaxation, and savoring those small yet significant moments.

Whether sharing them with family or friends, you’ll enjoy the three pools – out of the total six at the resort – capturing photos of your children having fun on the spectacular water slides, and indulging in personal care at the rejuvenating Casa Marron Wellness Center with its pool, massage cabins, sauna, fully equipped gym, and effective, targeted beauty treatments.

Entertainment is certainly not lacking at Casa Marron; on the contrary, activities suitable for every age combine with relaxation and seem to last all day long. It all starts with the beach and the equipment available for water sports, ranging from kayaks and surfing to motorized water games and a beach volleyball court. Children are particularly favored with two dedicated pools, water slides, and a complimentary entry to the vibrant and highly entertaining Olympia Aqua Park at the nearby Riviera Olympia, a privilege available for stays of at least 4 nights.

The more active guests, can begin their day with morning exercise at the fully equipped gym and continue with tennis courts, and 5×5 football, basketball, or ping pong tables.

Sunset brings even more surprises, with evenings at Casa Marron unfolding just as summer demands: lively and in high spirits. This is guaranteed by themed shows suitable for the whole family, disco parties, and live events featuring professional musicians.

Rethymno: Unveiling Crete’s Hidden Gem

On an island that offers visitors everything, Rethymno emerges as an unexpected treasure. It seamlessly blends unique culture, centuries-old history, picturesque port towns, authentic villages, unparalleled gastronomy, significant archaeological sites, stunning natural landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and, above all, an undeniable soul. Amidst its renowned neighbors Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno not only keeps pace but maintains a distinct and captivating identity. Wrapped in an air of romance that permeates everywhere—from the Venetian harbor with its stone lighthouse and meticulously designed architecture of Rethymno’s cityscape to the ancient olive groves, fortresses, castle towns, historic monasteries, and lively villages alive with spontaneous festivities.

Whether lounging on sun-kissed golden sands or marveling at Psiloritis Mountain during sunset with a glass of wine, Rethymno promises a tranquil retreat.

Why Visit?

During the comfortably warm days and pleasantly long evenings, Rethymno invites leisurely swims along its cosmopolitan northern coastline, while the secluded bays of the south offer a sense of discovering your private paradise. In the early evening, stroll through the charming labyrinth of alleys in the old town of Rethymno, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds of mass tourism arrive, seeking authentic experiences and traces of its Venetian past.

Additionally, cultural enthusiasts can indulge in a plethora of events starting in June, including exhibitions on photography and hagiography, as well as short film festivals.

What to Do

Exploring Rethymno’s old town alone is an adventure: wander among well-preserved Venetian influences on pastel-colored facades, vibrant bougainvillea framing intricate doorways, scattered historical monuments narrating centuries-old stories, and tantalizing aromas of Cretan cuisine beckoning at every corner. Spend the morning hours exploring the compact and easily navigable center as it awakens, with local merchants opening colorful shops and workshops.

Delve into authentic city views, follow locals to the over two-century-old traditional wood-fired oven of Alexandrakis to savor their breakfast specialty—freshly baked tsourekaki with mizithra cheese—and stock up on crunchy nuts and fragrant pastries for beach excursions. Experience a unique culinary tradition by witnessing the delicate handcrafting of golden baklava and kadaifi at Giorgos Chatziparaschos’ workshop, a family-operated establishment since 1958.

For diving enthusiasts, Rethymno offers endless options—from its town beach to Skaleta—spanning a 12-kilometer coastline that caters to all tastes, whether rocky coves, fully equipped beaches, or water sports.

However, unforgettable experiences await at the successive beaches surrounding Damnoni in the dramatically changing landscape of the southern prefecture. Particularly enchanting are Agios Pavlos with its sandy dunes and the exotic allure of Preveli, featuring a remarkable wetland created by the majestic Kourtaliotiko Gorge—a habitat for water turtles and a stunning palm forest fringing the beach.

Returning to the old town, sunset becomes a journey through Rethymno’s Venetian past. Admire some of Crete’s most beautiful historical mansions, loggias, fountains, and the iconic Venetian harbor, all conspiring to transport you back to the 16th-17th century as you wander from the Great Gate through picturesque alleyways adorned with Venetian influences and minarets, culminating with a visit to the Rimondi Venetian Fountain.

Where to Stay

With Cretan hospitality as their hallmark, Grecotel Hotels elevates the stay in Rethymnon to an experience as enriching as the rest of your journey. Positioned perfectly on golden sandy beaches and featuring inspired architecture that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, each of the four distinct accommodations offers luxurious amenities and top-notch services, creating a tranquil oasis in this Cretan paradise.

At the timeless favorite, the classic Creta Palace resort, views of the enchanting Cretan Sea and the lush gardens surrounding the bungalows and central buildings transport you just 4 kilometers away from Rethymno’s old town. A 300-meter beach, two swimming pools (plus 10 private pools for villa guests), a fully equipped gym, and the comprehensive Elixir Beauty Spa ensure there’s plenty to do. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s pool and water slides, while a traditional village square, church, cafe, and quaint shops add charm.

Parents seeking carefree moments can choose Plaza Beach House, where sandy beaches, numerous sports, and three pools cater to family fun. Children delight in the Grecoland children’s corner and activities at The Play House, supervised by certified staff and offering eco-friendly games. Accommodation options include spacious studios, one or two-bedroom apartments, and lofts with fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and private terraces showcasing stunning sunsets. The complimentary half-board package features diverse dining options, including an ice cream kiosk and traditional patisserie.

LUXME White Palace epitomizes sophistication and relaxation, set against a backdrop of a kilometer-long award-winning beach. Its immaculate white architecture harmonizes with natural wood tones, offering luxury resort services such as poolside sunbeds, roller-skate-served cocktails and gourmet meals, pool parties, and exclusive sunset dinners on a wooden pier. Yoga, pilates, cooking classes, wine tastings, and rejuvenating treatments at the Hippie Spa elevate the experience to a personal zen retreat.

Caramel is an intimate, avant-garde paradise named after its sugar beach home, known for Caretta Caretta sea turtles and a 700 m² seawater pool with hydro massage and leaf-shaped sunbeds. Its eclectic style, blending bright colors with Mediterranean motifs, extends from main building suites to bungalows and villas accommodating up to nine people. Handmade tiles, designer fabrics, and authentic antique furniture underscore its playful and private atmosphere.

Each hotel offers elegant dining venues celebrating Cretan flavors, Greek gastronomy, and international favorites. Choosing among them may seem daunting, but as the saying goes, “Rethymno is not the city you leave but the city you return to.”

(Up to 10% discount for bookings through the Grecotel app)

Kos: Exploring Greece’s Largest Open-Air Museum

Kos invites you on an unexpected journey through time. With 4,000 years of recorded history, scattered archaeological sites across its expansive landscape, and well-preserved medieval monuments highlighting its unique architectural identity, Kos stands out as a museum unlike any other. Despite significant tourist development, the island maintains a rich diversity.

It’s the azure blue that catches the eye everywhere, with beaches ranging from secluded and emerging to popular and tropical. The modern city boasts continually upgraded infrastructure, alongside an intriguing blend of tourist resorts, coastal villages, and charming towns. Evolving gastronomy and a romantic ambiance, whether it’s sunset vistas over vast sandy beaches or twilight strolls along the cosmopolitan marina, complete the island’s uniquely captivating profile, steeped in the legacy of Hippocrates.

Why Visit

While tourist resorts like Marmari, Psalidi, Mastichari, Tigaki, and Kardamena draw crowds in peak summer, June offers an ideal time to experience the island at a more relaxed pace and visit bustling archaeological sites in milder temperatures.

At the end of the month, traditional festivals begin, showcasing Kos’s vibrant culture with dancing and feasting. The festivities kick off with Agios Ioannis Klidonas on June 23 in Pyli, a village nestled amidst olive trees and springs offering refreshing escapes.

A few days later, Antimachia, renowned for its music and dance traditions, celebrates the Holy Spirit and the Holy Apostles (June 30).

What to Do

As the third-largest island in the Dodecanese, Kos offers a wealth of experiences and activities worth exploring. If time is limited, focus on your preferred highlights: historic sites steeped in centuries-old cultural heritage, developed resorts, traditional inland villages, expansive beaches, or exploring the island by sea.

In Kos Town, embark on a tour of the charming capital and main port, a mosaic of medieval monuments, Muslim mosques, restored ancient buildings, island-style houses, parks, bustling squares brimming with restaurants and cafes, and wide pedestrianized streets like Phoinikon Avenue and cycling paths.

Begin your journey at the medieval Neratzia Castle and its surrounding imposing walls from the Knights of St. John era, casting a magical charm over summer nights when illuminated. Discover remnants of the medieval era scattered across the town, from parts of the walls to the residence of Ioannite commander Francesco Sans and medieval churches.

The port and squares buzz with life; enjoy a delightful stroll among docked boats and waterfront eateries. Liberty Square hosts key landmarks such as the Municipal Agora, the Club, the Archaeological Museum housed in a building reminiscent of Roman baths, and the Defterdar Mosque.

Loggia Square boasts its mosque and the revered Hippocratic plane tree, a cherished local monument believed to have been planted by the father of medicine himself. Seek respite in its shade, sip from the fountain at its base, and delve into history at the significant archaeological sites like the Agora, a commercial and social hub in the 4th century BC, and the Roman Conservatory with its splendid Casa Romana adorned with magnificent floor mosaics.

Venture beyond the city to visit Asclepius, dedicated to the god of medicine, a monumental complex dating back to the 4th century BC, renowned for the school established by Hippocrates, pioneering scientific medicine.

Where to Stay

A resort as unique as Kos itself, the renovated LUXME Kos Imperial resembles an exotic paradise spread over 100 acres in the northeast of the island, between Agios Fokas and Psalidi. The maritime breeze accompanying views of sailboats and fishing boats traversing the Eastern Aegean reaches the enchanting gardens with towering palm trees, manicured lawns, and fragrant flowers, while the focal point of the resort is the impressive Lagoon-style pool. A true exotic oasis.

This is a luxury accommodation experience meticulously crafted in every detail, pleasantly surprising and enhancing vacations, no matter how brief, into a sensory delight: from tailor-made activities that make the most of your time to the What’s Up and Grecotel Mobile App applications placing the courteous and hospitable staff of LUXME Kos Imperial at your immediate disposal, to the white linen tablecloths in dining areas and the pillow menu in comfortable rooms, bungalows, suites, and villas – some with private pools.

Hours on the pebble beach unfold between relaxation and watersports under the supervision of specialized personnel, while resort activities include unique, personalized experiences such as breakfast served on a floating tray in your private pool, private yoga and meditation classes, a gourmet meal at sea, or a romantic dinner on the beach, a tour of the island with yacht, catamaran or sailboat and of course beauty treatments at Elixir Spa.

In the serene yet dazzling space of the latter, inspired by the mosaics of Casa Romana, you will feel that you are indeed in the birthplace of Hippocrates, as you indulge in rituals of ancient philosophy, relaxation aromatherapy treatments, the wellness sense offered by Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room, or the unmatched sense of rejuvenation of a massage.

LUXME Kos Imperial

And if you wonder what else you could ask for from such a comprehensive vacation package, the answer lies in the 9 excellent dining venues of LUXME Kos Imperial, confirming that for the top hotel group, gastronomy and tourism are two sides of the same coin. Beyond the experience of dining around the serene Lagoon pool with the rich offerings of the eponymous restaurant, the fine dining experience of the Mediterranean menu degustation at the refined Finicia, the culinary journey to the Far East with the exotic flavors of Asiana, the happy hour for a drink or the beloved classic Italian flavors of the 1930s and the irresistible sweet temptations from the Creperie and Gelateria that we can enjoy next to one of the six pools, this year the spectacular resort undertakes to initiate us into the haute cuisine of seafood with the arrival and tastes of the high-end Lobsteria Restaurant & Bar.

What could be more suitable for a complete journey to an island from every aspect, especially in one of the most spectacular in Greece?

grecotel.com/luxme-kosimperial
(5% discount on bookings through the Grecotel app)

Kea: The “Gateway to the Cyclades,” just a stone’s throw from Athens
Cosmopolitan yet bohemian, Kea beckons us to seize the opportunity of its proximity to Attica.

Known by different names—Hydrousa in ancient times, Tzia during Ottoman rule, and officially Kea—this island with its captivating contrasts invites us to ascend its three hills, where the picturesque Ioulida or Chora overlooks the vast Aegean blue, and explore its depths full of surprises. Wander its endless cobblestone paths, swim in beaches with crystal-clear waters, seek out the mythical Nymphs in the Cyclades’ largest oak forest, and refresh yourself at stone springs.

Stroll beneath the “roofs” of Alekos Fasianos, wander among steps and dry stones, savor vibrant paspala and lobster pasta blending the sea in scenic bays, while conversing with the locals in Mavroudi. Kea holds many unexpected experiences close to its heart, ready to be unveiled as soon as your ship docks in Korissia.

How to get there
The mere one-hour journey from Lavrio is reason enough to consider spending every weekend in June on a different Kea beach.

The long daylight hours, the option for Friday afternoon departures from Attica, and Sunday evening returns make this scenario even more viable, allowing for a variety of activities, which the island’s compact size accommodates perfectly. The Holy Spirit festival, traditionally held in Karthaia, offers an ideal opportunity to sample local delicacies and Tziotiko wine, and perhaps even test your skills in ballroom dancing.

What to do

Kea is a haven for nature activities, offering thrills to adventure enthusiasts. Sailors are drawn not only by its proximity to the capital but also by the challenge of navigating the strong winds and currents of Cavo D’Oro. The reward awaits upon arrival in picturesque Vourkari, where the Aigis Sunset Bar Resto (open daily 19:00-00:00) offers a creative cocktail with the most stunning view of the enchanting sunset from its privileged position.

For those fascinated by diving and the mysteries of the sea floor, Kea’s depths beckon, harboring no less than four shipwrecks. While you may not encounter the Greek fleet, which legend says sank here on its victorious return from Troy, wrecks such as the “Bretannicus” (sister ship of the Titanic, sunk in 1916), the French ocean liner “Burdigala,” the steamship “Patrice,” and a WWII German Junkers 52 airplane await exploration.

If you prefer to stay on solid ground, an excellent network of 36 kilometers of paths divided into 12 routes awaits, leading you through the ancient city-states of Ioulida, Karthaia, Korissia, and Poiiessa. Along the way, the island’s incredibly fertile landscapes unfold, offering views over verdant inland ravines and charming secluded coves with quaint churches and seaside settlements. Arriving in the capital, Ioulida, test your endurance on its uphill alleys, each turn revealing another splendid photo opportunity, and be impressed by its distinctive architecture deviating from the classic Cycladic style, with many houses sporting tiled roofs.

Walk beneath the small covered arcades called stegadia, crafted by the island’s honorary resident Alekos Fasianos, then relax and treat yourself to delicious Tyrakeion ice cream, made with milk from the owners’ family farm. Don’t forget to pack local cheeses like sour, kopanisti, xyrotiri, and ladotiri, along with the island’s thyme honey and capers—tasty souvenirs worth taking home. For those keen on exploration, Kea boasts caves of special geological interest, including Tripospilies in Kalamos and the cave of Agios Timotheus in Agios Panteleimon.

And then there are the beaches—each unique in its own style, all with crystal-clear waters. From the exotic blue-green hues of Gialiskari’s sandy shores shaded by tamarisk trees.

Where to Stay

Agrikea stands as a beacon of simplicity and natural beauty nestled in the heart of the island. This intimate complex, comprising a limited number of rooms, studios, and suites, offers privacy and a close connection with nature. Embracing bioclimatic design, ceiling fans, and traditional architecture, this adults-only retreat caters to a small group of guests (up to 13 people). Each room embodies local architectural charm, seamlessly blending into the natural landscape.

Agrikea welcomes pets, ensuring no one has to part with their four-legged companions during their vacation. Comfortable relaxation areas and personalized services cater to every guest’s needs, from in-room breakfasts featuring local products to an 11-meter swimming pool and soothing massages—an authentic Cycladic experience awaits at Agrikea.

Situated strategically, the accommodation provides easy access to the island’s most popular spots while preserving a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and breathtaking sunsets.

Moreover, the complex boasts its farm with native oak and almond trees, alongside olives, figs, pomegranates, almonds, pistachios, carbs, and a variety of vegetables. Domestic animals like guinea fowls and hens also add to the charm of this serene retreat.