As a child, there was nothing better than a pick ‘n’ mix. Rows and rows of vibrant sweets that excited you quite literally like a kid in a candy store. The ability to choose whatever combination you wanted whether it was gummy, chewy, sour or chocolatey – the world was your oyster and there was nothing holding you back! Who said the pick ‘n’ mix excitement had to stop? Enter Olympic Holidays’ incredible selection of bespoke holidays, giving you free reign over your next adventure with a selection of idyllic Grecian islands that you can mix and match to create a heavenly getaway that’s exclusive to you and catered to your individual taste. Your flights, transfers and accommodation are included in one neat package, meaning that there are no hidden extras along the way – unless you include a glowing tan and unforgettable memories. One of our favourite bespoke adventures is Corfu & Paxos, two beautiful islands with their own unique personality that come together to create a holiday that promises to give you an experience that you’ll remember for years to come.
The adventure
Immerse yourself in a world of culture, cuisine and tradition on this week-long trip that begins with three nights in Corfu, perfect for a little bit of adventure if you so choose. Your private car transfer will then take you to catch the ferry to Paxos, where just a short two-and-a-half-journey will immerse you in a land of paradise full of white-sand beaches and enchanting nature. This exciting 7-night extravaganza is available from May to October, and prices for departures in summer 2021 and 2022 start from £499 per person from London Gatwick (other regional airports are available).
First stop, Corfu
Corfu is an island that needs no introduction. One of the most popular destinations in Greece, every visitor here is either falling in love with the island for the first time or continuing their love affair after several trips, discovering something new each time that strengthens their adoration. Corfu hangs from the heel of Italy on the west coast of Greece, offering a unique Mediterranean atmosphere that you can’t quite get anywhere else. The island is the largest of the Ionians and is said to have been blessed by Mother Nature herself – yep, it’s just that beautiful. Swim in crystal clear waters at the wide expanses of gorgeous beaches which are fringed by lush green mountains that are perfect for admiration or an adventurous hike in the cool early morning air. Paleokastritsa is unmissable, a popular bay with golden sands and quiet coves for secluded sunbathing and Ayiops Steanos is a wonderful place for a gentle swim, but there are also plenty of opportunities throughout the island for aquatic adventures. Don’t skip the waterparks if you’re travelling with children while avid divers will find plenty of scuba diving centres that cater for everyone from the beginner to the advanced. Dassia features multiple watersport centres which boast the likes of sailing, jet-skiing, parasailing and more, perfect for both the young and the young at heart. Oh, and don’t leave Corfu without tucking into traditional Corfiot cuisine. The combination of beaming sunshine and harbourside waters make the perfect environment for thriving produce and delicious fresh seafood that are prepared in a way that takes you on a culinary journey directly to the stars.
Experience perfect Paxos
Next up is Paxos, which being a lesser known island does perhaps need a little introduction but trust us, it’s one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. A tiny island approximately seven miles long by three miles wide with more than 30 beaches, Paxos is the perfect place to unwind and watch the world go by. Explore the enchanting coves along the east coast by boat, sailing along the clear blue sea and marvelling at the backdrop of majestic scenery that’s so beautiful it’ll have you scared to blink. The outstanding beauty continues in Gaois, the capital village and main harbour of the island, so named after St Gaois, a disciple of St. Paul. Wander around the variety of shops and pick up a variety of souvenirs – the selection of high-quality pottery and ceramics, leather goods, jewellery, wine and olive oil are particularly good buys. There are also plenty of tavernas and restaurants and the evenings in high season are engulfed in a lively atmosphere with locals and visitors alike filling the streets with excited chatter and warm laughter. Soak up a little culture in between sunbathing to visit Aghios Nikolaos with its old Venetian castle or get your heart rate pumping with a hiking tour to discover deserted villages, ancient olive groves and sensational scenery. However you choose to spend your time on your holiday to Paxos, one thing is for sure – your first visit here surely won’t be your last.
Where to stay
Where you stay on holiday makes or breaks the trip, right? That’s why Olympic Holidays has a selection of excellent accommodation options that will set your island-hopping adventure to Corfu and Paxos over the edge. One of our favourites in Corfu is Anemona Apartments, a simple yet stylish apartment complex where you can experience the laidback way of life. The property is located just 250 metres away from Megali Beach and a short stroll from plenty of local shops, bars and restaurants or you can simply relax by the pool which is framed by loungers, umbrellas and a bar which offers refreshments and beverages throughout the day. Guests are made to feel right at home with the apartment buildings which are spacious, comfortable, well-equipped and offer a balcony or a terrace.
One of the best places to explore beautiful Paxos in its entirety is Bastas Complex, a gorgeous aparthotel situated in the idyllic village of Lakka close to the picturesque harbour. This family-run property has comfort and hospitality at its heart, with all of the apartments boasting everything you need for a relaxing stay by the way of modern amenities. Oh, and there’s even a swimming pool for those lazy days when you just want to unwind under the sun and catch up on reading your favourite novel.
Our bespoke island-hopping holiday to Corfu and Paxos has all the ingredients for the getaway of a lifetime, exceeding the expectation of sun, sea and sand and delivering scenery, seclusion and style in the best way possible. This week-long extravaganza will have you shedding a tear as day seven gets closer – but dry your eyes because we’ve got even more bespoke adventures just waiting for you to experience!