Secret Greece: 10 hidden surprises from Wanderlust readers

“Whilst traveling the Peloponnese we stumbled on the small historic town of Nafplio, just a short distance from Athens. The town has stunning port side streets and a hilltop fort looking over the Argolic Gulf. We made a short day trip to the nearby town of Palaia Epidavros, and just meters off the shore is a sunken Roman Villa which you are able to snorkel over. It truly was a great experience.”

“The village of Assos (in Kefalonia) with its Venetian castle is a beautiful and unspoilt part of Greece.”

“The Evros Delta National Park is a real haven for birds, particularly migratory birds such as egrets, herons, pelicans and flamingos.”

“The island of Thassos must be the most underrated island in Greece. It's one of the greenest, unspoiled and quietest islands in the country. The sight of the sun setting behind Mount Athos while everything on the horizon turns red is unforgettable. The food is delicious and the picturesque mountain stone villages take you back centuries to the era of the pirate raids.”

“The gardens at Monastery Paleokastritsa in Corfu are peaceful, fragrant and staggeringly beautiful.”

“Schinousa Island allows you to really get away from it all. If you’re after peace and quiet, give it a try.”

“We visited Kastelorizo for the day. What a picture perfect island it is. The harbour is surrounded by bars, small hotels and restaurants all in pastel colours. A castle overlooks the harbour and it can be accessed by a steep climb but it is well worth it for the views of both the harbour and Mandraki village. Boat trips can be arranged to a beautiful grotto (the blue cave) where the water is incredibly blue and you can swim. There are few cars on the island and it is very beautiful and peaceful.”

“Prasa Beach in Kimolos is a real hidden gem and is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited.”

“Kythera is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece where you can visit castles and hike up to fortresses left behind by the Venetians.”

“In the heart of the Cyclades lies the proud island of Syros. It is a dream if you seek something different and wonderful. Take a walk on the wild northwest side to reach a hidden gem of a beach. There are no roads, just rugged tracks which direct your path. First drive to Delphini, a small resort, and park somewhere near where the road stops by the beach. From there you will walk north along the beach until it ends and find the path which follows the coast. It rises and falls over spurs and inlets. To your left will be the dark sapphire sea and on the other side the wonderful rough rugged countryside. It is only about two kilometres until you descend to the short beach of Vavarousa. There is an old house in a state of disrepair, and some goats. Swim, take your picnic under a tree and don’t expect to see anyone else.”