Kea, Kythnos and Syros - The Secret Cyclades

You’ll pick up your hire car this morning, which will give you the freedom to explore this incredibleisland at your own pace. Kea has its own charm, a favourite spot among stylish Athenians, and one that’s managed to retain its distinct character. Explore its wilder side along dirt roads that lead to secluded beaches and clifftop monasteries, or simply soak up its pleasures sipping local beer in shady tavernas. We can also arrange for you to take a private boat trip around the island today, if you’d rather see the sights from the water. Whatever you decide to do, keep your eyes peeled for the little donkeys that call the island home.

This morning, you’ll meet your private guide at Mylopotamos for an electric bike tour around the bay of Agios Nikolaos. You’ll first head to the picturesque port of Korissia before arriving in Vourkari, the lively seaside village that’s a hotspot for boaters in the summer. After passing through Kokka, you’ll continue to Kea’s historic lighthouse where you can soak up that Cyclades sunset. Today is all about immersing yourself in the simplicity of the island as you visit small churches, take in glittering sea views and breathe in the scent of the maquis. On the way back, you can sample some of the island’s best local produce to round off the day.

Today, you’ll be transferred back to the port for your ferry crossing to Kythnos, which takes just under an hour. When you arrive, you’ll pick up your next hire car and settle in for three nights on the island’s west coast, just south of Episkopi beach. Your quietly luxurious hotel overlooks the cove, surrounded by rugged golden hills. All that’s left to do now is choose between heading straight down to the sand or spending a few hours by the infinity pool. This evening, enjoy both Greek and international cuisine at the excellent hotel restaurant.

Covered in vines, fig trees and almond trees, this beautiful island has escaped overdevelopment by keeping boatloads of tourists at bay. While access is easier than it used to be, Kythnos still lies off the beaten track, with a rugged authenticity that makes it so enticing. Today is yours to spend enjoying it, whether that means winding between bougainvillaea-lined alleyways in colourful villages or relaxing on incredible beaches like Kolona. You can also take a dip in the ancient hot springs ofLoutra, or visit the Mesolithic site of Maroulas, the only site from this period that’s accessible in the Cyclades.

Today you’ll wander ancient trails on a hike led by a private guide. It begins at the archaeological site of Vryokastro, northwest of Kythnos. Here, you can admire an aqueduct, an acropolis and some incredible temples. You’ll also see Kolona in the distance. After soaking up all that ancient history, you’ll travel through the countryside and its farms, breathing in the scents of thyme and clary sageas you head towards the sands of Apokrousi. Along the way, listen out for the buzz of bees, hard atwork producing garrigues honey (a local speciality) and look out for the impressive dry-stone walls. When you reach Apokrousi, the island’s largest beach, you’ll be ready to dive straight into the cooling water

Today you’ll head back to the ferry terminal for your crossing to Syros. We’ll pick you up on the other side so you can collect your hire car and head to your modern hotel in the port of Ermoupoli, where you’ll spend the next three nights. You’re right in the centre of things here, so once you’ve settled in, head out to discover the area and tuck into some local food in the bustling capital.

It’s your last two days in Greece, so once you’ve fuelled up with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to head out and explore this exciting island. Although full of neoclassical architecture, beautiful beaches and pastel-coloured villages, Syros is also home to a heady hinterland that reminds you you’re in the Cyclades.

The impressive town of Ermoupoli is split between two hills. To the north is Ano Syros, which was built in the 13th Century and whose summit is topped by the Catholic cathedral of Saint George. The Capuchin monastery, meanwhile, dates from the 17th century. To the south is Vrontado, where you’ll find the modern city; this part of town is Orthodox and home to the Orthodox Church of the Resurrection of Christ. We’re sure you’ll find plenty of things to do while you’re in Syros, whether swimming in the crystal-clear Aegean or shopping for local delicacies to take home to your loved ones. However, if you’d like a bit more guidance, we can arrange for you to explore Ermoupoli with a private guide.