GO SEA IT
The paradise-like Greek coastline that only locals visit with amazing sandy beaches – that’s still warm in October
Plus, three little-known Greek islands to visit
THERE'S a part of the Greek mainland that's home to sandy beaches and quaint villages, and it's not very well known among Brit holidaymakers.
According to data from Travel Local, Costa Rica, Greece and Vietnam are set to be the most popular travel destinations in 2024.
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The travel company analysed booking data to reveal the most popular destinations as well as the best month to visit them.
Greece was named the second-most popular destination to visit, with October listed as the best time to holiday in the country.
While most holidaymakers in Greece head to places like Mykonos, Santorini and Crete, there are plenty of other lesser-known destinations to visit including the Pelion Peninsula where locals have been known to holiday.
Located between Athens and Thessaloniki, the Pelion Peninsula pokes out into the Aegean Sea, and it is home to over 70 charming villages and lots of sandy beaches.
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Among the most beautiful villages are the likes of Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies and Tsagarada, which are made up of traditional Greek houses with stone roofs.
The villages on the Pelion Peninsula are shrouded in myths and legends, with the forested hills once claiming to be home to mythical creatures like centaurs.
There are other stories concerning the Pelion Peninsula too as the tiny town of Pagasae said to be where Jason and the Argonauts set sail in search of the golden fleece.
And if the allure of a good legend isn't enough to warrant a visit, then the area's stretch of coastline surely will be.
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There are several exotic beaches in the Pelion Peninsula including Mylopotamos Beach, which is located on the eastern side of the peninsula.
Mylopotamos Beach is a white pebble beach that's home to crystal-clear waters.
The beach is divided into two sections, with a snaking path leading from one part to the other.
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Other facilities near the beach include a beach bar as well as a few tavernas.
There are several other picturesque beaches in the Pelion Peninsula, including Fakistra Beach and Chorefto Beach.
The travel experts at Travel Local have described the Pelion Peninsula as a destination with dupe, and recommended swapping popular destinations like Skópelos for the Peninsula.
Huw from Travel Local said: "Pelion is a peaceful and calm Greek oasis, located near to the coast and surrounded by incredible mountainous landscapes – it's also still relatively undiscovered.
"October is the perfect time to visit Greece as it’s just out of peak season so there are very few crowds and it’s also much more affordable.
"The weather is still warm and ideal for exploring and appreciating authentic Greek life."
Ryanair and British Airways operate direct flights from the UK to Thessaloniki, with fares starting at £52 for a one-way ticket.
From Thessaloniki Airport, it's a 4-hour drive to the Pelion Peninsula.
There are other islands and destinations in Greece that holidaymakers should consider visiting, including Folegandros.
Folegandros
Located near Paros, Folegandros has been compared to the popular Greek island in recent years, with one added bonus - it has fewer crowds.
Greek travel agency wrote: “Relatively untouched by international tourists, Folegandros island still manages to keep its unspoiled charm.”
While the island doesn't have its own airport, it can be reached by ferry from Athens, Santorini or Piraeus.
The island is home to three villages, two beaches and accommodation starts from as little as £25.50 per night per person.
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Three little-known Greek islands to visit
There are plenty of Greek islands to visit, including several little-known spots that are free from the crowds.
- Located in the Dodecanese Sea, Symi is a fairytale-like island home to traditional Greek villages and harbour-front bars and cafes. Reaching the tiny island became a lot more accessible after Jet2 announced the launch of a new route from the UK.
- Despite being twice the size of Mykonos, Tinos is often overlooked by most holidaymakers. But holiday demand for the island is predicted to grow thanks local food and sandy beaches.
- Meanwhile, the island of Paros has a wave of chic new hotels opening. The island has its own airport - making it much easier to visit than some other smaller islands in Greece that can only be accessed by ferry.
If you don't want to go this far, then a beautiful UK seaside town has been compared to a Greek island.
And another seaside town in the UK is also home to dolphins, whales and puffins, as well as amazing castles.
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