Discover The Secret Treasures of the Ionian Before Others Do! 

There are quite a few islands in the Ionian Sea with numerous coves, lush greenery, and undiscovered beaches that have remained hidden from the reach of tourists. These attract discerning travelers making them hidden gems for total relaxation. The tiny islands between the mainland and Lefkada island promise you a pristine, incredible escapade from the touristy locations in Greece and tons of authentic Ionian experiences.

The complex consists of Meganisi, the island with the highest population in the area, Skorpios, which is the private island of Aristotle Onassis, Madouri, which is the place of origin of the poet Aristotle Valaoritis, Sparta, Heloni, Kastos,  Kalamos, Sporpidi and others. Boasting unexplored beaches, natural beauty, and a serene environment, this Ionian Sea complex is truly worth visiting.

Meganisi 

One of the most picturesque Ionian Sea islands, Meganisi, lies close to the southeast coast of Lefkada. Known for its unparalleled beauty of nature, quaint villages, and green hills, Meganisi is popular for its small beaches that contribute to the water transparency, its hidden coves ideal for sea lovers, as well as its laid-back lifestyle. This little gem must be on your list while island hopping in Greece. During the Bronze Age, this island had become the base of pirates of Tafia who dominated the maritime area. During the Greco-Italian War (1940-1941), the Papanikolis submarine turned the sea cave into its secret base.       

This isolated Greek island has always been adored by some of the most powerful people who want to spend some quiet time away from the crowd. Every summer, this island sees some of the most affluent and powerful tourists arrive on their ultra-luxurious boats. The most developed of the Ionian Sea Island complex spanning 22.4 square kilometers, Meganisi was first called Tafos by the son of Hippothois and the daughter of Lefkadio Lelega and Poseidon. It is characterized by its three scenic villages known for the unique beauties and authentic Ionian experiences they can offer. Spartochori, Katomeri, and Vathi contain the main settlements and are found on the northern part of the island, which is the most fertile and favored.     

The best sights and the main attractions of Meganisi are the emerald bays with calm waters, picturesque harbors, and its relaxing atmosphere. The majority of the beaches are filled with pebbles, whereas occasionally you will find some sandy ones and only a few are organized with sunbeds and parasols or beach bars. The sea is crystal clear around the island and mainly shallow areas, ideal for children. Some of the best beaches on the island are Fanari, Limonari, Agios Ioannis, and Ammoglossa. The island also has some great hiking trails for nature lovers.   

Archaeologists have found several artworks, sculptures, and coins from the Neolithic era in the region. It was first mentioned in the great epic Odyssey by Homer. The island had many conquerors over the centuries, with Meganisi coming under the rule of the Romans, Venetians, Turkish, French, and British rule until it became a part of Greece in 1864. 

The Papanikolis Cave is the most famous sight of Meganisi. One of the most interesting stories associated with the island is related to a Greek submarine called Papanikolis. The codename for the submarine was Y-2, and it was built between 1925 and 1927. It was one of the most successful naval units in the Hellenic Navy during the Second World War. It sunk several energy ships during her patrols on the Aegean and the Ionian Sea. During one of its expeditions, the submarine discovered a large cave on the southern side of Meganisi, which became its hiding spot so that the enemies couldn’t discover it. This is the reason why the cave got its name after a submarine and is still called by the same name today. 

Papanikolis cave is a popular destination for visitors and a lot of excursion boats arrive here during the summer months from Nidri. It is not just the largest sea cave in Greece but is the largest in the entire Europe. 

While on Meganisi, you may choose to stay at the luxury villa Erini, a wonderful, spacious villa with character, blending traditional ambience with modern amenities. Outdoors it features a private pool, a small chapel and stunning unobstructed sea views as it overlooks the famous Scorpios Island. You may walk to two beaches with the closest one only a short walk through greenery and the second one just a 5-minute walk away. 

Kastos: The secret island sanctuary in the Ionian Sea

With secluded coves, the Kastos is a popular sailing destination in the Ionian Sea Islands. It will remind you of the quieter and more carefree holidays of the 80s. Here everything is done on foot or by boat. It is an ideal destination for people who want to go snorkeling, fishing, diving, or sailing owing to its clean and clear waters. Known as the last refuge of the Ionian Islands, Kastos is popular for its simple lifestyle and serene beaches. This isolated Greek island attracts some of the most powerful people in the world. Every summer, well-known, affluent tourists arrive here with their ultra-luxury boats.   

 Its unspoiled beauty and diminutive size make it an ideal destination for anybody looking for a less-touristy, serene destination in Greece where they can enjoy authentic Ionian experiences.

When at Kastos, you will come across the trademark windmill to the left of the port, which is now also one of the three cafes on the island. Do not expect luxuries, many settlements, and organized beaches, as the entire island exudes a simple and relaxed vibe. The beaches are accessible from land on the eastern side of the island, whereas the ones on the west side are only accessible by boat. You should take care of your accommodation early before visiting the island as there are not many options available here. Boats that go to the island from Mytikas on the mainland do not carry cars, so ensure you travel light.   

After spending a great time at the beaches, you can head to one of the three taverns to enjoy a relaxing meal and a drink. The walks on the island are mainly sightseeing nature. Take the small streets between the olive groves up to the upper village that consists of old stone houses and an old mill that has become a popular abandoned attraction. The simplicity and the tranquility of this landscape are simply unparalleled.    

Kalamos 

Kalamos has kept the traditions and values of the Greek culture alive. Enjoy crystal clear waters and the warm sun on this lovely island. A part of the Ionian islands, Kalamos spans over 20 square kilometers and mountains. A small passenger boat leaves a few times for Mytika daily during the summer season to get all the necessary supplies for the tourists and the locals on the island. The villages on the island are quiet, untouched, and an example of the perfect Greek landscape.   

Kalamos is an ideal destination if you are looking to explore the traditional Greek atmosphere. The coast is covered with numerous coves and small beaches, mostly with pebbles. The crystal-clear waters can be accessed only from the sea in most cases. Near the port, you will come across the beach of Myrtia, while in the southern part, you will come across the beach of Agriapidia. The island has a few taverns, a bakery, and a souvenir shop for tourists.  There aren’t many hotels here, and there are just a few renting options. Making advanced bookings would be helpful if Kalamos is a part of your Greek island hopping routes.  

Skorpios: Aristotle Onassis’s Private Island 

In the calm waters of the Ionian islands, the Greek Croesus Aristotle Onassis took refuge and turned the private island called Skorpios into his personal paradise, making it known to the entire world. This private island is now being converted into a luxury resort after the Greek government signed the permits. Once a mythical paradise, this island has now turned into a holiday playground for the world’s elite. Shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis purchased the island in 1963 with a modest sum of 3.5 million drachmas, equating to $14,000 today.  Located off the western coast of mainland Greece, Onassis imported 200 different types of trees to this once-barren island.  

Skorpios has hosted some high-profile parties, which include the famous Jackie Kennedy and Onassis wedding of 1968. The couple exchanged their vows in a small Greek ceremony in front of 40 guests before hosting their reception on their yacht. After Onassis’s death, the island was passed to his daughter Christina. Aristotle Onassis himself, his son Alexander and his daughter Christina have been buried on the island. His granddaughter Athina is the only surviving descendant who passed on the island to billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev for $153 million. He has ambitious plans to convert the island into a luxury resort, which is expected to be completed by 2024. The ambitious renovation plan includes villas, a 5-star hotel, a vineyard, a farm, a sports complex, a spa, an artificial lake, a helipad, an amphitheater, and a harbor to accommodate more yachts. This is the most expensive of all Greek Ionian islands to spend your summers.     

In summary 

The Ionian Sea is one of the finest destinations in the Mediterranean for its lush green islands, pristine waters, high culture, top cuisine, and genuine island lifestyle.
If you are looking for a quiet trip far away from the crowded Greek islands and authentic experiences, then there are a few offbeat islands in the Ionian Sea you can explore for a memorable holiday.