It's time to rediscover the classics.
In this case, we're talking about those gorgeous European islands that you've already likely visited, maybe in your youth or maybe with your family.
Even with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures, these isles are often exhausted, particularly in the era of social media. But, its time to revisit these much-loved islands with a new perspective - there are still hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From the sun-drenched shores of the Greek Isles to the tip of Italy's boot in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Mykonos and Capri invite you to embark on a journey of exploration and rediscovery.
Uncover the charm of these beloved European islands and unveil the undiscovered treasures and activities that await the wanderlust.
Mykonos, Greece
Back in 2019, it seemed that Mykonos reached its peak when the island’s first million-pound-a-month holiday villa went on the market.
It has a reputation for being the Greek Islands’ glitziest party spot, spiritually linked with Ibiza and Tulum, with DJs playing till the break of dawn at Cavo Paradiso and helicopters landing at SantAnna, a beach club with its own private islands – not to mention spa and shisha lounge.
There’s also a quiet side to Mykonos, which can be found on the north-eastern coast at beaches such as golden Fokos and Panormos, and at the sleepy village of Ano Mera, where traditional tavernas serve oven-baked lamb.
To really slow down and switch off, though, book a yoga retreat such as the one by Helios Retreats, set in a hilltop villa with views all round, where exercise sessions are interspersed with quad bike adventures and hikes to the lighthouse.
Hidden Gem Stay: The Amyth of Mykonos Hotel, which opened this year on a hilltop at Agio Stefanos, is well positioned between the party scene of Mykonos town and secluded beaches.
Capri, Italy
Just across the Bay of Naples from Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, the Italian island of Capri has enjoyed a golden reputation since Roman days, when Emperor Tiberius built his palace there.
By the 1950s, it was the epicentre of jet-set glamour (along with St Tropez in the south of France), attracting Hollywood names, royalty, and fashion darlings.
But despite its enduring popularity, it has never lost its character – best experienced in the late afternoon and evening, once most visitors have departed.
Probably the most meaningful way to connect with the island’s culture is through its artisanal makers, from Rita Massimino’s knitwear at Art Tricot, the pearl and gold jewellery of Grazia & Marica Vozza, and ceramics by Cecilia Sbandi, to the perfumes of Carthusia and the hand-stitched, leather sandals at Il Sandalo Caprese and Canfora. Fashions come and go, but these creations are timeless.
Hidden Gem Stay: The Oetker Collection’s Hotel La Palma is this year’s biggest opening, while the newly restored Capri Tiberio Palace offers guests a bespoke sandal-making masterclass with Canfora, which has been hand-making shoes since the 1940s.
