GREEK ODYSSEY

Set sail on a truly epic adventure

- LESLEY JONES

GREEK CHIC IN ATHENS

We started our Greek Odyssey in the capital Athens, sipping dirty martinis on the roof terrace of the chic St George Lycabettus Lifestyle Hotel in the city's exclusive Kolonaki district. A favourite of world leaders and celebs alike, the sprawling Athenian panorama from the Parthenon to the sea beyond is one that will stay with us forever. No wonder it was voted "best hotel rooftop view" at the World Luxury Hotel Awards in the past.

If you'd like to save your cash for shopping in the designer-packed Voukourestiou Street, a budget hotel choice is the wonderful new Sir Athens Suites which is in a quiet position in the centre of town.

Wandering through the cobbled Plaka district, we took in the majesty of the ancient ruins and buzzy atmosphere as locals and tourists mingled. Stopping for dinner at the charming Diogenes, the old-school waiters made our salads table side as we indulged in some top-notch people watching in the balmy evening heat. 

SPECTACULAR SIFNOS

Athens hit 40 degree heat during our stay, so it was a relief to take the three-hour ferry from Piraeus port to the Cycladean island of Sifnos to find a sun-soaked island with shady coves, crystalline waters and the friendliest people.

Known for its cuisine, that famous Greek hospitality means great food doesn’t mean stuffy formality. You’ll find the most amazing places, whether you’re going glam or in your flip-flops and beachwear.