I have long thought of holidaying in the Greek Islands without an itinerary and just island hopping by ferry. In 1982 I did a day trip to the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. I fell in love with the little island of Hydra with its enchanting harbour, cobblestoned streets and absence of motorised transport.
Over the decades Greek Islands have become trendy in particular Santorini and Mykonos and these more popular islands have become cruise ship magnets to the detriment of the locals. Unsurprisingly I choose the “roads less travelled” and start with Paros. Part of the Cyclades group which comprise 220 islands out of an overall total of 6000 islands. The ferry docks in Parikia and it is a short drive to the picture perfect town of Naousa where we are staying. The old town where we are is charming and we hire a buggy for a day to wander around the beaches and historic towns.
Venetian fortress
It is the end of October and we are restricted somewhat as a lot of the businesses close for the winter and the water is too cold to enjoy the beaches. Nonetheless the island has more than enough to keep us happy.
