HOLIDAYMAKERS are raving about a destination in Greece that offers all the advantages of its popular neighbours, without the busy crowds.
The Greek islands are a well known tourist trap, with more and more people trying to make the most of their sandy beaches and picture-perfect towns.
As a result, those places are often hugely busy in the holiday season, making them less enjoyable to visit.
However, there are still Greek holiday destinations that aren’t as well known, and still offer a lot of highlights.
One of those is Parga, which has been singled out for its charm, its quiet beaches and its lack of visitors and described as “picture perfect” by Lonely Planet.
The quiet town is reachable from two airports, meaning it has good travel options.
It was listed by Salon Prive, who listed it as one of their favourite alternate travel destinations.
They said: “Parga offers all the charisma of more popular European destinations without the crowds.
“The Parga Beach Resort, located on a secluded bay overlooking the Ionian Sea, offers direct access to blue-flag Valtos Beach and is just a short walk or water taxi ride into the quaint town.”
Although it’s not technically a Greek island, Parga does have the feel of one, as Greeka explained.
They also spoke about the town’s 11th Century Venetian castle, which is found on the top of a hill overlooking the town, providing stunning views out to see and of the colourful houses stacked upon the hillside behind the town’s harbour.
They wrote: “The seafront landscape combined with the colourful architecture of the town will remind you of the Greek islands.
“The town’s Venetian castle will be among the first things to catch your eye.
“In addition to the breathtaking sea views, lush green nature and amazing sights, you will discover beaches with an exotic atmosphere.”
The beaches are undoubtedly the star attraction however, with Lichnos beach, Valtos beach and Alonaki Fanariou beach three of the best in the near vicinity.
Alonaki Fanariou picked up a TripAdvisor traveller’s choice award last year due to the number of positive reviews people wrote about it online.
One said: “What a gem. Serene beauty and a great swimming place.”
Another wrote: “Secluded from the more touristic beaches of Parga it combines amazing scenery and crystal blue waters. Must visit.”
A third added: “This beach is a hidden gem. The coast between Parga and Preveza has many fine beaches, but I personally liked this one most.”
A night in an apartment in Parga can be booked from £34, while Ioannina and Preveza are the nearest airports, both of which can be reached from the UK.
Meanwhile, this little-known Greek island has been compared to Santorini.
And some people say this UK town is like visiting Greece.
