AN island in Greece has been described as “a whimsical wildlife haven” with an array of “wild animals, each with their own charming quirks”.
The Greek islands are one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, with people drawn to their stunning sandy beaches and picturesque towns.
However, there’s one lesser-known isle that has its own unique reasons to visit, including the animals that inhabit the land and even join holidaymakers on the beach, if they’re lucky.
Moni isn’t a place where visitors can stay, but it’s possible to visit for a day trip.
No one lives on the small islet found just off the coast Aegina, one of the country’s Saronic Islands.
Yet, it’s popular with day trippers who like to sail, snorkel or even just swim in the waters surrounding its several sandy beaches.
However, what makes the island special is the abundance of animal life that can be spotted there.
As of 1962, Moni has been used as something of a natural breeding park for wildlife.
A group called the Greek Tourist Club “introduced an impressive count of wildlife, transforming this charming islet into a thriving ecosystem” according to Adventourly.
Their efforts can still be seen very easily to this day.
Greeka explained: “It boasts great turquoise waters and lush nature. The island is not inhabited.
“The only inhabitants are some animals and, in particular, some deer, kri-kri goats brought from Crete, squirrels, peacocks and falcons.
“The deer and the peacocks have grown especially accustomed to human presence, and they may even come close to you on the beach.”
This provides an experience like no other on a Greek holiday, with Greek travel blog Off Beat Greece describing it as “surely magic”.
They added: “If you want to enjoy a good swim, relaxing beach time and a hike amongst pine trees, wild peacocks and deer, jump on a water taxi to Moni as early in the day as possible.”
That’s the best way to get to the island, with taxi boats running from Perdika on Aegina, which itself can be reached by ferry from Athens.
The World's Best Beaches consulted more than 750 judges including travel journalists, influencers, and beach ambassadors to rank the beaches.
Visitors arrive at the Moni Beach Bar where they can spend the day relaxing on deck chairs by the sea.
However, from there they’re also able to explore and discover the wildlife that runs free around the isle.
Flights from the UK to Athens are available from around £70 per person return.
A night for two in Aegina can be booked for around £33.
Getting to Moni may seem like a bit of a faff, given it requires a flight to Athens, a ferry and then a taxi boat.
However, most people who’ve visited say it’s entirely worth it.
Travel blog Veronika’s Adventure wrote: “On Moni Islet, prepare to be enchanted by a diverse array of wildlife as you explore its untouched landscapes.
“This uninhabited island is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to encounter a variety of flora and fauna.”
Meanwhile, this “secret” Greek island is cheaper than Mykonos, and better.
And this Greek island has “surprisingly cheap” deals.
