Greek islands have seen, for the most part, their popularity and number of visitors surge thanks to their “Instagram Perfect” views. The contrast between clear blue water and white buildings of stone make them a perfect place for memorable holiday photos. However, popularity quickly evolved into one of their most pressing issues.
Islands like Mykonos and Santorini have complained that locals are not equipped to handle such large visitor numbers, and that their infrastructure cannot handle the outcome. However, as these islands are considering implementing measures to offset the damage caused by increasing visitor numbers, there are plenty of lesser known islands that boast everything that makes their more famous counterparts great.
For those looking for stunning views, traditional architecture and extraordinary sandy beaches, there is a mere 40 miles of unknown Greek island north of Santorini, and has everything you need for a Greek island.
Folegandros is one of the Western Cyclades Islands and is centered around a medieval fortified town built by the Venetians.
The island remains relatively unexplained by international tourism, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of neighbors, such as Mykonos and bustling.
Looking at photos of the island's main villages, Chora is like seeing one of thousands of Santorini photos uploaded to Instagram every day, with its crisp white buildings, cobblestone streets and stunning blue background making it the perfect setting for an idyllic holiday snap.
A walk around Castro, a Venice castle built in the 13th century, allows visitors to see the island's authentic history in a setting of everything that makes the Greek islands the most beautiful in the world, as opposed to the white buildings with bright flowerbeds.
There is very little that even Foregandro can't do in Santorini. The sandy beaches and clear blue waters allow for water sports and snorkeling, and stunning scenery asks you to hike and explore.
The market offers souvenirs, authentic clothing, food, and hotels and restaurants offer quality that is often lost in busy tourist areas where repeat deals barely bother them.
Folegandros is actually what people want and expect to see famous islands like Santorini, standing as a reminder of the beauty of less traveled roads.
Perhaps it's time to consider the hidden beauty hidden in front of you, as other islands consider measures to reduce tourism.
