“Unspoiled” Greek island 40 miles from Santorini, uncrowded | Travel News | Travel

The Greek islands have seen their popularity and visitor numbers grow in recent years, largely due to their “Instagram perfect landscape”.

The contrast of the white stone buildings with the clear blue water made them the perfect location for memorable vacation photos. But then popularity quickly developed into one of their most pressing issues.

Islands such as Mykonos and Santorini have become such popular destinations that locals complain that the islands are ill-equipped to handle such a large number of visitors and that the infrastructure is not able to cope with the consequences.

But as these islands look to implement measures to offset the damage caused by increased visitor numbers and the negative impact tourism can have on local non-tourism industries, there are an abundance of lesser-known islands that they boast everything that makes their more famous counterparts great. .

For those looking for stunning scenery, traditional architecture and exceptional sandy beaches, there is a lesser-known Greek island just 40 miles north of Santorini that has everything one could need in a Greek island.

Folegandros is one of the western Cyclades Islands, it is centered around a medieval fortified town built by the Venetians.

The island remains relatively untouched by international tourism, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of its neighbors such as Santorini.

Looking at a photo of the island’s main village, Chora, is like looking at one of the thousands of Santorini photos uploaded to Instagram every day, with its crisp white buildings, cobbled streets and stunning blue backdrop, making it the perfect setting for an idyllic holiday moment.

A walk around the Venetian Kastro Castle built in the 13th year^th century, allows visitors to see an authentic history of the island in the setting of everything that makes the Greek islands some of the most beautiful in the world, as the bright flower beds contrast with the white buildings.

There is little that can be done on Santorini that cannot be done on Folegandros. The sandy beaches and clear blue sea allow for water sports and snorkelling, while the stunning scenery begs to be hiked and explored.

Markets offer souvenirs, authentic clothing and food, while hotels and restaurants offer the kind of quality often lost in busy tourist destinations that care little for repeat trade.

Folegandros is, in reality, what people hope and expect famous islands like Santorini to be, and is a reminder of the beauty of a path less traveled. As other islands consider measures to reduce tourism, it’s time to pay attention to the hidden beauties that are hiding. in sight.