While Mykonos and Santorini are the best known hotspots of the Greek Islands, Paros is quintessential low key Greece. With its whitewashed villages, white sand beaches and the clear blue Aegean Sea but without the crowds and prices of the better-known islands, it is the place to go next. Paros is charming, chic and vibrant while flying under the radar – at least for the moment. 

Where to stay: Parilio. A 33 room boutique hotel that is architecturally interesting and stylish. All the suites are light-filled, spacious and very soothing. The hotel reflects the unspoiled natural beauty of the island. 

What is the vibe? Casual elegance. Paros is not fast-paced like Mykonos, but once you relax into the rhythm you will never want to leave. 

The town of Naoussa is a 10-minute taxi ride away from Hotel Parilio (the hotel also runs free shuttles during the day), where smart boutiques and decent restaurants are easy to find. For a long, lazy lunch, the Kolymbithres Taverna (there are two with the same name but it’s on the left-hand side of the road as you approach the beach) is the best. Order grilled calamari, Greek salad and baked eggplant saganaki. Of course, toast yourself with a glass or two of wine from the local wineries!

How to get there : Fly into Athens and then take a plane or ferry to Paros. If you want to combine it with a trip to Mykonos, Paros is just a one hour ferry from Mykonos. Remember, the most special places are NOT easy to get to!