Crete

Head to West Crete for Samaria National Park and the White Mountains, where you can trek the Samaria Gorge (allow 5–7 hours). The gorge is open to the public between May and October, following the winter rains.

Mykonos

Set off on a cycling tour around the island with Yummy Pedals

The Peloponnese

Follow the recently opened Menalon Trail, a winding mountain trail in Arcadia that loops through the Lousios River gorge, Mount Menalo and the Northeast Gortynian Mountains.

Halkidiki

There’s a strong possibility that you could discover ancient archeological treasures if you go diving in Greece; Sithonia in Halkidiki is one of the best spots for multicoloured marine life.

Kefalonia

Hop in a boat with a guide to Melissani Cave – aka the Cave of the Nymphs – close to Karavomilo. Part of the cave’s roof has collapsed, providing an amazing skylight above the crystalline waters of the lake below. Spend a day trekking in Mount Ainos National Park, the only national park set on a Greek island.

Athens

Sail around the rocky Argo-Saronic islands, close to the mainland. Cast anchor at fertile Égina for a handful or two of the island’s famous pistachios, plucked from local pistachio orchards, or laze around for a few days on tiny Angistri.

Spetses

Take holiday strolls up a notch or two by signing up for Spetses’ Mini Marathon (7–9 October) and jogging around the island with other sporty types.

Bedtime

At Emelisse Hotel in Kefalonia, distractions include: multiple pools, soothing views and an open-air cinema. Thrill-seekers can go horse-riding or scuba diving; ask reception to arrange a wreck dive or mountain trek. Sunbathe on the gorgeous flat white rocks at Emblisi beach, snorkel at the rocky cove of Fokis, or hire a boat in Fiskardo and find a totally unpopulated bay to call your own for the day.

Pretend to be Greek at Kinsterna Hotel in the East Peloponnese, where you can help with grape-crushing and bread-making, or watch the estate’s olive oil being made. After a visit to Monemvasia’s castle, check out the fortress town’s bars, boutiques and restaurants. Nearby beaches include Pori and Ampelakia. The hotel can arrange scuba-diving, horse riding and, in summer, hanging yoga.