A LITTLE-KNOWN Greek island has received glowing praise for its “emerald-blue” seas and its lack of crowds.
Places like Santorini and Mykonos have become popular spots with tourists, but both can be expensive and overcrowded as a result.
However, not far from Santorini is a lesser-known spot that boasts similar architecture and natural beauty, while remaining “untouched” by tourists.
The island of Folegandros sits near Paros as well as Santorini, but is much less visited than Greece’s more well-known isles.
According to the Times the "Greeks don't go to Mykonos, Rhodes or Corfu," but they go to the Folegandros which has " largely evaded international tourism".
And CNN listed it in their top seven most beautiful villages in Europe, writing: "Santorini’s streets sag with admirers.
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"But on Folegandros, a nearby island, you’ll find similar architecture—streets paved in slate, whitewashed buildings decorated with colourful flowers, the occasional Greek Orthodox church with a bright blue dome—without the crowds.
“For a secluded swim, trek to Katergo, a sheltered stretch of beach where gentle, emerald-blue waves lap the pebbly shore.”
Greek travel agency Greeka added: “Relatively untouched by international tourists, Folegandros island still manages to keep its unspoiled charm.”
They explained similarities between the island and its more highly-regarded neighbours, saying it has "traditional Cycladic architecture".
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