Isle take Greece!

Zakynthos
Not being the first destination choice of all the Greek islands for most people has held Zakynthos (also known as Zante) in good steed. At just 38 kilometres from tip to tip, the island, and its neighbour, the small and uninhabited Marathonissi, is a serene holiday destination for anyone looking to chill out.

Smuggler's Cove, with its very own shipwreck, makes for a languorous day out, and the snap-happy will love the Blue Caves at the northern tip of the island, famed for the stunning blue shade of the sea and the rock formations.

While You're There: Try and catch sight of the famous Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtles) during the summer. Zakynthos is their most important nesting area. But if you don't see one in the wild, you can always head along to the national marine park of Zante.

Visit www.zanteweb.gr

Skopelos
With no airport, visitors boat it over to Skopelos from nearby Skiathos, and once you get there... well, that's it really! Bliss.

"Welcome to the island of calm and tranquility," is the tagline of the official website and it's spot on. Renowned for being one of Greece's greenest islands, strolls are de rigueur, as are meanders along the seafront and that all-important cooling-off walk from beach towel to water's edge - and there are 17 beaches to choose from.

In fact, the most taxing decisions are which taverna to lunch in and hiring a boat is a must - even for the most un-seafaring landlubber.

While You're There: Don't miss out on an evening at the Anatoli ouzerie. Perched on top of the ancient castle, you can dine under the stars, serenaded by island legend, George Xindaris and his orchestra.

Visit www.Skopelos.net

Ithaca
This classic sleepy-looking Greek island is, by day, everything you'd expect - verdant greenery, rolling hills and picturesque beaches. But, come sunset, Ithica shakes off the day's snoozing and transforms itself into a night life-lover's dream destination.

Boutique hotels and super-cool bars abound, and at night, the harbour teems with life. Choose between staying "uptown" or "downtown" - where the locals favour. Hotels are small to ensure fabulous service, and the cocktails are just as impressive as any you'd find in New York or Dubai.

While You're There: Ask for directions to Manu, a bar in downtown Vathy, for a fabulous cocktail.

Visit www.ithacagreece.com

Cephalonia
Picture the classic image of Greece, where whitewashed buildings, bleached by the sun, perch on the hillside, and gentle waves lap along sandy beaches. That is Cephalonia.

From the swathes of forest to its peaceful beaches, Cephalonia (or kefalonia) is the ideal holiday destination for families, especially as it's certainly not marketed as a party spot. The island, filled with spots to stop off for dry white wine, cups of coffee or indulgent ice creams, hasn't even been adversely affected by Captain Corelli fans, and visitors breathing in the Bougainvillea and taking in the bustling market town of Argostoli will probably never want to go home.

While You're There: Head to Myrtos Beach, with its white sands and backdrop of vertiginous cliffs.

Visit www.justkefalonia.co.uk

Little Cyclades
"Wild beauty" is the phrase best used to describe this cluster of islands far from the madding crowds. The islands are a mix of small and large, sparsely populated and thriving, with the largest being Amoroges. Walkers will adore the island, which is cut through the middle by a mountain range and has two ports - Katapola and Aegiali. Sail off to the twin islands of Koufonissia and Schinoussa, the latter boasting fabulous beaches.

While you're there: Find peace at the tranquil bay of Vlichada.

Visit www.littlecyclades.com