North and South Corsica

One island; two very different experiences. To do Corsica justice, you need to experience both ends. Fly into Figari in the south for a week languishing on the Caribbean-esque beaches. If you can prize yourself away from your lounger, it’s worth taking a day to explore fortified Bonifacio (take to the sea to appreciate its unique cliff-top location). The drive north takes about three hours through Corsica’s mountainous heart; stop for lunch at the Auberge de la Restonica, just outside Corte, and take advantage of the swimming pool for a cooling dip. In the north, you’ll not want for things to do – this is more the place for days out discovering mountain villages, sweeping bays and imposing citadels. Unmissable is the U Trinichellu train that trundles between Calvi and Ile Rousse.

Where to stay…

North Corsica: Villa Mare. An excellent location a short stroll from a delightful sandy cove and just five minutes' drive from the sophisticated town of Ile Rousse. The famous narrow-gauge train stops nearby and runs along the stunning Balagne coastline to Calvi.

South Corsica: Pinarello Beach House. With a wooden gate leading from the garden onto the white sands of Pinarello Beach, this airy, light-filled house is surrounded by the sort of tree-filled garden you’d usually only find in a rural inland location.

Corfu and Puglia

Here’s an unusual one you probably haven’t thought of, made possible by the reintroduction this summer of the hydrofoil service between Otranto and Corfu Town. Why not combine a week indulging in superlative Puglian food and wine before exploring the pebbly coves and crystalline waters of north east Corfu? The hydrofoil takes less than three hours and departs at 8.30am in the morning, getting you to Corfu Town by midday. Don’t miss out on this Venetian gem – take time for lunch and a walk around the shady streets before heading north along the coast.

Where to stay…

Puglia: Simpson Secret – Puglia. This wonderfully quirky villa, not far from the Baroque town of Nardò, has its own natural rock swimming pool and a bedroom with a stargazing skylight positioned right above the bed.

Corfu: Bella Mare Hotel. From the hotel’s jetty, you can hire a motorboat and take yourself off for the day to neighbouring beaches. Pretty Agni, with its choice of waterfront tavernas, should be your destination.

Meganissi and Lefkada

No-one could describe the Ionian island of Lefkada as busy but, after a week on neighbouring Meganissi, that’s what it will seem. This is the perfect combo for those looking for an escape-the-world crash-out, followed by a bit of an explore. The charm of Meganissi is in the imperative to do absolutely nothing but swim in the gin-clear waters and linger over long lunches at the waterside tavernas. There’s a more sophisticated scene waiting for you across the channel in Lefkada Town (do have dinner at Thymari), together with some mountain drives that will take your breath away. The short ferry trip between the two, skirting the exclusive island of Skorpios, is a delight.

Where to stay…

Meganissi: Villa Mentes. Just a 10-minute stroll from the waterfront in charming Vathy with its tavernas and bars, this elegant contemporary villa enjoys spectacular views and is built for relaxation.

Lefkada: Katouna Suites. The view from this 10-suite adult-only hotel will stop you in your tracks; but if you can tear yourself away, the nearby village of Katouna has tavernas to enjoy

East and west Crete

Crete is large and diverse; you could happily spend months exploring all its corners. Combining a week in the unspoilt, far east with a stay in the buzzier west makes for a perfect introduction to the island. Fly into Heraklion, from where it’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the east coast (you can stop at Istron bay for a dip en route). Allow four hours to transfer back to the west but break the drive at Knossos, once the heart of the Minoan civilisation. You can fly back from Chania to save another long drive.

Where to stay…

East Crete: Glaros Beach Suites. Directly fronting Kouremenos Beach, there’s nothing here to distract you but the sea and a few tavernas. Should you need a bit more hubbub, charming Palekastro village is a 10-minute drive away. A little further afield you have Vai, with its palm grove and Europe’s only banana plantation.

West Crete: Arosmari Village Hotel. You’re in the heart of the village of Vamos, famous for its crafts and culture. Susan, Arosmari’s concierge, organises weekly not-to-be-missed classical music concerts in the hotel’s own amphitheatre. Chania, just a 30-minute drive away, has Ottoman buildings and trendy restaurants, whilst the White Mountains beckon for glorious hikes.

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