3 Best Sights in The Sporades, Greece

The road south from Atsitsa deteriorates into a rutted track, nerve-racking even for experienced motorbike riders. If you're feeling fit and the weather's good, however, consider the challenging 6-km (4-mile) trek around the headland to Agios Fokas. There are three lovely white-pebbled beaches and a small taverna. Amenities: food and drink; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; solitude; sunset; swimming; walking.

Close to the airport, this wonderful beach of white sand and pebbles is surrounded by lush greenery, with the little chapel of Agios Petrosa on a hill above as a serene backdrop. Don't be put off by the 4 km (2½ miles) of dirt road leading to the beach, it's definitely worth the effort. Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling; swimming; walking; windsurfing.

The first major center in Europe for holistic vacations has been bringing visitors to Skyros for more than 40 years. Participants come for a two-week session, staying in straw huts or in the main building, in a peaceful environment surrounded by pines and facing the sea. Studies and courses include windsurfing, creative writing with well-known authors, art, tai chi, yoga, massage, dance, drama, and sound-healing. Courses also take place in Skyros Town, where participants live in villagers' traditional houses. Skyros Centre's courses are highly reputed. Contact the UK office well in advance of leaving for Greece.