Activity holidays in Greece

Vounaki and Retreat Beachclubs can be found among the mainland and islands of the Ionian Sea. If you’re interested in a yacht sailing activity holiday, this stunning area is the place for you. 

The southern peninsula of the Peloponnese is home to some of the finest and least developed beaches in the country. And this is where you will find our neighbouring Messini and Buca Beachclubs. The pair share some activities and facilities, but Buca Beachclub is an adult-only zone that’s all about child-free downtime.  

The beautiful off-the-beaten-track islands of the northeast Aegean Sea are home to some of the most unspoilt and relaxed destinations for Greek holidays. The island of Lesvos plays host to our Aeolian Village Beachclub.

The hidden coves, sheltered bays and boutique-style hotel at Buca Beachclub were made for couples’ holidays. This adult-only destination offers a wide selection of activities for couples, whether you try them together or individually. 

Head out on a cycle ride to explore, join a guided ride or get competitive on one of our seven tennis courts. Group coaching is included during your stay, so you’ll be able to up your game and improve your fitness.

Kayaking as a couple is a brilliant way to explore the coastline. Early birds should head out just after breakfast to enjoy the calmest seas. For days where you simply want to unwind, the day beds in our glass-sided swimming pool are waiting to welcome you. With an outdoor hot tub to test out, you really can relax. The sleepy, surrounding area adds to the laid back vibe, with rural villages peppering the slopes of the Taygetus Mountains. On our count: one, two, three…and relax. 

Greece’s high summer is as hot as you’d expect a Mediterranean country to be, although summer can have some cloudy or rainy days, expect bright, bright sunlight to be the norm.

Temperatures are usually in the 30s, with the hottest days arriving in July and August. If the high summer temperatures aren’t for you, spring and autumn still see plenty of sunshine. The sea may feel a little fresh in spring, but we find it's still plenty warm enough with a rash vest on. 

Our beachclubs are ideally placed to harness Greece’s varying wind conditions. Beginners will be able to develop their skills in the steady breezes found at Vounaki Beachclub. If you’re more experienced on the water, conditions tend to pick up around midday at most locations allowing you to ease into any activity before the breeze picks up for the afternoon. 

Greece produces some of the finest, freshest ingredients in the world, so where do you start? The familiar Greek classics are hot contenders, but tzatziki (yoghurt and cucumber), melitzanosalata (aubergine) and taramasalata (fish roe) will only get you so far. Feta and olives are almost compulsory - the flavour knocks spots off the stuff you buy from the local supermarket back in the UK.

But to really get a taste for Greek cuisine you've got to try some of the region's signature dishes. Skip the moussaka and opt for pastitsio. A Greek take on lasagna, it’s a layered dish of pasta, ragu and Béchamel - ideal for refuelling and sampling a rustic classic you won’t find back home.

The charcoal grill is a mainstay of most tavernas. Grilled meat and fresh fish are simply cooked so that the freshness and flavour of the food shines through. Souvlaki and Gyros are fast food favourites from the grill.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be in heaven with the honey and sticky, sweet desserts. You can’t go wrong with traditional baklava made with layers of pastry, chopped pistachios and honey. Of course, if you’re feeling adventurous, tracking down some kourabiedes. A delicate almond shortbread with an added touch of brandy makes these simple looking biscuits worth finding. The local honey, infused with local wildflowers and herbs is also a real treat on thick Greek yoghurt.