Beachclub Activity Holidays in Greece 2019

When to visit Greece

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 gentle breezes (force 1-2) found at the Retreat 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. The only exception being Portomyrina, where the strongest cross on-shore winds start in the morning.

Family activity holidays to Greece

Family is placed firmly at the centre of Greek culture. Which is why Greece is a brilliant location for family activity holidays. All of our Greek beachclubs, with the exception of the adult-only Buca, offer summer long kids’ clubs - taking advantage of the hot, sun-filled days. Full of activities and fun to get children of all ages involved, there’s also the Starfish crèche for babies and toddlers.

When it comes to water sports, the kids absolutely love our activity program. Whether they are trying kayaking, sailing or paddleboarding, we’ll have a club for them to join, based on their age. Don’t be surprised to see even the shyest kiddies joining in and making new friends.

Messini is particularly good for family activity holidays, with a giant chess board, kids pool, play area and frog bikes. The club also has a long sandy beach that kids of all ages enjoy.

Couples' activity holidays to Greece

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.

Culture

History buffs and culture vultures won't fail to be inspired by Greece. This is a country with a rich and varied history. Inquisitive minds will be inspired by the cultural influences of occupying civilisations including Classical Greece, the Roman and Byzantine Empire and many more in between.

Venture out and you’ll be rewarded with picture postcard views of olive groves and white, domed churches, pinpointed against the indigo sky and sea. But Greece's landscape holds may secrets and a day's exploring could see you discovering mythical sites, ruins and ancient temples from some of the oldest civilisations in Europe.

If you find yourself adapting to the local pace, don't worry. The days are long and everything slows down, allowing you to enjoy a Greek tradition - a long coffee and a chat with friends. Lazy lunches are also definitely on the menu.

Eating like a local

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 (yogurt and cucumber), melitzanosalata (aubergine) and taramasalata (fish roe) will only get you so far. Feta and olives are almost compulsory - the flavour knocks spots of 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 a 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 make these simple looking biscuits worth finding.

The local honey, infused with local wild flowers and herbs is also a real treat on thick Greek yogurt.

Travel info

Language: Greek

Currency: Euros

Local time: GMT/BST+2

Flight time from UK: approx. 3-4 hours
Visa info: Visa is not required for UK passport holders.
Additional info: Before you travel visit www.gov.uk/foreign-advice-travel/greece for recommendations and advice for you holiday to Greece.