The Greek islands have always captured the imagination of honeymooners and couples as the perfect romantic getaway. Stunning natural beauty, sunny climate, rich history and culture—you simply cannot go wrong on a couples trip to Greece. But opt for some sustainable Greek Islands to combine with a nature-positive holiday.
That said, nowadays many travellers are becoming more and more aware of the negative impact of over tourism. As a result, many Greek islands have begun to adopt responsible tourism initiatives and sustainable practices.
So if you are planning to go sailing around stunning coastlines with your beloved, focus on some of these Greek islands that are not only beautiful, but also champions of eco-conscious travel.
1. Tinos
Tinos may not be on everyone’s bucket list on a trip to the Cyclades, but is a great off-beat choice for an eco-friendly intimate getaway for a couple seeking a peaceful and luxurious honeymoon in Greece.
Imagine charming white-washed buildings, clear blue seas teeming with marine life and some beautiful hiking trails and no airport makes Tinos a wonderful choice for a unique destination to rekindle love and affection with your partner.
This small island of Tinos is tucked between Kos and Rhodes and has implemented a myriad of initiatives to promote sustainable tourism. This includes reduce of single-use plastics, investment in renewable energy sources, encouraging recycling and asking all residents are contributors to this green initiative.
2. Rhodes
Also referred to as the “Island of the Knights”, Rhodes is a top romantic hot spot where old history and nature come together. Couples can stroll the Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or just relax on the sunny Prasonisi and Tsambika beaches along the coastline of the Aegean Sea.
For those who love excitement, there is windsurfing and watersports in Ixia , hiking trails with breathtaking views and shopping for treasures in the Old Town markets.
Rhodes has also emerged as a pioneer in implementing eco-friendly policies aimed at promoting the island as a Green Tourist Destination.
Booking yourself a romantic adult only hotel in Rhodes will be your best bet to ensure a kid free holiday with your partner.
3. Hydra
Located in the Argosaronic Gulf, Hydra is a car-free island which makes it the perfect place for couples to spend intimate moments in. Lined with traditional architecture and providing breathtaking views, this picturesque getaway near Athens will endear newlyweds and couples who love art and a laid-back vibe.
At the lively Hydronetta beach, there is a daily exposition of colours during sunset when chic Greeks come down from Athens to see and be seen in an impeccable display of glamour and tradition.
Another good thing about Hydra is its commitment to preserving its heritage. While the absence of motor vehicles is a conscious decision to safeguard the island’s traditional way of life.
In this way, while other islands are speeding towards modernisation, Hydra has managed to stick to its roots that feel both authentic and sustainable.
4. Corfu, Sustainable Greek Islands
With the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town, you and your partner are guaranteed to find a view that will make hearts soar. Corfu also possesses a stunning coastline dotted with quaint fishing villages and cosy taverns where there is never a shortage of a romantic meal.
Rent a bicycle or an e-bike and head off for a private tour of this lush green island with your partner or take a walking tour to reduce carbon emissions.
Corfu also encourages traditional farming that offers a farm-to-table dining experience, which not only reduces waste, but also supports the local farming community and encourages sustainable food practices. Here you can discover more about Corfu’s Sustainable Tourism.
5. Naxos
Whether newly married or simply fallen in love, Naxos has the perfect recipe to make romance blossom in this lovey dovey getaway for two. A short ferry ride away from Paris, this cute Greek island is also the greenest of all in the Cyclades.
Surrounded by high mountains, lush green valleys and quaint cliffside villages, the first thing one will notice on landing at the port in Chora, are the impressive marble gates of the temple of Apollo, which is a romantic couple’s activity, especially during sunset which people like to witness, peeping through the structure.
Famous for its pristine sandy beaches and ancient temples, what is actually impressive about Naxos is the focus on sustainable agriculture. Also since Naxos does not have an abundance of fresh water, rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems have been put in place to manage the shortage.
6. Alonissos
Say goodbye to stress and hello to exclusive couples massages and romantic candlelight dinners, a holiday in Alonissos offers endless opportunities to escape, relax and explore. There are beaches here that can rival both Corfu and Crete with far less people to share the sandy stretches with.
Since you are visiting Alonissos with your special partner, consider staying in any of the Instagrammable villas for a truly plush romantic experience.
Couples looking for underwater action, snorkelling in Alonissos truly delivers when it comes to exploring iconic marine life, coral reefs, dolphins and much more.
Home to the largest marine park in Europe, Alonissos island is a part of the Northern Sporades and has made a name for itself by preserving the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal, apart from dolphins and a wide variety of seabirds.
