Elia holidays

When you’re not feasting in the capital’s gourmet restaurants, check out the authentic eateries right on your beachfront. Elia has an abundance of tavernas overlooking its idyllic bay serving Mediterranean salads, feta cheese covered in breadcrumbs and international favourites including succulent beef burgers and stone-baked pizzas. Utopia Restaurant is a must-visit according to its outstanding TripAdvisor reviews. Set into the rocks 300 metres above the beach, this spot is ideal for special occasions. Due to its time-honoured ties with local farmers and fishermen, expect poached lobster and lamb cutlets on this fine-dining menu. Other top-rated joints include Paprika with its traditional fare, Indian Palace with its spicy concoctions and Lyo Bar who’s famed for its grilled octopus and battered calamari. Pair all this with a pint of the island’s beer, Mythos or a glass of Retsina wine for a stand-out dining experience.

Place yourself on the largest beach in Mykonos, which attracts VIPs and celebrities from across the globe including Titanic star Billy Zane and actress Lindsay Lohan. Awarded for its cleanliness, the sand and water here is flawless. That being said, it’s one of the most popular snorkeling attractions on the island with its visible corals hiding vivid sea life. The organised part of the stretch is sprawling with sunloungers and jam-packed with watersports. Whether you choose to rent a jet ski for an hour, peddle the ripples with the family on a boat or windsurf its thrilling waves – there’s something to please all holidaymakers. Fancy a change of scenery? Agrari Beach is a mellow number and is protected from the north wind making it ideal for avid swimmers and divers. Meanwhile, over at Paradise Beach there’s a party going on morning, noon and night.

If you don’t want to spend your entire holiday on a sunlounger, Elia is the place to be. Of course relaxation and working on your tan are always on the cards, but there’s a whole host of wonders to be explored too. From the creative sculptures at Rarity Gallery to models of old ships at the Aegean Maritime Museum and wine tasting at Vioma Organic Farm and Vineyard.

Lose yourself in the streets of Little Venice: Lining the waterfront with 18th century fishing houses with balconies overlooking the sea, it’s easy to see why this area resembles the Italian city of Venice. These houses once belonged to shipping merchants, which provided them with direct access to the sea. Now, these colourful buildings habitat restaurants and bars with unparalleled views. We recommend reserving a table in advance at one of these stylish venues, as its one-of-a-kind sunset vistas has holidaymakers flocking left, right and centre to capture the sky full of oranges, pinks and blues.

Windmills of Mykonos: There are currently 16 windmills, seven of which are perfectly positioned on the Chora Hill. It’s the island’s most iconic feature which is evident throughout holiday brochures and postcards. Most were built in the 16th century by the Venetians, but the construction didn’t end until the 20th century and they were primarily used to mill wheat. You can explore the history by visiting the Bonis Windmill in the main harbour or check out the oldest of the collection, Geronymos Mill. Either way, you’ll be met with stunning panoramas of the island and coastline making it worth the visit.