Sailing holidays in the Ionian Islands are perfect for families

Wednesday, 7 September 2011 1:35 PM

If you're planning on going on a sailing holiday with your family then you might want to consider the Ionian Islands as everyone is sure to find something fun to do in this beautiful location.

These Greek isles are a brilliant destination to go on a yacht charter in the Mediterranean as you'll be able to cruise through turquoise seas hopping between the islets before exploring them individually.

The Ionian Islands consist of Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Ithaki, among others, which are some of Greece's most popular destinations for a beach holiday.

But as well as reclining on different shores and soaking up the sunshine, you'll be able to see more of what each isle has to offer, uncovering its history, cuisine and traditions along the way.

By embarking on a sailing holiday, you'll have the opportunity to get away from the rigmarole of everyday life and spend peaceful days floating on the water. You can sail between the isles, cruising through the shallow waves, or you can take time out and jump in the aquamarine waters.

Kids are bound to love to splash around to cool off from the intense heat and hiring a boat gives you the freedom and flexibility of being able to stop wherever you like - as well as escape the crowds on the beach!

Corfu is one of the most popular of the Ionian Islands so make sure you leave time to visit here.

As the second largest of the isles, Corfu not only has plenty of beaches to relax on, but a very interesting history to learn about.

Why not moor your vessel and take some time to head to the 19th century Palace of Michael and Georgios?

Or, if you want to appreciate what the island was like hundreds of years ago, head to the Old Town, where you can still see Renaissance and Baroque buildings. This area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site to protect the old architecture and it is well worth walking through its narrow streets and cobbled squares to soak up the atmosphere.

Corfu is also a hit with the kids as there are open-air cinemas in the city during the summer showing cartoons for an experience they won't forget in a hurry!

While you're on a yacht charter in Greece it is worth sailing to Kefalonia as this is the largest of the Ionian Islands.

Exploring this destination will see you enter a world of historical monuments, beautiful monasteries and some of the most breathtaking views you could imagine.

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy walking around the isle, either along its 250-km stretch of coastline or over its green mountaintops.

You're sure to be surprised at the amount of flora and fauna you'll find here, with some of the peaks hidden under green trees.

Why not head to the caves of Katavothres or the national park of Enos Forest?

If you wish to take a break from quiet days on the water, you might want spend some time sightseeing and there's a range of museums, monuments and sites you can visit in Kefalonia.

Those who want to learn more about the isle's ancient history may head to the Archaeological Museum, while other holidaymakers might prefer exploring the Kampanas Square in Lithostroto.

Of course, one of the best reasons to sail around Greece for a few days is being able to indulge in its national cuisine. You'll be able to tuck into sumptuous kebabs, delicious dips and rich stews.

And foodies among you may want to island hop between isles and taste the difference between the traditional dishes on each. Don't forget to try some freshly-caught seafood, as these meals are sure to be some of the tastiest you sample during your trip.

You can even try your hand at fishing - or simply buy some from local markets - so you can enjoy the delicious taste of seafood while peacefully floating on the water.

This is one of the most relaxing breaks you could think of, but if you also want to use this as an opportunity to improve your skills on the boat, why not consider learn to sail holidays in Greece?

These will enable you to gain confidence on the water so that you can come back and cruise around the Ionian Islands year after year.