Olympic Holidays recently hosted a fam trip, showcasing an island-hopping experience that incorporated the historic city of Athens and two lesser-known Greek islands, Agistri and Poros.
Tracy Norton, assistant travel manager at Coop Travel in Street, Somerset, says late September was the ideal time to visit Greece, with warm weather and plenty of restaurants and tavernas still open.
She explains that her agency often uses Olympic Holidays when it suits clients’ needs. “Many have already visited the more mainstream islands and want something different – and that’s where island-hopping holidays fit perfectly,” she says.
James Greenhedge is a personal travel consultant with Hays Travel, and is relatively new to the travel industry. He says: “I’m still exploring the many operators and suppliers we work with. It can feel overwhelming at times, especially as I cover everything from city breaks to cruises. That’s one reason I was so keen to join this fam trip with Olympic Holidays, to experience their island-hopping itineraries first-hand, having several customers who would love these mini Greek adventures.”
And Toni Whalley from The Holiday Shop in Blackburn says she often books Olympic Holidays, “mainly for their wonderful family-run self-catering properties,” but was lacking in destination experience herself.
On Agistri, from left: Rachael Marron from Olympic Holidays, with agents James Greenhedge, Toni Whalley, Tracy Norton and Catherine Smith
The agents flew with Sky Express, which flies daily from Gatwick to Athens – James notes the airline was a pleasant surprise with comfortable seats and complimentary refreshments.
Piraeus was their first stop, which Toni describes as the perfect base, with its mix of shops, bars and restaurants alongside the port. “We stayed at the Port Tower Hotel, which was modern, spotless and staffed by the friendliest team. I loved the layout of the rooms, ideal for couples or friends sharing.”
Heart thief
Next up was Agistri, which James refers to as “a tiny island that completely stole my heart”. The group split in two, with half staying at Agistri Apartments and the rest staying at neighbouring Yianna Hotel, which is officially two-star but spotlessly clean with newly refurbished rooms that rival a four-star property, according to James. Here the hosts treated the group to a “superb barbecue, with generous food and that famous Greek hospitality.”
A view across the Oasis Beach Hotel on the island of Agistri
“Agistri embodied everything I imagine when I picture Greece: whitewashed houses, blue doors, hidden coves, and turquoise bays,” continues James. “Lunch at Oasis Beach Hotel was another highlight – especially the deep-fried feta with honey and sesame. That night, we joined locals for music and dancing that spilled into the streets – pure joy.”
Toni was similarly bowled over by the island: “Agistri felt like stepping back in time. It’s a traditional island with sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and pine forests, but what struck me most was its authenticity. There are no big chains or glossy developments, just family-run bars and tavernas, small side streets and little boutique shops.”
Oasis Beach Hotel stood out for Tracy as a “dream wedding venue.”
Green gold
A short ferry ride took the group to Aegina, island of “Green Gold” and home of Greece’s best pistachios. James says: “We visited Hotel Danae, overlooking the sea, and sampled pistachio butter, brittle, oil, and ice cream – all divine.”
Tracy adds: “A few hours on Aegina showed how easy inter-island travel is – and, of course, gave us the chance to try its famous pistachios! The marina area had a lively, cosmopolitan feel and left me wanting to return.” Another island that impressed was Poros, with its “postcard views, pastel houses, and lemon-scented air,” says James.
“Poros completely captivated me”, enthuses Toni. “Chic yet authentic, it’s one of the most picturesque villages I’ve ever visited. Steeped in history and full of inviting cafés, shops and bars, it’s the kind of place where you could happily spend a few days and not want to leave.”
The island of Poros is easily accessible from Athens
The group stayed at the “lovely” Golden View Hotel and walked to a local landmark, the blue and white Poros Clock Tower, offering panorama views; “it was easy to explore on foot,” says Tracy. Aegean Villas also impressed with its stylish self-catering apartments and maisonettes with private pools.
Their final check-in was to a five-star haven of pure luxury, on the mainland, just 20 minutes from Athens Airport. Grand Resort Lagonissi has swim-up suites with saunas, Jacuzzis, and sea views. “The food, from sushi to fillet of beef, was exceptional – the perfect finale before our return home,” says James.
“It was an unforgettable treat,” agrees Tracy. “We stayed in Grand Residential Cabanas with shared pools – they would be ideal for friends or families.”
History hit
The Athens coast really surprised me, adds Toni, with its seamless blend of city life and beach escape. “You can enjoy the buzz of Athens while still relaxing by the sea, which makes it so easy to recommend to clients. Grand Resort Lagonissi stood out for its exceptional service, location and food.”
And there’s plenty to recommend in Athens, says Tracy: “A visit to the Acropolis and its museum is essential, bringing history vividly to life, while Greek food is a highlight in itself — from street gyros to gourmet fine dining — always fresh, local, and delicious.”
James Greenhedge at the Acropolis
For all three agents the trip was an opportunity to experience island hopping the Olympic Holidays way. Tracy credits the operator’s expert, friendly team with ensuring that every detail ran smoothly, while Toni says the whole trip was seamless: “From private transfers to clear ferry guidance, Olympic Holidays made island-hopping effortless. Their in-resort reps were another highlight, not only hosting welcome meetings but also helping arrange excursions. That personal touch is invaluable, especially for older travellers.
“I also love that Olympic Holidays offers such a wide range of small, family-run hotels. Staying in these properties gives customers a real taste of local culture, food and hospitality.” James agrees: “Olympic Holidays impressed at every step – seamless organisation, great hotels, and a warm, knowledgeable host.”
The agents have come to view island hopping as a growing trend they are keen to exploit – it’s perfect for adventurous travellers seeking variety, authenticity and genuine Greek warmth, says Tracy.
Toni thinks island hopping can appeal to all ages: “I’m convinced it would attract even more younger travellers if promoted more widely on social media. Personally, experiencing it all has been invaluable; I now feel confident sharing genuine advice with my clients.”
And James adds: “These itineraries are ideal for travellers seeking authentic Greece: smaller islands, slower pace, and genuine charm. I’m already using what I learned to design bespoke island-hopping trips – and my customers are booking fast. Once Greece hooks you, there’s no letting go.”
