Whether you own a property on the Greek Islands and wish to explore, or are simply looking for a holiday away from the scorching heat of July and August, autumn and spring are a perfect time to get round the isles. Great weather where you can go out and about in a comfortable temperature without the seering sun - and without the masses, when you'll have the pretty winding streets and stunning views all to yourself.The Greek Islands have enormous capacity for pretty much all-year-round tourism due to their temperate climate and beauty. The isles have good geological features, from mountains and rivers, to forests and wonderful coastlines. These features mean that the islands are more diverse in their geography than many large countries and with small populations on each island, there is more unspoiled nature and more species of flora and fauna.
Of course, out of season, between the start of November and mid-April, you have to expect reduced ferry services to the islands but this should not put you off for discovering the natural beauty of the isles - it is worth the effort. The main routes continue to operate throughout the year and accommodation is not only easier to find but significantly cheaper. There will really be no worries about the weather during May, June or September, October. Spring and autumn in general are beautiful with decent temperatures on the islands. The sea in autumn is often warmer than the air and the colours are magnificent. Even if you decide to get out and about during the coldest months starting the end of December through to March, there are numerous clear fine days, particularly on Rhodes and the southern part of Crete. The month of April is usually best to see the fantastic carpet of wild flowers which spring up across many of the islands. Indeed, many of the islands are at their best in April and May, before the hordes arrive in the high summer, with flowers and green shoots.Apart from not having the numerous tourists about, the other main benefit is that you will be more immersed in Greek culture as those who remain on the islands are the true inhabitants and not just summer workers. From this perspective, whatever activity you choose to do or even if you just meander around, this is the best time to experience life as the locals do - with local food, local nightlife and local celebrations.
Walking, hiking, river rafting and even sailing are all available and these are some of the most enjoyable times for bird-watching and exploring the ruins, which are usually jam-packed in the summer months. It's a tough job exploring the islands to their full when temperatures are soaring at 40 C in the shade and everywhere is swarming with tourists but during the off season the weather is perfect for those who enjoy being outdoors. The islands feel as if they are slumbering and taking their own annual leave before the thousands flock there.The real culture of the islands abounds during these months, as many of the pure tourist spots are closed and it is the regular local haunts which remain open. If you would like to experience 'carnival' (apokreas), then Skyros island has a big celebration towards the end of February with eating, drinking and dancing each night. This is a tradition which has been handed down for hundreds of years, with parades and street parties, making the most of having a huge celebration before the fasting pre Easter.
Easter is one of the biggest celebrations on the Greek Islands and is a favourite time of year for many Greeks to descend on their favourite isle. It is the most significant religious festival and a wonderful time of year as the natural beauty springs to life with pretty fresh spring flowers. Traditional church services are held on Easter Friday and there are usually dances and barbecues too which accompany such a joyous time.One of the most interesting times is the annual olive harvest which starts in November and keeps the islanders employed and busy. Nobody can think of Greece and her islands without thinking of olive oil. Olives and olive oil production are an important aspect of life for the Greeks, with nearly 60% of cultivated land devoted to the crop. If you are about at this time of year, there is no doubt that you will be asked to asssist and join in something which really is a part of true Greek family life!
