Of all the Greek islands, no other achieves simple sophistication quite like Folegandros. Home to endless goat trails, exquisite beaches, a stunning Chora and the warmest people on earth, this Cycladic jewel is worth every step of the journey.

stay
Try to find a view more breathtaking than the one from Anemomilos Hotel. Perched on a cliff-edge, this family-run gem is truly unique. Rooms are typically Cycladic with vintage accents. Don’t miss cocktail hour at sunset. From €120. 00 30 22860 41309, www.anemomilosapartments.com

eat
Don’t expect souvlaki and chips. The food on Folegandros is really aunthentic—think homemade gigandes (giant beans), bourekia (cheese-filled pies) and freshly caught octopus grilled to perfection. Kritikos (00 30 22860 41219) in the main square serves fantastic pies and meats and Mimi’s in Ano Meria (00 30 22860 41377) is a local institution. Wash everything down with well-iced ouzo.

do
Rent an ATV/car and explore the island’s far flung beaches. The more intrepid traveller will come across beaches that will blow you away. Don’t miss Katergo, Ambeli and Aghios Nikolaos. If you’re more of a trekker, there are some extraordinary trails on the island.

drink
The town really comes alive after dark when the music and dance begin. Sit on an old stone wall, sip Rakomello (a local drink of Raki and honey) and watch the world go by.

“It's the old chicken that makes good broth.”
--Greek saying

Anyone with a penchant for pasticcio and a taste for tarama should dip into Vefa Alexiadou’s simple and delicious new culinary tome.

In Vefa’s Kitchen, the Hellenic Martha Stewart shares classic recipes for dolmades, saganaki, moussaka and more. With over 650 recipes and 200 photos, this is the bible of Greek cooking.

Time to crack open the Retsina, blare out the bouzouki and picture yourself at a taverna in the Aegean.

At Type Books, 883 Queen St. W., Toronto, 416-366-8973, www.typebooks.ca

Outside, the Athens' heat blisters. Inside, Periscope is nothing but modern cool.

Should your travels happen to take you through the ancient city of Athens, cool your well-heeled feet and rest your head in the sharpest boutique hotel around.

Located on a quiet street in the “little column” known as Kolonaki, Hotel Periscope nestles itself neatly amongst the high street and couture shops in the area, just a few steps away from the bustling Athens nightlife. The hotel boasts clean, crisp sheets, a minimalist design, Propoline natural beauty products, and a relaxed attitude.

You’ll also find each room outfitted with cool air—a welcome retreat from scorching heat.

Up Periscope!

From €145 per night, 22 Haritos St., 106 75 Kolonaki, Athens, Greece, 30-210-729-7200, www.periscope.gr