As summer draws closer, people up and down the country are planning their getaways this year, or perhaps even starting to draw up plans for next year. And it appears that Greece is having something of a moment, with Google searches for 'Greek island hidden gems' rising by 100% in just the last three months.

Claire Shields, Base Manager at Sunsail, has shared her top choices for Greek islands that she believes offer unspoiled nature and tranquillity in abundance. Among her choices is Kastos, which feels like a "floating village" where "time slows down," and Atokos, an uninhabited island where wild pigs roam around freely. Another option is Paxos, one of the least commercial Greek Islands set in the Ionian Sea, with scenery that makes it an "artist’s paradise."

Lefkas

Claire labels Lefkas as "one of Greece’s best hidden gems", highlighting its offering of stunning natural beauty, authentic Greek culture and incredible beaches all without the overwhelming crowds of more famous Islands. Lefkas is pretty easily accessible with Preveza airport just a short distance away, and easy connections to the mainland.

Lefkas is also home to "some of the best beaches in the world," says Claire, who recommends tourists visit Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma. Alongside these, be sure to visit the small harbour of Sivota, which is surrounded by olive tree-covered slopes and a few scattered villas.

Meganisi

"Meganisi is a small island near Lefkas with hidden coves and sea caves, great for sailing, seafood and snorkelling," says the expert. "It is one of the few Ionian islands that remain untouched by mass tourism, which is why it’s such an underrated hidden gem."

This island has an authentic Greek feel, with fishing villages, traditional family-run tavernas, and underground caves to explore. The most famous cave on the island is Papanikolis Cave, which was once used as a hideout by submarines during World War 2 and is only accessible by boat.

Atokos

Atokos is a privately owned, uninhabited island between Lefkada and Ithaca that is open to visitors. Its untouched nature makes it a stunning place to visit and ideal for relaxation. On the east of the island, you will find One House Bay, which is home to wild pigs, making it a rather unique gem to visit while exploring the Greek islands.

Kalamos and Kastos

Just off the coast of Lefkada, you will find the two tiny islands of Kalamos and Kastos. The first of which is covered in pine forests, while the second is home to just one village. Sailing around Kalamos, you'll discover quiet beaches, sea caves, and perfect little swimming spots with no one else around.

It's also a great destination for those who want to experience some 'slow living' while on holiday. On Kalamos, you won't find big beach bars or resorts, and instead can make your way around local tavernas selling fresh fish, homemade wine and homegrown vegetables.

While Kastos is home to just 100 permanent residents, Claire says this island feels almost like a "floating village." She adds: "With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here. You’ll also find unspoiled beaches with clear turquoise water only reachable by boat or by foot."

Paxos

Paxos is perhaps the least commercial of the Ionian Islands, with the expert labelling it an "artist's paradise." Claire shares: "It’s a perfect place to wind down; nothing is done quickly here.

"Sit and drink an iced coffee in one of the seafront cafes, watch a local fisherman bring his catch in to sell or queue in the local bakery for your fresh bread baked in a wood oven. This is the beauty of Paxos."

Agia Efimia

Agia Efimia is a gorgeous fishing village on the east coast of Kefalonia. Another destination for those looking to experience some slow living, visitors can relax while watching beautiful boats entering and leaving the marina, while they enjoy local delicacies from waterside cafes and bars.

Claire finishes: "Want to channel your inner adventurer? There’s still plenty to be explored here as there are two sets of caves, the Drogarti inland and the Melisani caves, which you can be taken to by a boatman.

"Many describe this as entering Hades itself. The water is dark and inky with turquoise patches where the sun hits, and the caves are linked to the Melisani Lake further inland by underwater passages."