If you have ever gazed upon the beauty of the Venus de Milo statue you've seen a little of Paros. It was carved from the famous white Parian marble found in the island's interior, as was Napoleon's Parisian tomb.

Less crowded than its neighbouring islands here you can wander freely on long country walks ending in a taverna where time stands still. Walkers should head to the village of Lefkes, 9km southeast of Parika, visit the natural amphitheatre, see the ancient windmills and then walk out towards Marpissa along the breathtaking Byzantine path used by pilgrims for centuries.

For sporty types Paros has some of the best windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving spots not just in the Cyclades but in all of the Greek Islands. Hrysi Akti-Golden Beach-has some of the best swimming, windsurfing and diving you will find in the Cylades. It's on the southeast coast. On the west you will find Pounta. Its combination of a long shoreline, shallow waters and ideal side-shore winds makes it ideal for kitesurfer and windsurfers of all levels.