Officially known as the Hellenic Republic, Greece is a state in the Mediterranean sea at the tip of the Balkan Peninsula with a population of just under 11 million inhabitants. Bordering Albania, Bulgaria and the former Yugoslav Republic to the north, and Turkey to the east, Greece's sun-drenched coastline stretches over 8,500 miles and overlooks the Ionian and Aegean seas. The mainland peninsula is surrounded by some 3,000 islands, only 169 of which are inhabited, and are divided into six groups, plus the two largest islands, Crete and Evia.

Approximately four-fifths of Greece is mountainous, lying over 4,920 feet above sea level, with 20% of the country's total area covered by forest. Mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers have encouraged a richness of flora, with over 6,000 species, many of which occur nowhere else, and some 100 varieties of orchid. The marine and bird life in Greece have been severely depleted due to the Greek's fondness for hunting and fishing, yet there is an abundance of wildlife still to be found, including the last largest colony of sea turtles and the endangered monk seal.

Greece is largely driven by the tourist industry, and caters well for its many visitors during the summer months between April and October. Holiday accommodation in Greece can be found at all levels - from family-run guest houses to elegant hotels; from apartments in the Greek Islands to villas in Peloponnese with private pools. The ruggedly beautiful landscape that is to be found all over mainland Greece and its islands is popular with visitors seeking peace and tranquillity. Steeped in history and culture and with many locations of important historic significance, Greece is perfect for the sight-seer, whether you choose to explore the capital city of Athens from one of the holiday apartments in Attica or investigate the many ancient sites that exist on the islands.

Poros is one of the Saronic Gulf islands, a five minute boat trip away that would make a good base for visiting Peloponnese, Greece's southern peninsula, an area scenically diverse and rich in culture. A holiday villa in Halkidiki makes the ideal base from where you can enjoy tranquil, verdant forests and vineyards and an unspoilt, rugged coastline. Crete hosts a quarter of all visitors to the country, yet still boasts peaceful coasts and mountainous areas. Rhodes, the third largest Greek island, has the character of a cosmopolitan city combined with the picturesque charm of a medieval town, claiming to be the sunniest place in Europe! The Sporades archipelago of 11 islands can provide destinations for either seekers of quiet, scenic beauty - or the party animal! Holiday apartments and villas in Greece are a popular option for accommodation, but whatever your vacation requirements may be, this is a country that has something for everyone.

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