A LESSER-known European island with tranquil, quiet beaches and a fascinating natural history could be the perfect holiday destination for you this summer. If you want the charm and beauty of a Greek island without the extortionate prices or the swathes of tourists, there are plenty of places you can head to. 7 Tilos has the charm and beauty of a Greek island without the extortionate prices Credit: Alamy 7 Micro Horio contains the remains of an abandoned village and church Credit: Alamy 7 Tilos has long stretches of empty beach Credit: Alamy 7 The island sits between Rhodes and Kos, who seem to take the bulk of the tourists to the area Credit: Alamy One of those is the Dodecanese island of Tilos, known for its clear seas, long stretches of empty beach and its ancient villages.
It sits between the more famous Rhodes and Kos, who seem to take the bulk of the tourism trade in the region. However, its landscape, featuring towering mountains, rocky and sandy shores and varied wildlife make it well worth considering for holidaymakers. Bird-watchers are particularly well catered for, with rare species like the Bonelli’s eagle, the Eleonora’s falcon, the long-legged buzzard, the European shag, the European bee-eater all among its inhabitants.
What's more, it's believed to be the final home of the European dwarf elephants, who are believed to have lived there until around 4,000 years ago. Visit Greece explained: "The last elephants of Europe lived here: the dwarf elephants appeare.