Travel Notes Blog

Sardinia is a land of layered identities: wild granite mountains, ancient nuraghi (unique Bronze Age megalithic stone towers) rising quietly from the landscape, and luminous coastlines that shift from emerald to deep cobalt. In 2026, spring, summer and early autumn reveal an island alive with ritual, music, and celebration. From sacred processions and horseback spectacles to open-air concerts and coastal festivals, Sardinia’s event calendar offers a deeper way to experience the island, one shaped by tradition, community, and a profound sense of place.

Whitewashed villages, archaeological wonders and ethereal, sandy coves make this Cyclades island-hopping itinerary a stellar introduction to the Aegean. Structured across two weeks, it moves with a natural pace between well-known islands and quieter stops, delicately balancing time on the water with moments enjoying the wonders ashore.

With Christopher Nolan’s greatly anticipated film of The Odyssey due for release in July 2026, several of our gorgeous destinations will once more be gracing cinema screens across the world. In anticipation, we’ve taken a closer look at some of the locations that have inspired the Oscar-winning director. The film’s all-star cast, which includes Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya and Charlize Theron, spent many months (though not 10 years) traversing the heart of the Mediterranean, and we’re delighted that so many scenes were shot in places we love.

Rare beauty, layered history and a coastline that shifts from granite coves to sweeping white sands make this Corsica itinerary an immersive introduction to the island’s south. Structured day by day, it follows a natural rhythm between coast, culture and inland landscapes, with space to slow down where it matters.

Mainland Greece rewards those who travel beyond the obvious. Ancient landscapes, living traditions and quietly beautiful coastlines define regions such as Evia, Corinth and Porto Heli, where days are shaped by the sea, village life and long meals under the sun. If you would like to begin your holiday with a short cultural stay in Athens, the capital’s spring and summer events offer a stimulating contrast, an ideal prelude before continuing your journey to the calmer pace of a Thinking Traveller villa.

Planning a villa holiday in the Ionian Islands? From Corfu’s Venetian elegance to the tranquil harbours of Paxos and Meganissi, these islands offer far more than beautiful beaches. Throughout the year, local festivals and events bring each destination to life with music, food, ritual and celebration. This guide highlights the best events in the Ionian Islands in 2026, focusing on Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Zakynthos, Paxos, Antipaxos, Meganissi and Kastos. These are the moments that reveal the region’s character and make an Ionian holiday truly memorable.

Across the Aegean, each island group has its own rhythm. The Dodecanese offers spirituality and serenity, the Saronic Islands combine elegance with artistic heritage, and the Sporades are defined by lush landscapes and a deep connection to the sea. This guide explores the most evocative cultural, gastronomic and seasonal events in 2026 across Patmos, Hydra, Spetses, Alonissos, Skiathos and Skopelos: moments that reveal the character of these islands and enrich a villa holiday with local tradition, atmosphere and a sense of place.

The Cyclades are instantly recognisable: whitewashed villages glowing in the sun, cobalt domes against a cloudless sky and a deep-rooted sense of tradition shaped by wind, sea and faith. Yet beyond their iconic beauty lies a cultural calendar rich in music, gastronomy and centuries-old ritual. This guide explores the best events in the Cyclades in 2026, focusing on Antiparos, Kea, Mykonos, Paros, Syros and Tinos, the islands where The Thinking Traveller offers its villas. From springtime religious celebrations to summer festivals and early autumn feasts, these are the moments that reveal the Cyclades at their most authentic and compelling.

Whitewashed villages, archaeological wonders and ethereal, sandy coves make this Cyclades island-hopping itinerary a stellar introduction to the Aegean. Structured across two weeks, it moves with a natural pace between well-known islands and quieter stops, delicately balancing time on the water with moments enjoying the wonders ashore.

With Christopher Nolan’s greatly anticipated film of The Odyssey due for release in July 2026, several of our gorgeous destinations will once more be gracing cinema screens across the world. In anticipation, we’ve taken a closer look at some of the locations that have inspired the Oscar-winning director. The film’s all-star cast, which includes Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya and Charlize Theron, spent many months (though not 10 years) traversing the heart of the Mediterranean, and we’re delighted that so many scenes were shot in places we love.

Rare beauty, layered history and a coastline that shifts from granite coves to sweeping white sands make this Corsica itinerary an immersive introduction to the island’s south. Structured day by day, it follows a natural rhythm between coast, culture and inland landscapes, with space to slow down where it matters.

There are certain places in the world that feel cinematic the moment you arrive. Light dances differently. Colours seem richer. Landscapes unfold with a quiet sense of drama. Across Italy, Greece and Corsica, the Mediterranean has provided the setting for some of the most iconic films and television series ever made, and it continues to captivate directors, actors and travellers alike. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the turquoise waters of Skopelos, from Sicily’s Baroque towns to the rugged coastline of Corsica, these are destinations that belong on the big screen. Yet they are far more than film sets. They are living, breathing places of extraordinary beauty, ideal for a picture-perfect Mediterranean holiday. Below, explore the most famous Mediterranean filming locations and discover how you can step into the scene yourself.

Italy stands as the world's largest wine producer, crafting approximately 50.3 million hectolitres annually—nearly 20% of global wine production. With over 1.73 million acres under vine cultivation spread across all 20 administrative regions, Italy's viticultural landscape is as diverse as it is extraordinary. What truly distinguishes Italian wine, however, is the country's staggering genetic treasure: over 2,000 indigenous grape varieties, of which approximately 400 are in commercial production. This represents more native varieties than France, Spain, and Greece combined.

Europe is steeped in history, peppered with historic sites that date back centuries. Holidaying there offers the chance to experience this history for yourself — and there are few better or more picturesque places to see history than in a castle.

Sicily boasts multiple world heritage sites, immense coasts and an active volcano. See our top five wonders of Sicily and explore our exceptional Sicilian villas.

Learn more about the ways we are embracing a more sustainable future for luxury travel in Sicily, by supporting projects from the Sicily Environment Fund, as part of the Conservation Collective.

Discover Casa di Macine, a luxurious Corsican villa blending tradition and modernity. Owner Alain Antonelli, a Corsican native and Miami-based music producer, shares his journey of creating this serene retreat nestled in the mountains.

We're delighted to announce our B Corp status - here's how the certification works and why we have always taken a more thoughtful approach to luxury travel.

Find out how The Thinking Traveller’s eco initiatives promote wildlife conservation, eco friendly initiatives and ecotourism in this conservation review.

Explore the benefits of luxury villa rentals vs. hotel stays, focusing on privacy, space, and personalised touches for your next getaway.