2013 Greek Easter a goer says Sunvil Holidays

Greek Easter is later than ever this year (Easter Sunday is on 5 May), meaning that direct flights to the islands are readily available. By far the biggest holiday in Greece – with enthusiastic celebrations that see entire towns and villages turn out for fireworks, feasting and religious processions – why not experience this world-class event for yourself, says Greece specialist Sunvil Holidays?

Crashing crockery in Corfu Town

Energetic celebrations on this scenic isle include the parading of the mummified body of St Spiridon, Corfu’s patron saint, through the narrow streets of the old town, followed by the hurling of crockery from the upper windows of houses. Survivors can then relax and enjoy the subsequent fireworks and feasting! Departing 29 April, seven nights’ self-catering at the Ammos Bay Studios in Aghios Gordis (with a long swathe of sandy beach and just a short bus ride from Corfu Town) cost from £561 pp (two sharing). The price includes return flights (Gatwick; Manchester at available at a £39 supplement) and transfers.

A bonfire on the beach on Crete

In pretty Loutro, accessible only by boat or on foot, Easter is a more intimate experience (there are only 100 inhabitants in this tiny harbour-front village). That doesn’t mean the celebrations are any less enthralling. Here, an effigy of Judas is burned on the beach and festivities carry on late into the night. The charming Porto Loutro Hotel offers spit-roast goat to all of its guests on Easter Sunday. Hike the nearby Samaria Gorge – Europe’s longest – and burn off the excess. Departing 30 April, seven nights’ B&B cost from £737 pp (two sharing) including return flights (Gatwick) and transfers.

Candlelit processions in Skopelos Town

With over one hundred tiny chapels dotted throughout the winding, whitewashed streets of Skopelos town, here is the place to join in the poignant candlelit processions. This religious tradition sees villagers light a candle at their local chapel and carry it home, lit, for good luck. Soak up the atmosphere on the mulberry tree-lined waterfront or watch the flickering flames from your balcony. Departing 3 May, seven nights’ self-catering at Villa Nefeli, a traditional house with roof terrace offering fantastic views across the town, cost from £709 pp (two sharing). The price includes return flights (Gatwick; Manchester is available at a £39 supplement) and transfers.

To book, visit sunvil.co.uk.