Nestled near Crete in the Aegean Sea, an arm of the Mediterranean, lies the island of Rhodes. The island's Greek name is Rodos, which means "island of light;" it is appropriate because the island seems to be bathed in perpetual sunlight. The island's historical sites highlight its Turkish, Italian and Greek influences. The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes offers a wide variety of accommodations, dining, entertainment and attractions. It has miles of beaches for relaxing and water sports. Don't miss Old Town, one of the best-preserved fortified medieval towns listed with UNESCO as a world cultural heritage monument. Day trips from the island of Rhodes to neighboring Kos, Karpathos or other Greek islands are another wonderful option.
The French-owned island of Corsica lies southeast of France and to the west of Italy in the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The Greeks called Corsica Kalliste, which means "the most beautiful." Corsica was the site of numerous invasions and ownership changes during the Middle Ages, until the Treaty of Versailles in 1768 ceded Corsica to France. With Corsica's diverse terrain, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from mountain biking to fishing. Corsica's rich cultural history also attracts tourists who study the ancient villages, cathedrals and monuments. Get a breathtaking view of the island by taking the Trinicellu (narrow-gauge railway) through the mountains. For a real treat, visit the thermal springs at Baracci.
Off of the coast of Spain in the western Mediterranean is the island of Majorca. Majorca, like many Mediterranean islands, had a turbulent past until the Nueva Planta Decree of 1716 finally made Majorca part of the Spanish province of Balearas. Majorca has two distinct mountain ranges, so tourists can enjoy mountain activities and climate as well as the more tropical climate and water activities found along the coast. While you are there, visit the Coves del Drac, a network of underground caves found on the east coast of the island. The train excursion from Palma to Soller is something else you don't want to miss.
