From Rhodes or Kos, the options spread out before you. And when you’re spoilt for choice, it would be wrong not to spoil yourself. The reasons to visit Astypalaia simply spill off the page. The whitewashed homes and crown-topping castle of the main town aren’t just picture perfect, but from here the views of the Aegean make your heart thump just that bit quicker. As for the beaches, if it’s a pure and tranquil setting you’re after for your family holiday, this is the place is for you. Vatses, Livadi, Steno, Psili Ammos and without a doubt Kaminakia … all names of beaches you’ll get to know very well. And as for the food – cheeses, honey, thyme-scented Easter cookies and other local delicacies… just try them. But if there’s one thing you’ll take away from Astypalaia, it’s the light – an iridescent white that fills you from the inside out.