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If you're tired of Glastonbury or feel too old for festivals, then maybe it's time you thought about travelling to the Greek coast for a music festival like no other. From July 1st to the 4th each year the idyllic town of Preveza plays host to the International Choral Festival. Now in its twenty seventh year, the event is unique in that it is split into two distinct parts.

One half of the festival consists of concerts held at a number of historic locations throughout the area, from a picturesque Venetian fortress overlooking the sea to an ancient auditorium in the ruined Roman city of Nicopolis, 3 miles north of the town. This is undoubtedly worth the plane fare alone, and seeing live music performed in a 2,000 year old theatre is an amazing chance to reconnect with history while allowing you to marvel at the acoustic power of the Roman architecture.

All of these concerts are held outdoors and the evening performances in particular create a truly electrifying atmosphere. Greece has a reputation as the birthplace of Western culture and the festival gives you a rare chance to tap into this rich cultural heritage, set against a backdrop of breathtaking Mediterranean scenery.

The second part of the festival is the International Choral Competition, which can be best described as a version of The X Factor for choirs. Like The X Factor, only amateurs can apply, although don't consider applying on your own as the minimum size of a team is 22 people. The competition sees choirs from across the globe battle it out in front of a live audience and judged by a panel of international experts. So if you consider yourself to be the Simon Cowell of classical music, then this is definitely for you.

If you're not a music lover or a history buf,f then don't be put off, as the festival provides the perfect soundtrack to your leisurely exploration of one of the most beautiful regions of Greece. Flights to Preveza from London start from around 110 pounds and once there the town acts as the perfect jumping-off point to explore the beguiling Ionian Islands. The festival is a major event in the town's calendar and is the perfect time to witness the incredible spirit of generosity and friendliness that the Greeks extend to all their guests.

All in all, the festival is a truly novel experience and a must-see for anyone who wants to mix their sun, sea and sand with a touch of European culture.