Jewels of the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is home to some of the most spectacular islands and coastlines. Across this series, narrated by Joanna Lumley, we meet locals and tourists, sample mouthwatering local cuisine and explore ancient traditions as we uncover Jewels of the Med. The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete is home to around 670,000 people. Stretching 160 miles from east to west, it is a haven to those seeking the sun and blue waters. Rethymno, on the north coast, is famous for its loggerhead turtle nesting sites, where conservationists help newborns to the sea. Inland. We visit the ancient Palace of Knossos and discover the revival of Minoan traditions. Crete also boasts a rich history of windmills, as well as musical traditions like the Cretan Lyra.

The Mediterranean is home to stunning islands and coastlines. In this series, narrated by Joanna Lumley, we meet locals, taste cuisine, and explore ancient traditions, unveiling the Jewels of the Med. In Mallorca -the largest of the Balearic Islands, which sees an estimated 10 million tourists arrive each summer - we explore the island's culture, from the Fisherman's Fiesta in Port d'Andratx to the creation of a mural in Petra honouring local women. We also discover the art of sea salt production in Es Trenc, where the unique Flor de Sal is made. 

We continue our journey on the breathtaking island of Majorca, a major hub for superyachts, with the yachting industry being a key contributor to the island's economy. We follow Simon Jones, a former chef, who runs a luxury catering company sourcing the best local food and drink. Majorca also boasts rich traditions, like the Nit de Foc festival, and quieter spots like Natura Cavall, a horse rescue centre for retired Spanish Trotters, funding their work through tourist treks. 

Majorca, known for its food culture, boasts four Michelin-starred restaurants, with the renowned Marc Fosh being the only British chef awarded a star in Spain. The island's stunning coastline, a superyacht haven, owes its beauty to the humble seagrass called posidonia, which is threatened by tourism. We follow a team of volunteers who help to safeguard it. Joanna Lumley narrates.

Menorca, a fifth the size of Majorca, boasts breathtaking views from its highest peak and a storied past. The capital, Mahon, is home to the Mediterranean's largest natural harbour, once a battleground for empires. Today, it hosts luxury yachts. The island's mares stone, a golden sandstone, has been used for millennia, shaping houses, churches, and fortresses. Lithica, a former quarry, is now a cultural heart, hosting 60,000 visitors annually. And Menorca's festivals, such as celebrating the Patron of Sant Jaume in Es Castell, also draw crowds. 

This episode takes Menorca's seafood, art and architectural restorations. In the north of the island some of the best seafood can be found. However, the north is particularly exposed to what the locals call the tramuntana - a powerful northern wind that can cause havoc with the fishing communities in the area. Conservation is a top priority, with an abundance of plant and bird varieties. In 1993 Menorca was granted 
the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, which means its nature is protected. 

Cyprus, with 11 months of sunshine and beautiful beaches, hosts 4 million visitors a year.

We head to the stunning 'white island' of Ibiza, delving beyond the world-class nightlife to explore the rich cultural history of one of the Mediterranean's most visited islands.

Cameras focus on the largest island in the Mediterranean, home to volcano Mount Etna and stunning coastlines. Steeped in history, as the cross-roads of the Med for millennia, Sicily's Roman, Greek and Arab influences can be felt all over the island to this day, through its art, architecture and food. Highlights include a look at an ambitious restoration project that has been going on for more than 30 years.

The Italian island of Sardinia blends heritage, nature and longevity. The island has countless historic sites, including the recent discovery of more Gigantes statues at a Nuragic burial site. An ambitious conservation project is finding success in saving the unique Sardinian Red Deer from extinction. From handmade pasta to handmade jewellery, hard work done with precision, skill and care is a theme across the island.