Sample the best of GREECE 1

Transcription

1 Sample the best of GREECE 1

2 friendly & personal service.. We focus all our energy and resources on one thing: sharing with you some of our favourite, loveliest parts of Greece and the Greek islands. our services Katrea Holidays is synonymous with quality tailor-made services in the fields of independent and escorted travel and the organization of meetings, conferences and other corporate events. We pride ourselves in anticipating our clients wishes and ensuring that each and every aspect of their trip is perfect. Luxury Travel Special Interest Packages M.I.C.E. Cruises & Yachts Accommodation We share with you our personal knowledge of the very best that Greece has to offer. Transportation Services We ve explored every region we suggest, visited the archaeological sites and museums, inspected the hotels, walked the paths, taken a dip in the sea to make sure everything is exactly what you expect. Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family or part of a large group, we are here to guide you through your selection process. Our experienced consultants will work closely with you to design a perfect itinerary and ensure that you will feel the authentic pulse of Greece. 2 3

3 Contents let our greece become your greece too... truly friendly & personal service SODALES FRINGILLA massa lorem LOREM IPSUM DOLOR 4 5

4 Let our greece become your greece too... Full of natural beauties, lush landscapes and untrodden spots, crystal clear waters, sun-kissed golden beaches, picturesque villages, colourful islands and cosmopolitan capitals, contemporary lifestyle and traditional features: the multifaceted personality of Greece will satisfy even the most demanding visitor. Whether you are looking for history and mythology, art and culture, folklore and tradition or religion, you will no doubt find something to suit your taste. How about relaxing a few days by the sea or exploring mountainous villages, lakes and rivers? Or tasting the unique cuisine and local wines? Greece will put a spell on you! 6 7

5 mythology & history art & culture religion & faith folklore & tradition Greece is the Land of History, the cradle of European civilization. A country whose lore stretches back almost 4,000 years. A country with archaeological sites and monuments that give visitors the opportunity to make a unique journey through the rare mosaic of history and culture which has left an indelible mark on every region. The Acropolis of Athens, the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tiryns, Pythagoreion, Vergina, Mystras, Dilos, Knossos and Phaestos, Delphi the list is long and thrilling. Two closely interwoven concepts which express every-day life in Greece. Music, theatre, literature, poetry, dance, architecture, sculpture, pottery, weaving, painting and jewellery making have a longstanding tradition in Greece. This crossroads of rich and diverse civilisations always gives you the opportunity to turn your holidays into a creative escape. The breathtaking scenery and the sunlight that brings out the richness of colours never fail to inspire you. Centuries old churches, monasteries and cells decorated with excellent mosaics, paintings and icons bear witness to the persistence of faith and tradition and give testimony to the country s rich religious heritage. In Western Thessaly, Meteora, the 14th century Byzantine monasteries perched on the tops of rock towers; in the Chalkidiki peninsula in northern Greece, Mount Athos, a unique place dedicated to prayer and worship; on the island of Patmos, the monastery of St. John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is believed to have written the Book of Revelation. These places count among the most wondrous monuments world-wide. Travellers can also follow the steps of St Paul through the biblical sites. Tradition is strong in Greece. Dancing and singing at panigiria (traditional feasts held on some religious or commercial occasion), music festivals, monastic events -- or simply, old men sipping their coffee or tsipouro and playing tavli at some kafeneio. All these occasions, and many more, will make your trip a memorable experience. A lifetime experience! 8 9

6 GEOLOGY & GROUND morhology FLORA & FAUNA HOT springs & spa outdoor activities The geographical position of Greece, on the convergence area of two tectonic plates, results in a complicated geological structure and a great variety of geoforms, formations and processes: the Petrified Forest on the island of Lesvos; the gorges of Samaria in Crete and of Vikos and Aoos in Epirus; the caves of Alistrati and Petralona in Macedonia and those of Deros and Limnes in the Peloponnese; the waterfalls in Edessa; the rock formations in Meteora; the volcanoes of Santorini and Nisyros; the fossilized areas in Pikermi, Attica, Tilos and Samos, just to name a few. These images will impress you every step of the way and will undoubtedly be imprinted on your mind for ever. White poplars, spearheaded cypresses, chestnut, pine, fir and olive trees; wild flowers, many of which are mentioned in classical poetry and mythology, such as evosmon, anemone, violets, tulips, peonies, narcissus, parthenium, primrose and chamomile. Wildlife includes boar, bear, wild cat, brown squirrel, jackal, fox, deer, wolf. The wild goat (agrimi), which has disappeared from the rest of Europe, still lives in parts of Greece and on the island of Crete. Migratory and native birds abound and there are more than 250 species of marine life. Due to the astoundingly rich flora and fauna they support, many of these environments have been designated as National Parks and are protected as such, while as a result of infrastructure developed over the last decades, they constitute today ideal destinations for winter and alpine tourism. Greece has 752 thermo-metallic springs all over the country, most of them known since antiquity. Over the years they turned into cosmopolitan centers, attracting many people for spa-therapy and entertainment. The world renowned quality of the Greek waters combines with readily available mineral water and therapeutic mud to make a very attractive environment for the development of thalassotherapy centers. Most of the hotel resort complexes operate thalassotherapy centers on their premises. They are ideally situated in areas that allow one to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, amazing scenery and the great relaxing and soothing experience. Thanks to the wonderful Mediterranean climate and the variety in its landscape, Greece is a fantastic destination for the outdoor enthusiast. 16,000 km of coastline, an unbelievable number of islands, mountains with peaks reaching over 2,000 metres, lakes, wild rivers, incredible rock formations, peacefully sleeping volcanoes, gorges and beautiful aesthetic forests create the perfect setting for a whole range of outdoor activities: mountain climbing, skiing, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, canyoning, hiking, trekking, horse-riding, sailing, scuba diving, windsurfing The possibilities for active holidays in Greece are endless. A lifetime experience! 10 11

7 Gastronomy shopping enterntainment family holidays Have a glass of wine in the shade of a tree, taste the wide variety of Greek dishes at a small taverna by the sea or at some picturesque mountain village, near the fireplace with good company.. There are no two areas in Greece where the cuisine is identical. Each region has its own delicacies, depending on its microclimate, its proximity to sweet or salt waters, the roots of its inhabitants. Unique ingredients, the Greek philosophy of slow eating and sharing, the country itself and the atmosphere in general: that s what makes a Greek meal an unforgettable experience. Are you looking for souvenirs or for fashion items? For international brands or for traditional creations? Would you prefer shopping in boutiques or in department stores? Whatever your idea of entertainment, in Greece there are endless attractions and activities to suit all tastes. Vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, theatre festivals, sports, travelling along wine routes, you name it. Greece is an ideal destination for families. Little children love fairy tales. What better way for them to enjoy Greek mythology than at so many archaeological sites? And what better way for parents to relax than knowing that their children are having fun in a safe environment? Whatever your choice, let us guide you through the countless possibilities. A lifetime experience! 12 13

8 sample the best of greece... Whether it is summer, autumn, winter or spring, Greece can offer you unique moments! Greece is a small country that boasts a rich history and an unrivalled legacy, but also enormous diversity. The possibilities are endless and there is always something excitingly interesting to discover! Greece will put a spell on you! 14 15

9 Athens The capital of Greece, birthplace of democracy. The Acropolis and the Parthenon The Plaka area History and Culture Gastronomy Nightlife. To name but a few reasons why Athens is a must! A sprawling modern metropolis, and yet as you go around, you feel as if you walk in and out of the past. Goddess Athena watches on you from the Holy Rock as you stroll along the narrow passages of the old town. And then, just a few short steps away, you enter a bustling commercial area with classy shops! This is where the Parthenon, that marvel of architecture, was created. Wherever you stand, wherever you turn, you will be enfolded by the city s long and rich history. Modern, but also romantic, with busy streets and squares, shop windows that are a riot of colour, but also little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighborhoods such as Plaka. Here you will find whatever your heart desires

10 Athens Hotels Athens Hotels DIVANI ACROPOLIS PALACE 5* MELIA ATHENS 5* METROPOLITAN HOTEL 5* NJV ATHENS PLAZA 5* ATHENS GATE 4* ATHENS WAY 4* FRESH HOTEL 4* GOLDEN AGE 4* This simply irresistible luxury hotel in Athens, sits just below the shadow of Acropolis A contemporary hotel with a refined appearance located in the heart of Athens. Unique cosmopolitan atmosphere, combines traditional hospitality and luxury. Located in front of the Faleron Olympic Coastal Park. Supreme location. Affordable luxury. Exceptional, personalized service. One of the best downtown Athens hotels. Located in the historic district of Athens, exactly opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus. A brand-new minimal hotel near the exlusive area of Kolonaki. Ideally located in the business centre of Athens and very close to historical centre of the city, Downtown in the heart of Athens, Fresh Hotel is a stylish, urban resort,with unconventional atmosphere, cool and thoughtful service. A unique boutique hotel, situated in one of the safest and most accessible areas of Athens offering visitors relaxing and enjoyable stay. RADISSON BLU ATHENS PARK 5* ST GEORGE LYCABETTUS 5* AIROTEL STRATOS VASSILIKOS 5* A FOR ATHENS 4* HERA BOUTIQUE HOTEL 4* MAGNA GRECIA 4* NEW HOTEL 4* AIROTEL PARTHENON 4* A new vision in accommodation and relaxation offers a next-generation hotel experience. A new urban hotel in the center of Athens, embracing the city s heritage and contemporary culture. Offers a unique opportunity to the visitor to enjoy an excellent stay at the hotel, right into the heart of the old Athens. A small intimate four star boutique hotel in Athens with an Acropolis view in the prime central location of the Plaka district. A splendid structure situated in Athens, ideal destination for unique and unforgettable stay. In the heart of the old city, where past meets present, only steps away from the Acropolis Museum. AIROTEL ALEXANDROS 5* AREOS HOTEL 4* ATHENS ATRIUM 4* ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE EXCLUSIVE HOTEL 4 SUP * POSEIDON 4* PRESIDENT 4* TITANIA HOTEL 4 SUP* ACROPOLIS SELECT 4 * Located in the Athenian Riviera at the seafront of Paleo Faliro, overlooking the magnificent Argosaronic Gulf. Towers over one of the most significant hubs of Athens. Hotel is only a few minutes away from Museums, Archaeological Sites and Commercial Center. Right in the heart of the Historical and Commercial Centre of Athens, creates its own page in the history of Hospitality. Ideally located within the vicinity of the Acropolis and Plaka and only a 15 minutes walk from the heart of Athens. A true home-away-from home. A leading deluxe hotel located on the border of the central park of Athens, Pedion Areos (Martian Field). Enjoys a strategic location within easy reach from Kolonaki shopping centre, the National Gallery, and many other attractions. 18 A chic property, designed for the discerning traveler. Situated in Kolonaki, the most exclusive quarter of Athens. This new, modern and very stylish boutique hotel is situated next to Pedion Areos (Martian Field). Known for its comfort, personal service and classic elegance, is one of the most promising 4 star hotels in Athens. A unique Boutique Hotel in the heart of Athens City where style and comfort are happily coupled to offer a pleasant stay. 19

11 Crete Land of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur Full of mountain villages, long sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, azure coasts and a great nightlife. Taste fresh fruit, the best olive oil in the world and healthy, delicious cheeses. Enjoy the delight of sipping a Greek coffee at the roadside kafeneio in a mountain village, the excitement of weddings and other occasions, the history, the traditional life style and Cretan hospitality. Crete boasts developed tourist areas with resort hotels, but also quiet coves, hidden beaches and invigorating mountain villages. The biggest cities are Chania, Rethymno, Iraklio, Agios Nikolaos in the north and Ierapetra in the south. In a nutshell... Heraklion was the center of Minoan civilization. Visit Knossos, the legendary palace of Minos. Lasithi is a land of many faces, of beautiful beaches and picturesque villages. Rethymno is one of the best preserved Renaissance cities in the Mediterranean. Chania is at the western part of Crete. It s a land of unique beauty, location of the famous Samaria gorge

12 ASTORIA CAPSIS 4* OLYMPIC HOTEL 3* KYDON HOTEL 4* ILIANTHOS VILLAGE 5* Heraklion City Heraklion City Heraklion City Chania City Agia Marina Luxury, combined with a pleasant and friendly atmosphere will make you feel like being at home. Just a few meters off the seashore. The luxury and comfort, combined with the attention to the detail and the relaxed atmosphere, provide a holiday to remember for a lifetime! CANDIA MARIS HOTEL 5* Ammoudara FODELE BEACH 5* IKAROS VILLAGE 5* PORTO PLATANIAS 5* HYDRAMIS PALACE 4 sup* Fodele Mallia Platanias Georgioupolis MYTHOS PALACE 4 sup* Kavros - Georgioupolis High Aesthetics and Functionality. Contemporary and Traditional. Seemingly conflicting concepts, but ones that the Galaxy Hotel Iraklio has combined adeptly to create a world-class hotel. High Aesthetics and Functionality. Contemporary and Traditional. Seemingly conflicting concepts, but ones that the Galaxy Hotel Iraklio has combined adeptly to create a world-class hotel. Situated in the heart of Heraklion town. Being the most popular hotel in the city of Heraklion, the Capsis Astoria Hotel is dedicated in offering its guests an unforgettable stay. Lies in a unique location with a breathtaking view, on the exquisite sandy beach of Fodele area (birthplace of the worldwide famous painter Dominikos Theotokopoulos, well known as EL GRECO). Hotel Olympic with long-lasting experience and tradition in hospitality was completely renovated in In its renewed form, it provides services and conveniences that meet the demands of our times. Privacy, Romance and Stress-free Relaxation are complements of this family-friendly Resort. Ikaros Beach Luxury Resort & Spa is stoned-built on a small hill, surrounded by the blue crystal waters of Aegean Sea. A friendly and hospitable hotel is waiting for you in Chania, at the centre of the town, on the square of the old Municipal Market. Aresort designed to offer ultimate pleasure and recreation. Located in one of the most cosmopolitan regions of Crete, Platanias, 10 kilometres west of the town of Chania. The complex looks like a cosmopolitan village with pleasant walkways and gardens. The hotel offers excellent hospitality in pleasant surroundings and is good for any age group. Chania Heraklion MINOA PALACE RESORT & SPA 5* - Platanias GALAXY HOTEL 5* Offers a wonderful family atmosphere and combines the real Cretan Hospitality in an environment, based on modern but also traditional Cretan architecture. SANTA MARINA 4* Ammoudara Lies on a long sandy beach in the region of Ammoudara almost in the center of the island of Crete, Just 6 klms west of Heraklion and 10 kms from the Famous Palace of Knossos. It is a modern hotel offering high standard services

13 Rethymno Ag Nikolaos Elounda 24 ELOUNDA BEACH HOTEL & VILLAS 5* Elounda The ultimate hideaway with luxury guest rooms, villas and suites in Crete Greece. In a unique waterfront location, experience the feeling of relaxing on your own heaven at sea level with outstanding personalized service. AQUILA RITHYMNA BEACH 5* Adelianos Kampos The hotel is situated amidst an almost 20 acres, well-kept and colourful garden and consists of a main house in traditional style and a typical Cretan bungalow village. Rethmyno town is 7 km away. 25

14 Aegean islands argo-saronic islands cyclades dodecanese sporades northeastern aegean islands Pristine beaches, blue skies, bright sun, volcanoes, tiled roofs, cobblestone alleys, chapels, windmills, and monasteries. Veritable jewels set in the blue waters, with picturesque villages and idyllic spots for swimming, fishing, and relaxing. The landscape is marvellous! Each island has something unique to offer the visitor: ancient ruins and history alongside modern attractions. Some of the islands are major tourist resorts, while others retain the typical Greek island way of life. In a nutshell... The Argo-Saronic Islands: Agistri, Aegina, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra and the coastal area of Methana. The Cyclades: A group of 56 islands, the most important ones being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Syros, Tinos and Folegandros, as well as the Minor Cyclades comprising Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia and Schinoussa. The Dodecanese: Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos and Halki. The Northeastern Aegean Islands: Agios Efstratios, Thassos, Ikaria, Lesvos, Limnos, Inousses, Samos, Samothraki, Chios, Psara. The Sporades: Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros 26 27

15 Ios IOS PALACE HOTEL 4* Mylopotas 28 The chic and simple Aegean architecture of this 4 star beach hotel in Mylopotas is merely exceptional and the sea view, as the sun caresses the golden Mylopotas Beach, will capture your senses. LIOSTASI HOTEL & SPA 3 sup * - Chora Amongst the first boutique hotels in Ios Greece, this luxury hotel, creates a romantic atmosphere, of magical island views and contemporary design. Just a breath away from the golden beach and the picturesque Chora. MYCONIAN AMBASSADOR 5* - Platys Yialos Luxury complex situated only a short walk from the beach of Platys Yialos and built in traditional architecture. APHRODITE BEACH 4* Kalafatis Beach An all-in-one beach hotel in Mykonos, Greece, located in one of the island s most famous beaches, Kalafatis beach. GOLDEN BEACH 4* Provatas The Golden Milos Beach 4-star Hotel is the ultimate destination for those seeking to enjoy an unforgettable stay in Milos. It is situated on the marvelous sandy beach at Provata SANTA MARIA VILLAGE 3* Fodele Consists of seven buildings of traditional architecture endowed with modern facilities. The hotel offers bungalows, suites and maisonettes, each featuring a view of our plush garden, the pool, or the sea. MYCONIAN IMPERIAL 5* ROYAL MYCONIAN 5* Elia Beach Elia Beach Situated in the serene Elia Beach of Mykonos. An exclusive luxury hotel in a sacred, authentic, Cycladic environment blended with the cosmopolitan aura of Mykonos. HARMONY 4* Mykonos Town The first Luxury Boutique Hotel in Mykonos by the sea, on the old port of Mykonos. Hotel is a typical example of local folk architecture whitewashed cube-like houses, pure lines and rambling alleys which has inspired dozens of architects around the world. Offers exclusive privacy in a glorious setting on Elia beach, while its dιcor throughout combines spaciousness, luxury and style. A blend of Greek atmosphere with cosmopolitan elegance. PETASSOS BEACHE 4* Platys Yialos Stands majestically on a private peninsula offering transpire great class, impeccable taste in seductive and stunning sea views of the Aegean for unique privacy and relaxation. Myconos Milos An attractive Hotel Bungalow complex, built in Typical Cycladic architecture, overlooking the magic of the Aegean. It is conveniently situated 3,5 km from the main port. DIONYSOS SEASIDE RESORT 4* - Mylopotas SAN MARCO 4* Choulakia The luxurious San Marco Hotel is situated in the exlusive Mykonian area of of Houlakia Bay 4,5 km north of the Town of Mykonos and 1,5 km from the new harbor of Tourlos. The San Marco Hotel s style is in tune with the authentic Cycladic architecture. 29

16 ASTRO PALACE 5* Fira provides guests with fairytale-like vacations from the moment they step through the 5 star design hotel s entrance. Emulating the serenity of Cyclades life coupled with the exciting buzz of Fira, Santorini, guests are welcomed like old friends with heartfelt sincerity. Constructed in 2010 Astro Palace Suites & Spa is a synonym for a shining star combining the radiance of elegant design with the traditional Cycladic architecture using colors of the earth blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural habitat. MAJESTIC 5* Fira SPLENDOUR RESORT 5* Firostefani Offers high quality accommodation and services. Modern spirited and fashionable, it is bound to electrify its guest with a breeze of luxury and comfort and the breathtaking view of the glorious sunset of Santorini. This unique Resort, with a clear aim to MAINTAIN the local architectural traditional elements, yet combines the discrete minimal luxury. EL GRECO HOTEL 4* Fira A place that combines simplicity with beauty and make your stay in a resort hotel a truly unforgettable experience. 30 KASTELLI HOTEL 5* Kamari In a beautiful fusion of nature and Cycladic architectural splendor this small luxury hotel in Kamari Santorini exudes an air of casual luxury and relaxed elegance. Member of Small Luxury Hotels. DAEDALUS HOTEL 4* KALLISTI THERA 4* Daedalus Hotel is centrally situated only 100m from the central square of Fira where all restaurants, shops and bars are located. Conveniently stands in the heart of Fira Town, the charming capital of Santorini Island, just few minutes away from the stunning caldera rim, museums, galleries, fine restaurants, the shopping center and nightlife. Fira Fira MEDITERRANEAN BEACH PALACE 4* - Monolithos Constructed in a traditional Aegean style, covers an extent of square meters containing the establishment, gardens and a private beach. It is recommended for unique and unforgettable holidays, since it is a real paradise. AEGEAN PLAZA 4* SANTORINI PALACE 4* KAMARI BEACH HOTEL 3 * MAKARIOS HOTEL 3* Aegean Plaza Hotel located just 30 meters from the black sandy beach, close to a marvelous coast line full of restaurants, cafes, bars and all kind of shops. Only a few meters away from the cliff of the Caldera and the panoramic view of the volcano. The hotel offers a combination of beautiful Cycladic architecture, open spaces, resort facilities and proximity to interesting sites. A warm and hospitable 3-star shelter to harbor your precious time in Santorini awaits you and your family. Kamari Fira Kamari Kamari Situated in a quiet area and following the traditional, simple lines of the architecture of the Aegean islands, with arches and bright colors, the Hotel Makarios welcomes you to it slavish gardens, the shade of palm trees and the realxing swimming pool. Santorini Santorini ARESSANA SPA HOTEL & SUITES 5* - Fira VILLA MATHIOS 3* Akrotiri Villa Mathios & Mathios Village is a tradiotionally Cycladic family run hotel, in the historical Akrotiri village situated at the famous for the red & white beaches and its famous archeological places. 31

17 Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Aegean, the Ionian and the Mediterranean Seas. Its population is approximately 11 million of which 3.7 million are located in Athens, the country s capital. Greece is a country unique in beauty that has much to offer visitors: a rich historical, archaeological and mythological heritage, warm hospitality, beautiful landscapes, picturesque ports and villages, hundreds of charming and romantic islands, endless sandy beaches with crystal blue waters. With such abundance, Greece is one of the favourite and top holiday destinations. LANGUAGE Currency climate The official language in The currency unit is the Euro Mediterranean with hot and Greece is modern Greek, ( ). Euro may be obtained at dry summers and mild, wet but in tourist areas English, any Greek bank. The rate of winters. Most of the rain falls French, Italian, and German exchange fluctuates a little in autumn and winter. Spring are also spoken. from day to day. is hot and autumn long and warm. TIME Electricity The lowest temperatures are 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round recorded between December GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last two-pin plugs are used. North and February, and the highest Sunday in March to last Americans will need a trans- in July and August. In gener- Sunday in October). former and British an adaptor. al, Greece enjoys over 250 days of sunshine annually

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