FAMILY ADVENTURE IN THE PELOPONNESE & CYCLADES OF GREECE

Transcription

1 FAMILY ADVENTURE IN THE PELOPONNESE & CYCLADES OF GREECE Itinerary Overview

2 Greece is a haven for families climb to hill-top ancient temples and pretend you are Zeus or Athena, hike through beautiful river caverns, kick around a soccer ball with other children in the white-washed island streets, and swim in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. We explore amazing ancient sites such as the Parthenon and Delphi. Our first stop, the Peloponnese peninsula, is home to Olympia and many archeological wonders of Greece as well as lovely rivers and stone-paved mountain pathways where we experience rural village life. The stunning Cyclade Islands are famous for their picturesque houses and crystal waters. Here you can snorkel off the beaches, meet shepherds while walking on local paths, and traipse under rows of stone lions at Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Come with us to Greece for the opportunity to see historic temples up close, taste the delicious cuisine and enjoy the warmth of the Greek families we meet along the way. DAY OVERNIGHT HOTEL MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 ATHENS 2 NAFPLIO 3 NAFPLIO DIMITSANA VILLAGE ILIA, OLYMPIA ILIA, OLYMPIA 7 GALIXIDI Philippos Perivoli Perivoli Koustenis Pelops Pelops Archontiko D BL BL 8 ATHENS Avra BL 9 TINOS Onar 10 TINOS Onar 11 TINOS Onar BL 12 SANTORINI 13 SANTORINI 14 ATHENS Daedalus Daedalus Philippos BD Transfer in. Guided stroll in Plaka with welcome dinner. Visit Parthenon, Panathinaikon stadium and ancient sites of Athens. Drive to Nafplio; climb to Palamidi Castle. Visit ancient Mycenae and theater of Epidaurus. Beach time in afternoon. Hike Lousios Gorge between two monasteries. Drive to Dimitsana mountain village. Travel to remains of Temple of Apollo Epikourios. Enjoy river trekking in the Neda river. Wander in the classical site for the Olympics to see ancient temples. Beach time in afternoon. Drive to Delphi on the mainland over the new Rio-Anitio Bridge along the Corinthian Gulf. Visit Nafpaktos town and castle. Tour Delphi, a major site for worship of Apollo and home of a famous oracle. Visit Arachova village for lunch. Return to Athens and overnight at Rafina port Transfer to the dock for the early ferry to Tinos island in the Cyclades. Visit Pyrgos village and swim at Panormas. Visit monastery. Cooking class in the morning then walk back to town with views of Aegean and country. Ferry to Delos island, mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and center of Cyclades. Ferry to Santorini. Free time in afternoon. See kayaking in caldera or on the coast. Enjoy Fira town. Morning on own. Optional hike to Oia village. Ferry to Athens. Farewell dinner. 15 DEPARTURE B Transfer to airport for departure. -2-

3 DAY 1: ARRIVE IN ATHENS Receive a warm welcome after passing through customs and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby in the late afternoon and stretch your legs on a stroll through the streets of the Plaka district to your welcome dinner. Plaka is the district just beneath the Acropolis and is famous for its neoclassical architecture. It is a lively area buzzing with picturesque taverns, music performances and an active street life. Overnight at Philippos in Athens. [D] DAY 2: ATHENS NAFPLIO Enjoy the grand classical sites of Athens including the Acropolis, Constitution Square, Panathinaikon Stadium, where the first Olympic games of the modern era were held in 1896, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian s Arch and the New Acropolis Museum. Itinerary in Detail The Parthenon, the greatest and finest sanctuary of ancient Athens, dedicated to its patron, the goddess Athena, dominates the center of the modern city from the hill known as the Acropolis. The monuments of the Acropolis - the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike - stand in harmony with their natural setting. These unique masterpieces of ancient architecture combine different orders and styles of classical art in a most innovative manner and have influenced art and culture for many centuries. The Acropolis of the fifth century BC is the most accurate reflection of the splendor, power and wealth of Athens at its greatest peak, the golden age of Pericles. The temple, dedicated to the Athena Parthenos, was constructed in 15 years. The Parthenon architectural sculptures, namely the metopes, frieze and pediments, were made of Pentelic marble and embellished with metal attachments and paint. After lunch, you drive to Peloponnese and the first capital of Greece, Nafplio. Explore the town walking among the picturesque alleys and climbing the 999 steps of Palamidi Castle. Overnight Perivoli. [] DAY 3: MYCENAE EPIDAURUS You will spend your day exploring some of the best preserved and world-known sites of Greece: Epidavre and Mycenae. Mycenae is intrinsic to the works of Homer, the 9 th -century BC poet. Enter the Mycenean citadel through the Lion's Gate that dates back to BC. Wander through the remaining ruins to admire the enormous Cyclopean walls, still a wonder how they were created. Just outside the walls, do not forget to visit the vault-shaped tombs of Lions, Aegisthus and Clytaemnestra, and the Treasury of Atreus. -3-

4 Also visit the third-century theater of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved classical Greek structures renowned for its superb acoustics. Epidavre was created in honour of the God of Medicine, Asklepios, son of Apollo and Coronis. In its glory, sick people came on a pilgrimage to the shrine to spend the night in the hope that Asklepios would appear in their dreams with a diagnosis and a prescription. Asklepios could not only heal the living, but also raise the dead to life to such an extent that Hades from the underworld complained. At the end of the day, enjoy a refreshing swim in a nearby beach. Overnight at Perivoli. [BL] DAY 4: HIKE LOUSIOS GORGE DIMITSANA Today you drive towards central Peloponnese for a hike from the Monastery of Filosofou to the Monastery of Prodromou. This interesting trek combines history with nature amongst trails of dense vegetation following and criss-crossing the Lousios River. During your hike, you will visit the monasteries, taste local delicacies, and visit the Krifo Sholio, Hidden Schools, the well-hidden schools that were used during Turkish occupation by the Greeks to educate their children. The monasteries appear to be literally hanging from the cliffs. The end of the trek is the archaeological site of ancient Gortys. This is one of the most stirring of all Greek sites as it is based along the rushing river known in ancient times as the Gortynios. Following the trekking, enjoy flying fox activity for more fun! Later, drive to the mountain village of Dimitsana with stonemade buildings and stone-paved alleys. Overnight at Koustenis. [] DAY 5: BASSAE RIVER WALK OLYMPIA Your day will start with another journey through history. The territory of Bassae is located between Arcadia, Triphylia, and Messenia, on the western slopes of Mt. Kotilion near the ancient city of Phigaleia. The mountain is scored with ravines (vassai), which give the place its name. In this bare, rocky landscape, 1131 meters above sea level, the people of Phigaleia founded a sanctuary in honor of Apollo. A sacred road connected the sanctuary with the city, nearly thirteen kilometers away. The sanctuary was dominated by one of the most imposing monuments of ancient Greece: the Temple of Apollo Epikourios, whose cult was established in the late eighth century BC. The god was given the surname 'epikourios', either because he was thought to have helped the Phigaleians in their struggle against Sparta in 659 BC, or because he prevented the plague from spreading during the Peloponnesian War. Apollo is also named 'vassitas' in an inscription from this site. On the same location, you will refresh yourselves in Neda, the only river in Greece with female name. The crossing takes place in the most spectacular part of the gorge passing through stone bridges, narrow cliffs, underwater caves and impressive waterfalls. You will walk along the riverbanks and inside the river. At some parts the gorge is very narrow and you will have to swim. Total walking time is about 4 hours. The river trek ends in a place with natural river pools under a spectacular waterfall, a really fun paradise for anyone wishing to swim. Drive to the town near to Olympia, where we will spend the night. Overnight at Pelops. [] -4-

5 DAY 6: OLYMPIA In the morning, visit the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia. The Ancient Olympic Games were a series of athletic competitions held for representatives of various city-states of Ancient Greece. Records indicate that they began in 776 BC in Olympia and were usually held every four years. During a celebration of the Games the Olympic Truce was enacted to enable athletes to travel from their countries to Olympia in safety. The prizes for the victors were laurel wreaths and palm branches. Only men of Greek origin were allowed to participate. The archaeological site of Olympia includes the sanctuary of Zeus and the many buildings erected around it, such as athletic premises used for the preparation and celebration of the Olympic Games, administrative buildings and other lay buildings and monuments. The Altis occupies the center of the site and was a sacred enclosure with temples, cult buildings and treasuries, occupies the centre of the site. The Classical Temple of Zeus and the earlier Temple of Hera dominate the Altis. Ancient Olympia is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. After lunch, you will relax by the beach and again spend the night in Olympia. Overnight at Pelops. [BL] DAY 7: OLYMPIA DELPHI You depart for your journey in the Greek mainland to Delphi. You cross the newly constructed Rio-Antirio Bridge and drive along the Corinthian gulf. En route, you will visit Nafpaktos town and castle and drive onwards to the seaside town of Galaxidi for a picturesque walk in town and of course a refreshing swim after the long day of driving (260 km /4 hrs). Overnight at Archontiko. [] DAY 8: DELPHI RAFINA PORT In the morning you enter the center of the Ancient world, The Omphalos (Navel of the Earth). On the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo. Visit the Treasury of the Athenians the Temple of Apollo and the Museum containing such masterpieces of ancient Greek sculptures as the bronze Charioteer and the famous athlete Aghias. Delphi was a major site for the worship of the god Apollo after he slew Python, a deity who lived there and protected the navel of the Earth and the Delphic Oracle, the most important oracle in the classical Greek world. Apollo s sacred precinct in Delphi was a panhellenic sanctuary, where every four years athletes from all over the Greek world competed in the Pythian Games, one of the four panhellenic games. Delphi was revered throughout the Greek world as the site of the Omphalos stone, the center of the earth and the universe. The Pythia was the priestess presiding over the Oracle of Apollo at Delphi. The Pythia was widely credited with giving prophecies inspired by Apollo, giving her a prominence unusual for a woman in male-dominated ancient Greece. The Delphic oracle was established in the 8th century BC. Its last recorded response was given in 393 AD, when the emperor Theodosius I ordered pagan temples to cease operation. During this period the Delphic Oracle was the most prestigious and authoritative oracle in the Greek world. One common view has been that the Pythia delivered oracles in a frenzied state induced by vapors rising from a chasm in the rock, and that she spoke gibberish which priests reshaped into the enigmatic prophecies preserved in Greek literature. Delphi is included on the UNESCO s World Heritage List. -5-

6 Later, you will drive to the nearby village of Arachova for lunch. Arachova is famous for its traditional textiles, olive trees, and vineyards from which a fine black wine is produced. Arachova's weavers continue their traditions with hand looms and natural stain colors. Local savories such as marmalades, sweets, and local drinks are also made traditionally. Arachova is also a great place to shop the locally produced brightly colored shoulder bags and rugs. In the evening drive to Rafina Port (the second largest of Athens) where you will spend the night in order to catch an early morning ferry the next day. Overnight at Avra. [BL] DAY 9: TINOS ISLAND Early this morning, you transfer to Rafina Port to catch your ferry to Tinos (standard ferry, 07:50-11:35 AM, or similar). Tinos is the one of the biggest islands of the Cyclades at approximately 195 square kilometers. Tinos first names were Hydroussa and Offiousa, because it had a lot of water (hydor) and snakes (ofis). In mythology, Poseidon freed the island of snakes. As a sign of gratitude, the islanders worshipped the God Poseidon and his wife, the water nymph, Amphitrite. Today, the island has around 10,000 inhabitants spread out in its 52 villages and the main town of Chora. Tinos is famous amongst Greeks for the Church of Virgin Mary. Tradition says that a nun, Pelagia, from the nearby convent of Kechrovouni had visions of Virgin Mary revealing to her the burial place of an icon. After intensive searching, an icon was indeed found at the spot where the Church stands today. Today the icon is widely believed to be the source of numerous miracles and Tinos has become the center of a yearly pilgrimage that takes place on the 15th of August. Many pilgrims make their way the 800 meters from the ferry wharf to the church on their hands and knees as sign of devotion. Furthermore, Tinos is known for its 90 or so windmills and for its 600 or more dovecotes, which were built during the Venetian occupation. There are no two identical ones. Their purpose was pigeon/dove-farming for their meat. From the dock, drive to the picturesque village of Pyrgos to learn about the green marble of Tinos and see small marble workshops, as well as the museum and cemetery of the island. Tinos is renowned for its marble craftsmen and sculptors such as Giannoulis Halepas, as well as for its painters. Two of the most important Greek painters of the 19th century, Nikiforos Lytras and Nikolaos Gyzis, came from Tinos. Take a short walk to Panormos for lunch and a swim before returning to your hotel. In the evening visit the church and monastery before taking dinner in town. Overnight at Onar. [] DAY 10: TINOS LOCAL WALK & COOKING CLASS Today we combine a light hike to introduce you to the local culture of the island. Transfer to Tripotamo, where a Greek cook will teach you how to prepare Greek Cycladic traditional recipes using local ingredients from her garden. Focus is on local cheese, the famous Tinian dried tomatoes, zucchini, and other fresh vegetables. After cooking enjoy a meal with what you prepared. Then continue your downhill walk to the town of Tinos while admiring the breathtaking view to the Aegean Sea and lot s of indigenous acquaintances (shepherds, goats, farmers etc!) Overnight at Onar. [] -6-

7 DAY 11: TINOS DELOS After breakfast you will depart by boat for the Cycladic Island of Delos, mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The word Cyclades derives from the Greek word kyklos (circle). The five islands of Mykonos, Tinos, Paros, Naxos, and Syros form a circle around the sacred island of Delos. You will see the famous Lion Avenue, the three temples of Poseidon, the stadium, and the old gymnasium. View artifacts from the 6th century BC in the museum. Return to Tinos. The rest of the day is free to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and wander in the town. Overnight at Onar. [BL] DAY 12: TINOS SANTORINI Board the ferry to the world famous island of Santorini where you explore its beautiful beaches, ancient cities, spectacular scenery, amazing cafes, and delicious wine, walking on side streets leading up to the edge of the massive caldera. Depending on the ferry schedule, upon stepping foot on these ancient shores enjoy free time to wander the cobblestone streets amongst white-washed buildings where you can sit yourself down at a hilltop cafe to enjoy a sip of wine and cool drink watching the stunning sunset of Santorini over the Aegean before meeting up with your local Santorini guide. Overnight at Daedalus. [] **Please note, the ferry schedule will depend on the dates chosen for your trip** DAY 13: SANTORINI Spend the day on lovely Santorini Island, exploring the coasts of Santorini via sea kayak. Depending on weather, either paddle to the most beautiful beaches or inside the caldera. In the evening, walk through Fira town and explore its alleys before enjoying dinner. Overnight at Daedalus. [] DAY 14: SANTORINI ATHENS Enjoy a free morning. You may relax on the beach soaking in the Greek sun and sea or go on an optional hike to Oia. The path to Oia starts from the cable car station. For the first 40 minutes you walk on a stone path before turning to dirt. End in the village of Oia (approx 3 hours). Those who wish can enjoy lunch before returning to Fira. In the evening fly back to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, transfer to your hotel and meet later in the evening for farewell dinner. Overnight at Philippos. [BD] DAY 15: DEPARTURE Transfer to the Athens airport for international departure. [B] END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. -7-

8 CLICK HERE FOR PRICING CLICK HERE FOR DATES Please call us for triple rates INCLUDED SERVICES Accommodations of 14 nights in double-occupancy bed and breakfast basis as listed, or similar Airport-hotel transfers on scheduled dates Ferry tickets in economy class Athens - Tinos - Santorini Flight Santorini - Athens Transportation with private air-conditioned vehicles with driver. For groups of 4-5, transfer will be via Nissan Evalia 7 seater. For larger groups, it will be via a 17-seater mini-bus English-speaking private guide throughout the itinerary Specialist guides for antiquities (Athens, Mycenae, Epidavre, Vasses, Olympia, Delphi) Cooking class in Tinos Delos excursion (boat and tickets) Sea kayaking in Santorini Meals as specified [B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner] Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services. SERVICES NOT INCLUDED International flights Tips and gratuities Personal expenses Optional or suggested services on your own Airport transfers on alternate dates subject to additional cost Travel insurance, medical costs, hospitalization and evacuation Extra costs due to unanticipated changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control -8-

9 ACCOMMODATIONS HOTEL PHILIPPOS, ATHENS Philippos is a family owned hotel ideally located in the heart of the old city district, only a two minute walk from the Acropolis, Plaka, and the Herodus Atticus. The fifty rooms and suites are modernly styled, and are nicely furnished with elegant fabrics and ambient lighting. Rooms also come equipped with A/C, electronic safe, satellite TV, and refrigerator. Some of the rooms also have a balcony with a view of the Acropolis. Philippos also has numerous family rooms that are quite spacious and are specifically designed to fit a whole family. Buffet breakfast is served at the all-day café. Lunch and dinner are served at their partner hotel Herodion, located just 130 feet away. HOTEL PERIVOLI Designed to fit into a privileged location, each room offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, allowing guests to contemplate the valley, the village, perhaps even Tolo sea, weather permitting. With only 12 rooms, the feeling is intimate but welcoming, with a pool, restaurant, complimentary WiFi, dry cleaning/laundry service. Rooms have individual A/C, hardwood floors, fireplace, satellite LED TV, mini-bar, coffee maker, bathrobes, hairdryer, and environmentally safe bath amenities KOUSTENIS VILLAGE, DIMITSANA Koustenis Village is located on 50 acres in beautiful and traditional Dimitsana, overlooking the unique gorge of Lucius. This stone-built three star complex is walking distance from the town center. It consists of six large buildings hosting spacious rooms, a breakfast room, and large living room with a fireplace, conference center, and game room. On the hotel grounds you will also find a large garden with paved paths, a playground for children to enjoy, and basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. HOTEL PELOPS, ILIA Pelops is one of the first hotels to open in ancient Olympia and has been in business for over 40 years. The family run hotel offers 18 fully equipped and comfortable rooms, all with balconies overlooking the everyday life of the village and Wi-Fi internet access. The hotel is located a half mile (ten minute walk) from the archaeological site (home of the Olympic stadium) and museums. The hotel features a comfortable lounge with a fireplace, a courtyard where you can enjoy ouza and a coffee, and a dining room with a bar where you can enjoy the buffet breakfast or meals on request. -9-

10 ARCHONTIKO ART HOTEL, GALIXIDI In the historic shipbuilding village of Galixidi, a short stroll to the blue sea, lies Archontiko Art, Each room boasts a balcony with ocean views, perhaps even a glimpse of Mt Parnassus, and has unique decorative touches reflecting the culture and artistic leanings of the owners. The garden of pomegranate bushes, roses and brilliant bougainvilleas spreads over pebbled walkways, a carved stone staircase and ancient well, creating a welcoming spot to relax in the shade and listen to the sea. Rooms offer king size beds, complimentary WiFi, room service, TV, A/C, hair dryers, safe, mini-bar AVRA HOTEL, RAFINA Avra is strategically located right by the marina port of Rafina, about 30 minutes from the center of Athens and just 100 yards from the beach. The hotel offers 96 well-designed, renovated, and refurbished guest rooms, many of which offer a fantastic view of the Aegean Sea. Each room features satellite TV, air-conditioning, safe, and internet access. At the on-site La Marinera restaurant you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the romantic Rafina port from either the indoor dining area of the beautiful veranda while dining on traditional Greek and Italian cuisine. HOTEL ONAR, TINOS Onar is a whitewashed boutique hotel in the town of Tinos. Its Perogolas verandas, stone arches and small pool provide a welcome and relaxing feel. The superior suites have separate bedrooms, a fireplace, and LCD televisions. All rooms have air conditioning, kitchenette with a fridge, LCD TV, and free wireless internet. Many of the balconies have great views of the old port. The hotel is located just 500 feet from the beach. DAEDALUS HOTEL, SANTORINI Well located in Fira, guests have easy access to the local market, restaurants, and other sites on the caldera. Relax by the swimming pool, or take advantage of the outdoor sauna and Jacuzzi. The hotel offers Wi-Fi, and a TV room. Rooms at the Daedalus have been recently renovated many opening onto a spacious terrace overlooking the pool and beautiful gardens. All rooms offer air conditioning, satellite TV, direct dial telephones, safe, mini-bar, hair dryer and Wi-Fi access. -10-