The Finest of Flavours

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1 Activity Level: Occasional Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights The Finest of Flavours Experience Greece Join us to discover how Greece s national cuisine is evolving in a mouthwatering fusion of traditional values and modern interpretation. Superb ingredients and countless regional combinations make Greek cuisine endlessly variable, with dishes that echo the essence of the country itself. On this trip you will have the chance to meet local producers, discuss cooking methods with renowned chefs, sip fantastic local wines and taste the finest fare that this country has to offer. Expect everything to be prepared with only the best quality virgin olive oils and the freshest sunripened produce. Savour them alongside artisanal cheeses of the Greek countryside, aromatic bites of spoon sweets, fresh local herbs and the finest pure honey. Kalí óreksi! Butterfield & Robinson has partnered with SAVEUR, a magazine dedicated to savouring the world through authentic cuisine, to showcase extraordinary culinary destinations around the world. These special departures offer a unique opportunity to experience once-in-alifetime access to the people, places and flavours of our favourite culinary destinations. Call us at the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.5 view > / the details p.6 view > / next steps p.7 view >

2 2 the journey Day 1 Athens to Peloponnese & Nemean Wines WE WILL MEET TODAY AT NOON IN THE LOBBY OF THE Grande Bretagne Hotel, where your B&R guides will welcome you as you begin your journey to the magnificent Peloponnese. The Peloponnese is the most famous area of the Greek mainland; the region has been inhabited for over 10,000 years and is renowned for its olives, eggplants, zucchinis, artichokes and oranges. Wine has also been produced here for thousands of years in fact, Homer, the famous poet of ancient Greece, fittingly described the Peloponnese as ampeloessa, meaning: full of vines. After a 1h30m drive, our first stop will be at the ancient site of Nemea where we will visit the Skouras Estate. This winery was established in 1986 by Dijontrained oenologist, George Skouras. In 1988, he launched his pioneering Megas Oenos label and was the first winemaker to blend the local grape varietal, Agiorgitiko, with Cabernet Sauvignon which was a great success! We will have the chance to taste this award-winning krasiá alongside a specially prepared lunch. Afterward, you will continue to Monemvasia (3h15m) and the Kinsterna Hotel. Upon arrival you ll have some time to relax in the romantic atmosphere of the hotel before dinner. Meals: Lunch and Dinner Day 2 Olive oil and Monemvasia After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we will proceed to the Liotrivi Mansion where we ll learn about traditional olive oil production methods. Then, compliment your newly acquired expertise with a tasting session of locally produced olive oils, followed by lunch in the mansion s garden. In the afternoon, we will be joined by a local tour guide and proceed to Monemvasia this historical town is located on a peninsula that is linked to the mainland by a thin strip of land. In the Middle Ages, Monemvasia became an important maritime trade center and was fortified with high stone walls and towers to protect its population from enemy attacks. During this time, it became the seat of one of the Imperial Governors of the Byzantine Empire. To this day, the town has retained its charm and beauty with countless stone houses and medieval churches still standing within its walls. In the evening we will enjoy a dinner with local specialties, such as hilopites (a square pasta made with egg, corn-flower and milk), stew with chicken and spoon sweets made with various fruits and honey all of which will be paired with wines from all over Greece.

3 3 Day 3 Bread, Wine, Tsipouro and Diples Let our local guides educate you on various Greek herbs as you explore an estate and its vineyard this morning. Learn to make your own loaf of country bread and then, as the bread is baking, enjoy a tasting session of Tsipouro and the local variety of wine known as Malvasia, which has been produced in the region for many centuries. After the tasting you will sit down for lunch with your freshly made bread, Malvasia wine and a few bottles of Tsipouro to enjoy. Your accompanying meal will focus on simple dishes with fresh local ingredients including: salad, grilled meats, local fruits and diples (thin crispy fried dough with syrup). Delicious! In the afternoon, learn how to make Greek coffee a strong concoction that requires just the right timing and technique in order to ensure that the beverage is topped with a fragrant and tasty foam. This evening, dinner will focus on Greek cheeses you ll taste several well known varieties such as, Graviera, Anthotyros, Kasseri and of course, Feta. After the presentation and tasting, savory specialties such as village salad with feta and saganaki (which is scampi and cheese in tomato sauce), as well as a classic cheese pie will be served. This will be accompanied by Mavrotragano which is a hearty red wine originating from the island of Santorini. HOTEL Kinsterna Hotel & Spa, Monemvasia Surrounded by gardens and vineyards, the Kinsterna Hotel & Spa offers flawless hospitality with a strong focus on spa and wellness. The history, location & unique architecture of the Byzantine-era rural mansion where it is situated make this accommodation a truly unique experience. THE ACTIVITY Day 1: Visit Skouras Estate in Nemea for a tasting and lunch. Day 2: Learn about tradition olive oil production methods at Liotrivi Mansion, followed by a local tasting. Take a guided tour of the historical town of Monemvasia in the afternoon. Day 3: Learn how to bake your own country bread and enjoy a Tsipouro wine tasting session. Try your hand at brewing Greek coffee and then enjoy a dinner focused on regional cheeses. Day 4 Yogurt, Vine Leaves & Local Cheeses Today, we ll bid farewell to the Kinsterna Hotel and travel north towards the port of Rafina. Along the way we ll stop in Argos and visit a local yogurt maker who produces one of the finest Greek yogurts in the country. You will learn about production methods and, of course, taste this mouth-watering product (if you re lucky, he might even share his secret recipe!). We will then proceed to the Spilia restaurant for lunch where you ll enjoy dolmades (stuffed vine leaves) and chicken with lemon sauce. After our meal, we ll board the ferry with full bellies and enjoy the view as we cruise from Rafina to the island of Tinos. Dinner will be at a lovely restaurant near your hotel tonight.

4 4 Day 5 Regional Breakfast & Local Cheeses leaves. Dinner tonight will be at your leisure your guides will be happy to make recommendations and reservations. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Today, revel in the unspoiled architecture, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches of Tinos. This region s gastronomy is what sets it apart from the other Greek islands and is one of the most important aspects of traditional culture on the isle. The terrain of Tinos, although anhydrous, nurtures a large range of unique products, which facilitates the region s wide palette. This morning we will explore the lovely flavors of the area with a traditional breakfast filled with local products from the island fragrant freshly-baked bread with aniseed, omelets with all the seasonings, homemade cheese pie, local jams and aromatic coffee mixed with barley! We will also uncover the delicious secrets of Tinos local cheeses and what makes them so special! (Hint: Over the years, many dairy producers across Europe have deviated from traditional methods. Here, on the other hand, the producers let nature take its course, resulting in a soft white petroma (meaning rock ), as the locals call it.) This afternoon, our guide will accompany us on a drive to the village of Steni, which lies at the foot of Tsiknias the highest mountain of the island. Here, we will visit the dairy farm of a young couple who specialize in Kariki and Malathouni, two rare traditional cheeses. In the same village we will stop at the historical Agios Antonios church, where we ll view various ornaments from the 17th and 18th centuries, followed by lunch at a quaint local tavern. Our last stop will be in the village of Kechros where we ll explore the narrow alleys and whitewalled houses. Here, a local villager will open her home and together we will learn how to prepare one of her most famous sweets, Pasteli, served on fragrant lemon Day 6 Louza & Beer Apart from the cheeses, the Cycladic islands (especially Tinos) are also famous for their cold cuts most notably, Louza. Today, we will visit a small producer who specializes in this particular cold cut and learn why this thin slice of meat is so appreciated! In order to be produced, round steaks of pork are marinated for three consecutive days in salt, wine and a spice mixture of fennel, cinnamon and cloves. Of course, the best way to enjoy louza is with a glass of Tinian Raki which we will be sure to do. After a sojourn at one of Tinos beaches and perhaps a bit of a walk, we will proceed to a lovely tavern overlooking the Aegean Sea. Here, together with Antonia, the owner and cook, we will collect vegetables and herbs from her garden

5 5 and prepare delicious salads, classic appetizers and fresh fish dishes. At this particular tavern they eschew alcoholic beverages in favour of fresh juices and tangy lemonades. After lunch, we will either return to the hotel or relax by the beach. Then, late in the afternoon, we visit Nissos (meaning, island ), a Cyclades microbrewery owned by our friends Alex and Maya. Their brewery project originally stemmed from a desire for a change in their lifestyle and the idea was to produce quality craft beers brewed by people who care for the land. Alex will open the doors of his second home for us and introduce us to his brewing process. We will gain insight into the art of quality beer making and taste freshly made brew straight from the tank on the veranda overlooking the island of Delos. Our dinner today will be at a superb local restaurant close to the port, followed by late night drinks by the water. HOTEL Aeolis Tinos Suites, Tinos The Aeolis Tinos Suites offer the cosmopolitan luxury of Mykonos along with the unique tranquility of Tinian atmosphere. Every suite boasts it own unique design with exceptional attention to detail and they all share spectacular panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Day 7 Exploring a Local Farm This morning we will rise early to catch the ferry from Tinos to Mykonos. Upon arrival, our local host will offer us a panoramic tour of the town, passing by the windmills, traditional bakery, fish market and the numerous churches of the island before escorting us to a local farm. The farm was established in 1994 as a result of Niko, the owner s, desire to leave his career as a bank inspector, get out of Athens and return to his roots. He now farms and produces 4.4 hectares worth of wine, vinegar, vine leaves, grape molasses and table grapes. The farm also hosts 20 beehives and produces its own honey. The bread is made with organic flour and a variety of seeds and is baked in a traditional woodfired oven. They also cultivate a small vegetable garden producing exceptionally fresh ingredients on a daily basis. Other members of the farm s family include dogs, cats, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, sheep and the celebrity donkey, Giakoumis. Once we ve made ourselves at home, we ll begin preparing our lunchtime meal, guided by the THE ACTIVITY Day 4: Visit a local yogurt-maker and learn about his process. Enjoy lunch at Spilia restaurant and then ferry over to the island of Tinos. Day 5: Explore Tinos and its gastronomy. Then, visit a family owned dairy farm in Steni, which specializes in rare traditional cheeses. Spend the afternoon in Kehros helping a local villager prepare some of her famous lemon sweets. Day 6: Learn all about louza at a local producer s facility; help prepare lunch with freshly collected vegetables and herbs; sample some top quality ale straight from the tank at a local microbrewery.

6 6 expertise of local cooks. This afternoon, after a short flight from Mykonos to Athens, we ll have some time to freshen up at the hotel before our farewell dinner in Mikrolimano Bay at Michelin starred restaurant,varoulko. Day 8 Farewell This morning you ll enjoy an early breakfast before beginning your guided tour of the city, visiting all of Athens renowned landmarks. It s here that the definitive monument of human civilization was created by combining the best of science, art and philosophy UNESCO calls it the symbol of World Heritage; the world calls it the Athenian Acropolis! The history of the Acropolis is long, rich and fascinating. It continues to stand proud as a symbol to human development in many ways: democracy and culture, civilization and unity. Afterward, you will enjoy the best of Athens street food: a Greek souvlaki! We will then proceed to the airport for our departure. Antío! Meals: Breakfast and Lunch HOTEL Grande Bretagne, Athens With breathtaking views of the famed Acropolis and Parthenon, the utterly refined five-star Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens. Each of the 320 rooms offer either enchanting views of the courtyard or a panorama of the city. The space also includes a beautiful spa and a rooftop restaurant. THE ACTIVITY Day 7: Take a guided tour of Mykonos; explore a local farm, then take a short flight to Athens for a Michelin starred dinner! Day 8: Take in all of the must-see sights on a guided tour of Athens in the morning; visit the Acropolis and sample some authentic Greek street food.

7 The Details 7 ROMANIA ITALY CROATIA BULGARIA Black Sea GREECE Athens Tinos Mykonos GREECE TURKEY Monemvasia Mediterranean Sea Aegean Sea 2017 Price: From $7,950 (from $1000 single supplement) Single supplement is based on the most affordable rooms within B&R s allocation. Upgrades often available. Duration 8 Days / 7 Nights Please see our website for list of departures. Start Athens Grande Bretagne Hotel 12:00pm Finish Athens Airport After lunch the details HOTEL TYPE Signature Hotels Hotels on our Signature trips are unique expressions of the region. Oftentimes that means they ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case it means they offer both an exceptionally comfortable stay and a taste of the region s culture. Best of all, we re friends with our hoteliers. (Translation? Preferential treatment for you.) LEVEL OF ACTIVITY Occasional Walks will be easygoing and take place on cobbled city streets, village paths and quiet roadways. MORE INFO How do I get to Athens? Most international flights will land directly in Athens. The Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport at Spata (21 km east of Athens) is 27 km (17 mi.) east of the city centre. Taxis can be found outside exit #3 and fare from the airport to the city centre in downtown Athens costs 35 during the day and 50 during the night. Be sure to ask if the flat fare includes toll costs and all fees. GRANDE BRETAGNE HOTEL, ATHENS With breathtaking views of the famed Acropolis and Parthenon, the utterly refined five-star Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens. Each of the 320 rooms offer either enchanting views of the courtyard or a panorama of the city. The space also includes a beautiful spa and a rooftop restaurant. WHAT S INCLUDED All hotel accommodation Meals as indicated Domestic flights Services of B&R guide(s) and support van All special events, private tours, guest experts and entrance fees. Detailed maps, route suggestions and water bottle. All transportation from rendezvous to drop-off All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service. The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.

8 Your Next Steps 8 your next steps Weather: Athens month high low Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/Jun Jul/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec At Butterfield & Robinson, the guiding starts while you re still at home. We make sure you know everything you need to know before you ve even left your living room. READY TO BOOK? Call or a Travel Advisor (or your travel agent) with any remaining questions, and to reserve your space / Reserve your flights to and from the region. Book your hotel accommodation for the night before your B&R trip. Make sure your passport is up to date. Enquire after travel insurance. Once you are confirmed on a B&R trip, you will receive a Confirmation that links to tons of information to help you prepare for your trip. Then, about a month before you leave, we will send you a list of your fellow travellers, final rendezvous instructions and your hotel contact numbers. FIND US ON FACEBOOK Like B&R on Facebook and get the latest news and photos from the road, updates from guides and more. STAY IN TOUCH! Sign up to receive The Slow Road our e-newsletter that is full of travel news, unique offers and B&R insider info. In the meantime, if you have any questions about your B&R experience big, small or downright quirky please call a Travel Advisor, or contact your travel professional. We are always happy to help. The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.