A Taste of the Greek Islands

Akrotiri

During the early Bronze Age the settlement of Akrotiri was founded and gradually grew over the centuries to become one of the main ports in the Ancient Aegean. The town was abandoned over 3,000 years ago then buried under tons of ash from the catastrophic Minoan eruption – a fate that Pompeii would share a millennium later. Since excavations of this three-hectare site began in 1967, thirty buildings have been uncovered along with a number of well-preserved and richly detailed frescoes.

Half day

Antiparos

Island-hop to Antiparos, less than two kilometres south of Paros. Ferries run hourly from Parikia and the crossing takes approximately twenty minutes. You can spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, tour the town of Antiparos with its Venetian castle, and perhaps pay a visit to the vast Cave of Antiparos.

Half day

Mykonos and Delos

Enjoy an optional excursion to lively Mykonos, an idyllic vision of whitewashed houses, windmills, pretty chapels and quaint, crooked streets.

You also have the opportunity to explore the historic ruins of Delos.

Naxos island tour

On this excursion you'll visit an olive press in Damalas to learn about the process and will also have the opportunity to visit a pottery shop. Your journey will continue to Chalki where you'll see a traditional citrus distillery!

Full day

South Paros and Antiparos

Enjoy a scenic drive around the southern part of Paros, passing the coastal villages of Drios and Pisso Livardi before heading inland to the mountain village of Lefkas. Here you can enjoy a short walk through the village followed by a little free time, long enough to pause for coffee. Continue to Punta, passing ancient marble mines en route, for a ten-minute ferry crossing to the neighbouring island of Antiparos. Arrive in the main town of same name which you’ll be free to explore independently. Perhaps visit the area around the ruined Venetian castle – it was built in the 15th century to help protect the town from pirates!

half day

Traditional Naxos

You can enjoy the island’s traditional produce of oranges and olives on an optional excursion.

Volcanic Santorini

The present-day shape of the island is a result of the mighty Minoan eruption. Transfer to Athinios Port and sail to the old port of Santorini, before heading off to the lagoon at Néa Kaméni, the current centre of volcanic activity, where steam and sulphur dioxide are given off. Continue on to Pálea Kaméni where you can enjoy a swim or perhaps visit the area of the volcano. You'll be taken back by boat and transferred to your hotel.

Wine tasting in Pyrgos

You'll travel by coach tonight for a number of visits, each approximately 10 minutes' drive apart. Start the evening with a short walk in a small, traditional village, then proceed to the village of Pyrgos. Take in the panoramic hilltop views and explore the small streets, lined with whitewashed houses, that lead up to a Venetian castle. You'll continue to the lovely 17th-century village of Megalochori, then move onto a winery in the centre of the island. Sample some of the locally produced wines whilst watching the sun dip below the horizon. There will be the opportunity to dine independently in a restaurant of your choice.