Greek Island Wanderer
15 days - from $1170
The rocky Cyclades, with their gleaming waterfront harbours, translucent coves, windmills and beaches, are the loveliest of all the Greek islands. Rich in history and myth, their setting is most idyllic from April to October when the strong 'Meltemi' winds temper the midday heat and cool the nights - nights that 'belong to the gods'.
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Syros & Paros Islands
After enjoying some time in Athens, we board the ferry and sail to Syros - capital of the Cycladic group of islands and our first port of call. Each evening, as the moonlight shimmers on the water, the islanders descend from their old quarters by a staircase of narrow streets to crowd the outdoor cafes and tavernas. Paros, dominated by the peak of Prophitas Ilias (750m), is famous for its antique quarries of white marble. The beaches are great fun for beach hikers and swimmers, and seafront tavernas are a traditional gathering place. Stalactite caves delve deep into the off-shore island of Antiparos.
Santorini & 'Lost Atlantis'
Sailing via tiny Ios, we make landfall at the volcanic island of Santorini (ancient Thira). Its spectacular crater, today a moonscape of craggy peaks, is all that remains of the legendary island home of the Atlanteans. A savage cataclysm around 1600 BC let loose a tidal wave that destroyed the whole civilisation. We'll walk to the ghostly town of Oia, which clings to the caldera rim, and also walk up to the archaeological site of the ancient mountain-top capital at Thira.
Beautiful Naxos
The largest and arguably the most beautiful Cycladic island, Naxos is a great spot for local excursions. We'll explore its mountainous interior and hidden villages, perhaps making a walk to the top of Mount Zeus. There'll be time to wander the port, relax, and of course sample the local Naxos white wines and its much celebrated local delicacies.
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Itinerary:
Day 1 Join Athens. 2 In Athens; walking tour of Plaka area. 3 Sail to Syros. 4 On Syros; walks. 5 Sail to Paros. 6 & 7 On Paros; walks or optional excursion to Antiparos. 8 To Santorini. 9 & 10 On Santorini, walks to Oia and ancient Thira; optional visits to Akrotiri or volcano excursion. 11 Sail to Naxos. 12 & 13 On Naxos, visit to Mount Zeus; optional boat trip to Delos and Mykonos. 14 Ferry to Athens. 15 End Athens.
Accommodation: 14nts hotels; 14 breakfasts included.
Transport: Inter-Island Ferryboats/Local island buses and taxis/On foot.
Comment: A relaxed, free-form trip, designed to make the most of the local scene and everyday island life - including the somewhat chaotic sea links! Ferry timings are subject to change. There's time to join in the optional group walks and activities on each island, or just do your own thing.
Group: Approx. 14 to 18.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader.
Trip Reference: GW
