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Zakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
Built in 1708, the church of St. Dionysios is a Venetian-inspired church equipped with a bell tower which is the exact replica of the St. Marks bell tower in Venice! The church is also beautifully situated on the city’s beach. The most famous church on the island, a large festival takes place every year in the city lasting three days starting on August 24th which celebrates the church.
The most famous attraction in all of Zakynthos is Shipwreck Beach, a picturesque beach on the north coast of the island which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! With its clear waters, white sand, and stunning rock formations, along with the famous withered ship on its beach, this is a must-visit attraction.
Another famous attraction on Zakynthos is the Blue Caves. Accessible only by boat, one can sail through stunning caves on deep blue waters and see colors on the caves so impressive you would have to see it believe it.
Gerakas beach is a golden sandy beach which is home to Loggerhead Sea Turtles. The beach is a nesting ground for their babies, and the beach actually closes at 19:00 to leave them in peace. If you visit between May and October, you can actually go and see the hatching of little turtle eggs and see dozens of newborns take to the sea.
Marathonissi island, a small uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas off Zykanthos island, has white sandy beaches, and beautiful turquoise waters. This is also another breeding ground for Loggerhead Sea Turtles.
Zakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in MykonosMykonos is one of, if not the, most famous islands in all of the Aegean Sea. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet of high profile guests since the 1960s.
It is no surprise then that it was voted as one of the top holiday destinations to visit. With its amazing beaches, award-winning restaurants, and mythical parties that last all night long, it is a must-visit destination.
The list of celebrities who visit Mykonos is constantly growing: Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Shakira, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, Monica Bellucci, Liam Nisson, Hugh Jackman, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Jean Paul Gotti, Giorgio Armani, Russell Crowe, and many more.
Particularly open to diversity, Mykonos is considered the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and is one of the most popular in the world.
Visit Mykonos Town and marvel at the white cubist architecture which engulfs the island. Mykonos is also home to many old churches and wells. Take a walk through its narrow streets and admire this beautiful city.
Shop in Chora and see the latest collections from brilliant fashion and jewelry designers. You will find plenty of branded clothes and accessories, jewelry, and other fashionable goods.
In Gialos you can see the famous Mycenae Pelicans and visit Aghios Nikolaos town, a town whose town hall was built in 1780!
See “Little Venice” and view tiny cute little houses built in the 18th century that have foundations in the sea! It is said that pirates used to come to this island and use the doorsteps of the houses on the water as miniature planks to make people walk off of. Today, the homes are filled with bars and restaurants.
The other trademark landmark of Mykonos, the Kato Myloi windmills, used to grate greats using the power of the north winds until the beginning of the 20th century! In the evenings, they are lit up with a beautiful glow.
Visit the beautiful quiet and secluded beaches of Agios Sostis, Kapari, and Fokos.
If you like busier beaches, however, visit Psarou, Ornos, Paradise, and Platis Gialos where there are parties all of the time!
See this ledgendary lighthouse which stands on the edge of Phanar. Enjoy stunning views of sunsets as you relax!
Scuba dive and see octopi, starfish, sponges, and maybe even Monachus-Monachus seals! There are many diving centers on the island which offer diving in reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
Visit Rinia and dive into its crystal clear blue waters and spend time relaxing on its beaches.
Visit Delos, what is considered the island of Apollo, the god of light, and visit its archeological sites.
Tradition says that anyone who drinks the water from the wells in the center of the village will never leave the island!
Enjoy!
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AEGEAN Islands – The cosmopolitan islands of ArgosaronikosThe islands of Argosaronikos Gulf are a short distance from Athens. A common feature of all the islands is the wonderful seas and clean shores, the pleasant island atmosphere, the hospitable inhabitants and the good tourist infrastructure.
Τhe many opportunities for sports, activities, entertainment and good food, folk art and architecture, local customs, rich interests.
Drive for a romantic experience!
It is probably the best choice for anyone who wants to take a break near Athens, or for those who want a one-day respite and relaxation in the summer.
It is a small terrestrial paradise of the Saronic Gulf, drowned in the green, with the pine trees touching its blue waters. In Agistri, you will find green pine forests, sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, traditional color, tranquility, tranquility, but also intense nightlife for those who want it.
A jewel of the Argosaronic. Little, sweet, just an hour from Athens, Aegina will be enchanted.
A retro walk in the city of Aegina with its listed houses will make you love it… and then diving and relaxing in its blue waters!
The “little Venice” of Argosaronic. The small island of the Saronic Gulf with its pine trees, tranquility and nobility.
Tavernas, marinas and yachts, neoclassical buildings, a clock that counts good moments, pines to the sea, tranquility and tranquility.
Sailing boats and sailing boats are here with you. And in the evening the lights reflect a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the water, with drinks, cocktails, shots and music. Ideal vacations, a breath away from Athens.
The tiny Chora, the harbor and capital of the island, keeps its old charm. The fresh neoclassical buildings, the narrow streets that lead to the inner part of the settlement and, above all, the beauty of the landscape (reminding you of a tranquil lagoon) will make you feel like you are returning to a favorite holiday destination. A walk is taken from romantic novels…
The lord of the Argosaronikos! Discover the beauty of a lilliputian Greek island that seduced the international jet set, as well as artists such as Chagall and Picasso.
The island of “celebrities” of then and now. All Hydra, a walk… An island without cars and with scenic bays for your dives.
One of the top travel destinations for your summer holidays. Of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan islands of Argosaronikos.
Cosmopolitanism and aristocratic aura. Drive for a romantic experience on one of the wagons still on the island, passing through the Old Port, Agios Nikolaos, Dapia. Spetses all in a walk!
The narrow streets of the town of Spetses are characterized by the particularly interesting traditional architecture, with neoclassical houses, pebble yards, colorful fragrant flowers and beautiful balconies. Spetses is forbidden to drive cars.
In this cosmopolitan island of Argosaronikos, you will surely enjoy a holiday in style! Spetses have the capacity to make you feel unique, “chosen”
Have a good trip.
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Itinerary: 7 Days in the South Ionian IslandsIf there is a paradise, you’ll find it among the Ionian islands. The Ionian islands offer everything from traditional architecture and outdoor adventures to cosmopolitan cities and fine dining. With its wonderful climate, turquoise waters, and scenic harbors, the Ionian islands are a must-visit destination. This itinerary will take you from Lefkada all the way to Zakynthos and back, ensuring that you visit all the hot spots among the Ionian islands along the way.
Lefkada, located near the western coastline of mainland Greece, is known for its traditional culture. In Lefkada’s main city, you can navigate small alleyways which will take you to tiny squares, traditional houses, and elaborate bell towers. The houses in Lefkada are often painted in bright colors and are kept neat and tidy, with carefully trimmed flower beds outside of windows and along the sidewalk.
Lefkada is also home to the settlement of Agios Nikitas, a town only accessible by walking. With its picturesque harbor, abundant greenery, famous fish taverns, and delicious cafes, Agios Nikitas is a great place to spend a day.
Lefkada has a number of very scenic beaches, with many different coves, rocks, and pine trees. Lefkada’s beaches include Seat, Eggs, Mills, Peukouli, and Amyglossa, but Enkremnoi and Porto Katsiki are it’s most famous.
Banked by steep cliffs, Enkremnoi has a beautiful natural look. Along with it’s turquoise waters Enkremnoi is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece.
Porto Katsiki is another famous beach, and it’s photographs can be seen all over the world.
Nydri a small town, is the largest tourist attraction on the entire island. Nydri is ideal for diving and water sports, as well as for it’s nightlife.
Close to Nydri lies Skorpios, the island onced owned by Aristotle Onassis, a former Greek shipping magnate. In 2012, Dimtry Rybolovlev gave his daughter Ekaterina Rybolovleva the island as a gift for her birthday.
Meganisi is located in one of the hidden corners of the Ionian Sea. It is however, known and appreciated by sailing who enjoy docking in its beautiful turquoise waters.
Meganisi also sports plenty of luxurious yachts and famous visitors. But behind its high-profile guests, Meganisi has an ancient history. First mentioned by Homer in The Odyssey, Meganisi has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. There are many traditional settlements on the island, including Katomeri, which has traditional stone houses, small shops and plenty of bars.
Ithaca is a central symbol of Greece as it was home to Odysseus, the hero in Homer’s The Odyssey. One can discover the history of Ithica at the island’s archaeological museum. The capital and port of the island, Vathi, is built along a lush natural bay.
Vathi is a traditional settlement which has an intense Venetian influence. With it’s the tiled houses, large mansions and picturesque stone chapels, Vathi is sure to delight.
Vathi also has a small port, Kioni. Kioni mainly serves day cruises and week charters from the surrounding Ionian islands. It is a must-see inland known for its quiet taverns and happy people.
Also on Ithaca is the area of Kaminia, which is a wild, natural, impressive landscape, and home to emerald waters of a small bay. Ithaca is also home to Gidaki, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Ithaca and among the best in Greece.
Kefalonia (also known as Kefallinia) is the largest island in the Ionian sea. Because of its unique beaches and green mountains, it has always been a popular destination to visit. Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, is a picturesque village built around the Koutavo sea.
Kefalonia is also home to world-renowned beaches, which makes it the ideal island to explore by boat.
People in Kefalonia also engage in many water activities, such as sea kayaking and diving which can occur in Kefalonia’s bays or in it’s caves.
Fteri beach is shown below, and it is one of the most beautiful places not only in the Ionian islands, but also in all of Greece.
Santa Efimia is one of the most beautiful villages along the coast of Kefalonia, and is located about 34 km away from the capital (Argostoli).
Assos Assos, another village in Kefalonia has maintained many of its Venetian characteristics, making it a charming city you definitely should check out.
Myrtos is the most famous beach in Kefalonia and and has been rated among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world according to TripAdvisor!
A destination that many celebrities love to visit during when they cruise is Kefalonia’s cosmopolitan city Fiskardo. Despite it’s modernization, many of the traditional aspects of the city remain. Kefalonia is sure to impress!
In Zakynthos music is a huge part of the culture. Zakynthians often gather together to sing local songs.
Zakynthos has much natural beauty, with its pine tree-covered mountains, idyllic beaches, rocky shores, and impressive sea caves. The island also has a lot of historical monuments and traditions.
The Church of Dionysius is also located on Zakynthos and is the island’s most famous. Built in 1708 and situated beautifully on the beach, the Church of Dionysius dons a Venetian appearance and a bell tower exactly like St. Mark’s bell tower in Venice.
Navagio beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is a picturesque beach located on the north-east side of the island. In 1980, a ship allegedly smuggling contraband sailed around the island, before being abandoned on Naavagio beach, giving it its other name. According to many travel websites, the beach is one of the most beautiful in the world.
With its crystal clear waters, white sand beach, and stunning sharp cliffs, the beach is a must-see.
Gerakas is another beach in Zaynthos, and it is home to many turtle nests and baby Loggerhead sea turtes. The beach actually closes at 19:00 to leave the baby turtles in peace. If you get to the beach before dawn from May to October, you can actually see the hatching of turtle eggs and see them jump into the sea!
The beach of Mrathonissi is a small uninhabated island in the bay of Laganas on Zakynthos. It has beautiful white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and is home to plenty of those Loggerhead turtles.
The Laganas bay in Zakynthos is one of the most important shelters for sea turtles in the world.
In the morning one can return to Lefkada. This itinerary from Lefkada to Zakynthos is sure to impress for all travelers alike. It will take you to all the hot spots in the Ionian islands, and is a must-do trip for any true adventurer.
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Itinerary: 7 days Greek Islands – Cyclades (from Mykonos)The most famous islands of Greece invite you to discover the reasons why they have been leading world travel destinations for years. The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
MYKONOS (One of the most popular and favorite destinations in Greece and around the world)
The most famous island of the Aegean with Santorini. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet since 1960 to the present day VIPs of the whole planet. Mythical names of the international jet set were connected with Mykonos.
It is voted in the top places of the best holiday destinations: excellent beaches, award-winning restaurants, the best of the Mediterranean, with many distinctions and awards, endless mythical parties that do not stop all summer, expensive yachts, dream villas, five-star beach service.
Mykonos will tease you. But above all, it will release you. Here you will be transformed, you will be left… and you will feel uncomfortable in love with life. Spinning all-white against the background of the blue of the Aegean. Particularly open to diversity, the Mykonians welcomed the gay community and Mykonos became the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
The most famous country in the Aegean. In the photographed Little Venice, the houses built in the 18th century have foundations in the sea. Today they host bars and restaurants and from their balconies, the glow of the Aegean is blinding.
The other trademark of Mykonos, Kato Myloi, grated the grains with the power of the north until the beginning of the 20th century. Today, they gaze at the sea illuminated in the evenings.
Holidays in Mykonos means fun: lunch and dinner, improvised or organized parties, famous DJs from around the world!
Stunning beach, cocktails in the boat overlooking the illuminated Mills, champagne, dance and flirting until the night.
See what Mykonos has for you. The scuba diving presents a different world and recommends you to selected “local Mykonians”, such as octopuses, starfish, snorkels, sponges or Monachus-Monachus seals! You will find many diving centers, which offer diving in reefs, caves, shipwrecks or mysterious night dives. Mykonos will tease you.
It is necessary to sail the boat to nearby Delos to admire the remnants of the past and history. Delos is the island of Apollo, the god of light. So, in the evening as the archaeological site closes and you start the way back, enjoy the unique sunset…
Sail your boat in Rinia
Meet “neighbor” Rinia with the boat, dive into the blue waters and cool off the Cycladic air. Peace, relaxation and enjoyment under the sun.
You are in the largest, most fertile and autonomous island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, you are welcomed by Ancient Portara – the marble supernatural frame, the same as the National Geographic label – and the view of the medieval castle. The island with a history of centuries, unique sights, alternating landscapes, hospitable inhabitants and good food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island, which have been inhabited for centuries.
It’s no coincidence that the popular tripadvisor holiday site has made it the number two in the preferences of its traveler-members in Europe but also the 6th best island in the world after a big vote.
It could also be described as a culinary destination since it produces some of the country’s excellent products such as its famous cheese, but also its splendid beaches that awarded Naxos and the Guardian.
A well-hidden terrestrial paradise is Koufonisia. A place worth visiting by boat.
Exotic beaches, caves… for hunted pirates and bold lovers. Peace, relaxation, parties that sparkle and places to hide from the voices, to calm down, against the backdrop of the endless blue of the Aegean.
Crystal, clear waters, dreamy landscapes and music inspired by the moonlit nights. In Koufonisia there is only one settlement. From here you will also pass through this Cycladic microcosm that invites you to wander in its narrow streets. The hospitable Mediterranean basin is ready to offer you the most exotic dives of your life.
You will also find yourself discovering a Greek island untouched by mass tourism, where ancient customs, old paths, and authentic villages are kept. With traditional cafes that will treat you to the wonderful raki of Amorgos.
Panagia Chozoviotissa: A Miracle in the Aegean Can you climb 300 steep stairs? Arriving at the monastery of Hozoviotissa, the view of the Aegean will compensate you. One of the oldest monasteries, its enchanting waters, its picturesque cobbled streets, the intoxicating sunset, the unprecedented relaxation… Amorgos is the island of endless blue!
When you come, you will find out how varied, wild and fascinating is this island.
Ios is the perfect holiday that you dreamed about in the winter. A Greek island, where wild entertainment takes flesh and bones. But it is something deeper – the beauty of breakfast… with the Aegean background… after the party. In Ios, entertainment has no boundaries or borders. A long tradition has linked her to wild entertainment and summer parties.
Ios is also a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, traditional settlement, hospitality, but also for good food, smile and tradition! The most famous sight of Ios is the famous tomb of Homer, located north of the island.
Welcome to one of the most beautiful Greek islands and the most romantic destination in Greece!
That island distinct from the others… a unique geological phenomenon, a brilliant majestic state built on the edge of the cliff, with picturesque hamlets, cobblestone streets, cave houses, dug in the volcanic rocks, either whole or with additional built.
The “Pompeii Aegean” houses built on volcanic terrain, with the simple Cycladic lines, and with a unique architectural “innovation”. Meet one of the most important cultures of the Aegean. Dive into the mysterious seabed of Santorini, see its famous sunset not described in words, try its unique wines from volcanic vineyards that count over 3,200 years of life.
Beaches full of color… Dive into beaches with black, red and white sand or colorful pebbles and sculptured by the salt and wind rocks. A unique setting that you will not find anywhere else in Greece… For lovers of good food… Santorini at your table! Overlooking the endless blue, traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the unique white and red wines of Santorini will take your mood off.
The sunset, every year is attracting couples to the volcanic island to enjoy the amazing view from the balcony of the Caldera. It is the famous sunset of all Santorini. A unique sight for your eyes only. Santorini is full of love…
One of the diamonds of the Cyclades. It is the “new Santorini” and the “new Mykonos”. It is one of the smallest and most picturesque Cycladic islands, with 32 square kilometers of land and about 650 permanent residents.
The landscape is so wild and charming! Its shores are steep and form many capes… but with a sea!
Meet the most exotic island of the Aegean. It is an island beyond the ordinary.
Take your boat and enjoy the colorful kaleidoscope of the beaches of Milos in all its splendor. Take a stroll in the picturesque colorful settlement on the water, where the harbor of ancient Milos was.
Wander around the settlement and wait for the sunset… The beaches of Milos are special and the most beautiful of the Cyclades. The Pirates of the Middle Ages had their lakes on the island of Milos… Their traces will be found in Kleftiko.
The famous statue of Aphrodite of Milos, which is now in the Louvre Museum (Paris), was found in Milos in 1820, while the copy is located at the Milos archaeological museum in Plaka.
Visit small and picturesque seaside villages and… taste the famous delicious lobster.
Quality vacation on the island of measure and harmony. Sifnos combines picturesque, gastronomy, folk art and tradition. It keeps a low profile without eccentricities and excesses, soothing the visitor.
An island that is famous for its architecture and the originality of its Cycladic beauty. Cosmic and elegant but simple and traditional at the same time, Sifnos is full of contradictions.
A popular destination, ideal for any type of holiday.
Paros, an island, white, like its famous marble… with its beautiful Cycladic-cobbled streets will give you a scent of jasmine and red bougainvillea and with its picturesque harbor make up a lively cinematic scenery, you will find it hard to find elsewhere land.
Paros will gladly give you what you want!
The morning return to Mykonos
Have a wonderful trip !!!
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5 Best things to do and see in Paxi-AntipaxiThe diamonds of the Ionian Islands.
Two small islands of the Ionian Islands in the Ionian Sea. They are located 7 miles south of Corfu, 8 miles from the mainland coast of Greece.
The island group of Paxos has been designated as a Special Protection Area, part of the Natura 2000 network. With the boat, who sails for the emerald lonely islands of the Ionian Sea, Paxos and Antipaxos, he sets a bow for paradise.
Exotic beaches: green and turquoise waters, white sand and fine pebbles. Nature “harsh”, ancient olive groves, dense vineyards and vegetation reaching up to the water.
The capital with the “hidden harbor” …
The boat comes from the narrow sea channel that forms the harbor of Gai and the islet of St. Nicholas. The city still retains features of the original Venetian architecture and architecture.
Ideal for quality tourism in a quiet and picturesque setting with lush hills, crystal clear waters.
In the harbor you will find many taverns that give a special “color” and are famous for their delicious traditional cuisine, impeccable and friendly service.
Loggos is the cultural center of Paxos, hosts festivals and other musical events that offer entertainment to residents and visitors.
The picturesque little fishing village with its cobbled narrow streets.
Its harbor is extremely popular for those traveling by boat, while in the safe waters of the bay anchor many boats of all kinds and sizes. The olives and cypress trees reach the beach. Explore the small islands around Paxos that hide unique beauties!
Antipaxoi is a relatively flat island with its highest point reaching 118m. They have impressive beaches with turquoise waters and lush vegetation, which makes them a very attractive destination during the summer season.
A fantasy … The embodiment of a terrestrial paradise.
The natural landscape is flooded with vineyards that produce excellent quality wine, which is why it is considered a paradise for wine tourists. Antipaxitic wines have a peculiarity in taste and are sought after because production is relatively small.
Vouthoumi is the best of the two “legendary” beaches of Antipaxos and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is no accident that Telegraph included it in the tribute to the most beautiful “hidden” beaches in Europe.
… the waters are so clear and transparent that they can see the shadow from the boats and the boats at the bottom of the sea as if floating
The tour of the coast is a unique experience that will remain unforgettable to the visitor.
On your trip to the Ionian Sea, you should put them in the forefront.
Have a good trip.
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The Best Beaches of The British Virgin IslandsThe British Virgin Islands are a paradise. The sand is among the best on Earth. Despite having been affected by hurricanes Irma and María, the natural beauty of this paradisiacal destination remains intact. Here are five of the best beaches found in the British Virgin Islands.
The British Virgin Islands consist of 4 main islands: Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. The largest island is Tortola.
Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands:
White Bay
White Bay is a white beach located on a southern area of Jost Van Dyke. It is one of the best beaches to relax and enjoy a drink. Local joints like Soggy Dollar or One Love Bar and Grill will welcome you with open arms. So Just Chill!
Sandy Cay
Sandy Cay is known as the ‘Most Photographed Island in the World’. It is an uninhabited island of the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It is located halfway between the Tortola and Jost Van Dyke islands. It’s also known as the Honeymoon Island. Relax on its pristine beaches and exploring the untouched nature.
The Baths
The Baths is in Virgin Gorda and is listed among the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. It is without comparison: a series of transparent pools, hidden among the granite rocks.
Loblolly Bay
Loblolly Bay is the northern stretch of the infinite beach of Anegada. The lagoon is protected by the coral reef that runs parallel to the beach. In August, sharks come to mate.
The Caves
The Caves is actually a dry area of the Norman Island and under water it has many caves covered with coral. It is a marine reserve so you can swim among the coloured fish remaining on the surface.
Looking for a vacation on a beautiful set of islands in the Caribbean? The British Virgin Islands is your ticket to paradise.
The Best 10 Things to Do and See in ΖakynthosZakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
The most famous attraction in all of Zakynthos is Shipwreck Beach, a picturesque beach on the north coast of the island which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! With its clear waters, white sand, and stunning rock formations, along with the famous withered ship on its beach, this is a must-visit attraction.
Another famous attraction on Zakynthos is the Blue Caves. Accessible only by boat, one can sail through stunning caves on deep blue waters and see colors on the caves so impressive you would have to see it believe it.
Gerakas beach is a golden sandy beach which is home to Loggerhead Sea Turtles. The beach is a nesting ground for their babies, and the beach actually closes at 19:00 to leave them in peace. If you visit between May and October, you can actually go and see the hatching of little turtle eggs and see dozens of newborns take to the sea.
Marathonissi island, a small uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas off Zykanthos island, has white sandy beaches, and beautiful turquoise waters. This is also another breeding ground for Loggerhead Sea Turtles.
One of the most obscure yet beautiful places in all of Zykanthos, Porto Roxa is another beautiful beach that one can only access by boat.
You can reach the Keri caves by taking a private boat or an organized excursion. There are myriads of caves, many with an entrance that lets you go swimming beneath them, and others with an entrance wide enough to allow a boat to pass through them.
Xigia beach is a picturesque beach with fine golden sand and deep blue waters. Its waters can heal cuts and wounds due to the abundance of sulfur present.
Porto Zoro is another beautiful beach with steep rocks behind which the sun rises, plenty of good beach bars, and an all-day full party atmosphere!
Zakynthos island is one of the last known shelters for the Loggerhead sea turtle. The bay of Laganas is one of the most important shelters for these endangered species, so go see them before it’s too late!
Enjoy Zakynthos!
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Itineraly:7 days AEGEAN Islands – Cyclades (from Athens to Santorini)The most famous islands of Greece invite you to discover the reasons why they have been leading world travel destinations for years.
The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
The Most Popular Attractions in the Athens ”Riviera”
Athens ”Riviera” is called the area in the southern suburbs of Athens from Piraeus to the southernmost point of the Attica peninsula in the Cape of Sounio. On this route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi, and Varkiza
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 mi) south- southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece.
In recent years, the wider region due to its environmental value was declared a national park One of the most beautiful places in Europe where the temple of Poseidon dominates. Feel the energy of this landscape, drenched in the same light as in ancient times. A place of myths and legends.
The god of the sea – Τhe Doric Temple of Poseidon was built (around the same time as the Parthenon, 440 BC), standing proudly above the sea that the god adored. From this privileged point, you will have a panoramic view of the coastline and the neighboring islands of the Aegean Sea. It is world-famous its wonderful sunset.
Perhaps with the most beautiful beach of the Cyclades, Kythnos, modest and hospitable, unexpectedly beautiful and calm, welcomes you to its places.
When nature has a mood… it draws unique beauty beaches.
It has more than 70 beaches, many of which are still inaccessible by road. Of particular note is the crescent-shaped isthmus of fine sand at Kolona and the warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are said to have curative properties.
Picturesque villages with stone-paved cobbled streets, white houses, and blooming courtyards. Walk-in its neighborhoods, among tiled houses, and listen to its tranquility.
The gastronomy of Kythnos reflects its temperament: it is warm, family and simple. The tables on the waterfront, with umbrellas in the morning and evening candles, welcome friends Kythnos, simple and beloved!
Serifos
Discover the scenic and charming Serifos. Island of intense contrasts with golden beaches and wild beauty. The capital of Serifos, the magnificent Chora, with windmills and paved pedestrian streets, is a beautiful island settlement. The amphitheatrical country of Serifos with cubic houses. Whitewashed houses with simple wooden blue windows and doors.
Τraditional, simple Cycladic architecture that keeps unchanging over the years.
Serifos is a scenic and quiet place with traditional taverns. Chora offers a charming setting and is suitable for strolling and fun. With beaches ideal for diving and with tranquil harbors for relaxation and romance.
Quality vacation on the island of measure and harmony. Sifnos combines picturesque, gastronomy, folk art and tradition. It keeps a low profile without eccentricities and excesses, soothing the visitor.
An island that is famous for its architecture and the originality of its Cycladic beauty. Cosmic and elegant but simple and traditional at the same time, Sifnos is full of contradictions.
One of the diamonds of the Cyclades. It is the “new Santorini” and the “new Mykonos”. It is one of the smallest and most picturesque Cycladic islands, with 32 square kilometers of land and about 650 permanent residents.
The landscape is so wild and charming! Its shores are steep and form many capes… but with a sea! Aaaa!!!
Welcome to one of the most beautiful Greek islands and the most romantic destination in Greece! That island distinct from the others… a unique geological phenomenon, a brilliant majestic state built on the edge of the cliff, with picturesque hamlets, cobblestone streets, cave houses, dug in the volcanic rocks, either whole or with additional built.
The “Pompeii Aegean” Houses built on volcanic terrain, with the simple Cycladic lines and with a unique architectural “innovation”. Meet one of the most important cultures of the Aegean. Dive into the mysterious seabed of Santorini, see its famous sunset not described in words, try its unique wines from volcanic vineyards that count over 3,200 years of life.
Beaches full of color… Dive into beaches with black, red and white sand or colorful pebbles and sculptured by the salt and wind rocks. A unique setting that you will not find anywhere else in Greece… For lovers of good food… Santorini at your table! Overlooking the endless blue, traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the unique white and red wines of Santorini will take your mood off.
The sunset, every year is attracting couples to the volcanic island to enjoy the amazing view from the balcony of the Caldera. It is the famous sunset of all Santorini. A unique sight for your eyes only. Santorini is full of love…
Meet the most exotic island of the Aegean. It is an island beyond the ordinary. Take your boat and enjoy the colorful kaleidoscope of the beaches of Milos in all its splendor. Take a stroll in the picturesque colorful settlement on the water, where the harbor of ancient Milos was.
Wander around the settlement and wait for the sunset… The beaches of Milos are special and the most beautiful of the Cyclades. The Pirates of the Middle Ages had their lakes on the island of Milos… Their traces will be found in Kleftiko.
The famous statue of Aphrodite of Milos, which is now in the Louvre Museum (Paris), was found in Milos in 1820, while the copy is located at the Milos archaeological museum in Plaka.
Visit small and picturesque seaside villages and … … taste the famous delicious lobster lobster.
The morning return to Athens.
Have a good trip!
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Croatian Islands or Greek Island hopping?Do you plan a vacation and are you wondering where to go to see the most beautiful views? Do you check the best Croatian islands? Are you encouraged by great opinions about Greek island hopping? It will be the best to choose both!
Croatia, although small, boasts an extremely diverse landscape and a wonderful coastline of almost two thousand kilometers. In addition, it is definitely right, boasts the impressive wealth of many of the best Croatian islands, mostly uninhabited, pristine, truly fairy-tale. There are larger islands among them, such as Krk or Cres, and small islands scattered like Kornati and Lastovo. Each of these Croatian corners is different and unique in its own way.
It is the largest island of the Croatian part of the Adriatic. On the area of 410 km2, we find beautiful landscapes, holiday resorts, atmospheric towns and monuments. The island of Krk is connected by a bridge with the mainland and has an international airport Rijeka, which makes it the most accessible from the Croatian islands.
It is a mountainous corner covered with dense forests and cypresses. Korcula is sometimes called the “island of travelers” – it was here that the famous Venetian discoverer, Marco Polo, was born.
It is the greenest island in the Adriatic. Quiet, virgin, mountainous, overgrown with a thick Mediterranean forest. The biggest attraction of Mljet is the national park of the same name stretching around two reservoirs: Malo jezero and Veliko jezero.
It is one of the most beautiful archipelagos on the Mediterranean coast. It consists of a cluster of 150 islands and islets scattered over an area of about 320 km2. Kornati is a dream place for fans of diving, sailors and lovers of peaceful rest – the islands are almost uninhabited.
In addition to holidays on the best Croatian islands, we also propose Greek island hopping. Holidays in Greece must be the best in your life!
Crete, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Simi, Santorini are wonderful beaches, rich nature, wonderful monuments, delicious cuisine, taste in our cups, mild climate. Greece has everything. And the Greek islands above all. There are a lot of them, and one more beautiful than the other.
Greek island hopping is a popular tour of as many islands as possible in the shortest possible time – here, of course, about Greek islets.
The Greek Islands are the azure sea, long beaches and romantic bays, family All Inclusive hotels, excellent cuisine seasoned with sunshine and antique monuments that delight tourists from around the world. In the offer for Summer 2019, you will find many Greek islands, including new ones: Evia, Skiathos, Skopelos, Epirus, and Itaka. If you are already dreaming about the Greek Islands, check out the best offers for Greek Islands Hooping, book the trip and enjoy the wonderful moments!
If you are planning to stay on the Greek islands, the best and often the cheapest option is the flight to Athens. You can easily reach the Greek capital with cheap airlines. Arriving in Athens opens up many interchange possibilities. We can get to the Greek islands by plane (eg a flight to Santorini for 15 euros) or focus on ferries that will take us to virtually every island in the Aegean Sea.
Greece is just as charming a country like Croatia, with an equally rich landscape, places that are worth visiting and other attractions!
Croatian Coast – You should see that!Croatian Coast is associated mainly with turquoise sea and rocky or pebble beaches. However, in Croatia, you will also find sandy beaches. And what are the most interesting places of the Croatian Coast?
It is a characteristic golden triangle jutting out into the sea. The beach is surrounded on one side by the azure sea, and on the other by lush green forest. The beach looks wonderful on aerial photographs as well as live. This is an obligatory point for everyone who is in the area.
The red roof cascades are directed towards the water. Here and there emerges the semi-circular vault of St. Jacob and the soaring windows of the fortress of St. Nicholas. Šibenik is worth visiting at night so that you can soak up the beautiful views and the friendly atmosphere of open-to-late cafes.
The road to the park leads through a picturesque mountain gorge. The reserve protects up to 860 species of plants and 211 species of birds, but its biggest attraction is the seven waterfalls falling with a bang. The longest of them, Skradinski Buk, consists of 17 cascades. Their total length is 800 m! One of the world’s oldest hydroelectric plants was operating at the waterfall. It was commissioned in 1895, just two days after the Niagara plant was opened. Both were designed by the same creator, Nikola Tesla.
In addition to the beautiful Croatian Coast beaches, you can visit the most beautiful city of Croatia and take a gondola lift to the nearby hills. From there, there is a view of the Adriatic coast and the historical center of Dubrovnik.
Trogir on the Croatian Coast – because of the large number of monuments, is called small Dubrovnik. The Kamerlengo fortress standing on the very edge of the island today often serves as a film set, and the old town of Trogir was entered in the UNESCO list in 1997.
Hvar is a fabulous holiday resort. The city is full of monuments, beautiful views and restaurants with outdoor tables. The central square of the city, in terms of its size, is the second, after St. A brand in Venice, an urban market on the Adriatic.
Virtually every tourist spot in the Croatian Coast has something to look out for. Croatian Coast is a gem of European coasts! This is without a doubt the most beautiful coast in southern Europe.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in SantoriniSantorini, one of, if not the, most beautiful island in Greece, is sure to impress. Considered one of the ten best islands in the world to visit, Santorini has breathtaking views, unique architecture, authentic cuisine, delicious wines, and stunning sunsets. Geographically, Santorini is an island like no other. Santorini sits on the caldera of an erupted volcano, and its principal towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs on its coastline. Here, we give you a rundown of the ten best things to do on this wonderful island.
1. Take a Boat Around Santorini’s Caldera
To really appreciate all of Santorini, one should take a bout around the entire island and see its enormous Caldera, which at its base is 16 kilometers long! View its steep slopes upon which its villages sit and admire the beautiful blue and white houses on its coastline.
2. Visit Fira
Built on the caldera, at 260 meters above sea level, Fira has magnificent views of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea and the island of Nea Kameni. There is also plenty of shopping in Fira, where you can check out art galleries, and souvenir as well as jewelry shops. And if you’re more of a partier, Fira is also the center of nightlife on the island, with many bars and clubs open late nights for endless dancing.
3. Hike the Volcano
Hike around the caldera of Santorini and dive into some of its natural warm waters. Santorini’s volcano is one of the larges underwater active volcanos in the world! But don’t worry though, it won’t erupt any time soon. According to scientists, the volcano is supposed to erupt only every 20,000 years, and the last eruption was only 3,600 years ago.
4. Visit Oia
A traditional settlement of Santorini famous for its sunsets, Oia has many homes built in caves, as the volcanic rock of the island made it perfect for cutting away spaces for homes.
5. Discover Finikia
Close to Oia lies Finikia, a beautiful countryside village. Take a walk around the settlement and experience beautiful traditional old homes painted in earthy colors and see pretty little gardens and courtyards.
6. Visit Akrotiri
Known as the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea,” Akrotiri was once a Minoan village before it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption. The area of Akrotiri was first inhabited during the Late Neolithic period (around 4500 BC) and during the 18th century BC. Akrotiri’s remains still however somehow survived, and you can see what used to be warehouses, crafting tables, streets, and even a drainage system!
7. Discover Volcanic Beaches
Explore beaches with black, red, and white sand and enjoy the cool waters of the Aegean!
8. Honeymoon
Many couples honeymoon in Santorini, so it’s definitely a worthwhile destination to visit with your spouse!
9. Eat!
Grab a bite to eat from one of the wonderful seaside restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea and enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine as well as the unique red and white wines of Santorini!
10. View a Sunset
Cou0ples flock to Santorini every year to enjoy a beautiful sunset from the Caldera. You should definitely see one too: it is quite a sight to behold.
Enjoy Santorini!
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10 Amazing things to do in Mykonos IslandIf there is a worldwide renowned Greek island for immaculate beaches and party, that is Mykonos. Nicknamed The island of the winds, Mykonos is much more than sunbathing and clubbing till sunrise.
Located in the south of the Aegean, 150km away from Athens, Mykonos is part of the Cyclades and it forms a regional unit itself which comprises Delos, Rineia and some other inhabited smaller islands. The name Cyclades makes in fact reference to the archipelago encircling Delos, considered a sacred island. Many cultures have stepped on Mykonos and left their traces: Carians, Ionians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Catalans, Ottomans… the island has been the scene of mythological battles, revolutions, decline and flourishment.
Only around 12,000 people live there permanently, most of them in the main city, which is also called Mykonos, or Chora (meaning town in Greek). The island, which is just 86 sq km, has developed a tourism industry that overwhelms its sea-related economy during summer months. It is a place that has succeeded in maintaining its traditions and bringing the past to life in its very cosmopolitan present.
There are plenty of activities that will make you enjoy Mykonos without losing sight of what the island is and has been. Here is a list of 10 wonderful activities to do and other useful information.
How to reach Mykonos From Athens
By plane: there are a couple of flights daily in winter months with Aegean and Olympic airlines. It takes about 40 minutes. From March, other airlines are open with daily flights.
By boat: 3 sailings daily from Rafina. It takes 4h20m and costs around 30€. There are other weekly sailings from the ports of Rafina and Piraeus, some of which are faster but also more expensive (55€ approximately). Operating ferry companies are: Hellenic Seaways, Seajets, Blue Star Ferries and Aegean Speed Lines. Some connections from Rafina do not operate from October to March.
How to reach Mykonos from other islands
There are many ferries that connect daily Mykonos to Tinos, north of Mykonos, Paros and Naxos, the next bigger islands towards the south, and Thira (Santorini), the most southern of the Cyclades. Check further information here.
Mykonos is reachable by plane seasonally from various international destinations.
The raining season lasts from October to March, although winters are mild (average max. 15˚C) and wet, with many days of sun. Temperatures in the summer are usually around the 30˚C but can reach 40˚C. Thanks to the Meltemi, the northern Aegean wind, summers tend to be dry and nice.
It is probably best to visit between April – mid June or September – October, as the weather is still pleasant and everything a lot less crowded. Outside high season, many attractions and places options, so it is a good idea to check opening times of what you plan to visit in advance.
Gorgeous sandy beaches, crystalline waters and beautiful sun lights. With these characteristics, one of the best things to do in Mykonos is to sail the archipelago and embark on a sightseeing tour from the sea. Mykonos is incredibly beautiful, with its 16th century windmills featuring on the hills, defining the landscape of the island, in perfect harmony with the typical white architecture with blue windows and doors. According to Mykonians, the cleaner the white, the more you appreciate the colours next to it.
It is a must to stop at the now deserted island of Rineia or Rhenia, a place rather unknown even to the Greeks. The island was dedicated to Apollo and years later converted to a huge necropolis which was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century. Nowadays, some farmers rent stretches of land to continue with traditional farming methods. Its waters are incredibly blue and a real pleasure to dive in.
Besides freedom and exclusivity, sailing provides much more. It lets you have a different perspective of the islands, discover hidden coves if you prefer to avoid cosmopolitan beaches, stop wherever you want and dive into the pure waters of the Aegean, practice water sports like snorkelling, scuba-diving or fishing, and enjoy beautiful sunsets, undisturbed, in the middle of the sea.
You can find bareboat or skippered catamarans to suit different needs, as well as day cruises or weekly charters. Check them here.
Nightlife is very lively, so partying is a bespoke thing to do in Mykonos. It has become the Ibiza or St. Tropez of the Aegean. World renowned DJs and acclaimed residents meet there every year to light the summer nights of the island. It is not unusual to come across celebrities in the many parties going on.
In Mykonos there are around 30 bars where to start the evening, either in the centre of Chora or tucked away, where you can find more privacy. Those who like to dance the night away will find some 20 clubs rated amongst the best in the world, and if your thing is to dance on the sand in your bathing costume you can do so in probably a dozen beach clubs. There are many options to go out that match different styles, from wild parties with the crème de la crème to quiet cocktails with friends. Mykonos town has the most happening scene in Greece.
Watch out for the many events taking place during summer months. The Mykonos Summer Festival is not to be missed if you like music concerts in the open-air and different arts exhibitions and performances with artists from all around the world. There is also the Gay Festival which takes place in Mykonos every year, and the Harvest Festival, held in mid-September.
As typical in the Mediterranean countries, food plays a big part in the culture. People like to cook and share the table with family and friends while sipping some wine. The gastronomy in Mykonos is rich and a very nice way to get to know the country on another perspective.
There are many typical foods in Mykonos, like tyrovolia, a mild fresh cheese; louza, a meat preserved slightly different from other places in Greece; mostra, a twice-baked bread with kopanisti (a peppery fermented cheese), as well as many traditional dishes with beans, vegetables, lamb, pork, and mouth-watering dishes with fish. Baked things like bread and biscuits have also their particularities in the island and paired with Greek coffee the perfect breakfast is served.
Learning some recipes with locals will open the most intimate side of travelling. It gives the chance to immerse in their culture, get to know the welcoming Mykonians and see what their everyday life is, as well as improving your cooking skills. There are different classes you can find to suit different budgets. If cooking is not your thing, then consider visiting a vineyard and enrol on a wine tasting experience. It will surely be a highlight of your trip.
No trip seems to make sense if the main city is missed. The centre of Mykonos town or Chora is a beautiful labyrinth of narrow passages of cobblestone full of life. Cosy bars, fashion boutiques, traditional jewelleries, churches and the typical white facades of the houses with colourful wooden doors, windows and balconies are a postcard at every corner.
Mavrogenous Square, by the Old Port, is a landmark with its monument to a national heroine who played an important role during the Greek revolution against the Ottoman empire. Follow to Matogianni Street, the shopping artery of Mykonos town for designer boutiques, legendary bars and nice little shops for Greek souvenirs. Tria Pigadia or Three Wells is another landmark in the centre, built in 1722 to provide the town with water.
After window shopping and strolling, head to Little Venice for a sweet end of the day. This waterfront street has captivated many artists who have found inspiration in its beauty and portrayed it in their artworks. The place depicts old fishing houses from the mid-18th century once property of rich merchants and captains, thought to have been pirates for the structure of the homes. Currently, some of these houses are bars and restaurants where you can chill and enjoy a drink while the sun sets reflecting its light on the sea. It is advisable to go early or make a reservation beforehand as it gets busy during peak season.
ust about 8km away from Chora lies this unspoilt little town that will conquer your heart. It is a charming place depicting the typical architecture of the Cyclades with a maze of streets hosting tavernas where to savour local specialties and traditional sweets. What is special about this place is that you can feel the daily life of locals in the relaxed atmosphere they have been able to maintain.
The monastery of Panagia Tourliani is a must-see. Founded in 1542 by two monks and restored in 1767, Panagia Tourliani is now a highlight of Mykonos because of its history and the blessed Icon of Virgin Mary, as it is the Patron Saint of the island and celebrated every 15th of August. This religious monument also played an important role during the German occupation.
The building is simply marvellous. Its whitewashed exterior with the distinctive red dome, marble bell tower and water fountain with sculptured decorations in the yard account for an impressive architecture. The interior is characterised by a wooden baroque altar by Florentine artists and Greek orthodox ornaments. It holds a museum inside which displays interesting religious exhibits.
Visiting Ano Mera and the monastery are one of the best things you can do in Mykonos, especially to get a break from the hustle in the town centre. There are buses going there from the Old Port with the company KTEL, otherwise, taxis or car rentals are other options. The church is open every day from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3.30 pm to 7 pm and the entrance is 1€.
A top attraction in Mykonos is the Agricultural Museum, an open-air place just in the outskirts of Chora. Not only because of its contents, but because part of them are displayed in Boni, a windmill located in Ano Myloi, which means Upper Windmills. It is a chance to visit the inside of an active windmill, which dates back to the 16th century when Venetians dominated the island.
The exhibits in the museum are old machinery and agricultural tools in use before the industrial revolution, so the collection explains how locals would cultivate staples, produce wine, withdraw water and their lifestyle related to the land.
What makes this museum special is stepping inside the windmill, the nice walk from Mykonos town and the incredible views from the top. The main road to get there can be tricky as it is narrow and there is traffic. After the taxi rank in Mavrogenous Square there is an adjacent path with stairs that will quickly take you to the top. From there, the town is revealed offering a spectacular sight that is just worth the uphill.
The Museum is open from 6.30am – 9.30pm Monday to Saturday from April to October and has no admission charge. The Harvest Festival takes place there every second Sunday of September.
Cine MANTO is one of the best places to go to end your day. It gives a very different picture of what is known about Mykonos and looks like a little piece of paradise. The place is a vast garden with palm trees and unique species of flora that will amaze the visitor. Watching a film under the starry Greek sky is definitely something to experience.
The cinema screens two films back to back and offers the possibility to have a meal or drinks at the café and restaurant, which is also a great place for business meetings or just relax in an informal atmosphere away from the frenzy summer in Mykonos.
It opens every day from the 1st of June until the 30th of September and all films are in original version with Greek subtitles. Film running times are 9pm and 11pm and the tickets cost 9€ for adults and 7€ for children. Member cards are available at 70€ for 14 films. The Cine Manto Café Restaurant is open from 10am for breakfast until 2am for the last drinks.
Considered a Multispace, the cultural project behind it organises many different and interesting events such as exhibitions, shows and performances not to be missed.
At the centre of the Cyclades, just south-west of Mykonos, stands one of the most important islands in Greece, mythologically, historically and archaeologically.
Delos was inhabited by Ionians, who attributed it the birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis, children of Zeus and Leto. Mythology says that the island was revealed by Poseidon when Hera, the queen of Mount Olympus, goddess of marriage and birth and jealous wife of Zeus, banned Leto to give birth anywhere. Poseidon, brother of Zeus, pitied her and came to help. Actually, the name Delos means revealed.
The island was a place of pilgrimage for Ionians, hence in order to worship the gods it had to be purified. This meant that nobody had the right to give birth or die on the island. The graves were moved to the neighbouring Rineia. The island maintained a commercial importance and then suffered ups and downs due to wars between Rome and Athens.
It was not until 1872 that the French School of Athens discovered through extensive archaeological excavations how incredibly rich a Mediterranean port it had been. It was declared a World Cultural Heritage site protected by the UNESCO in 1990. There are many landmarks for such a small island (just about 3.50 sq km). Getting there is easy from the Old Port in Mykonos. There are regular ferries that depart at 10 am and cost around 20€ including the entrance fee, or private charters, which are the best option for groups of 6 people or more. Most guided Delos tours are available for about 40€, including ferry and fee. Children under 6 old enter for free. Usually, tours are offered daily in English and in other languages different days a week.
Often wrongly overlooked, visiting the Municipal Library is a top choice when travelling to Mykonos. Located in Ayia Kyriaki Square, this mansion of the 18th century once belonged to the Mavrogenis family. It has history itself on top of what it hosts.
The library is home to ancient coins from the Cyclades and other objects, besides more than 6,000 volumes, a vast majority of which donated by the Mykonian historian Ioannis Meletopoulos from his personal library. Others were donated by other people’s libraries, and most of them are in Greek but there are real treasures amongst them. One example are the books and sketches given by a legendary American artist who moved to Mykonos in 1966, John Ratekin. His paintings, poetry and black and white drawings of the landmarks are unique and fascinating.
Ratekin also wrote the first Tourist Guide to Mykonos, which included some of his works. After him, many other artists arrived to capture its charm. Ratekin’s art is a rare and exceptional occasion to see the island’s evolution to modernity through the eyes of one of the first visitors to fall in love with Mykonos.
No monument is more important in an island like a lighthouse. This 19m tall building was built in 1891 in Fanaris, which means lantern in Greek, in the neighbourhood of Cape Armenistis, 7km away from Mykonos town. It is still functioning and operated by the Hellenic Navy’s Hydrographic Office. It is worth visiting for the views you get from there.
Located on the north-west of the island, its strategic position allows for a wonderful scenery from there. The neighbouring island of Tinos is perfectly visible on clear days. It is a great place to watch the sunset away from the noise in the city centre.
The construction began after a tragic incident at sea, when a British ship sank, and eleven people lost their lives. The original lightning mechanism is displayed at the Aegean Maritime Museum in Mykonos town. It was an award-winning engineering project designed by a French company, but it was replaced by a more modern one in 1983.
Lighthouses are a symbol of guidance and a monument paying tribute to the sea and its people, a sometimes melancholic reminder of the past maritime way of life. Romantic almost by definition, going to Armenistis Lighthouse cannot be missed. To get there, follow the road from Agios Stefanos beach, towards the north of Mykonos Port.
The island of Mykonos is really a gem to be rediscovered. No other place offers more than what is known. Home to so much history, beauty, gastronomy, adventure, romanticism and welcoming locals, Mykonos is a piece of paradise that will amaze your senses.
5 Best beaches in CroatiaCrystal clear water and intact landscapes are two of the main features of the Croatian coast. And of course its beaches and dream islands: For the family, the surfers, the couples and for those who prefer not to pack a bathing suit … We present you 5 best beaches in Croatia for you to enjoy the sun and the sea during your next trip to Croatia.
Although small, it offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the glorious sun of Croatia, combining one of the main attractions of Dubrovnik: its ability to be both a historic city and a beach destination.
In addition to roasting in the sun, here you can play beach volleyball or Croatian picigin, declared intangible cultural heritage. At dusk, do not miss its lively nightlife.
Arriving is easy: It is located in front of the Puerta de Ploce, the eastern entrance of the old town. To get there, cross the door and walk about 90 meters to the beach.
Despite not being a beach of fine sand, but of pebbles, it is beautiful. The best thing is that its particular form – of the tongue for some and horn for others – changes depending on the wind and the tides.
If you like to practice kitesurfing and windsurfing, it is definitely the ideal place, due to the intensity of the wind that sometimes stuns those who just want to swim or sunbathe.
Getting there is easy: From Split, you must take a ferry to the town of Supetar on the island of Brac. The frequency of ferries is every hour or hour and a half.
3. Proizd Beaches, Korcula
It is an uninhabited island. To get there you must take a boat from Vela Luka west of Korcula and in just half an hour you will be enjoying this paradise on earth. The last return departs at 7:00 in the evening.
The beaches of Proizd are made of white pebbles and offer transparent turquoise blue water. If you add to that the smell of the pines that grow on the island mixed with the salt of the sea, the experience becomes insurmountable.
Among all its coves, three are beaches known as “Bili Boci”, on the north side of the island. From them, you can see the profile of the neighboring island of Hvar and the open sea.
Although it is uninhabited, keep in mind that in high season the island has a restaurant next to the pier and daily ferry service.
One fact sums up the identity of this beach: Forbes magazine chose it as the sixth best beach in the world. The reason for such designation is discovered as soon as when your feet rest on its white sand, enjoy its calm sea or rest under the shade of the hundreds of pines that surround the place.
It is ideal for families since it has a fairly complete tourist resort, including bars, restaurants and water activities for all ages.
A pleasure for the senses. If you are for a few days in Hvar and want to explore new beaches, this is a very good option. You can access the islands by renting a small boat to explore the coves at your own pace or arrive at one of the many boats that also offer this route.
There are options for all tastes: visiting the Palmizana marina on the island of San Clemente, where a Venetian family was established more than 300 years ago and 100 years ago founded a small restaurant that still remains; the nudist beach of Jerolim, described as a place of intact nature, rocky coast, and crystal clear sea; the famous club Carpe Diem in Stipanska to enjoy the night … An unmissable destination!
Renting a yacht charter in Croatia is becoming a unique experience that everyone passionate about the sea must make. The spectacular crystalline waters of the Adriatic seduce us so that we embark on an adventure difficult to overcome. Croatia by yacht charter is no longer something unattainable for travelers, as there are more and more offers with different itineraries, routes, and options that fit almost every pocket. That is why we are here to present you with all the reasons why a luxury yacht charter in Croatia is for you:
We all know that Croatia is an ideal destination for many sports, cycling, hiking, climbing, and of course, all those water sports that may exist.
Therefore, we give you all the keys so you can realize your dream aboard a yacht charter in Croatia. In Croatia, there are many companies that offer us yacht rental services.
Croatia is situated on the Adriatic coast. The Adriatic Sea is known for its beaches, islands, crystal clear water and its culture. This area is also known for its biological and geological diversity.
Croatia has more than 1,200 islands and islets. Many of them are uninhabited.
The Croatian coastline has over a thousand scenic islands, white sandy beaches, and busy marinas. Sail through a crystal clear sea of blue water.
The Adriatic is home of many species, various animals and plants. You can find fish like gilthead, goby, bamboo fish and many others.
Enjoy lush and green forests and farmlands. They are home to many species of European mammals, birds and insects as well as wildflowers.
You can rent a luxury yacht with or without a skipper or crew. We at Luxury Catamaran offer luxury yacht charter in Croatia.
All of our yachts are luxurious in nature so you sail on your dream vacation.
Croatia has a thousand years history and home of different cultures and fascinating ancient stone towns.
Croatia is full of thriller experience. You can enjoy rafting, diving, sailing and climbing. One can also take windsurfing lessons. Croatia is indeed an ideal place to live your dreams.
When you are in Croatia, you must enjoy the nightlife and its maritime history. Don’t forget to enjoy Sunset ☺
Top Five Reasons to Visit Paros
While you’ve probably heard of Mykonos and Santorini, Paros, an island in the Aegean Sea and one of the largest islands in the Cyclades, is simply a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Greece. With its beautiful sandy beaches, traditional villages, active nightlife, vibrant culture, and fun festivals, Paros shouldn’t be missed.
Simply put, Paros has exceptional beaches. Paros is home to countless beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters and has plenty of beach bars for vacationers to check out. The most famous beach on Paros is Kolymbithres beach, a beach known for its stunning granite rock formations. Santa Maria beach has plenty of watersports restaurants and taverns, while Ai Yannis hosts nighttime concerts and outdoor movie events during the summer.
Paros is also home to many traditional villages, most of which are found along its beautiful coastline. While Paros’s towns include Piso Livadi, Drios, and Aliki, Paros’s most famous village is Lefkes, a tiny town built on an olive and pine tree-covered hill. With its traditional whitewashed houses and windmills, as well as Venetian churches dating back to the 15th century, Lefkes is a fantastic town to discover Greek history.
Paros offers plenty of dancing and drinking places, and you can find everything from beach bars to clubs with all different types of music on the island. Make sure to try some of Paros’s local wines and spirits too, such as Moratis, a fairly strong wine, and Souma, kind of like Raki (anise-flavored alcohol) or Tsipouro (a pomace brandy). Yamas, or “cheers”!
Paros also has many castles, churches, museums, and baptisteries. Panagia Ekatontapyliani, or the Church of 100 Doors, is a historic Byzanite church in Paros’s main town of Parikia which dates all the way back to 326 AD! Parikia also has a 13th-century Venetian castle which offers an amazing view of the city.
Paros holds many festivals throughout the summer, where people do everything from lighting large fires to having massive feasts. Two of the most popular festivals are Paros’s Fish Festival and its Celebration of the Virgin Mary, which take place in July and August respectively. During the fish festival, which takes place on July 2nd, the people of Naoussa serve fresh fried fish, plenty of wine and dance all night to traditional greek music. For the Celebration of the Virgin Mary, Paros holds a parade and procession at a local park.
Paros for sure will delight any traveler who has a taste for adventure. Book one of our luxury catamarans today and visit Paros for an experience of a lifetime!
10 Best things to do and see in LefkasIf there is a paradise, I finally found him…
Wonderful climate, turquoise waters, scenic and gorgeous harbors. Traditional architecture, cosmopolitan places, green mountains, hospitable people, unique traditional cuisine and sea not sailing for sailing, diving and other water sports.
The island of Lefkada situated very close to the coasts of western mainland Greece, it is connected to a navigable bridge about 50 meters long. Together with Evia are the two unique islands in Greece where access is also possible by road.
The vibrant city of Lefkada invites you to its culture as to all the Ionian islands. Lefkada has the recipe for perfect holidays.
The island of Lefkada Situated very close to the coasts of western mainland Greece, it is connected to a navigable bridge about 50 meters long. Together with Evia are the two unique islands in Greece where access is also possible by road.
Walk in the beautiful alleys, which will take you to small squares and watch the traditional houses, the elaborate bell towers and the paved footpaths. Here you will see houses painted in colors gently, trimmed with flowers and neat. With a walk, you will discover other surprises.
The castle of Agia Mavra, which dominates at the entrance of the island of Lefkada, is one of the most imposing medieval buildings in Greece and is a standard of fortification art of that time. The castle is built in 1300 on an islet, next to the entrance of the island!
Nydri is considered to be the largest tourist resort on the island. It is ideal for diving and water sports, while there is also the pulse of the nightlife of the island! For sailing enthusiasts the islands of Lefkada are among the most popular destinations
Close to Nydri, one of the most famous islands in Greece and all over the world: Scorpios, the resort of the magnate Aristotle Onassis, his cherished island, his “shelter”. 2012 was bought by Russian mogul Dmitry Ribolovlev as a gift for his daughter’s birthday.
The island of Scorpio, acquired by the golden heir of Aristotle Onassis, Athena, is covered by a special protection regime, since the entire area it NATURA
The car is forbidden here. The traditional settlement of Agios Nikitas will get to know him walking. A picturesque harbor, green everywhere, fish taverns, cafes and bars in the waves, stone houses glued …
We are in Prigiponnisia, a small island complex that sails to the Ionian Sea. The tiny Meganissi is undoubtedly one of the hidden corners of the Ionian Sea, a place unknown to many, but it welcomes those who want to spend peaceful and carefree moments near it. It is known and loved by sailing enthusiasts looking for anchorage in its dozens of windy bays with turquoise waters.
And remember that behind the luxurious yachts and famous visitors there is an ancient history: Meganisi is inhabited since the Neolithic era and was first mentioned by Homer in the Odyssey. Two traditional settlements, also in the northern part, embellish your summer frame in the green island. Above Vathy, Katomeri reminds of a neighborhood of old with stone houses, small shops and bars for those who do not say “no” in the nightlife.
The most popular beaches of Lefkada.
Exotic beaches, coves, rocks cut vertically, pine trees that reach up to the water. Seat, Eggs, Mill, Peukouli, Mills, Amyglossa.
And the ”star” of the island, Porto Katsiki and Enkremnoi
Porto Katsiki is one of the most famous beaches.It has been ranked among the top six beaches of the Mediterranean. It is photographed and renowned all over the world.
… the un the unreal natural scenery and the stairs on the cliff. The beach has unreal beauty and wildness! turquoise waters, which we would say reminds of the Caribbean. One of the most beautiful beaches in Greece!
For a short drive from Nydri, a wonderful location welcomes nature lovers and ecotourist enthusiasts.
The Dimosari Gorge is an area with a wonderful natural environment, ideal for a pleasant and invigorating hiking trail. Follow the shady path below the plane trees to find yourself in a unique revelation: from the huge rocks, water drops violently into a blue lake. You will not resist swim.
For its uniqueness, the lentil Evelubi has been distinguished worldwide. Small production, but great … taste. They are cooked by the women of the village at the festival of Agios Donatos on the 7th of August, on the plateau with the big wells above the village. The feast on your plate.
Lefkada will also win your heart.
Enjoy your trip!
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The 10 Best Things to Do and See in CorfuIf there is a paradise, you will find it in Corfu. With its warm weather, turquoise waters, and gorgeous harbors, Corfu is a must-visit destination. Corfu, also filled with traditional architecture, cosmopolitan beaches, and great mountains, is the perfect destination to taste authentic Greek cuisine, play in its waters, and explore a unique island.
Cosmopolitan yet historic, Corfu has plenty of Venetian-inspired buildings, old fortresses, and other sites reminiscent of Homer’s famous works.
Top 10 Things to Do and See in Corfu
The architecture in the central city of Corfu not only has Venetian influences, but also English and French influences as well. Its main attractions include the Old Fortress, the town hall, Mon Repos villa, and Spianada park, the largest park in all of the Balkans. Moreover, St. Michael and George’s Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings left behind by the British Empire, is also a major attraction. In Corfu, Venetian mansions and building are painted in the traditional color ochre, a natural clay earth pigment with a color ranging from yellow to deep orange to brown. Corfu is so special, that it was actually named a UNESCO world heritage site!
2. See the Liston Monument
The Liston monument is a perfect place for romantic strolls, coffee, or a quick bite. People in Corfu are especially proud of their cuisine. Traditional dishes include “pastitsada,” “sofrito,” and “bourdeto”.
3. Walk the Islet of Blachernae
Probably the most famous attraction in Corfu, Blachernae is the island where the church of the Virgin of Blachernae is located, and is a must-visit destination.
5. Travel to the Natural Cove in Corfu
The natural cove in Corfu is ideal for fishing and/or diving. Add in a boat tour for a special visit to the island of and some delicious seafood.
6. See Palaiokastritsa
The most famous village in Corfu, Palaiokastritsa is a natural paradise famous for its greenery and blue waters. It has six small bays, and is perfect for divers and other watersports enthusiasts. The Achilleon diving center offers unique explorations of Palaiokastritsa’s marine life.
7. Visit the Islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa
The islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa are perfect destinations to visit by boat from Corfu. Characterized as small paradises, they are situated at the northwestern tip of Corfu. Shown below is the cave of Calypso, which is home to emerald waters and where, according to legend, the nymph of Calypso detained Odysseus (from Homer’s The Odyssey) for seven years.
8. See the Canal d’Amour
See the Canal d’Amour, a turquoise-colored canal where the wind and water smoothed the rocks to it’s sides, making the canal a famous “work of art” unique to all of Greece and the wider southeastern region of the Mediterranean.
Rovina beach is a small, beautiful, isolated beach hidden in western Corfu. The beach’s shoreline literally collapses into the sea, creating a natural dam on Corfu’s coast. Rovina is considered to be the most beautiful beach in all of Corfu.
Also, be sure to check out Corfu’s many other magnificent beaches, including Sidari beach, Stefanos beach, Kassiopi beach, and Kontokali beach.
10. Visit St. Gordios and Agios Stefanos
These two stunning beaches on the western coast of Corfu are nestled in the roots of lush green mountains and surrounded by golden-colored olive trees.
Enjoy!
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Discover ALL Dubrovnik Game of Thrones locationsLord Byron described it as “The Pearl of the Adriatic”, Bernard Shaw “Paradise on Earth”. A lot has happened in Dubrovnik since then, yet truth in those statements remains.
Founded in the 7th century and originally called Ragusa, Dubrovnik was a city amidst a myriad of civilisations and cultures. Disputed between empires and armies, Dubrovnik has suffered a series of catastrophes along its history that have shaped its character. Notorious is the earthquake that destroyed most of its renaissance buildings in the 17th century (later rebuilt in the baroque style that can be seen today) and the shelling at the end of Yugoslavia in 1991, after which the Old Town, directly affected, was reconstructed under UNESCO guidelines to its previous state since it had become a World Heritage site in 1979.
The charming beauty of Dubrovnik, with its impressive monuments and the walled Grad or The City, as locals call the Old Town, provides a perfect setting for fairy tales and medieval stories brought to the screen. Fans of the renowned saga “Game of Thrones” will surely enjoy a tour around its filming locations.
In the heart of The City, this is one of Game of Thrones locations for King’s Landing. Located near the Dominican monastery, this street and the narrow alleys around have been widely used in the series to portray many market scenes. It is also here where the Gold Cloaks kill King Robert’s illegitimate sons in season 2. Another scene in episode 5 takes place here: when Tyrion Lannister and Bronn witness a protest speech against the Lannisters, blaming Tyrion for the misfortunes in the city.
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The baroque stairs on Gundulic Square that lead to St. Ignatius Church, known as the Jesuit Staircase or The Spanish steps, served as a location for the Walk of Shame in season 5, when Cersei Lannister is forced to walk naked to the Red Keep in front of the crowds, stripped of all the power that her majesty attends. Probably one of the most famous Game of Thrones scenes. It was also the most expensive to film, since businesses in that street had to close for the day and people inhabiting apartments there remain inside with their windows shut.
This astonishing 16th building located in the Grad was once used to store grain. The dimensions and architecture of the building gives an idea of the importance this had for the inhabitants of Dubrovnik. The name Rupe makes reference to the silos carved in stone where barley, wheat and millet were kept.
The exterior of this building serves as the location for Littlefinger’s chic brothel in Game of Thrones. Amongst its wealthy, fine clientele of traders and nobles, King Robert, Ser Bronn and High Septon. It is also where in season 4 Tyrion Lannister meets Oberyn Martell.
The actual museum features handmade textile work and traditional costumes on its second floor, while on the first, visitors will find displays and explanations regarding the traditional architecture and rural economy of Dubrovnik. It is open to the public all year round from 9am to 4pm, Wednesday to Monday.
This Game of Thrones location was chosen to double as the residence of the Spice King in Qarth. Actually, Qarth was filmed in some other sites as well, but the interiors of the residence were shot here. We see the external side of Rector’s Place in season 2 when Daenerys Targaryen meets the Spice King of Qarth to ask for ships to return to Westeros, but receives nothing.
The palace dates back to the 15th century and was built to host the then elected Rector who governed the Republic of Ragusa. Its architecture is mainly gothic, but it harmoniously combines elements of renaissance and baroque style, since it suffered damages in different occasions due to fires, explosions and earthquakes.
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The building serves now as the Cultural History Museum of Dubrovnik, which is open to the public every day from 9am to 4pm, except for Christmas, New Year’s Day and St. Blaise on the 3rd February. Tickets cost 80 kuna for adults, for schoolchildren and students, 25 kuna.
Just outside the walls of The City in Dubrovnik there is Pile Gate, actually, its main entrance, west of the walled city centre. This location can be seen from all the corners in seasons 2 and 3. A very famous scene is The Riot of King’s Landing (season 2 episode 6) during The War of the Five Kings.
This fortified complex is defended by Fort Bokar and a moat that goes all around the walls on the outside. At present, the moat is dry and its garden provides some fresh air away from the crowds. From the top of Pile Gate, there are fantastic views of a small fishing harbour located between Fort Bokar and Fort Lovrijenac to enjoy.
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At the entrance there is a bridge with a gothic arch on each side which connects to another wooden drawbridge. In the past, this bridge would be pulled up at night. Nowadays the doors of the city are always open to visitors.
This 14th century Romanesque style gate served as a location for the Red Keep Gate in Game of Thrones. It is from where Cersei Lannister enters the Red Keep after the Walk of Shame in season 5 episode 10. The site also appeared in season 2, when Tyrion has a conversation with Lancel Lannister in episode 5.
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Ploče Gate, also known as Vrata od Ploča, is one of the main entrances to The City in Dubrovnik, this one located on the east side. It used to be a drawbridge made out of wood that would also be pulled at night to prevent the entrance of intruders and undesirable visitors, but it was later built in stone with balustrades. It has an inner section and an outer one, where The Revelin Fortress is found. It used to be a lookout point to the east of the city. On top of Ploče Gate there is a statue of the Patron Saint of Dubrovnik, Sveti Vlaho or Saint Blaise, which is celebrated every 3rd February with festivities that last several days.
This Game of Thrones location doubles as the residence of the King of the Andals and the First Men, his family and his court in King’s Landing; the Red Keep. The opening of season 2, the tournament celebrated during King Joffrey’s name day, was filmed here. The scene of characters watching the Battle of Blackwater Bay, too. The real bay is Pile Bay, which the Fortress overlooks. It also appears in the killing of King Robert’s bastard sons as the Gold Cloaks raid homes, and when in season 2 episode 6 Myrcella sails off to Dorne.
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Lovrijenac Fortress, also Tower Lovrijenac or Fort St. Lawrence is located west of the city and known as Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar, built on a 37m high cliff overlooking the sea. It dates back to the 11th century, although chronologist establishes it between 1018 and 1038. It has a particular architecture and history. It was built upon suspicion that Venetians were planning to invade the city, with western walls of 12m thick and eastern walls of only 60cm. Its shape is triangular, with different floor levels and terraces where nowadays spectacles and events take place.
This Fortress, known as Tvrđava Bokar, is found at the western corner of the city walls. It was built in the 15th century to defend Pile Gate. The building was projected by a Florentine architect as a two-storey armoured fort, at present considered one of the oldest in Europe. Part of the fortress was built on a detached rock, so arched supports were built to connect the whole structure.
In the series, this location was used for several Game of Thrones scenes. The seaside walls are used as King’s Landing walls. From the tower, they are best seen in season 2 episode 8, when Tyrion and Lord Varys discuss war-strategies on Bokar Fortress, and in season 6 when Jaime Lannister returns from Drone with the dead body of Myrcella. In season 7, Cersei and Jaime watch from this Fort the Iron Fleet arrive at King’s Landing.
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The fortress that can be admired today is as it was in 1570, when it was finally completed. Nowadays it holds various of its cannons on display on the inside and a beautiful collection of lapidary stones.
Originally built in 1319 by local architect Ničifor Ranjina, it served as a protecting fortress for 100 years. It was reconstructed after the fall of Bosnia to the Turks and adapted to new warfare practices. A new round tower around the earlier quadrilateral fort was done by the same architect who designed Fort Bokar, and the high narrow tower with the iconic gothic crown was added by Juraj Dalmatinac, from Zadar, Croatia. It was considered a symbol of an unconquerable city.
Minčeta Tower takes the name from the family who owned the land where it was constructed. It is the tallest and most visited defence tower in Dubrovnik, since the landmark offers spectacular views of the city. The 750 steps that lead to the top of the tower are certainly worth the effort.
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In Game of Thrones, the base of this location is the outside of the House of the Undying in the town of Qarth. A famous scene takes place in season 2, when Daenerys Targaryen tries to find the entrance of this mysterious place in search of her stolen dragons.
The garden and exterior scenes happening in Qarth actually take place in Lokrum, like when Daenerys attends a party in season 2 episode 5 where she meets the warlocks.
This tiny island in front of the east coast of Dubrovnik is a Nature and a Special Forest Vegetation Reserve with plenty of greenery that provides shade and freshness during the hot summer days. It has gardens with hundreds of botanical species planted in the 19th century, as well as peacocks introduced by the Austrian archduke Maximilian. One of its main attractions is a lake called Dead Sea or Mrtvo More, which is a salt lake linked to the sea through various underground caves.
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On the highest point of the island, at 96 metres above sea level and offering remarkable views of Dubrovnik, stands Fort Royal Castle, built by the French during their occupation of Croatia. However, the most prominent building is the Benedictine Monastery founded in 1023 and which holds a replica of the Iron Throne.
This location situated just 24km north-west of Dubrovnik is one of the oldest and more beautiful tree gardens in the area thanks to the seafaring tradition of its people, who enriched the garden with species from their voyages. There is a gothic-renaissance summer residence from the 15th century with a Neptune fountain and a neoromantic park. The Arboretum is a protected area and the Summer residence and gardens were declared a monument of garden architecture in 1962, but the war events in 1991 destroyed a large part of it, with partial damages to the residence and the oldest part of the gardens. The Arboretum is open to the public and absolutely worth a visit.
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As for Game of Thrones, Trsteno Arboretum doubles as the gardens of the Red Keep, so this location appears in many scenes.
This 5-star hotel opened its doors in 1985 as a super-luxury hotel in the Adriatic, with an arena overlooking the sea and panoramic views of the city, but war got on its way. In 1991 it was destroyed by bombs, leaving it a hazardous place to rumble.
It was bought at an auction in 2014 by a Russian millionaire and the project for the new hotel intends to convert it into a seven-star hotel which is expected to be ready for 2021. The place and project have not been discussed locally without controversy.
In the series, it is shown in season 4 episode 8, when the battle in the arena of King’s Landing between Prince Oberyn and Ser Gregor Clegane decides the fate of Tyrion Lannister.
Less than 1km away from Dubrovnik Old Town stands this magnificent Villa. The story has it that it was built by a Lithuanian entrepreneur for his beloved wife after escaping The October Revolution in Russia in the 1920s. This secluded high-luxury mansion occupies 4200sq m of land and is surrounded by terraces and gardens that lead to the crystal waters of the Adriatic, facing Lokrum island. It is a true retreat in one of the most exclusive locations in Dubrovnik which have hosted celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. It is available for rent at a price of €7,000 / day in the summer months (June to September).
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In Game of Thrones, this spectacular location serves as the exterior for the mansion of Illyrios Mopatis, the rich merchant-prince, a supporter of House Targaryen and benefactor of Daenerys.
To visit the place where the actual Villa is, it takes just a 10-minute walk from Ploče Gate, following the shoreline.
Just about 10 minutes walking from Fort Lovrijenac and west of the city, there is this oasis of trees and paths where to get away from the hustle in the Old Town. Fountains and benches shaded by the branches of pine trees, nice footpaths to stroll and enjoy the views of the Fort and the Bay are assured here.
The Purple Wedding was shot at this location. The park was transformed, with loads of invitees, music, food and drinks to celebrate Joffrey Baratheon’s wedding, until it turned a drama with the death by poisoning of the groom. The Game of Thrones scene shot in Gradac Park was certainly not as tranquil as the park is in real life.
Dubrovnik is a place that will captivate you, Game of Thrones fan or not!
Do not miss the chance to sail its absolutely crystal-clear waters and discover the amazing islands nearby. Check available catamaran charters from Dubrovnik and create lingering holiday memories.
Benefits of Luxury Yacht charter
Most charters include a little bit of everything: relaxation on board, fun on land, excursions to places of interest, water sports, shopping and exploring the natural habitat of your destination. If you have any particular interest, be it cultural, gastronomic, sports, or history or nature for example, luxury yacht charter can adapt to your needs in order to offer you the best of what you like the most, but above all it is a unique opportunity to plan the most exceptional vacations you can imagine.
This type of yacht charter let the professionals make this dream come true. Whatever you want to see, any food you want to taste, the sports you want to practice on your own and what beaches, historic buildings and fantastic shops you want to visit, luxury yacht charter can provide everything you want.
Benefits of Luxury Yacht Charter
If you have any other questions about renting a luxury yacht, we’re happy to help.
Top reasons why it is worth sailing in SantoriniSantorini is an island so unique and striking that for many it is the most picturesque in the Mediterranean. The famous editor of Lonely Planet guides includes Sailing in Santorini among the 20 places around the world that you must visit.
Conceived by many as the jewel of the Cyclades, it can be said that the island of Santorini is paradise. Let yourself go and enjoy the 5 places you should not miss on the island of Santorini.
Here are Top reasons why you should Sailing in Santorini:
Tell us when you are sailing in Santorini ☺
Santorini day cruise – 7 top destinationsSantorini offers two distinct faces to the travellers of the Santorini day Cruise. Dreamy beaches and tranquillity by day and a nightlife full of parties, fun and joy.
The Greek islands are one of the most popular and best-assorted destinations in the world of cruises. Santorini, next to Mykonos, Rhodes and Crete are the most visited and best-communicated islands. Practically all the cruises that leave Athens, and all those that visit the Aegean Sea, stop at Santorini.
Top Destinations to see on Santorini Day Cruise:
You cannot miss one of the classified as “most beautiful villages in the world”, Oia.
Fira, the capital of the island, is also very beautiful, and for me, it is the best place to watch the sunset.
As you already know, Santorini is a volcanic island, and the whole west coast, where the towns of Oia or Fira are located, that appear hanging to the abyss of a great cliff. Just ahead is the crater of the volcano, which is the famous caldera.
You will not get tired of taking pictures; it is what gives the island of Santorini that special attraction.
In Santorini, there are very good wines and several wineries to visit.
It is located at the southern tip of the island, just opposite Oia.
And of course, if you’re on an island in the middle of the Aegean Sea and its a little summer, then don’t forget to visit the best 3 beaches.
Santorini has become the top destinations to view “Sunsets”.
What are you waiting for, plan your Santorini Day Cruise today! ☺
Best things to do in corfu town you didn’t expect
Corfu Town, the homonymous capital of the island, is one of the most beautiful towns in Greece. The architecture and urban planning of its historic center, a UNESCO heritage site since 2007, show an enchanting mix of elements reminiscent of Venice, Naples and Paris.
Let’s take a look at some of the best things we can see in Corfu:
Let’s Enjoy Corfu☺
10 things to do in SantoriniSantorini is not just romantic sunsets, donkey riding and cave suites. The island has much more to offer, especially for discerning travelers. Check what to do and see by visiting one of the most beautiful islands of Greece.
From cozy cafes and original bars to extravagant clubs – Santorini offers a wide range of places where nightlife is vibrant. In Fira, you can have a drink at Franco’s Café Bar, Tropical and Tango Bar – each has a view of the caldera. Those wishing to go wild should visit the famous Koo Club and Mamounia Club.
In the summer there is a series of cultural and artistic events. Among the festivals, deserves Vedema (which means winemaking) taking place in the SantoWines winery on the first Saturday of August and a spectacular show of Ifestia fireworks referring to the volcano eruption in the second half of August. An interesting place is the Santorini Arts Factory (SAF) in Vlyhad, where there are, among others, concerts, dance performances, and educational programs for children are organized.
Akrotiri boasts a neighborhood with some of the most beautiful Santorini beaches, the beautiful La Ponta castle and the legendary Aegean settlement. The archeological site of Akrotiri is one of the most important discoveries of the Mediterranean basin, called the Lost Atlantis.
There are over a dozen vineyards on the island, each of which has its own unique character. Five of them stand out particularly, including Koutsogiannopoulos Winery in Vothonas, where there is a very interesting Wine Museum. On the other hand, in Megalohori, I suggest a visit to Venetsanos Winery, where you can enjoy wine with a view of the Caldera. In the village there is also a traditional, old family vineyard Gavalas Winery, whose owner made sure that his Vinsanto was made in the old style.
Holidays on Santorini is a great opportunity to dive – there are many interesting places worth exploring. These include around the Cape Tripiti near the islet of Thirassia, the wreck of a ship near Palea Kameni and the reef Adiavati near Akrotiri.
Near Oia there is a charming and colorful bay Ammoudi, which is known for its excellent fish taverns, including Dimitris Taverna and Katina Taverna.
This is one of the most popular places on the island, where crowds gather every day to admire the sunset. If you want to find a good place, you should be here well in advance.
It is worth climbing to the highest point of Nea Kameni to enjoy the amazing view of the caldera. In a small bay around Palea Kameni you can immerse yourself in hot springs, which supposedly have healing properties.
The flagship product is cherry tomatoes cultivated on the island for over 150 years. Capers are also excellent in taste, accompanied by the majority of local dishes and sweet white aubergine. The Santorinian cuisine is very diverse. Next to fish and seafood, it is worth trying a fava served with onions, tomatoes and capers (fava pantremeni), deep fried tomato fritters (ntomatokeftedes), grape leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice and onions (dolmadakia), baked omelette with potatoes and vegetables, most often zucchini (sfouggato) and deep fried white eggplant (melitzanes) – preferably when served with grated cheese or dip tzatziki.
An unquestionable attraction number one is a catamaran trip from Crete to Santorini. You have the option of also booking a private 5-hour catamaran cruise, thanks to which you will see the most beautiful landscapes and in the most pleasant way you will spend those few hours of your life.
Milos is undoubtedly the richest island in the history and culture of ancient Greece. Milos is an island in the Aegean Sea, which also bears the name of a “colorful island” due to the colorful waters flowing around it and the extremely colorful buildings. It is here that the famous statue of Venus of Milo was discovered. Things to do in Milos are innumerable beaches covered in sand, rocks and shells. Ancient theater, catacombs and mills located in the village of Tripiti and sunsets are things to do in Milos.
What are the things to do in Milos, which you did not expect? Starting from number 10:
10. Mandrakia
Fishing village of Mandrakia, became famous because of the amazing views.
9. An interesting view of the island – the so-called sirmats
There was built or crashed in the rocks garages for boats, closed with multicolored doors. There are also small rooms for fishermen in these rooms. The idea was born a long time ago, when fishermen felt the need to hide boats from storms, today they often play the role of holiday homes and undoubtedly are one of the island’s attractions.
8. Pollonia beach
The small beach, especially liked by windsurfers. Perfect if you like water sports!
7. Sikia Cave
Sikia Cave is located on the southwestern part of the island, it delights with tunnels made of colorful rocks.
6. Catacombs
These are the underground tombs of the first Christians, located in the town of Tipiti. The entire complex is 200 m long and has been completely hand-made! Interestingly, these graves were reusable – when the body was spread out and only bones remained, the family “sweep” the deceased to put another one in its place.
5. Kleftiko
A complex of sea caves hollowed out by the sea, a long time ago was a shelter for pirates. White, high rocks immersed in the emerald blue lagoon looks amazing! To get there you just need to buy a one-day trip around the island.
4. Plaka
Extremely beautiful streets between white houses, decorated with balconies, where the Greeks grow colorful flowers create an amazing, fairy-tale landscape. Here is also the highest hill of the island, and on it the remains of the castle. It is worth climbing to admire the view of the huge bay of Milos.
3. Klima
A small fishing village, with the small houses which have been built right next to the sea, and their doors and window frames are painted in various colors, creating a candy landscape. The cottages have been converted into cozy rooms for rent for tourists. Spending the night in such a place must be really special, when at night the waves flow gently into the bedroom.
2. Amphitheater
Built by the Romans, during their reign over Milos. It was in its vicinity that the famous statue of Venus of Milos was found.
1. Catamaran day trip
Milos, further south, offers spectacular lunar landscapes and dramatic coves and beaches that can be reached only by yacht. It also has one of the largest, almost enclosed harbors in the Mediterranean and the port, Adamas, is safe in all weathers and has facilities for servicing yachts.
Croatia is not only almost 2 thousand km of magnificent coast, but also – as not everyone knows – over more than 1000 islands and islets. Some of them are rocks barely protruding from the water, but some form separate worlds. Among the 66 inhabited Croatian islands, it’s easy to find your holiday paradise. Here are 5 the best Croatian islands that you have to see!
Brac is the largest Dalmatian island, located just a few kilometers south of Split. Its hallmark is the Golden Horn (Zlatni Rad), probably the most photographed beach of Croatia (it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world). Golden Horn is an ideal place for windsurfing, but not only – you can try sea kayaks or scuba diving, as well as several other water sports, which have recently gained popularity (for ex. wakeboarding).
It is tiny and there is no car traffic on it, ideal for escaping from crowded in the season of Dubrovnik (from where you can get a ferry in 50 minutes or a speedboat in half an hour). The purpose of Lopud visitors is the sandy beach Sunj, which is reached by a thick, insanely fragrant forest.
The entire western part of the island is a national park, which most visitors describe briefly: “a place of unprecedented beauty”. The caves, cliffs, rocks and smaller islands stretch along the wild coastline.
Vis is famous for its pristine nature and karst caves (you must visit Modra, Medvidina and Zelena, where you will find not only beautiful views, but also a soothing chill), try the delicious wine and food.
If you love beach parties, head to the island of Pag without hesitation. On the beach of Zrce near Novalja, bars and clubs have 24-hour licenses – during the day you can sunbathe and sip on cocktails, and after sunset the music is turned up louder and the dance floors quickly become full. Zrce attracts young people, and thanks to her, Pag is called the Croatian Ibiza.
Croatian islands are a completely different world. They are beautiful, often wild, not fully understood by tourists. Each of the islands is different but unique in its own way.
When planning a visit to the Croatian islands, we also encourage you to plan island hopping Greek, which will complete the journey!
Sightseeing Santorini – exploring in a private catamaran tour!Sightseeing Santorini – exploring in a private catamaran tour!
Are you thinking about Santorini private tours? In this guide we will discover the best places to stay in Santorini, what to see, the best activities to do and much more.
Known as “the blue and white island” for its particular architecture, the island of Santorini is part of the Cyclades archipelago, in the center of the Aegean Sea.
Santorini owes its peculiar beauty to a large volcanic explosion that occurred approximately 3500 years ago. Santorini is characterized by its picturesque houses, many of them painted white with blue windows and built on the rock itself.
Exploring in a private catamaran tour is the most recommended option to Santorini private tours.
Near Santorini is Athens, the capital of Greece and the cradle of democracy, justice and the great history philosopher. Take the opportunity to explore it and discover its wonders, which are not few.
In our travel guide you find all the recommendations to organize your visit and make the most of your stay.
Top 10 Tourist attractions in British Virgin IslandSeas and postcard Caribbean beaches. White sand, turquoise waters, palm trees, colorful tropical birds, and mysterious rain forests. They are the British Virgin Islands, a destination for an unforgettable journey.
Let’s take a look at the top 10 tourist attractions to experience in British Virgin Island.
On the island there are the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport and the main port of the archipelago of the British Virgin Islands, from which it is possible to rent a catamaran British virgin island to discover the other islands, doing “island-hopping”, as the local inhabitants say.
Tortola is not only the economic center of the BVI, the British Virgin Islands, but a wonderful island to discover, with different tourist attractions and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Not to be missed is a visit to the capital Road Town, in particular, the port area, full of small shops and typical restaurants overlooking the sea.
La Promenade is the ideal walk on the waterfront to discover the tastes and flavors of the archipelago: a rich mix of traditions that unites all the cultures that have passed through here, Caribbean, African and European.
The port of Road Town is also the perfect place to start discovering the other islands that make up the archipelago.
Water sports lovers; in particular surfers will find their way to Apple Bay, considered by fans to be one of the best spots in the Caribbean for riding the waves. Rent a luxury catamaran British virgin island and sail away.
A decidedly electrifying experience that Tortola offers is the Virgin Canopy Tour, an adrenaline-filled zip-line that allows you to “fly” over the lush vegetation of the island. An adventure suitable for the whole family.
For nature and trekking lovers, don’t miss the Sage Mountain National Park, the first national park of the BVI for the protection and conservation of the local ecosystem.
Tortola obviously also offers a series of unique beaches. One of the most loved is certainly Long Beach, on the western tip of the island. About 1.5km long, Long Beach is famous for its fine sand and crystal-clear, calm waters, which make it a safe and suitable place for everyone.
The liveliest beach in the BVI is Cane Garden Bay: the chiringuito and beach bars offer music and excellent drinks, naturally based on rum. Right here is the famous Callwood Distillery, an ancient rum distillery still active and now also used as a museum of this distillate.
Feel free and experience the unique adventure of a Catamaran British Virgin Island and explore all the mentioned tourist attractions of British virgin island.
Top reasons why to choose Santorini cruiseIf you close your eyes and imagine being in the typical Greek island, your imagination may take you on a Santorini cruise. White house’s interrupted by blue domes, the smell of gyro and souvlaki, infinite cliffs that are lost in the deep blue of the Mediterranean… yes, Santorini is so beautiful that it seems like a dream.
There are very few places in the world that have as much attraction as the Greek island of Santorini has. It is one of the islands that attracts the most visitors over the years. A perfect destination for beach lovers, tranquility, culture and good food.
Santorini will captivate your eyes and make you feel as if you really found yourself on the remains of a volcano.
So, I hope my tips helped you make the best of your time on the island if you are coming on a Santorini cruise.
5 Amazing things to do in Split, CroatiaOn the eastern coast of the Adriatic lies beautiful Split, the largest city in the Dalmatian region and the second largest in Croatia, with just around 200,000 inhabitants. It was founded in the early centuries BC as a Greek colony called Aspálathos or Spálathos, and developed around the Diocletian Palace, a fortress-like residence the Roman emperor had built for him to spend his golden years which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
Famous for one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe, strolling around Split is a delight. There are many landmarks, most of them concentrated around the living museum that the Palace is. The city is now buzzing with a great bar and gastronomical scene and plenty of stylish shops, but it has had many ups and downs during its history and it only began to develop as a tourist destination after recovery from the crisis suffered from the disintegration of Yugoslavia.
With stunning landscapes of turquoise waters, pleasant Mediterranean climate of mild winters and hot dry summers, the many museums and galleries, numerous music events, sports celebrities and easy going-locals, Split is a vibrant city that has indeed a lot to offer.
From Croatia
By Plane: flights are not very expensive and operate daily from Zagreb. There are some available weekly flights from Dubrovnik and once a week from Osijek in peak season. Check Croatia Airlinesfor further information.
By train: there is the line covering Zagreb–Knin–Split, although trains are less frequent than buses and delays can happen. Check
HŽPP for schedules and prices.By bus: there are many daily departures from the capital, Zagreb, and other cities in Croatia to Split. See the Split Bus Terminal website for timetables.
By ferry: there are various ferries and ship lines that connect Split with the neighbouring islands and other coastal cities in Croatia, most of them operated by Jadrolinija.
By catamaran: there are private charters from different cities and nearby islands to sail to Split at your leisure. See our services for more information on catamaran rental in Split
From Europe
Split is great to visit all year round and there are amazing events taking place every month. May through October let you experience at its best, as these months include the beginning and ending of peak-season and more activities are offered. July to August is a lively period, so expect some crowds as well as high temperatures.
If you like history, there are two spots that cannot be missed when visiting Split. One is Klis and the other one Solin.
Klis Fortress
Located just 15km away from Split, this medieval construction was originally a rather small stronghold in the town of Klis built by Illyrian tribes, and developed into a fortress during the Ottoman wars. It is strategically situated on a pass between the mountains of Kozjak and Mosor and offers spectacular views of Split and the small neighbouring islands. It has appeared on TV, probably the most famous is Game of Thrones, in which it doubles as the city of Meereen.
Nowadays there is a small museum which displays historical military arms, armours and uniforms.
Solin
It used to be the Roman capital of Dalmatia, at the time called Salona. It was actually the birthplace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ordered to build the famous Palace which is now the centre of Split Old Town.
There are an amphitheatre, Roman baths and gates to visit. The Archaeologic Museum gives an idea of how life was at the time. It covers the Greek and Roman periods, but there are also Neolithic artefacts that were found in Dalmatia. The museum is open all year round Monday to Saturday and entrance is 20kn fur adults and 10kn for children, students and seniors. During low season (October to May), it is closed on Saturday afternoons.
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Solin is definitely a place to visit to get a deeper understanding on the origins of Split and the historical development of the Dalmatian region.
Just a small stroll away from the Diocletan Palace in the Old Town lies this small fishing port. Fishermen have kept their boats in the cave for centuries and still do, but it has become a popular place for local and foreign young people to hang around and have some drinks while listening to street music in front of the blue waters of the Adriatic.
There are some shops just on the other side where to find a great selection of beers, both local and from around the world at reasonable prices. There are two small local breweries in Split which produce nice craft beers worth trying.
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Matejuška is a fantastic place where to start the night. Find a spot, watch the sunset and make new acquaintances with other people gathered there. You will also get the chance to see how local fishermen prepare everything for the next day to sail.
Close to the city centre but 178m high, this recreational spot of Mediterranean pine trees is a favourite for locals to chill and get away from the buzz.
There are some 800 steps to get to the top of the hill although it is not an intensive hike, especially in the sunset, when the sun is lower. Views from there are amazing and worth the little effort.
Marjan was the subject of the Croatian song “Marjan, Marjan”, sung by Yugoslavian partisans against the fascists. The hill is now a symbol of Split and a popular destination for picnics, easy jogging and romantic dates.
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The way down offers the possibility to choose an alternative route which leads to the beaches of Kašjuni and Bene, right at the foot of the hill. It is a wonderful way to end the afternoon before going back to the city centre.
The HNK Hajduk Split was founded by Split students in Prague in 1911 and is the most esteemed sports club in Dalmatia. Their loyal fans, known as Torcida Split, are considered the oldest organised supporters’ group in Europe. Attending a match will provide you with an insight into the sportiest city in the world and an understanding of why the colours of the club are displayed all over town.
Their matches are played at the Poljud Stadium, referred to as Poljud beauty by locals, which is located in the Poljud neighbourhood spectacularly facing the Adriatic, just 20 minutes walking from Split Old Town. It was built in 1979 to host the Mediterranean Games, but it has hosted other championships, such as the 1990 European Championship in athletics.
On match days, the Stadium gets crowded with cheerful spectators. It has a capacity of 35,000 seats, but it was increased to 62,000 for a match against its eternal rival, the Dinamo Zagreb, nicknamed The Blues. Tickets are cheap, but it is better to avoid the northern zone, which is occupied by the Torcida. On days when no match is scheduled, it is possible to follow a tour inside the Stadium to see the trophy room and learn about Split’s interesting history through a loved sport.
Uje Oil Bar, tucked away behind the Diocletan Palace in Dominsova (once the Jewish quarter), offers a wonderful setting to get a taste of local flavours, especially a great selection of olive oils.
Uje is the word for Oil, and actually, the place started as an olive oil distributor. Over time, it has grown into a place where to get a complete peek on the Dalmatian gastronomy. Divided into four areas, there is the zone for an aperitif; the area where to have some nibbles like a selection of cheeses, ham and olives; a restaurant offering mouth-watering local dishes in a nice atmosphere; and the wine bar where to sip some nice Dalmatian wines. There is also a shop where to purchase some of the delicacies.
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The place offers an olive oil tasting which provides a fantastic insight into the ancient tradition of oil production and the history up to the techniques used at present, all accompanied with Dalmatian paring dishes. It is offered every day at 11 am and 5 pm. Definitely a must for foodies and those willing to discover the culinary side of Split and the Dalmatian region.
Without a doubt, Split is a city where to have a fantastic holiday. Explore the narrow alleys of the Old Town amongst centuries of history, play picigin with locals at the beach, and do not miss to sail its gorgeous beaches nearby.
Catamaran rental BVI – what should you know?
Just imagine!
Navigate the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea around Tortola and the neighboring islands by hiring Catamaran rental BVI. Dive in wonderful coral reefs, stroll through the white sand of the beaches, and enjoy the time of your life!
This wonderful dream is at your fingertips even when you know about boats or not. All you need is a sense of adventure. Here they sing with whales and swim next to the angelfish. Let the cool breeze sound in your ears as the palms shudder as you listen to a local reggae band.
The British Virgin Islands consist of more than 60 islands and cays and are the perfect place to sail in the Caribbean. Here you will find from quiet alleyways in the charming Road Town to lovely deserted beaches in Anegada and beach bars with rhythm and atmosphere as well as immaculate bays with places to dive that will leave you breathless.
Without fast food chains, neon signs or tall buildings, the British Virgin Islands have developed into a modern country while retaining the atmosphere of magical tranquility typical of the Caribbean.
There really is a no better choice to experience the BVI than renting Catamaran. Catamarans rental BVI offers spacious accommodations with unsurpassed comfort for sailing vacations.
Diving lovers will find themselves in their sauce discovering some of the richest and most spectacular backgrounds on the planet. Not only the vegetation and marine fauna but also the remains of ancient shipwrecks will delight us with an entire underwater adventure.
The best place for this is Peter Island and near Anegada Island for the incredible and ghostly sunken pirate ships. Other islands such as the Tortola surrenders with beautiful beaches under coconut trees and discrete coves for adventurers, the Apple Bay and Brewers Bay stand out.
Be careful not to navigate at night near the Anegada along its rocky coastline. But do not miss a ride with your Catamaran rental BVI near the small sand that is the small Sandy Bay or the tiny Saba Rock that only has a house, a diving club (the place deserves it) and a pub.
The climate is spectacular throughout the year with a generous sun on most days. It is the perfect place for lovers of sailing, the beach and the sea.
Is a catamaran charter for you?The catamaran is characterized by its comfort and speed, so choosing a catamaran charter to travel is a great option full of advantages.
The navigation is much more comfortable and stable in the voyages. The appearance of dizziness and discomfort is much lower than on a monohull sailboat since a catamaran will always move less.
If you want to travel more safely and comfortably without giving up the speed, you should know that the speed of a catamaran charter is greater than that of a monohull sailboat and the arrival at the destination will always occur in a shorter time.
In the case of the catamaran, it has a very wide surface compared to other boats, with better ventilation, greater natural light input and an unbeatable 360 view.
The catamaran charter can easily reach 11 knots with a carrying wind of 20 knots. The fact of setting less than monohulls means that catamarans can get closer to the shore, where we find the most crystalline waters.
The stability is infinitely greater, which reduces the risk of falls to the sea, particularly children.
Space is much larger, which makes the habitability unquestionably superior to that of any monohulls of similar length. In addition, you can cook comfortably while sailing at 8 knots, something very complicated in monohulls.
On catamaran charter you can have two cabins and a bathroom, providing great independence among the passengers.
When choosing the length, we must bear in mind that speed depends on this. The larger the length, the faster the ship will be. In general, also the larger the length, the greater the interior of the catamaran charter. If you are looking for comfort and speed, look for a large length.
One of the greatest pleasures when traveling by catamaran charter is, you can easily anchor it for swimming, and get closer to the coast or to certain areas that a sailboat does not reach.
Greece Sailing Itinerary: 7 Days Through the Cyclades IslandsThe Greek islands are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Indeed, the Greek islands have topped countless lists as a top destination around the world. In this itinerary, we lay out for you a plan to go from Athens to Mykonos and see the most spectacular highlights the Greek islands have to offer.
The Athens Riviera is a coastal area in the southernmost suburbs of Athens. On this sailing route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, including Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi and Varkiza.
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece. Recently, the wider region of Cape Sounion was declared a national park, and is now protected by the Greek government. Cape Sounion is also home to the ruins of the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical Greek mythology. From the ruins, one can view the sunset over the Aegean Sea, a famous and beautiful view that many travel to see.
Kythnos, located in the Western part of the Cyclades, has perhaps the most beautiful beach out of all the Greek islands. This beach, a crescent- shaped isthmus, has extremely fine sand and warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are told to have healing properties.
Kythnos also has picturesque villages with cobblestone streets and white houses with blooming flower courtyards. Kythnos is warm, friendly, and simple. Walk through its quiet neighborhoods and dine on fresh food at waterfront tables.
Syros is located 144 kilometers (78 miles) southeast of Athens. Its capital, Ermoupoli, is a neoclassical town and one of the most beautiful settlements you will encounter in the Cyclades. Syros’s Roman quarter is home to the fortress-like St. George’s Cathedral. Go up to the top of the hill the Cathedral sits on, through the narrow streets, past the traditional whitewashed houses, and through the archways and open spaces to catch a breathtaking view of the entire island.
Syros also has beautiful architecture, such as the churches of St. Nicolas the Rich and Dormition of the Mother of God. On the hill that St. George’s Cathedral sits on, also sits the remarkable medieval settlement of Ano Syros, built during 300 AD.
3rd DAY: MYKONOS
The most famous island of the Aegean, Mykonos is bright and cosmopolitan, with exciting nightlife and stunning scenery. With its stunning beaches, award-winning restaurants, endless fantastical parties, and dream villas, it is no wonder Mykonos has been voted one of the top vacation destinations worldwide.
If the Mykonos nightlife scene isn’t for you, don’t worry. Mykonos is also home to the Ano Mera Village, a calm, authentic, and picturesque town home to the historic church Panagia Tourliani as its main attraction.
A very diverse island, Mykonos has become the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
Mykonos is also home to Little Venice, and its houses (which were built in the 18th century) have foundations in the sea! Today they offer bars, restaurants, and stunning views of the Aegean from their balconies.
The other trademark of Mykonos are the Kato Myloi, a series of windmills, that, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, milled flour up until the mid-1900’s. Today, they are home to locals and serve as vaults to numerous Mykonian heritage documents.
Moreover, Mykonos has tons of scuba diving, and its waters are home to some amazing creatures, including octopus, starfish, and Mediterranean monk seals! There are countless companies which offer diving expeditions through reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
4th DAY: MYKONOS – DELOS & RHENIA ISLANDS
Delos is one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece. Dolos is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis and has been a holy sanctuary for a millennium. Admire beautiful archaeological sites and watch the unique sunset on the island of the god of light, Apollo.
Charter your boat in Rinia, where you can dive into blue waters and cool off in the fresh air. Rinia is a peaceful, almost deserted island where one can recharge and catch a break from all the noise.
Naxos is the largest, most fertile, and self-sufficient island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, one is welcomed by Portara, a large marble frame and an ancient Apollo Temple, along with a view of a medieval castle. The island has a history dating back centuries, unique sights, varying landscapes, and delicious food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island which have been inhabited for centuries.
Naxos was rated the sixth best island in the world and the number two place to visit in Europe according to TripAdvisor, the popular travel site’s, users. It is also described as a critical culinary destination because it produces some of Greece’s most famous exports including many Greek cheeses.
Koufonissia is a well-hidden terrestrial paradise that is also definitely worth visiting. Filled with quiet beaches and caves, Koufonissia is an excellent place for relaxation and time to oneself.
Koufonissia, with its crystal clear waters, has plenty of opportunities for beautiful Mediterranean diving. With dreamy landscapes and tranquil music, Koufonissia is one of the most peaceful places to explore.
6th DAY: PAROS or SIFNOS
Paros also has beaches with crystal clear waters and magnificent beauty Also in Paros however, you’ll discover Byzantine footpaths which which connect traditional villages like Naoussa, a colorful village where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbor. Naoussa is also home to exquisite shopping opportunities in the town’s narrow alleyways and fine dining along its shores.
Sifnos combines picturesque views with folk art and tradition. It has many medieval remains and contains 360 churches, for the number of days in a year.
Sifnos is an island famous for its architecture and its beauty. Elegant but simple at the same time, Sifnos is full of stunning, pure beauty.
7th DAY : SERIFOS to ATHENS
Serifos is the ideal place for taking a stroll or stopping into one of its cafes, fish taverns, or pastry shops located next to the sea. Chora, Serifos’s capital city, was built on a rocky hilltop overlooking over the rest of the island, and houses a Venetian castle built in the 15th century. The most beautiful architectural building on Serifos however, is the ancient Hellenistic marble watchtower Aspros Pirgos, or “White Tower.”
Simply put, Serifos has beautiful, simple Cycladic architecture that has remained unchanged for centuries.
With magnificent views, archaeological wonders, and fantastic adventures, you’re sure to love this itinerary which takes sailors to all of the must-see Greek islands.
Enjoy!
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3 best and hidden Dubrovnik beaches
We are going to give you all the information on one of the most beautiful places in Europe. We are referring to Dubrovnik, a coastal city in the Dalmatian region of Croatia. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this city is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, both for its great cultural offer and its beautiful beaches.
Today we will tell you about its best and hidden beaches. Would you like to join us?
First of all, we want to talk about Banje beach, one of the best known in Dubrovnik. Located near the historic center of the city, it offers impeccable turquoise waters. On the other hand, it is important to bear in mind that it is an ideal beach for families, as it is safe and is adapted for children. In addition, you will find chiringuitos, restaurants and different services here.
We also want to talk about Sveti Jakov, also known as Sv Jakov. Despite being one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubrovnik, you will not find as many people as in other sandy areas of the island. It is a small cove located under the church of San Jacobo. To get to it you must go down a steep staircase, but the road is worth it. There you will find a sandy and pebble beach with stunning views of the old city and the island of Lokrum.
Finally, we want to tell you about the island of Lokrum, which is only 10 minutes by boat from the city. It is an uninhabited place that offers beautiful beaches surrounded by forests. There are many who say that this is where you can find the best beaches of Dubrovnik.
We hope you like all the information and visit one among the three best and hidden beaches of Dubrovnik ☺
TOP 5 occasions to rent a catamaranWe really like the idea that you have chosen to rent a catamaran for your holiday destination, it is certainly an experience that must be carried out at least once in a lifetime and we are sure that you will repeat in future occasions.
If your hobbies are the sea and sailing, then sailing on a yacht for rent is a perfect choice. Rent a luxury catamaran in the Caribbean. Enjoy exploring the most exclusive destinations with a catamaran and make the most of your holiday. Here are the top occasions why you should rent a catamaran:
Catamarans are perfect for organizing your next birthday party. Sail away on a crystal clear water and enjoy the moment that you never experienced before. No more boring clubs or disco parties.
There is no better way to seal a business deal than taking your business partner on your luxury catamaran to impress your people and organization that you think unique and you know how to enjoy life to the full.
Why not rent a catamaran for your wedding receptions. We know this is your special day, so why not choose catamaran and enjoy the special movements of your life.
Obviously, if you love sailing, then you must choose catamaran. They come in different shapes, budget and features. Quench your trust for sailing and sail away.
LuxuryCatamaran has a large fleet of catamarans for rent at your disposal, of different lengths and capacities to fit your preferences. Without a doubt, sailing is synonymous with quiet and noise-free navigation, which will make you disconnect from your daily chores and enjoy a few days of vacation onboard.
The catamarans for rent that are included in our charter fleet are very stable boats with all the necessary amenities to spend the night in them and spend a few magnificent days onboard since they are perfectly reviewed catamarans and equipped with many amenities that you can rent with an employer or without an employer.
If your idea is to spend the night onboard a catamaran for rent, you can do it without problems, we offer you rentals for days or weeks and you can undoubtedly enjoy magnificent sunrises from your cabin, rich breakfasts while making your way the day, as well as fantastic sunsets with your loved ones around. All rental catamarans come fully equipped with cabins and lounge for rest, fully equipped kitchen to prepare rich meals and full bathroom inside.
Itinerary: 7 days in the North Ionian Islands (from Corfu to Lefkas)Coming Soon! Kefalonia (also known as Kefallinia) is the largest island at the ionian sea. Due to its unique beaches and green mountains it has always been a popular destination to visit.
1. Swim in the world-famous beaches
Kefalonia is the ideal island to explore by boat due to its exotic beaches (such as Myrtos). You may start your exploring trip so as to discover the unique beaty included among the surrounded bays.
Kefalonia is also known for sports lovers. You may enjoy different kinds of sea sports such as sea kayaking and diving which take place in small caves or tiny little bays.
Argostoli is a picturesque village built around the Koutavo sea. The natural forming port enables it to be considered as one of the safest port of the world. Just one visit in Argostoli is not enough to admire all sight seeings
A marvelous lighthouse of unique architecture. If you visit during sunset you’ll be even more amazed by the surrounding colours
4. Swim in Fteri beach! The secret heavenly beach…
This destination will make you to leave behind a piece of your heart with the certainty to visit this place again and again
5.Discover the Santa Efimia (Agia Efimia)
… one of the most beautiful villages along the coast side of Kefalonia, about 34 km away from the capital (Argostoli). The natural forming port is able to host many sailing yachts . In the meantime someone can taste the traditional food in small restaurants that are located there
6. Τravel to the superior Assos
Assos is one of the most significant sightseeings in Kefalonia. A village which has been able to preserve all Venetian characteristics combined with the natural beauty makes… it a destination that someone definitely has to visit.
7. Travel and admire the beautiful beach of Myrtos
The most famous beach of Kefalonia….an amazing landscape which has been popular worldwide. It has been classified among 10 most beautiful beaches according to TripAdvisor!
A destination that many celebrities love to visit during their cruises. Despite being frequently overcrowed, it has managed to maintain its traditional architecture combined with peace fully intacted.
9. Swim in Petani
Another one mythical beach that someone should not miss to explore…
10. Discover and admire the Melissani cave
It is considered as one of the most astonished places of the world. The natural forming cave makes it a unique geological phenomenon…
Kefalonia will definitely will be able to amaze you !!!
Enjoy your trip!
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Top 10 best and less crowded Santorini BeachesSantorini is the most meridional island of the Cyclades. It is actually an archipelago of six islands: Santorini and Therassia, and the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, Aspronisi, and Christiana. It is a captivating remnant of a volcanic caldera, the geology of which gives character and diversity to its beaches. The peculiar architecture of Santorini in perfect harmony with the natural landscape gives it a beauty that has made it a bespoke destination worldwide. However, there are still amazing secret beaches where to find tranquillity away from the crowds.
In the village of Akrotiri on the southwest coast of Santorini, just 14km away from the capital Fira, lies a spectacular cove known as White Beach or Aspri Paralia, as called by the locals. It can only be reached by boat.
Its beauty is impressive and the waters crystal-clear. The beach is covered with black, grey and white sand with large pebbles and surrounded by imposing white cliffs, which accentuate the sense of isolation. A must-see during your holidays in Santorini.
It is partially organised, with only some sunbeds with umbrellas and a small cave canteen for basic supplies, but there are no facilities. The White Beach is also a great place for the snorkelling and, especially, scuba diving lovers, as there are caves and many underwater rock formations and fissures to explore.
This secluded beach belonging to the village of Imerovigli is just 10km away from Fira, on the northeast coast. Although there is no public transport nor sign that leads you there, it is easily reachable by car or motorbike if you follow the road that runs along the coast. It is located between Cape Kouloumbo and Vourvoulos Beach. There are some zigzag stairs to descend to the beach area. It is not organised, so there are no facilities.
It is a very beautiful and quiet beach, with black and white sand and reddish enveloping cliffs that provide partial shade. Locals prefer it because it remains quite undisturbed and waters are amazingly clear and rather shallow. Because of the geographical location it can become windy. Actually, some windmills can be seen on the hills of the area.
Expect to find peace and relax there, as the beach is isolated and it does not even get crowded during peak season.
The place means garden, and comes from the Turkish word Baxes. The inhabitants used to plant some vegetables and dry fruits in this area. The beach is located just 3km away from Oia. It stretches after Paradisos Beach and is easily reachable.
It is popular amongst locals because it is secluded, quite sandy, even the seabed after some meters of pebbles, and waters are shallower than in other areas. The landscape is outstanding, with beautiful, naturally sculptured cliffs surrounding the black beach sand contrasting the crystal-clear water. The beach is narrow on some parts and wider on some others, where just a small number of sunbeds are available. There is a small bar which offers drinks and snacks.
Beaches on the north of Santorini might not be the best option to go swimming when the Meltemi, the Aegean northern wind blows, especially for kids. Otherwise, Bexedes is definitely a must-see for those looking for clean and crystalline waters, tranquillity and amazing scenery. Sunsets from this cloistered beach are wonderful and just worth the visit.
This is a tiny overlooked spot between the popular Ammoudi and Armeni Bay, in the region of Oia on the north side of the island. The place is reachable on foot by descending a rather steep cliff, walking down a very narrow and sometimes intimidating path which starts in Monastiri. Not an easy task. The best option is to get there by renting a boat. The views are remarkable, especially while sailing.
On the small stretch of beach there are pebbles and black, grey and reddish sand but no facilities whatsoever. Waters here are crystal clear and deep, which makes it ideal for swimming. The scenery from the sea is mind-blowing. The blue colours of the water contrast with the red of the impressive cliffs, which then turn to brown and green for the vegetation and finally, the white of the houses of Oia at the top.
This secret beach is cloistered and will give a real sense of isolation. A nice, relaxing swim away from the crowds in a notable setting is granted here.
The beach at Cape Kouloumbo or Columbo is the northern hidden gem of the island. Belonging to Oia, this unspoilt beach is located just 12km away from Fira. There is no public transport to reach it, so it is only accessible by private vehicles and then following a narrow path on foot for about 300m.
The beach is a favourite spot for nudists. It is an isolated black stretch of sand with dramatic red cliffs which provide some shade when the sun starts to set. Because of its location, waves can be quite high. Be sure to bring all your essentials, as there are no facilities on the beach, nor sunbeds or umbrellas.
Waters are quite warm here. Under the sea, at about 500m depth, there is the active volcano of Kouloumbos, which last erupted more than 300 years ago. Adventurous swimmers and divers properly equipped can find it exciting to explore the Seal Cave in the area.
Kouloumbo Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the north coast.
This lovely spot is located on the west coast in the Akrotiri area, just about 5 km from the lighthouse. It is easily accessible, but the slope is quite pronounced and the road is not paved.
Bella Bay is also known as Caldera Beach, a quiet, secluded place of black sand overlooking the caldera. Waters are clean and quite deep, so it is a good spot for equipped divers. The beach is unorganised, so there is no lifeguard, sunbeds nor umbrellas, but if the sun is too strong, there is a small restaurant from where to enjoy the beautiful views. On clear days, the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni are perfectly visible.
On the edge of the beach, the daring ones find it appealing to climb a rock about 5 meters high and jump into the sea, given the conditions allow for it and safety is not threatened.
This gem on the west coast of the island is a truly amazing place to stop and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, far from the crowds, and particularly special to experience the renowned Santorini sunsets.
Also known as Christos, it takes this name from the small chapel carved on the rock which is found along the way. It is a remarkable secluded beach with impressive views of the caldera.
The beach is only accessible by boat or on foot, following a path that begins at the award winning Boutari winery in the village of Megalochori, just 7km from Fira. The walk is rather long, about 25 minutes downhill and it can be hard on the way back, especially during the hottest hours of the day. This inconvenience, though, grants some privacy on the beach.
Thermes beach is about 200 long, with black sand, large pebbles and pumice stone. The colourful environing cliffs are spectacular to watch from the sea. Like the neighbouring beach of Plakas, there are hot springs (hence the name Thermes), but there are no facilities.
This isolated beach is one of the most beautiful on the west coast, perfect for those seeking a place to relax overlooking the caldera.
Between the Akrotiri Lighthouse and Mesa Pigadia Beach on the south of Santorini, you will find the Black Mountain. Below, to the west side, there is a small isolated cove. It is probably one of the remotest stretches of beach on the island, reachable only by boat. It might be difficult to set anchor there – as it is common in this area due to the depth of the waters and the rocky seabed. Once on the shore, you can enjoy the beach in exclusivity.
This hidden cove is truly unspoilt and beautiful, made of black and grey sand with some large pebbles and surrounded by reddish cliffs. The one to the east is impressive as you can see the layers of lava, and it provides some shade as well as protection from the winds.
This remote beach is ideal to escape the noise in the city and have a nice swim in the deep blue waters of Santorini, quite warm here as the lava absorbs the heat, so it gives water temperature a consistency. Because of its remarkable rock formation, it is also a great place for experi enced divers, as there are interesting submarine caves to explore.
No trip to Santorini is complete without visiting its sister island, Thirassia. It is one of the two inhabited islands in the archipelago located north-west of Nea Kameni. It is part of the municipality of Oia, so it is reachable by boat from Ammoudi Port.
Agia Eirini is on the north of the island in the village of Riva, where there are only a few houses and a couple of tavernas. It is a quiet, unspoilt beach of black sand and pumice stone. There are no facilities on the beach and it can get really hot, so bring your essentials. Waters are clear and warm. It is just nice to lay on the beach and swim above the volcano.
If you want to escape the hustle of Oia and Fira, Agia Eirina and Thirassia in general is a wonderful place to spend the day, even visit the higher parts of the village for beautiful views and enjoy memorable sunsets. If you decide to do so, do not miss Trypiti Promontory on the south of the island, qualified by geologists as one of the most beautiful volcanic veins in the world.
The best way to calmly enjoy Santorini is by boat. Take day cruise or weekly charter to sail the archipelago at your ease and visit the island in exclusivity. Let its bespoke sun lights drench you in outstanding sceneries that will linger in your memory.
Ionian Islands. If there is a paradise, I finally found it…
Wonderful climate, turquoise waters, scenic and gorgeous harbors. Traditional architecture, cosmopolitan places, green mountains, hospitable people, unique traditional cuisine and sea for sailing, diving and other water sports. The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
The cosmopolitan gorgeous island, exuding a nobility, with a venerable Venetian element, historic buildings, palaces, fortresses, romantic Canadas with arched galleries, amazing beaches and long history from Homer’s years.
The city of Corfu is characterized by its intense Venetian architecture element, but also by many English and French influences. It is a cosmopolitan city that exudes a sense of nobility, with its main attractions the old and new fortress, the Town Hall, the cannon, Mon Rope and the great square Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans. Also, Michael and George’s Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces left behind by the British Empire, is also a major attraction. In Corfu Venetian mansions and buildings are painted with the traditional Corfu color of the ocher.
In front of Kanoni is probably the most famous attraction of Corfu, the island where the church of the Virgin of Blacherna is located, which is connected with the land through a narrow strip of land.
Ponticonisi – tourist attraction of Corfu, which is a natural museum, on which is a small church, the Pantokratoras, of the 11th-12th century.
Palaiokastritsa In the most famous tourist resort of Corfu, the green overflows to the six small bays The beach of Paleokastritsa is famous for its waters
Favorite destination by boat north of Corfu.
The list of the wonderful beaches of Corfu is not over
… Sidari and Canal d’amour, Palaiokastritsa, Rovinia, Agios Stefanos, Kassiopi, Kontokali, Agios Gordios …
St. Gordios
Rovinia
The picturesque village
Corfu will amaze you…
Greek islands: How to choose the right one for your holiday (CNN)(CNN) — Greece’s 1,400 islands — 230 of them inhabited — are one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful assets. From the Ionian, up by Albania in the northwest, to the Dodecanese, near Turkey in the southeast, they offer vacations you can’t get many other places. Each of the island groups has its unique allure, plus some of the most picturesque seascapes on Earth. But for sheer variety in a small radius, proximity to Athens’ ferry port at Piraeus and the best inter-island boat connections, none compete with the Cyclades. We present the top nine islands in and around the Cyclades, each with its marquee attraction (for ferry schedules, check www.gtp.gr or www.greekferries.gr).
The story behind this island is the stuff of legends — in 1600 BC after a volcano erupted and its center collapsed into the sea, it left behind parts of its caldera that today form the island Santorini. The views from pretty much anywhere on this crescent-shaped outcrop are superb. Sheer rock faces are striated in multitudinous shades, villages and towns cling to the tops of cliffs, the caldera is filled with clear deep turquoise water home to the visiting cruise liners. The whitewashed buildings in the main town Fira resemble a fresh blanket of snow atop a mountain.
On the northern tip, at Oia, where the sunsets are outstanding, houses, hotels and churches tumble down the rock walls. Every evening bus loads of tourists descend to watch the sun sink into the Aegean. The scenery is as just impressive at sea level. Red Beach, as the name suggests, has a rust-colored backdrop and Mars-esque boulders, Eros Beach’s eerie hoodoo-like walls would fit right in at a national park in Utah, and Caldera Beach, the only one that faces in toward the caldera, gives visitors a discernible sense of the volcano’s immensity.
Where to stay: Vedema, in the village of Megalochori, doesn’t have a caldera view, but its setting in a small village feels authentic (the town square and village church are a one-minute walk away). The 45 rooms have views of the village homes or the surrounding rolling vineyards. If a vista of the caldera is key, check in to sister property Mystique. Set in Oia, it has a secret wine cellar, and its 22 cave-style rooms are terraced into the cliff face, providing that classic Santorini experience.
Vedema, Megalochori, 84700, Santorini; +30 22860 81796; doubles from $320
Mystique, Oia, 84702, Santorini; +30 22860 71114; doubles from $470
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Mykonos is Greece’s answer to Ibiza, but without the attitude and posturing. Either side of the summer season Mykonos resembles another low-key beach destination but come July and August, night owls arrive in droves, and the main streets of Mykonos Town are packed with revelers — even revelers with babies strapped into carriers. At times the narrow alleys are so jammed with bodies the only way to move is en masse with the crowd as it sways through the streets in a singular motion.
In true Greek style, nothing here starts until late, though you can party in the daytime with 20-something Italians at Super Paradise beach. A popular start is to have drinks at sunset at the Sea Breeze Cocktail Bar in Little Venice, snagging a table up the steps for the best views. Across the island at Kalo Livadi you can find an unfussy beach where the new Nice n Easy bio-restaurant has fantastic organic fare at reasonable prices (the pasta with sharp kopanisti cheese is excellent).
Back in town, Jackie O’ is a lively waterfront bar that draws the gay crowd, Agyra Bar has attractive, hard-bodied staff from Athens and at the always packed Rock ‘n’ Roll, where local and tourists are evenly split, the bartender blows a whistle before doling out oxygen shots.My personal favorite is the bar/club Caprice, where all are united in their mission to just have fun, no judgments, no agenda; the barmen are as much into the music and dancing as the customers (they’ll readily pour free shots of jelly liqueur). Tip: At Caprice, many a first-timer falls into the area where the bar stools are, set one step down from the rest of the floor, so tread carefully.
Where to stay: Hotel Kivotos, on Ornos Bay, is removed from the hubbub, set on a hill with steps down to a peaceful rocky beach, and is an ideal refuge to refuel and recharge. The cool rooms have clear Lucite chairs, LED lights in the floors (sounds tacky, but looks appropriately festive), a pool with a small circular bar, and most importantly, an energetic, attractive young staff that will give you the scoop on the best night spots.
Hotel Kivotos, Ornos Bay, 84600, Mykonos; +30 22890 24094; doubles from $590
The largest island in the Cyclades has a string of swoon-worthy beaches on its west coast, a Venetian castle in its main town, some interesting ruins and great local produce and dairy. But what sets it apart from the other islands are its traditional villages. When you leave Chora, where the ferries berth, the pull of village life is evident — note the sign at the outskirts of town that simply reads “Villages.” There are 46 of them on Naxos, some miniscule, but all a window into traditional life.
Each has a bakery or cafe, a village square where old men with sun-creased faces sit around on tables drinking coffee and trading stories and an immaculately preserved church or two. The hamlets are tucked among the hills and the switchback road that crisscrosses the island. Kinidaros is famous for its bakery (the best on the island, the oven fired by wood) and musicians; Chalki has the excellent artisanal jam shop Era; locals come to the cobble-stoned streets of Apeiranthos to eat the crepes at Samardako; Keramoti sits in a valley, seemingly cut off from civilization, but it’s also the base for hikes to Routsouna waterfall. Since most tourists don’t venture inland, the villages haven’t succumbed to money-grabbing gimmicks.
Where to stay: Set away from the coast, Naxian Collection has good views of Chora, a handful of typical Cycladic white cubist villas with private pools, an on-site organic garden with fresh strawberries and breakfasts large enough to keep you going all day. The likeable owner Ioannis Margaritis was born and raised on the island, so he knows everything about, and everyone on, Naxos — literally. If you’re lucky, he’ll take you to a barbecue at his friend’s house in one of the villages.
Naxian Collection, Stelida, Naxos; +30 22850 24300; doubles from $325
The constant wind on Paros is evident as the ferry approaches the island — you can see giant turbine fans steadily cartwheeling on the north coast. While Paros might be as cosmopolitan at Mykonos (without the Louis Vuitton and Diesel stores) and pretty enough to attract Hollywood royalty (Tom Hanks purchased a house in the neighborhood, on sister island Andiparos), the real draw here is the force of nature. During the summer, the Meltemi winds blaze down through the Aegean, supplying welcome breezes for beachgoers, but also creating conditions ripe for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The winds peak in intensity during July and August; the five-mile channel that divides Paros from its neighbor Naxos funnels the Meltemi to glorious effect.
The main beaches for the sports are Pounda on the west of the island and Santa Maria, Golden Beach (Chryssi Akti), and New Golden Beach (Nea Chryssi Akti) on the east (New Golden Beach’s winds are so reliable that The Professional Windsurfers Association held its World Cup there for six consecutive years in the 1990s). For newbies, mornings are the best time to learn, when the wind is steady but tame. By early afternoon, when the gusts pick up and continue till dusk, pro boarders and windsurfers skim and bounce along the water. Established operators include Paros Kite Pro Center, Force 7 Paros, and Paros Surf Club. Visitors should time their visit around the island’s most important festivity, on August 15, celebrating the Virgin Mary’s ascension to heaven and culminating in a giant fireworks display mounted on boats in the bay of the port town Parikia.
Where to stay: Poseidon of Paros mixes whitewashed Cycladic architecture with flagstone walls, and is strategically poised between Golden and New Golden beaches (you’ll see windsurfers shredding the water during afternoon drinks). The place also does a steady business with weddings.
Poseidon, Golden Beach, 84400, Paros; +30 22840 42650; doubles from $130
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Every islander has their favorite beach, but none of the Cyclades promises the number and diversity of beaches as volcanic Milos. Some have white sand, some black, some are rocky, others offer the satisfying sensation of crushed shells underfoot, with water ranging from emerald to aquamarine to cobalt blue. With a heavily indented coastline (on a map Milos resembles a mutated crab) and pretty little coves at every turn, Milos has about 80 fine beaches, many only accessible by boat. While each has its charm, some should not be missed. Sarakiniko, a beach of brilliant white pumice, looks truly otherworldly (many liken it to the moon). The three beaches of Paliochori are cupped by towering rock formations, its pebbles are multicolored and the sea water has warm pockets where it’s fed by hot underwater mineral springs.
The small Tzigrado beach is flanked by headlands, and can only be accessed by boat or by a ladder down the cliffs. A cave borders the even tinier Papafragas beach, while the rock walls that enclose it give the water the appearance of a river starting in the sand. At Paliorema beach you can wander around an abandoned sulfur mine plant, see the wagons used to transport the chemical and look for sulfur crystals growing among the rocks.
Where to stay: Since visitors will likely camp down at a different beach every day, it makes sense to stay close to the main port of Adamas where taxis and boats are easy to organize. Villa Notos has simple rooms in Cycladic colors of blue and white (some have terraces), Greek-made Korres toiletries, pretty views of Adamas Bay and is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants.
Villa Notos, Adamas, 84801, Milos; +30 22870 28200; doubles from $52
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This rugged, wing-shaped island on the cusp of the Cyclades and named for Icarus — the son of Daedalus who fled from Crete, got too close to the sun and tumbled into the sea just offshore — has gained fame for the longevity of its residents. Their diet, strong community and daily exercise mean Ikarian men are four times as likely as American men to reach the age of 90, according to a study by the University of Athens Medical School. The 99-square mile island is basically one large mountain, peaking in the central Pramnos-Atheras range. For such a small area, the geographic variation is astounding — Ikaria has rivers and tiny lakes, high forests of pine and oak, and hills at every turn that combine to make Ikaria an Elysian Field for outdoor buffs.
Ikaria’s network of mountain paths known as monopatia is an informal web of routes that connects villages. The hiking guide “Round of Rahes on Foot,” published by the local municipalities, details tracks and trails on the west of the island and also maps out a 15-mile tour along monopatia through the hills and villages of northwest Ikaria. The trek brings hikers through farmland, bush, forest, past lakes, along donkey tracks, skirting goat herds and introduces visitors to the unhurried pace and uncomplicated nature of Ikarian life (this is an island where bakeries use the honor system).
After a hard day of tramping, trekkers can rejuvenate aching muscles at the mineral bath houses of Therma (whose waters, according to the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, have the highest concentration of the therapeutic element radon in Greece), or look for the steam rising from various spots around the coast like Lefkada, where heated water emits and joins the Aegean.
Where to stay: Fittingly Villa Dimitri has studio rooms and apartments terraced into a hillside near Armenitis, the steps an ideal preparation for the walks and inclines ahead. Whitewashed rooms have private terraces and views of the Aegean.
Villa Dimitri, Armenistis, 83301; Ikaria; 30-22750-71310; doubles from $55
Photos: Ikaria, the Greek Island where people forget to die
Actually two islands, Kato and Ano (meaning lower and upper) Koufonisia, with the former almost uninhabited, are like a land that tourism forgot, mainly because the quickest ferry from Athens takes six hours. Home to only a few hundred residents, Ano Koufonisi is tiny, just 2.2 square miles, so walking or cycling round the island are the most efficient modes of getting about. The main industry, apart from the creeping reach of tourism, is fishing, and the main town of Chora retains the feel of an untouched fishing village, with small boats bobbing in the harbor. There’s not a whole lot to do here, but that’s the idea. You can hire a caique (traditional wooden boat) for a trip to the nearby island of Keros, where examples of early Cycladic figurines have been carefully excavated. Otherwise life settles into a slow rhythm of going to beaches like Finikias, Platia Pounta, Fanos and the naturist-friendly Pori, taking a caique trip to the deserted strands of sand on Kato Koufonisia, or visiting the churches of Agios Nikolaos, Profitis Ilias, and Agios Georgios,
Where to stay: The white-on-white Aeolos Hotel is close to the port, has bright rooms with flashes of pastel color, and a decent pool ringed by stone tiles.
Aeolos Hotel, Koufonisia; +30 22850 74296; doubles from $130
Santorini is often the go-to island for couples in these parts, but another Cycladian island where houses perch on clifftops is an even better escape for lovebirds. The mountainous, mostly treeless Folegandros doesn’t get the crowds of the islands around it thanks to sparser ferry service, a boon for twosomes in search of some solitude with their sun and sand. The main village of the island, Chora, set on a cliff plateau 650 feet up, embodies the archetypal image of Cycladic buildings of small white houses with blue doors lining cobblestoned street.
The Kastro, the Venetian part of Chora, is well preserved while the majority of the island appears as it has for centuries, devoid of buildings in favor of open landscapes. Donkeys remain a widely used means of transportation and goats scramble up and down the sun-baked hills. Painters and writers from Europe come to Folegandros for quiet inspiration and the most enduring memories of a visit here are the silence and the bays with crystal clear water. The one not-to-be-missed site is the northeastern cave of Chrysopelia, where ancient names are written in clay into the walls, a custom from the Hellenistic Period.
Where to stay: In the port village of Karavostasis, Anemi Hotel has a gorgeous infinity pool and a clutch of two-story buildings with rooms that have modern furnishings and exposed wood beams. It also accepts pets.
Anemi Hotel, Karavostasis, 84011, Folegandros; +30 22860 41610; doubles from $340
A 90-minute high-speed catamaran ride from Santorini, Crete is Greece’s Wild West, where the locals are fiercely independent and have a fondness for guns (used, I’m assured, only to shoot at street signs or into the air during festivities). Its 3,200 square miles are blessed with scores of microclimates, fertile soil and crops that haven’t succumbed to the scourge of industrial farming. Which means that the tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, strawberries, watermelon and other fruits and vegetables that grow here taste as nature intended. The topography of central mountains ringed by shimmering coastline allows two growing seasons — lower elevations in the winter, higher elevations in the summer — and Crete is a hub for olive oil, cheese and wine production. Eat at a traditional taverna (even a touristy one) or kafenio (Greek café) and you’d be hard pushed to have a bad meal because the raw ingredients are so darned good.
Elounda, on the island’s northeast coast, is surrounded by some of the island’s great agricultural areas, like the Lasithi plateau, has a selection of hotels for all budgets, and some excellent examples of what makes Greek mainlanders sigh when they think of the divine freshness of Crete’s cuisine.Ergospasio Restaurant, a former old stone carob factory, serves just-caught seafood overlooking Elounda harbor. The Ferryman Taverna is a local favorite, and for reason — the mezes make great use of Crete’s agricultural bounty. Manolis Kafeneion on the main square is a great spot to share meze and raki (a fiery alcoholic drink made with grapes that locals drink after a meal) with Cretans.
Where to stay: The Blue Palace, just beyond Elounda, has spellbinding views of the Venetian-fortress-turned-leper-colony Spinalonga from its rooms, restaurants and beach. Its Blue Door restaurant does an expert job of recreating an authentic Greek taverna with flavors to match
Blue Palace Resort and Spa, Elounda, 72053, Crete; +30 28410 65500; doubles from $300
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This article was originally published in August 2013. Check with hotels and other services before you make your travel plans.
The Best Sailing Destinations in Aegean Sea
What makes the Aegean the ideal setting for sailing in Greece? Mild and gradual changes in temperature, steady, predictable winds, the absence of tides and strong currents, crystal-clear waters and countless bays, a plethora of stunning islands and the short distances between them, picturesque harbours, safe anchorages, the possibility of fishing, diving, water skiing… It’s doubtful whether any other sea on the planet can muster a longer list.
And then there are the meltemia, the prevailing north winds that blow every summer from about 5 to 7 Beaufort from May to September, a phenomenon known since antiquity. What more do you want? Sail in the Aegean and explore Cyclades, Dodecanese and Sporades with just one click here!
Popular sailing destinations in the Aegean
1. Attica:
Setting off by boat into the Aegean, one of the most popular departure points is Attica. It has many fully equipped marinas offering a high level of service, such as Zea and Flisvos, which can accommodate the most luxurious cruisers, as well as Alimos, which is the home port for most of the charter companies. On the east coast, at Lavrio, the Olympic Marine has extensive facilities for sailing. Given the number of yacht charterers, you can take your pick from a huge variety of sailboats, with crew or bareboat of any size. Most of the firms also arrange their clients’ transfers from the airport and offer them a full package of sea experiences/itineraries.
2. Cyclades:
The Cyclades are a particularly attractive sailing destination, mainly because of their relative proximity to Athens and the great variety of experiences they promise. The contrast of their shockingly white houses against the deep blue of the sea is Greece’s trademark internationally, not to mention the colours of its flag. And because the distance between islands is small, a yachting holiday can take in numerous ports and coves within a very short time. You could even sail to a different island every day, although each one merits close examination.
3. Kea, Kythnos, Serifos & Syros:
Sailing east from one of the marinas on the coast of Attica, you’ll come across a few Greek islands worth exploring with your sailboat. You’ll find Kea first, then Kythnos, Serifos and Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, which is a base for many charter companies. This means that you could easily charter your yacht from the heart of the archipelago and start your explorations at once, while you also have the option of finish your cruise there and returnto Athens by plane or ferry. Aristocratic Ermoupoli with its large and safe harbour is a destination well worth visiting by boat.
4. Tinos, Mykonos and Andros:
Tinos and Mykonos are also ideal destinations although they need more caution, since the winds there can be stronger and there can be higher waves brought down from the Dardanelles by the prevailing northeasterlies.
5. Sifnos, Paros & Naxos:
Sifnos,Paros and Naxos to the south are classic choices, with a succession of private coves that are protected from the prevailing north winds or meltemia. All these islands boast good marinas with connections for fuel and water but also every kind of food supply. Paros also hosts international windsurfing competitions every year, thanks to the ideal conditions of steady winds without choppy waves.
6. Milos:
Milos, further south, offers spectacular lunar landscapes and dramatic coves and beaches that can be reached only by yacht. It also has one of the largest, almost enclosed harbours in the Mediterranean and the port, Adamas, is safe in all weathers and has facilities for servicing yachts. If you make it to Milos, a must see is the volcanic rock formations at Kleftiko on the south coast.
7. Sikinos & Folegandros:
Heading south you come to Sikinos and Folegandros, which though off the beaten track they are ideal settings for sailing, and are among the most strikingly beautiful islands in the Cyclades. Their ports are small and somewhat exposed, so keep your eye on the weather forecast.
8. Amorgos & Ikaria:
Waves in the Aegean are apt to be low because the islands’ relatively proximity, but the winds can be strong and need certain nautical experience, an example being conditions often found during the crossing from Amorgos. Still, the sight of Hozoviotissa monastery cut out of the rock, seemingly suspended above the sea, is a reward in itself.
9. Santorini:
There can be no more awesome experience than sailing into volcanic Santorini – one of the most famous Greek islands—and it has sufficient anchorage facilities and services for yachts.
10. Koufonisia:
Perhaps one of the most delightful destinations for those who prefer a low-key, natural setting rather than a zippy nightlife when the day is done, are the Koufonisia. These small, unspoilt islands now benefit from a new marina on Ano Koufonisi, making them an ideal base for exploring the islets, inhabited and not, in the vicinity. No longer a secret, their sheltered coves are often filled with boats at anchor.
11. Sporades:
The thickly wooded Sporades are wonderful to explore by yacht. It’s a toss up which of the three, Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnisos, is the greenest, while their ‘brother’ Skyros is both pine-wooded and rocky, with its white Hora atop a bare promontory and visible from miles away. Again the distances between these islands are neglible and you can easily visit them all, as well as their smaller uninhabited relatives in the Sporades Marine Park. Don’t expect statel-of-the-art marinas but you won’t be disappointed by the wealth of sheltered bays and deserted coves. The meltemia, too, are milder here than in the southern Aegean.
12. Dodecanese:
Cruising the distant Dodecanese is made easier by the possibility of chartering a yacht locally. In summer especially, the meltemia make comings and goings by sailboat a very attractive option for experienced sailors, since the seas are open. But don’t expect to get there from Attica in a single day.
The Dodecanese are an ideal sailing destination. Airports exist on almost all the islands – Rhodes, Kastellorizo, Karpathos, Astypalaia, Leros, Kalymnos, Kassos and Kos – which makes getting there from Attica easy.
Like the Cyclades, these islands are fairly close to one another, apart from Kastellorizo, so you can visit a different one every day. Bear in mind that each island has more than enough to repay a longer stay. From Rhodes, the capital of this chain, to the tiny islands of Leipsi, Arki and Agathonisi, this group has a lot of wealthy to discover. Leros, Kos, and of course Rhodes, have magnificent marinas for all sizes of yachts.
Sprinkled across the Aegean Sea and steeped in ancient mythology, the Cyclades are some of the most spectacular of Greece’s many isles. Here, fishing boats cast colorful reflections in azure waters, whitewashed villages cascade down lavender-dusted slopes, and craggy headlands are punctuated by ancient ruins.
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Discover the magnificent ruins in the ancient sanctuary of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Ride a donkey or cable car down a cliff side to the harbor on beautiful Santoríni.
Soak up the lively culture, mythology, and Venetian legacy of age-old villages.
Explore the Cyclades under full sail aboard the historic square-rigger Sea Cloud..
Depart on an overnight flight to Athens. After some time at leisure and lunch in the city, travel to Piraeus and settle into your cabin. Cast off this afternoon, and take in our first Grecian sunset at sea.
Our first morning on board is spent at sea. We may stop for a late morning swim before visiting the island of Sifnos. Distinguished for its pottery and its Venetian dovecotes, Sifnos is a rugged island with a harbor village and a beautiful upper chora (village), waterfront tavernas and convenient beaches. It’s a great island for walkers or loungers alike. This afternoon, find a spot on deck to watch as the Sea Cloud’s sails are hoisted up their impressive masts by hand as we set sail for the Cyclades.
Drop anchor at beautiful Tinos, dotted with villages steeped in Venetian history. The island’s Venetian-era dovecotes, terraced hillsides, and green marble quarries have long made this a haven for artists. Explore the picturesque village of Pyrgos, adorned with carved marble facades, and visit the church of Panagia Evangelistria, where thousands of pilgrims come every year to pray at Greece’s holiest shrine.
The tiny archaeological gem of Delos is the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt; and Apollo, god of healing, music, and light. Spend the morning discovering the island’s incredible ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions and the exquisite Temple of Apollo.
Drop anchor at Amorgos, the easternmost isle of the Cyclades. Visit the main city, perched in the mountains, and see its beautiful domed churches and windmills. Explore the dazzling white monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, clinging to a cliff face above the sea. Later, return to the yacht and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
Incomparable Santoríni is an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C., burying the island’s Minoan culture in ash. Sail into the caldera, and drive through windswept vineyards to the beautiful town of Oia. Set high on a cliff, Oia affords unrivaled views of the caldera below. After lunch, ride a donkey or a cable car down the cliff side back to the ship.
Enjoy a glorious day of sailing among the evocative isles of the Cyclades. Relax on deck with a book, observe the crew as they man the rigging and trim the sails, and attend presentations by our team of experts on the area’s history and ecology. In the late afternoon, we may have a chance for an impromptu stop and a swim.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight.