THE SPORADES - 10 DAYS
Cruise through the Sporades for a more authentic experience of Greece
The string of islands known as the Sporades stretch north from Athens along the east coast of mainland Greece. Medieval castles and monasteries punctuate the lush green hillsides and overlook golden beaches, free from the swathes of tourists associated with the more popular Greek islands.
VOULIAGMENI MARINA, ATHENS
Day 1
Embark in Athens at Vouliagmeni marina.
Located to the south of the ancient city of Athens, Vouliagmeni is one of the most prestigious marinas in the area.
CHALKIS
Day 2
Chalkis is the capital of Evia island, a vibrant town with an appealing waterfront that’s lined with many different tavernas.
The town is famous for a unique natural phenomenon that happens below the old bridge, where the current changes direction every six hours. South of the old bridge, the new bridge is a marvel of modern technology.
The castle of Kanithos completed in 1684 is one of the most impressive attractions and has the best view of the gulf and the mainland opposite.
SKIATHOS
Day 3
Boasting a beautiful natural landscape packed with pine trees and boasting over 60 stunning beaches, Skiathos is a paradise for nature lovers!
The island is a fantastic place for swimming - crystal-clear waters and beaches with long stretches of golden sand, backed by the green and verdant surroundings.
The lush countryside offers great chances for hiking. Old footpaths criss-cross the island, leading to secluded bays, old monasteries, and hilltops with great views over the Aegean Sea.
ALONNISOS
Day 4
Alonnisos is an ideal place to relax with particularly tranquil surroundings.
The island has a lush, green landscape and the southern part of the island is embroidered with beaches, charming bays and pine trees that reach down to the edge of the turquoise water.
In the central and northern parts of the island, the traditional settlement of Hora can be found and there’s a network of marked hiking trails to follow.
SKOPELOS
Day 5
The dense pine forests of Skopelos contrast dramatically with the deep blue of the sea, creating a picture of amazing natural beauty.
The towns of Skopelos and Glossa are great for a stroll while hiking paths in the centre of the island lead to monasteries and chapels.
The lovely church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, where scenes of the famous Mamma Mia movie were filmed, provides an amazing view to the coasts of Skopelos and to Alonnisos.
CHALKIDIKI
Day 6 and 7
Shaped like Poseidon’s trident, Chalkidiki’s prongs jut out into the Aegean Sea. Lush green forests extend all the way to the beachfront where reflections of golden sunlight add sparkling hues to turquoise waters.
Long stretches of beautiful shoreline, unique archaeological sites such as Ancient Olynthus and Stageira (the birthplace of Aristotle), the holy Mount Athos and many natural wonders have all helped shape the region’s diverse identity.
Located opposite Mount Athos, the off-flying island of Ammouliani is an idyllic combination of fine golden sand, aquamarine sea, lush vegetation and giant rock formations. The island’s coastline is a succession of sandy coves with turquoise, crystal-clear waters.
TRIKERI
Day 7
At the end of the Pelion Peninsula is the tiny island of Trikeri, one of Greece's undiscovered gems. There are no cars on this lush and green island. There are some narrow lanes, but no actual roads, and most of the island’s infrastructure consists of hiking trails.
The island’s port area features just a few tavernas and a couple of small shops.
In less than one hour you can go from one side of Trikeri to the other on foot, exploring the lush vegetation and the pristine pebble beaches while enjoying stunning views of the Pelion peninsula.
Perched atop the highest point of the island is the imposing Monastery of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.
VOLOS
Day 8
Volos is located at the foot of the peninsula of Pelion in the center of Greece. It is a bustling city with a prominent port and a prominent waterfront lined with many tavernas.
Among notable sights are the elegant waterfront church of Saints Konstantinos and Eleni, the castle of Volos and the Archaeological Museum which contains findings from the surrounding areas that date from the Bronze Age to the Hellenistic period.
The Municipal Gallery is also of interest. It is housed in the Town Hall and exhibits a collection of paintings and sculptures by Modern Greek artists.
SKYROS
Day 9
Skyros is a peaceful island, blessed with dramatic changes of verdant vegetation and rugged landscapes.
Chora, the main town of Skyros, is one of the most picturesque settlements on the island. Nestled on the slopes of a hill, it offers an incredible view of the vast Aegean Sea. The most interesting sightseeing is the Medieval Castle on the hill above Chora and the Monastery of Saint George found immediately below.
Close to Chora, the long sandy beach of Molos is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island.
Many old footpaths cross Skyros island and lead to tiny chapels, small settlements, secluded beaches and hilltops with breathtaking views of the sea.
VOULIAGMENI MARINA, ATHENS
Day 10
Morning departure to return towards Athens for disembarkation in Vouliagmeni marina.
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