Greece Small Group Holidays

Introducing Greece (Continued...)

h seafood await.
With over 9000 miles of coastline and blissful beaches, world-class watersports are among Greece’s top attractions. Further inland, the rocky scrub of the interior has a unique charm and is infused with aromatic herbs, olives groves and lemon trees. One of the most mountainous countries in Europe, snow-capped Mount Olympus is its highest point (2,917m).
Much of Greece receives a Mediterranean climate, enjoying hot, dry summers followed by mild, wet winters. Temperatures can vary between regions and altitudes; northern and inland Greece experience greater extremes, while island temperatures are more moderate. On average, summers hover around 30C.

Cultural

For many, experiencing the magnificent culture of Athens is a must. Symbolic of Ancient Greece, the Parthenon and the Acropolis are major attractions. The mid-day heat is best avoided in summer, when temperatures can reach 40C.
West of Athens is the Peloponnese peninsula – original home of the Spartans. Visit Nafplion - a fishing port with one of the warmest climates in Greece, and the tranquil city of Epidavros - a healing sanctuary of the God Asklepios.
Greece’s islands are also rich in cultural treasures. The Cyclades hold relics of civilisations dating back to 3000 BC
the Byzantine churches and the legendary Mount Zeus on the island of Naxos are also a big draw.

Yachting

Warm waters and reliable breezes provide perfect sailing conditions. Winds build throughout the day, but the calm mornings are ideal for beginners.
The strongest winds are found in the Aegean Sea, during winter and mid-summer. Lemnos and Halkidiki are top destinations, with Lesvos offering more sheltered conditions for beginners. The Northern Sporades Islands are a good choice for short flotilla routes. For a greater challenge, head south to explore the Dodecanese or Cyclades groups.
For calmer breezes and sheltered bays, try Vounaki or Porto-Heli in the southern Peloponnese region, or the Ionian coastline offers the option to join a flotilla, exploring the islands such as Corfu and Lakka.
For the ultimate Greek sailing experience, yacht charters are highly popular. Take in as much of Greece as you please, exploring unmapped islands and anchoring up at night to dine in seafood tavernas.

Kitesurfing

For first-rate conditions, head to the island of Lemnos (north-eastern Aegean). Here, the northern Meltemi wind blows from May to September, strongest during July and August. The Cyclades are another good Aegean destination, with Naxos and Paros the top spots. East of the Cyclades is the island of Rhodes, where dedicated kite-surf beaches ensure that the waters are kept clear for one purpose only.

Mountain Biking

From hair-raising off-road descents to meandering paths through cobblestone villages, Greece offers a massive diversity of terrains, with the Cyclades a particularly good biking destination.
For rugged countryside and stony hillsides, try Lefkada Island (Ionian coast), or the countryside trails around Porto Heli (Peloponnese peninsula). In summer, the cooler mornings and evenings bring the most comfortable conditions for cycling.

Multi-Activity

Amorgos Island (Cyclades) is a particularly good option if you’re looking to pack in a wide variety of activities. One of the more mountainous islands, superb hiking and rock climbing are on offer, as well as crystal clear waters and a good measure of traditional Greek food and music.
Lesvos (east Aegean) is another good choice, guaranteed to reveal the culture of traditional Greece as well as provide for top-notch watersports. Mornings are good times to water-ski, mountain bike and play tennis, whereas the afternoons are best for wind-related sports.

Scuba Diving

Spectacularly clear waters and abundant marine life make diving a popular pastime throughout the Grecian seas. In June the seas warm to around 23C, with visibility of 30 metres or more. Popular diving destinations in the Aegean Sea include the islands of Amorgos and Lemnos, as well as Halkidiki on the mainland. Expect to see bulgy eyed blennies and striking scorpion fish. In the Ionian Sea, limestone reefs and caverns are home to turtles, dolphins and barracuda; try Lefkas Island, or on the Peloponnese peninsula, head to Syros and Porto Heli.

Trekking

The stunning trails of the Cyclades reveal spectacular views of the sea; the ancient trails on Amorgos Island wind through knife-edge topography, whitewashed mountain villages and carpets of wild flowers.

For long-distance trekking, try the Ionian island of Corfu. From the island’s southern tip to the mountainous north, the Corfu Trail passes 125 miles through the less-visited interior, taking in ancient monasteries and 1000-metre peaks.

On the island of Crete, trekking through the Samaria Gorge is a must, but be warned that the day-long hike can be strenuous during the summer heat-wave. For big mountains, venture inland to the White Mountains or the Idi range, home to Crete’s highest peak, Mount Ida (2,456m).

Classic Itineraries

With so much to do in Greece, the hardest decision is deciding where to go – hence, chartering a yacht has become popular choice. Sought-after islands such as Rhodes, Crete and Corfu are still firm favourites, as are many of the islands in the Cyclades group. Wind-seekers should head towards locations in the Aegean Sea or Lefkada on the Ionian coast. For culture and history, Athens and Epiviros are musts.

Other Activities

With so many islands and fantastic waterways there will always be more watersports for you to try. Mornings are the time for water skiing and wake boarding in Greece, when you can take advantage of the calm breezes and flat waters. Most watersports centres offer water skiing and wakeboarding, with Lesvos, Halkidiki, Lemnos and Sivota particularly well equipped.

From May to September, the Aegean Sea is blessed by the Meltemi wind, which blows particularly strongly in Naxos and Paros (Cyclades). July and August are the windiest months, when wind speeds of over 20 knots are common. Windsurfing centres can be found throughout the Aegean, with Halkidiki, Lesvos and Lemnos particularly well equipped.

If you’re staying on Rhodes, head to Theologos beach, where the morning breezes are perfect for learners and the afternoons bring bump and jump for the more advanced. The Ionian coast receives the gentler Maistros wind, making locations such as Sivota a great place for beginners. Further south is the legendary Vasisiliki Bay (Lefkada Island). Thermal winds give the waters an afternoon boost, making it a mecca for windsurfers of all abilities.