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 Sophia Daskalakis’ Group with The Olive Tree Retreat presents: Greece: Footsteps through Time 9 Days 11 Meals Departure: July 10, 2008 Approximate Rates: Double: $3,799 per person Includes: Roundtrip airfare from Newark, NJ Collette Vacations - 1 (877) 584-7302 |
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Day 1: Overnight Flight Day 2: Athens, Greece Your home for the next week is Athens--a cosmopolitan, lively city built around magnificent classical monuments and bathed in dazzling Mediterranean light. This evening meet fellow travelers at a welcome reception before enjoying a typical Greek dinner. (D) Day 3: Athens A morning city tour that introduces you to Athens features the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Olympic Stadium. Then climb to the top of the Acropolis, the spectacular rock plateau in the center of the city containing the magnificent Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. After lunch, learn about the antiquities at the National Archaeological Museum from a curator, followed by a guided visit of the extensive collection of classical artifacts. (B)  Day 4: Delphi - Arachova This morning travel outside Athens to the sacred city of Delphi. It was here, at the Oracle of Delphi, that ancient Greeks consulted the priestess of Apollo on everything from agriculture to military strategy. Make your own trek along the Sacred Way with a local expert to see the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Doric Temple, and the impressive theater. The site also contains a wonderful museum featuring a collection of art excavated at the site. En route back to Athens, stop at the picturesque mountain village of Arachova, famous for its wine, cheese, hand-woven carpets, and quilts. (B, D) Day 5: Saronic Islands Cruise Set sail on the sparkling Aegean for a day trip to the picturesque Saronic Islands. Your first port of call is Aegina Island, the largest in the chain, known for its important archaeological sites, charming villages, and gorgeous beaches. Next, visit Poros, known as the “green island” because of the many pine and lemon trees that fill the landscape. Then enjoy lunch on board ship before exploring the lovely island of Hydra, with its red-roofed architecture and quiet pedestrian streets. (B, L) Day 6: Mycenae - Nauplion - Epidaurus Today's journey begins with a breathtaking drive across the Peloponnese Peninsula to the ancient city of Mycenae. Here a local guide accompanies you through the incredible excavations, including the 3,000 year-old Lion Gate, palace, and royal tombs. Stopping at the beautiful fishing town of Nauplion, enjoy some time at leisure to explore this historic old city overlooking the Argolic Gulf. Later, travel to the legendary healing and cultural center of Epidaurus, which dates back to the 3rd century B.C. The magnificent outdoor theater of Epidaurus is considered one of the purest examples of ancient Greek architecture. (B)
Day 7: Cape Sounion A scenic coastal drive takes you to Cape Sounion, site of one of the most significant ancient sanctuaries: the Temple of Poseidon. Perched high atop the cliffs, overlooking the brilliant blue waters of the Aegean, the temple is a timeless tribute to the beauty and power of the sea. Enjoy some time to explore this breathtaking area which also includes the ruins of the temple to Athena. Stop by a local winery to tour their facilities and sample their delicious products before returning to Athens for the evening. (B) Day 8: Athens Enjoy your last day at leisure to pursue your own interests in this captivating city. Choose from one of Athens' many museums and galleries or explore the bustling activity of the Plaka and Monastiraki districts. Or if a relaxing day by the pool is more your style, enjoy unparalleled views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill from your hotel's rooftop swimming pool. This evening you will celebrate the many delightful and fascinating experiences during your stay in Greece while enjoying a special farewell dinner at a local taverna in the Plaka district. Say goodbye with a festive dinner featuring traditional Greek cuisine, wine and dancing. (B, D) Day 9: Athens - Tour Concludes Return home filled with wonderful memories of the ancient treasures and modern wonders of Greece. (B) Collette Vacations - 1 (877) 584-7302  | |||||||||||||