Myths & Marvels: A Journey Through Northern Greece and the Enchanting Greek Isles
Venture beyond the ordinary and delve into a world where ancient legends and modern delights coexist in perfect harmony. This Hosted Journey welcomes you into the storied realms of Northern Greece and the dazzling Greek Isles, where every corner brims with culture, scenic splendor, and unforgettable experiences. Let Edgewood Travel’s expert travel advisors guide you through an odyssey that perfectly balances luxury travel with the thrill of ancient discovery.
Athens: where ancient legends meet modern wonders
A bustling capital layered in history, Athens offers a captivating blend of old and new. Wander through the lively Plaka district, savor local treats at sidewalk cafés, and marvel at timeless architecture that’s held the city’s spirit for millennia.
Advisor Tip from Meredith Rothouse: Grab a drink at sunset at A for Athens – amazing views!
Advisor Food Tip: If you have time, a walking food tour is a great way to introduce yourselves to Athens.
Admire the Parthenon’s ancient columns
Standing tall above the city, these gleaming columns crown the Acropolis with an air of grandeur. Explore the Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, and allow yourself to be transported to a golden age of democracy, art, and myths still whispered in its marble corridors.
Mykonos: the Cycladic gem of sun and style
With its sugar-cube houses, iconic windmills, and aquamarine waters, Mykonos captures the essence of the Cyclades. By day, bask on pristine beaches or meander through the narrow lanes of Chora; when night falls, indulge in the island’s cosmopolitan energy as boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and chic clubs come to life.
Heraklion: Cretan history and coastal charms
As the vibrant capital of Crete, Heraklion provides a gateway to the island’s epic Minoan past. Uncover the mysteries of the Palace of Knossos, believed to be Europe’s oldest city, and soak in the lively atmosphere at the harbor’s cafés. Here, every step recalls the legends of King Minos and the labyrinth that once held the fearsome Minotaur.
Advisor Shopping Tip: Make sure to pick up olive oil here- olive groves dot the landscape and most local producers still follow the traditional methods to produce this liquid gold.
Rhodes: timeless beauty resides within medieval walls
Rhodes wows visitors with a fusion of ancient heritage and medieval splendor. Walk the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where knights once roamed and legends still linger in every fortress and turret.
The Acropolis of Lindos: panoramic views and ancient echoes
Perched high above the sea, this sacred citadel promises sweeping vistas of turquoise bays and steep cliffs. Wander among the remnants of temples and witness how centuries of history intertwine with the island’s natural beauty.
Bodrum: Turkey’s cosmopolitan coastal jewel
A short journey across the Aegean transports you to Bodrum, Turkey’s chic seaside retreat. Home to boutique shopping, lively nightlife, and the storied Bodrum Castle, this port city invites you to experience luxury amid a tapestry of Greek and Turkish influences.
Ephesus: echoes of empires past
One of the most significant archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, Ephesus unveils the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Roam marble streets that emperors once walked, imagining the vibrant life that once filled the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Highlight of the Trip: Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime complimentary experience after hours during this Evening in Ephesus – an exclusive event for Windstar guests taking place on Harbor Street. Indulge in a 5-course, white-glove-service dinner under the stars accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra. Surrounded by the magic of the ancient ruins, everyone who has had the opportunity to experience this said it was simply amazing.
Patmos: a sanctuary of spiritual serenity
Revered for its biblical ties, Patmos exudes tranquility. Hilltop monasteries and hidden coves set the stage for peaceful reflection, while small villages charm visitors with white-washed homes and winding pathways reminiscent of a simpler time.
Savor the finest Greek cuisine
No trip to Greece is complete without relishing its vibrant flavors. Dive into mezethes (small plates) like tzatziki and spanakopita, or indulge in heartier staples such as gyro, dolmades, and moussaka. Wherever you roam, the tastes of Greece offer a delicious window into its culture and traditions.
Ready to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime hosted journey? Discover more about Valerie’s Myths & Marvels of the Aegean, and let our expert travel advisors at Edgewood Travel craft your dream luxury travel experience. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!