Travel Abundance - Luxury Concierge Travel Agency: Our Greek Islands Sailing Adventure

With everything that went on 2020, we were excited to finally embark on amazing adventure cruising the Greek islands. My husband and my daughter were set and ready to go! This unforgettable journey took us to sailing all over the Greece for three weeks. We had a marvelous time and created many ungoogable memories!

Hope you enjoy our account of this wonderful trip and we can definitely help you plan a similar(or better) experience!

Day 1

Our Flight left from Austin to Newark (3 hours and 48 minutes) and then an almost 10 hour flight to Athens. The flight was totally full! Enjoyed a coffee after the easiest entry! We finally arrived at 10:30 am in Athens.

Day 2

**Our 50-minute flight left Athens headed to Thira. We arrived at the beautiful Amber Light Villas in Santorini and enjoyed a beautiful villa with an amazing sea view!**

Day 3

Santorini is world renowned for its sunset views from the fabulous restaurants that sit along the island’s central ridge. It also boasts the ancient Bronze Age ruins of Akrotiri which can be pleasantly toured in the shade of the roofs covering the entire site.

Day 4

Santorini is also known for its beautiful beaches, ancient cities, amazing restaurants, some of the world's best wine, and an active volcano. One visit won't be enough! After a full day of exploring the island, we joined a welcome meeting and safety briefing prior to embarking our nautical journey.

Day 5

A flexible itinerary gives you the opportunity to explore all the hidden gems that are available. In the Southern Cyclades, you can stroll through the "most elegant square in Greece" on Syros, the Temple of Dimitra, views of Mt Zeus and enjoy a great meal at a local tavern. You can uncover the beauty of the Venetian ruins in Paros before going cave exploring in Antiparos. You can also relax on famous Magganari beach and don't forget to visit Homer's tomb. Walk and hike your way through the trails and paths of Sifnos before stopping at a local ceramic workshop. No trip is complete without wandering around the breathtaking cliffside city of Hora and enjoying cocktails while the sun sets over the whitewashed buildings that scatter the landscape.

Explore Chora!

Sparkling white with a blue Aegean backdrop, the island’s architecture is one of a kind. It extends into the little neighborhoods of the island’s main town, Hora, with captains’ homes, old churches and wells. The town is literally a maze of white-washed alleyways designed by the Mykonians centuries ago to discourage would-be invaders from finding their way. In contrast to other Cycladic capitals, the capital town (Chora) of the island is not built in the shape of an amphitheater but instead spreads out over a wide area. Pay a visit to the church of Panayia. Paraportiani, a complex of five churches, the Town hall of the 1780 and the imposing Mavrou school as well as the castle situated above the harbor. If you like to take in a little history visit the Archaeological, Folklore and Maritime Museums. In the garden you can see the Armenistis lighthouse dating back to 1891, one of the most interesting lighthouses in the Cyclades. And don’t miss in Gialos the famous pelicans wandering around the waterfront!

Day 6 Schinoussa

A small sparsely populated island provides a serene background for some chill moments, and as usual, great Greek food and wine (the Santorini white wine was a great scrumptious surprise!).

Day 7-Naxos

What a surprise fantastic island, home of Mt.Zeus and temple of Demeter & ancient marble quarries. Alyko beach was high rocks and a green sea. That was so refreshing and we discovered an abandoned hotel with amazing graffiti work.

You can opt to take a day trip to Naxos guided by your CEO skipper. Bring your license to explore the island by car rental. Stop at the Temple of Dimitra, a local microbrewery and the Church of Droisiani to see the 6th century wall paintings. Take on the view of Mt Zeus at Zas Cave and enjoy a meal at a welcoming local tavern.

Day 8 Paros

More cool beaches and great food! The hilltop town of Lefkes provides great views and some unique little shops.

Visit the island of Paros in the heart of the Cyclades, known for its hidden beaches, quaint villages and bountiful plant life. The countryside is filled with vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees while in the spring the scenery is dotted with bursts of color from blooming flowers. Explore Livadhi, the small town to the east easily accessed from the channel between Paros and Naxos. Livadhi is a great place to sit back at a tavernas, enjoy the view and savor some yummy Greek food. History buffs tend to flock to the North side of Paros to Naousa to see the towns historic port and Venetian ruins.

Day 9-Syros – Didimi

Sailed to Syros. Dolphins came for a visit and stopped for a swim in the bay at Didimi. It is just like a perfect pool! Saw a weever fish while snorkeling (has a venomous sting, so beware!). Didimi is a small uninhabited island except for a picnic shack and a lighthouse so you can really get away from other tourists and have some privacy here!

Day 10- Ξηρόκαμπος- Syros-

Very hot today! Ermoupoli is beautiful city with original architecture and a cat sanctuary with a lovely waterfront promenade!

Day 11-Delos Bay

Having your Captain anchor in the bay of Delos so you can swim over and walk the ancient ruins all alone is an experience unto itself!I found pieces of pottery that was over 2000 years old. This civilization lived in peace with people from all over the region. One of my favorite days!

Day 12-Mykonos

Arrived into Mykonos and was immediately transferred to our beautiful hotel, Archipelago Luxury Hotel. I did two site visits at two beautiful 5-star properties pictured here that I would definitely love to spoil you! Central Mykonos is abundant with shops, restaurants, and clubs.

One of the most scenic corners of the island is Alefkántra or “Little Venice” an 18th century district, dominated by grand captains’ mansions with colorful balconies and stylish windows. It has been said that behind these doors above the waterline, pirates would store their loot. Today they have been converted to bars and restaurants and the view of the sparkling Aegean Sea from their balconies is dazzling. Mykonos’ other main attraction is its windmills, which stand facing the sea and at night and are beautifully lit up. Powered by the north wind, these windmills used to ground grain into flour until the early 20th century. The most glamorous area is Matoyánni Street, lined with brand name stores, charming cafés and stylish restaurants.

In Mykonos you will find some of the best restaurants in the Mediterranean. Award-winning chefs bring you a medley of local and international cuisines. Fresh, local ingredients, elegant and refined dishes inspired by international culinary trends, all paired with wines that would satisfy even the most selective wine lover. Pepper flavored kopanistí, a soft cheese seasoned with pepper, is the island’s gastronomic trademark. Try it as a topping on a round rusk spread with grated tomato, a favorite local mezés (appetizer). To finish off your meal you can sample two exceptionally good local pastries, amigdalota (small round cakes with ground almond, rosewater and caster sugar) and honey pie.

Day 13-Delos Ancient City

What an Impressive site! A sacred and commercial hub for centuries, this city at its peak had a population of over 35,000, a credit system, indoor plumbing, different religions and Mediterranean cultures living in harmony. Primarily known as the birthplace of Apollo, it succumbed to warring nations that wanted to steal the spoils and it was burnt to the ground more than once. The steep hike up Monte Cintos is rewarded with spectacular views all the way to Mykonos and surrounding islands. Well worth it! From 3,000 BC onwards, it’s amazing so much is still present. I hope when we become the ancestors, they don’t just find plastics…

Day 14-Heraklion, Crete

Great location with easy to walk to pubs and shops. We stayed at the GDM Megaron, an exclusive five-star hotel ideally located in the heart of business and shopping district overlooking the old harbor and within walking distance of the archaeological and historical museums. The hotel’s unique architecture and modern interior achieve a subtle blend of luxury and intimacy that is not easily forgotten.

At the entrance of Heraklion’s Venetian Harbor, the Koules Fortress (also known as Castello Del Molo or Rocca al Mare) gazes proudly out to sea. It was built by the Venetians and took its final form between the years of 1523-1540. It has been repaired several times and during the Ottoman rule it served as a prison. Across the harbor the Venetian shipyards it for sure makes for an amazing romantic backdrop.

The walls of the old city are the threshold between past and present. Walking along the walls, you will see how beautiful this city looks from this vantage point. You’ll pause in small shady parks and admire the genius of the famous Venetian architect, Michele Sanmicheli, who designed the walls and bastions more than 400 years ago. The Venetian walls demarcating today’s old town were indeed an impressive feat of engineering for the time, making Heraklion the best-fortified city in the Mediterranean.

Sharks, seahorses, jellyfish; you’ll be astonished by the variety of Mediterranean marine life on display. Cretaquarium, which includes 60 tanks with 1.7 million liters of seawater, is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. The aquarium is home to more than 4,000 creatures of all different colors, shapes and sizes.

Day 15-Knossos, Crete

The museum is an absolute must and we did it with a private archeologist who was amazing!

A tour that explores the Palace of Knossos and the nearby city of Heraklion. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. Accompanied by a first-class guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will walk around the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace, and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it. After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historical center and main sites and a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum. The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum.

Day 16-Oracle at Delphi, Greece

Temple of Apollo, awonderful mythology story you must hear. The site reverberates with energy and we were astounded at the larger-than-life full statues. Prophecies were told here for centuries, and news was cryptic. Arachova is the nearby cute little town (which is a ski resort in winter) with active residents. All situated up in the mountains with breath taking views all the way down the valley to the sea - Beautiful!

With its cosmopolitan vibe, Arachova village is the perfect resting place for a visit to the ancient site of Delphi. It has a very picturesque surrounding with Mount Parnassos above and miles of olive orchards around this charming village. The magnificent complex of Elafivolia Arahova Suites is strategically placed between the cosmopolitan village of Arahova and the archeological miracle of Delphic oracle, only a few kilometers away from the ski slopes of Parnassus and the National Park. Consisting of 5 luxury apartments suites, it is created to combine the experience of a unique residence with the true magic of nature.

The Oracle of Delphi is located in a setting of outstanding natural beauty on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassos. Admire the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the reconstructed Athenian Treasury and the Theater. When you’ve seen all there is to see outside, it’s time for the Delphi museum, a short walk downhill from the site. Here, be sure to see the bronze Charioteer of Delphi (it’s said his profile is completely different, depending on which side of his face you choose to look at), the haunting Sphinx of Naxos and what might be the very first ever recorded notation of a musical melody, contained in an ancient inscription from the walls of the original Athenian Treasury.

Day 17

Nafplion is a picturesque seaport that was once the capital of Greece before it moved to Athens. Impressive castles on the hilltop and in the harbor add to its majesty. Unique shops and delightful restaurants add even more treasure to your experience here.

If you see yourself in an idyllic landscape full of history, then you have to visit Nafplio. The capital of Argolida has small streets, beautiful buildings, museums, a lovely port, 3 impressive castles, magnificent nature, clear waters, and infinite entertainment choices. It’s no wonder that it was the first capital of Greece after the Revolution and it’s a wonderful city that’s ideal for any kind of holidays you are in the mood for.

3Sixty is a unique boutique hotel in Nafplio. It is located in the old city center of Nafplio very close to Syntagma square, beautiful shops, Nafplio’s city’s monumental churches, restaurants that serve great Greek dishes, bars, cafes and the great edge of Acronafplia .The Queen suite offers all the modern amenities and comforts. The suites are sunny and bright creating a sense of calmness and relaxation.

Nafplio was the Venetians "Naples of the East" and the first capital of Greece. Great sights are the Palamidi Castle: 999 steps above the town with a spectacular panoramic view of Nafplio and the sea. The fortress was built in record time, between 1711 and 1714. The The acropolis of Nafplio, which the Turks named Its Kale, was erected by the Venetians and later passed on to the Byzantines and Ottomans. It has three levels, each with a different castle and walls from different time periods. The Bourtzi Castle (shaped like an irregular hexagon) was built in 1473 and the executioners of Palamidi. The walk along Arvanitia promenade, with its view of the Argolic Gulf, is lovely and romantic. You’ll begin at the waterfront and end up, after about 1km, at Arvanitias Square. The whole time, you’ll be walking beneath the rock of Akronafplio and you’ll also come across the pretty little chapel of Panagia ths Spilia (Virgin Mary of the Cave), the Santa Maria Grotta of the Venetians. Finally, the metropolitan church of Agios Georgios is one of the oldest churches in Nafplio. In the church’s interior you’ll see an incredible replica of Da Vinci’s Last Supper, painted by one of his pupils.

Day 18-Epano Epidavros

The sanctuary of Epidaurus was named after the god of medicine, Asklepios, and pilgrims came from all over the Mediterranean seeking healing for their ailments through physical and spiritual means. The god was present at the sanctuary where the faithful underwent treatments ranging from purification with water to feasting with the divine after offering sacrifice. Additional activities such as baths and "enkoimeses" (incubation) were central in the healing process and allowed Asklepios to heal the patients. The amphitheater has to be experienced to believed! And its still in use today. Speaking or singing from the focal point it suddenly feels like you have an amplifier in your chest - I think it should be considered for your bucket list!

A Private Excursion of Mycenae and Epidaurus. This half-day tour is designed to show you the most beautiful aspects of Argolis in the region of Peloponnese. You will visit two of the UNESCO world heritage sites, the famous Mycenae and the Ancient theatre of Epidaurus and you will enjoy at the same time the wonderful and picturesque natural scenery of the region.

Day 19- Ancient Mycenae

Mycenae is the largest and most important center of the civilization that was named "Mycenaean" after this very citadel. Mycenaean is the culture that dominated mainland Greece, the Aegean islands, and the shores of Asia Minor during the late Bronze Age era (circa 1600-1100 BCE). The tomb of Agamemnon, the museum, and the acropolis with its magnificent views are the main attractions.

Day 20- Athens

Athens is not only the capital of Greece but also considered as the historic capital of Europe, since it has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic Period. Today, a visit to Athens will offer you a journey through the history of 6000 years. Great monuments, masterpieces of art from Antiquity and the Medieval times, as well as buildings of the 19th and 20th century, are scattered all over the city.

As far as what to do in the city, I suggest visiting the sacred Rock of Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. You can walk around the Acropolis. Descending from the sacred rock, you will meet the Areios Pagos, the Hill of Philopappos, the Roman monument and the Pnyka. Walking down the paved street of Apostolos Pavlos you reach the site of Ancient Agora. A visit to the archaeological site will give you a taste of what was the Classical Athenian Democracy.

You can also walk in the commercial area of the city with more than 2500 thousand shops of all kinds, located on the main and side roads that surround the city's most commercial street, Ermou. West of the shopping center is Athena Street with a large food market which very much resembles a Middle Eastern bazaar.

Visit the picturesque districts of Makrygianni, Ano Petralona and Thissio (where you will find coffee bars and restaurants) and the neighborhoods of Kerameikos, Metaxourgio and the well-known Gazi area, which houses the cultural center of the Municipality of Athens. The Syntagma Square is dominated by the building of the Hellenic Parliament. At the front lies the monument of the “Unknown Soldier” that is guarded 24 hours by the Evzones, soldiers wearing a characteristic traditional uniform.

Thirty minutes from the city center, the famous Athenian Riviera awaits you. The easy access from the center of Athens and the numerous activities it offers makes it ideal for walking, swimming and water sports. You can stroll along the marinas, do your shopping at the numerous shops of the area, dine by the sea or have fun at the beach clubs, known for offering endless hours of entertainment.