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A brand new tour for 2010 takes us through the entire Dodecanese chain, some of the most beautiful and evocative of Greek islands. Their strategic location has bequeathed them spectacular fortifications and religious sites, from Crusader castles to medieval monasteries. The larger islands boast world famous relics, like the Asklepieion of Kos and the fortifications of Rhodes. The smaller islands offer a more intimate view of traditional Greek island life, with their picturesque harbours, mosaic floored churches, and beautiful domestic architecture. These islands
are also blessed with natural beauty: craggy hilltops, volcanic
landscapes, coastlines bathed in sea sparkle. We’ll
sample the local cuisine in family-run tavernas, and our
stylish gulet will moor in secluded coves for swims in azure
seas. From fabulous food to epic history, this is a fascinating
journey through Greek culture, past and present. Day 2: A long, relaxing, day of sailing and swimming. We cruise west around Samos to spend the first night of this cultural holiday in the remote and beautiful Fourni islands. Day 3: A leisurely cruise east along the south coast of Samos in the morning, followed by an afternoon visit to the most evocative ruins of ancient Samos: the temple of Hera and the tunnel of Eupalinos, followed by dinner in a local Greek taverna. Day 4: We visit the rich archaeological museum in Vathi in the morning, then set sail south through azure waters to Patmos. Day 5: A morning visit to the Monastery and cave of St John, where the Book of Revelations was written, followed by an afternoon’s cruise to the pretty island of Leros. Day 6: We head to the 11th century castle of the Virgin Mary and its breathtaking views over the island, then visit the Leros archaeological museum before sailing south to Kalymnos. Day 7: Byzantine ruins loom large on Kalymnos: we will visit the Byzantine citadel-town of Pera Kastro before sailing to Kos, one of the most important of the Dodecanese islands. In the evening we will stroll through the ruins of the ancient capital city and enjoy a drink in the bustling main square. Day 8: Inland to one of the greatest healing sanctuaries of the ancient world, the Asklepieion of Kos. In the afternoon we sail south to the volcanic island of Nisyros, which last erupted in 1933. We moor in Mandraki, a pretty harbour with white-washed houses and brightly painted wooden balconies. Day 9: We head up to the towns of Nikia and Emborio, set dramatically on the crater’s rim, and investigate the main crater itself at Stefanos. In the afternoon we cruise south-east to Tilos. Day 10: We head inland in the early morning to visit the island capital, Megalo Chorio, to view some pygmy elephants that were discovered in one of the many caves on the island, and then sail on to Halki where we’ll stroll around its picturesque little harbour town, decked out with fine neo-classical architecture, and walk up to its Hellenistic/Medieval castle. Day 11: North to Symi, where we will anchor in the harbour of Yialos and spend the afternoon in the upper town of Chorio, which dominates the anchorage, wandering through its winding streets and savouring the magnificent traditional architecture. Day 12: On to one of the most celebrated and historic Greek islands, Rhodes, where we will step back in time to visit the acropolis of this once powerful and dynamic ancient city. We’ll explore its small theatre, stadium, and the temple of Apollo. Day 13: Time to shop and explore the streets of the old town. The medieval city of Rhodes, built by the Knights Hospitaller, is now a living breathing world heritage site. We’ll wander through the moat beneath mighty fortifications, to the Palace of the Grandmaster with its splendid archaeological museum. Farewell dinner on board. Day 14: Transfer to Rhodes airport.
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