Aegean Odyssey: Exploring Athens & the Saronic Islands
Athens & Saronic Isles Escape
Sail away on a captivating journey through Athens and the enchanting Saronic Islands. Explore ancient ruins against the backdrop of stunning coastal vistas, then set sail to discover the hidden gems of Perdika, Hydra, Poros, Methana and Epidaurus. Immerse yourself in the beauty of crystal-clear waters, charming harbours, and vibrant island life. From tranquil beaches to lively waterfront tavernas, this sailing adventure promises unforgettable experiences at every port of call.
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step 01
Day 1: Marina Alimos - Perdika (20.5 nautical miles)
Begin your sailing holiday in Marina Alimos and set sail for Perdika. Perdika is a charming fishing village nestled along the picturesque coast of Greece, it offers a perfect blend of serene landscapes, cultural delights, and culinary experiences. Start your day by savouring a delicious Greek breakfast at one of Perdika's traditional tavernas. Indulge in freshly baked pastries, local cheeses, olives, and aromatic Greek coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, lined with colourful fishing boats and quaint cafes. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze and panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Explore the historic Church of Perdika. Admire its Byzantine architecture, ornate frescoes, and tranquil atmosphere. Embark on a short boat trip to the nearby Moni Island, a pristine nature reserve teeming with wildlife. Enjoy snorkelling in the turquoise waters, hiking through lush pine forests, or simply lazing on secluded beaches. Keep an eye out for wild deer, peacocks, and rare bird species. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and unwinding on Karavostasi Beach. Return to Perdika to dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
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step 02
Day 2: Perdika - Poros (12.5 nautical miles)
Next on your sailing itinerary is the beautiful area of Poros! A charming Greek island located in the Saronic Gulf, just off the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. Poros is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush pine forests, olive groves, and crystal-clear waters. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the charming cafes lining the waterfront. Enjoy traditional Greek pastries like spanakopita (spinach pie) or bougatsa (custard-filled pastry) along with freshly brewed Greek coffee. Admire the quaint white-washed buildings adorned with colourful bougainvillea flowers. Don't miss landmarks like the Clock Tower and the Archaeological Museum, which offer insights into the island's history and culture. Discover the fascinating world of shells at the Poros Shell Museum. Marvel at the vast collection of shells from around the world, ranging from tiny specimens to giant clamshells. Next head to one of the waterfront tavernas or seaside restaurants for a leisurely lunch. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, or seafood risotto, paired with a crisp glass of local white wine. Spend the afternoon unwinding at Love Bay, one of Poros' most picturesque beaches. Lounge on the golden sands, swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply soak up the sun while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. End your day with a memorable dinner overlooking the sea and stop by one of the local gelaterias for a scoop of artisanal ice cream
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step 03
Day 3: Poros - Hydra (13 nautical miles)
Continue your sailing holiday to Hydra Town, a picturesque island in the Saronic Gulf, known for its charming harbour, cobblestone streets, and timeless beauty. Start your day with a traditional Greek breakfast at one of the cosy cafes lining the harbour. Stroll through the narrow alleys of Hydra Town. Admire the elegant mansions and whitewashed buildings. Don't forget to visit the Historical Archives Museum to learn about Hydra's fascinating maritime history. Embark on a scenic hike to the peak of Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. The trail offers breathtaking views of Hydra Town, the surrounding hills, and the sparkling blue sea below. After working up an appetite, head to a traditional taverna for a delicious Greek lunch. Indulge in local specialities such as grilled seafood, Greek salad, and moussaka, accompanied by a glass of refreshing ouzo or local wine. Spend the afternoon unwinding on one of Hydra's beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer sandy shores or secluded coves, there's a spot for everyone to enjoy the sun! In the evening take a stroll along the harbour promenade where you can savour fresh seafood dishes while gazing out at the twinkling lights of Hydra Town reflected on the water.
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Day 4: Hydra - Methana (20 nautical miles)
Carry onwards towards Methana. Methana is a beautiful destination known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and charming villages. Begin the day by taking a stroll through Methana Town. Admire the picturesque white-washed buildings adorned with colorful flowers. Head towards the Methana Volcano. The short hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to learn about the area's volcanic history. After your hike, unwind at one of Methana's natural hot springs. These thermal baths are known for their healing properties and are the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a seafront tavern. Sample some local specialities such as grilled octopus, fresh fish, and Greek salad while soaking in the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea. Take a visit to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional acoustics and well-preserved architecture. At the end of the day, choose a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the sea to enjoy a memorable sunset dining experience.
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Day 5: Methana - Epidaurus (16 nautical miles)
The next stop on this sailing holiday is Epidaurus, located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, which is renowned for its ancient theater Head to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus. This incredibly well-preserved theater dates back to the 4th century BC and is renowned for its exceptional acoustics. Take your time exploring the theater, marvelling at its architecture. After exploring the theatre, take a break for lunch. There are some local tavernas or restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a delicious Greek meal. Try some traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, or Greek salad. Take some time to explore the Sanctuary of Asklepios, located nearby. This ancient healing centre was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asklepios, and includes ruins of various buildings, such as temples, and baths. Spend the afternoon on one of several beautiful beaches in the area, such as Kalamaki Beach and Palaia Epidavros Beach. Spend a couple of hours soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply lounging on the sandy shores. Finally enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Greek cuisine.
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Day 6: Epidaurus - Megalochori (10 nautical miles)
Commence your day by exploring the ancient ruins of Megalochori Head to Megalochori Square, the heart of the village, where you can find quaint shops, tavernas, and traditional Greek architecture. After a day of sightseeing, unwind at Megalochori Beach, located just a short distance from the village. Spend some time sunbathing on the golden sands, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying the picturesque views. Treat yourself to some indulgent Greek desserts at a local pastry shop or dessert cafe. Try classic sweets like baklava, loukoumades (Greek donuts), or galaktoboureko (custard-filled pastry), accompanied by a cup of Greek coffee or herbal tea. End your day with a memorable dinner overlooking the stunning sunset views of Megalochori. Choose a restaurant with a terrace or outdoor seating area where you can enjoy panoramic views of the village and the surrounding landscape as you savour your meal.
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Day 7: Megalochori - Marina Alimos (21 nautical miles)
Finally head back to Athens, start your day early to beat the crowds and visit the iconic Acropolis, the ancient citadel overlooking the city. Explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and other significant ruins. Don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of Athens from the top. After visiting the Acropolis, head to the Acropolis Museum located nearby. This modern museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts and sculptures from the Acropolis, providing a deeper understanding of ancient Greek history and culture. After exploring the Acropolis area, stroll down to Plaka, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens. This charming area is filled with narrow streets lined with colourful shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the traditional tavernas serving Greek cuisine. After lunch, make your way to the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens. Explore the ruins of temples, stoas, and other important buildings, including the Temple of Hephaestus. Don't miss the Stoa of Attalos, a reconstructed ancient building that now houses a museum. For dinner, explore the vibrant neighbourhood, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent dining options.