YOGA GREECE
Manifesting Balance: Fire and Water
A 7 Day Adventure of Health and Wellness to Athens, Naxos and Santorini
April 26 - May 2, 2025
$5252 double-occupancy
Fire. Our third Chakra, Manipura, is our energetic fire center. Manipura Chakra is linked to our sense of transforming ideas into actions, as well as our perseverance and willpower. When we are balanced with our Manipura Chakra, we feel confident, physically and mentally powerful, and can discern wrong from right. When unbalanced, we might experience insecurity, feel weak, and develop a lack of self-belief. During our morning practices, we will harness the energy of the sun and stoke our inner fire as we will focus on aa yoga flow that will help balance our Manipura Chakra, including activating our core center, deep twists, and playful postures for all levels.
Water. Our second Chakra, Svadhishthana, is connected to our sacral center. Svadhisthana is associated with the water element which connects to physical/mental flexibility, flow, freedom of expression, sensuality, and emotions. When aligned, we experience connection, positive energy, desire, and pleasure. As we look out onto the blue Agean Sea, our evening practices will follow a relaxing breath-to-movement flow, deep hip openers, restorative postures and meditation.
Please note that our Yoga Greece classes are designed for all levels, with variations presented throughout the classes. Non-yogi travel companions are always welcome to join any or all of the classes.
Post-tour options to Mykonos or Crete. Please inquire.
Manifesting Balance: Fire and Water
A 7 Day Adventure of Health and Wellness to Athens, Naxos and Santorini
April 26 - May 2, 2025
$5252 double-occupancy
Fire. Our third Chakra, Manipura, is our energetic fire center. Manipura Chakra is linked to our sense of transforming ideas into actions, as well as our perseverance and willpower. When we are balanced with our Manipura Chakra, we feel confident, physically and mentally powerful, and can discern wrong from right. When unbalanced, we might experience insecurity, feel weak, and develop a lack of self-belief. During our morning practices, we will harness the energy of the sun and stoke our inner fire as we will focus on aa yoga flow that will help balance our Manipura Chakra, including activating our core center, deep twists, and playful postures for all levels.
Water. Our second Chakra, Svadhishthana, is connected to our sacral center. Svadhisthana is associated with the water element which connects to physical/mental flexibility, flow, freedom of expression, sensuality, and emotions. When aligned, we experience connection, positive energy, desire, and pleasure. As we look out onto the blue Agean Sea, our evening practices will follow a relaxing breath-to-movement flow, deep hip openers, restorative postures and meditation.
Please note that our Yoga Greece classes are designed for all levels, with variations presented throughout the classes. Non-yogi travel companions are always welcome to join any or all of the classes.
Post-tour options to Mykonos or Crete. Please inquire.
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Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through Greece, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience with our Concierge Travel Services.
Suggested time to travel: April-June and Sept/Oct |
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Greece Tour:
2 nights Athens 2 nights Naxos 3 nights Santorini Post-tour suggestions to: • More islands, including Mykonos and Crete • Olympia and Delphi, with an optional day in Meteora • Turkey |
OPTION TO Olypmia, delphi and meteora
Day 1. Athens
Your driver will be waiting for you outside of baggage claim and transfer you to your hotel. Our 4-star hotel is very centrally located and a right on the Plaka. There is a bar/restaurant on the top floor of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
Overnight in Athens
Day 2. To Olympia.
It's a four hour drive to Olympia, the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods. Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece.
Overnight in Olympia
Day 3. Delphi
Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassou lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which boasts the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe found where the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, was for many centuries, the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics.
Tonight you can return to Athens, or consider adding another day to Meteora.
Optional Day 4. Meteora. Today we will travel to one of the most amazing places in Greece: Meteora. Meaning ‘suspended in air’, the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock community of 24 of the biggest and most important monasteries in Greece. There were no steps, and the only access to the monasteries was by means of a net that was hitched over a hook hoisted up by rope overhanging the chasm. Monks descended in the nets or on long, retractable wooden ladders to the fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes.
After this tour, we’ll drive back to Athens.
Overnight in Athens
Your driver will be waiting for you outside of baggage claim and transfer you to your hotel. Our 4-star hotel is very centrally located and a right on the Plaka. There is a bar/restaurant on the top floor of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
Overnight in Athens
Day 2. To Olympia.
It's a four hour drive to Olympia, the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods. Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece.
Overnight in Olympia
Day 3. Delphi
Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassou lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which boasts the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe found where the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, was for many centuries, the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics.
Tonight you can return to Athens, or consider adding another day to Meteora.
Optional Day 4. Meteora. Today we will travel to one of the most amazing places in Greece: Meteora. Meaning ‘suspended in air’, the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock community of 24 of the biggest and most important monasteries in Greece. There were no steps, and the only access to the monasteries was by means of a net that was hitched over a hook hoisted up by rope overhanging the chasm. Monks descended in the nets or on long, retractable wooden ladders to the fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes.
After this tour, we’ll drive back to Athens.
Overnight in Athens
DAY 1: ARRIVE ATHENS. YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS! |
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Your driver will be waiting for you as you leave baggage claim to transfer you to the hotel. Your Tour Director will be waiting for you at the hotel. Please try to arrive in the morning. You can inquire about early arrival pricing if you prefer to arrive a day early to relax, get rid of jet lag and be ready for our day.
Athens. 2 nights with breakfast. Our luxury hotel is located near the Plaka, with a rooftop view of the Acropolis, outdoor pool and bar and fitness center. Double and twin bed configurations are available. Check-in is usually not unttil 3:00, but the hotel can check your bags. I will request early check-in for you, but I can’t promise a time.
Orientation walk of the The Plaka: Plaka is known as the “Neighborhood of Gods” Once everyone has arrived, Sandy will lead an orientation to the oldest section of Athens, built in the shadow of the Acropolis, and became the neighborhood of the genuine Athenians. Today, that the image of the capital has changed, the quarter of Plaka remains the most “authentic” neighborhood of the city, like a window to the Athens of the past. Though it is quite commercialized it is still a neighborhood and arguably the nicest neighborhood in central Athens. Lunch, not included, in the Plaka is a great way to start your time in Greece.
Tonight:
6:00: Welcome Yoga Class. All classes in Athens will be held on the hotel conference room. 60-minute Easy Vinyasa Flow - all levels welcome! Let’s get those travel kinks out! Vinyasa provides continuous movement through a sequence of poses to build strength and endurance. Linking breath to movement creates a deeper awareness as we flow through poses allowing our physical practice to become a moving meditation. This class could include a combination of Sun Salutations, standing, balancing, seated, and supine poses. Modifications and variations will be offered throughout the sequence.
Non-yogis, please feel free to enjoy the pool and bar before dinner.
Welcome Rooftop Dinner with Acropolis View
Athens. 2 nights with breakfast. Our luxury hotel is located near the Plaka, with a rooftop view of the Acropolis, outdoor pool and bar and fitness center. Double and twin bed configurations are available. Check-in is usually not unttil 3:00, but the hotel can check your bags. I will request early check-in for you, but I can’t promise a time.
Orientation walk of the The Plaka: Plaka is known as the “Neighborhood of Gods” Once everyone has arrived, Sandy will lead an orientation to the oldest section of Athens, built in the shadow of the Acropolis, and became the neighborhood of the genuine Athenians. Today, that the image of the capital has changed, the quarter of Plaka remains the most “authentic” neighborhood of the city, like a window to the Athens of the past. Though it is quite commercialized it is still a neighborhood and arguably the nicest neighborhood in central Athens. Lunch, not included, in the Plaka is a great way to start your time in Greece.
Tonight:
6:00: Welcome Yoga Class. All classes in Athens will be held on the hotel conference room. 60-minute Easy Vinyasa Flow - all levels welcome! Let’s get those travel kinks out! Vinyasa provides continuous movement through a sequence of poses to build strength and endurance. Linking breath to movement creates a deeper awareness as we flow through poses allowing our physical practice to become a moving meditation. This class could include a combination of Sun Salutations, standing, balancing, seated, and supine poses. Modifications and variations will be offered throughout the sequence.
Non-yogis, please feel free to enjoy the pool and bar before dinner.
Welcome Rooftop Dinner with Acropolis View
DAY 2: A DAY IN ATHENS |
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7:00: Tea, coffee and water with lemon.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
10:00. This morning we will enjoy our private Athens tour. Travel in time through the city with a history of more than 5,000 years! Walk along streets where Pericles, Plato and the Apostle Paul laid the foundations for Western Civilization and enjoy the perfect blend of ancient worlds and modern times in a city vibrant with life! We’ll first enjoy a visit to the Acropolis Museum which will give us an excellent foundation for walking up to the Acropolis.
Your tour will end at lunchtime when you’ll have the rest of the day on your own to enjoy Athens.
5:00: Guided Meditation. Primordial Sound Meditation, or PSM, is a healing practice that allows us to experience inner calm and deep relaxation. For thousands of years, people have used meditation to move beyond the mind's busy activity and emotional turbulence into profound peace and expanded awareness. In the age of digital devices, social media, and busy schedules, the restful awareness we experience during meditation is more valuable than ever. The term "restful awareness" captures the unique combination of physical relaxation and an alert yet quiet mind. The pace of life has accelerated, and every day we are bombarded with more information and stimulation than our ancestors encountered during entire lifetimes. Not surprisingly, the number of people suffering from stress, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic health problems is on the rise—and many are searching for peace of mind. The most direct way to experience inner silence and well-being is meditation, a tool to rediscover the body's own inner intelligence. As scientific research reveals, when you meditate, your breathing slows, blood pressure decreases, and stress hormone levels fall.
Tonight: included Folklore dinner and show.
Overnight in Athens
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
10:00. This morning we will enjoy our private Athens tour. Travel in time through the city with a history of more than 5,000 years! Walk along streets where Pericles, Plato and the Apostle Paul laid the foundations for Western Civilization and enjoy the perfect blend of ancient worlds and modern times in a city vibrant with life! We’ll first enjoy a visit to the Acropolis Museum which will give us an excellent foundation for walking up to the Acropolis.
Your tour will end at lunchtime when you’ll have the rest of the day on your own to enjoy Athens.
5:00: Guided Meditation. Primordial Sound Meditation, or PSM, is a healing practice that allows us to experience inner calm and deep relaxation. For thousands of years, people have used meditation to move beyond the mind's busy activity and emotional turbulence into profound peace and expanded awareness. In the age of digital devices, social media, and busy schedules, the restful awareness we experience during meditation is more valuable than ever. The term "restful awareness" captures the unique combination of physical relaxation and an alert yet quiet mind. The pace of life has accelerated, and every day we are bombarded with more information and stimulation than our ancestors encountered during entire lifetimes. Not surprisingly, the number of people suffering from stress, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic health problems is on the rise—and many are searching for peace of mind. The most direct way to experience inner silence and well-being is meditation, a tool to rediscover the body's own inner intelligence. As scientific research reveals, when you meditate, your breathing slows, blood pressure decreases, and stress hormone levels fall.
Tonight: included Folklore dinner and show.
Overnight in Athens
DAY 3: ON TO THE ISLANDS - NAXOS |
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7:00: Tea, coffee and water with lemon.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
Transfer to the airport for included group flight from Athens to Naxos.
3 nights with breakfast.
Naxos island is a place of exceptional beauty, remarkable tradition and some of the best beaches in Greece. The center of activity is Chora (Naxos Town), but in general, most places on Naxos are untouched by tourism and preserve a strong local character and their own pace of life. Naxos keeps the agriculture tradition alive, and is famous for its cheeses and old-world recipes. Here you can buy beautiful pieces carved from marble and emery, hike through scenic mountainous villages, and avoid the Aegean jet-set crowd.
Included lunch at the hotel
Foodie Tour of Naxos Town. This afternoon we will meet up with our local guide, who will take us through the labyrinths of the medieval past of Naxos. You will walk through the Old Market and the old Jewish neighborhood, the Greek orthodox settlements and finally arrive on the Venetian Castle, once Capital of the Aegean Sea. The first Ursulines school in Greece is going to welcome you on the top of the hill, together with the Jesuits School, the Catholic Cathedral and the Palace of the Duke. You will enjoy the beautiful views and then come down to explore the majestic Gate of Apollo’s temple with the most spectacular sunset. Along the way, you will sample delicious treats and local products such as Naxian cheeses, spoon sweets, marmalades, the citrus liquor, herbs and of course, their local wine with an included dinner.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
Transfer to the airport for included group flight from Athens to Naxos.
3 nights with breakfast.
Naxos island is a place of exceptional beauty, remarkable tradition and some of the best beaches in Greece. The center of activity is Chora (Naxos Town), but in general, most places on Naxos are untouched by tourism and preserve a strong local character and their own pace of life. Naxos keeps the agriculture tradition alive, and is famous for its cheeses and old-world recipes. Here you can buy beautiful pieces carved from marble and emery, hike through scenic mountainous villages, and avoid the Aegean jet-set crowd.
Included lunch at the hotel
Foodie Tour of Naxos Town. This afternoon we will meet up with our local guide, who will take us through the labyrinths of the medieval past of Naxos. You will walk through the Old Market and the old Jewish neighborhood, the Greek orthodox settlements and finally arrive on the Venetian Castle, once Capital of the Aegean Sea. The first Ursulines school in Greece is going to welcome you on the top of the hill, together with the Jesuits School, the Catholic Cathedral and the Palace of the Duke. You will enjoy the beautiful views and then come down to explore the majestic Gate of Apollo’s temple with the most spectacular sunset. Along the way, you will sample delicious treats and local products such as Naxian cheeses, spoon sweets, marmalades, the citrus liquor, herbs and of course, their local wine with an included dinner.
DAY 4. A DAY IN NAXOS |
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7:00: Tea, coffee and water with lemon.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
10:30. FULL DAY TOUR OF THE ISLAND. Today we explore the mainland of the most fertile Island of the Cyclades, starting of course with Demeter s temple. After visiting the unique marble temple and the museum we continue to Manolis pottery workshop in Damalas. Manolis will make for us the sifouni, a unique ceramic carafe for wine unique on the island of Naxos. In the largest olive Grove of the Cyclades dominates the village of Chalki, our next stop. Beautiful castles, byzantine churches, small artistic galleries and the famous Citrus liquor distillery welcome us there. We visit one of the byzantine churches of the area (6th century) and we continue to Apiranthos, known as the marble village for lunch and some free time. On the way back, from a different route, we visit the ancient quarries of marble and the gigantic Kouros statue laying still there, the ancient aqueduct and you also see the most impressive modern marble quarries.
6:00: Gentle Flow Yoga. Through a balance of breath and movement, we will explore postures based in Vinyasa yoga in a slower setting, allowing room for self exploration and the integration of body, mind, and spirit. Longer holds with multiple options for modifications and the last 10-15 minutes of class for restorative postures and a relaxing savasana.
Included dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Naxos
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
10:30. FULL DAY TOUR OF THE ISLAND. Today we explore the mainland of the most fertile Island of the Cyclades, starting of course with Demeter s temple. After visiting the unique marble temple and the museum we continue to Manolis pottery workshop in Damalas. Manolis will make for us the sifouni, a unique ceramic carafe for wine unique on the island of Naxos. In the largest olive Grove of the Cyclades dominates the village of Chalki, our next stop. Beautiful castles, byzantine churches, small artistic galleries and the famous Citrus liquor distillery welcome us there. We visit one of the byzantine churches of the area (6th century) and we continue to Apiranthos, known as the marble village for lunch and some free time. On the way back, from a different route, we visit the ancient quarries of marble and the gigantic Kouros statue laying still there, the ancient aqueduct and you also see the most impressive modern marble quarries.
6:00: Gentle Flow Yoga. Through a balance of breath and movement, we will explore postures based in Vinyasa yoga in a slower setting, allowing room for self exploration and the integration of body, mind, and spirit. Longer holds with multiple options for modifications and the last 10-15 minutes of class for restorative postures and a relaxing savasana.
Included dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Naxos
DAY 5. NAXOS SUP YOGA, BEACH TIME AND A COOKING LESSON |
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Breakfast and transfer to SUP Yoga.
Stand up Paddle Yoga. Yoga should be fun and playful. So, let's have a little fun, laugh so hard you fall in, and get some good core work at the same time. Practicing yoga on water can seem a little intimidating. However, it is an extremely inclusive activity that really anyone can enjoy. If you can breathe, you can do yoga and if you can stand on your two feet, you can use a paddle board. It is a great way of improving your core strength and balance while completely immersing yourself in the water element and some absolutely beautiful surroundings.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Tonight: Greek Cooking Class and Dinner
Overnight in Naxos
Stand up Paddle Yoga. Yoga should be fun and playful. So, let's have a little fun, laugh so hard you fall in, and get some good core work at the same time. Practicing yoga on water can seem a little intimidating. However, it is an extremely inclusive activity that really anyone can enjoy. If you can breathe, you can do yoga and if you can stand on your two feet, you can use a paddle board. It is a great way of improving your core strength and balance while completely immersing yourself in the water element and some absolutely beautiful surroundings.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Tonight: Greek Cooking Class and Dinner
Overnight in Naxos
DAY 6. TO SANTORINI |
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There are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while sitting on the rim of a volcano in the middle of the sea. Santorini boasts beautiful scenery, natural beauty, sunsets, romance, fine dining, wineries, boutique hotels, boat tours and volcanoes. While the island is known for its picturesque, cliffside domes and some seriously stunning sunsets, travelers often find the interiors a bit monastic. Hotels in Santorini are very sparse by design. Picture vaulted ceilings, sweeping arches, and dramatic curves; in order to shelter themselves from harsh weather, residents made their homes inside the natural volcanic caves of the island. And why the white? To reduce absorption of the scorching-hot Aegean sun during the summer. With Santorini’s style, simplicity is key. The Cyclades practically invented minimalism.
7:00: Tea, coffee and water with lemon.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
Transfer to the port, depart Naxos to Santorini on the ferry, transfer to the hotel.
2 nights with breakfast.
3:00. Private driving tour of the island. The sun-drenched island of Santorini sits at the southern tip of the Cyclades and is one of the most breathtaking locations of Greece. This volcanic island of unusual rock formation and high cliffs jutting into the sea is the result of a massive volcanic eruption around 3,500 years ago that blew out the center of Santorini. The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay and some of the most spectacular views. We will stop the towns of Pyrgos, surrounded by blue domed churches and vineyards, small galleries and shops tucked into hidden corners and Megalochori, a labyrinth of winding streets, with whitewashed houses and churches, blue domes and ornate bell towers. Your tour will end in Oia, the crowning glory of tranquility, boasting the most superb views of the caldera. The beauty of Oia is unsurpassed. In fact, it is almost impossible to describe in words. Small white houses tier the hillside, interspersed by splashes of rich okra, deep fuchsia, cobalt blue, oyster pink and earthy red.
We will enjoy the famous Oia sunset over the caldera and included dinner on the dock.
DAY 7. A DAY IN SANTORINI |
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7:00: Tea, coffee and water with lemon.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
Enjoy the day at your leisure.
My suggestion for this morning is to walk the cliff-path along the top of the caldera. 7 miles. Strenuous. Have good shoes, hats and bring plenty of water. Oia offers a variety of activities among them great shopping from local and designers brands, unique jewelries, art galleries as well as a wide selection of restaurants and bars for lunch. You can hop a taxi back to your hotel.
Not a hiker? Head to nearby Fira. Check out The Museum of Prehistoric Thera. This tiny museum in the heart of Thira houses frescoes and other archaeological treasures found during the excavation of Ancient Akrotiri, which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption that made Santorini look like it does today. It offers insight into early human life on the Greek Islands, making this an interesting place to check out if you’re keen to learning more about the island’s history. After your visit, go to the Akrotiri Archaeological Sight, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that just might have been the inspiration for Plato’s Atlantis. The remains are well-preserved and tells a fascinating story of one of the most sophisticated settlements in Greece.
3:15 PM - Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise and BBQ
We will finish our time together with a cruise past the Red beach and White beach, swim and snorkle off the boat and enjoy the view. You’ll enjoy a barbecue on board with complimentary drinks. This excursion includes round trip transfer from/to hotel, snorkeling equipment, towels, life jacket, map with extensive information of the landmarks and destinations. Please bring a bathing suit and comfortable cruise wear, sunscreen, light sweater and a hat.
Overnight in Santorini.
8:00: Yoga We will start our morning with a 60-minute vinyasa flow class for all levels. Throughout the sequence we be focusing on connecting to our Manipura chakra - our fiery center - focusing on building strength, endurance, flexibility, and concentration.
9:30: Included breakfast
Enjoy the day at your leisure.
My suggestion for this morning is to walk the cliff-path along the top of the caldera. 7 miles. Strenuous. Have good shoes, hats and bring plenty of water. Oia offers a variety of activities among them great shopping from local and designers brands, unique jewelries, art galleries as well as a wide selection of restaurants and bars for lunch. You can hop a taxi back to your hotel.
Not a hiker? Head to nearby Fira. Check out The Museum of Prehistoric Thera. This tiny museum in the heart of Thira houses frescoes and other archaeological treasures found during the excavation of Ancient Akrotiri, which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption that made Santorini look like it does today. It offers insight into early human life on the Greek Islands, making this an interesting place to check out if you’re keen to learning more about the island’s history. After your visit, go to the Akrotiri Archaeological Sight, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that just might have been the inspiration for Plato’s Atlantis. The remains are well-preserved and tells a fascinating story of one of the most sophisticated settlements in Greece.
3:15 PM - Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise and BBQ
We will finish our time together with a cruise past the Red beach and White beach, swim and snorkle off the boat and enjoy the view. You’ll enjoy a barbecue on board with complimentary drinks. This excursion includes round trip transfer from/to hotel, snorkeling equipment, towels, life jacket, map with extensive information of the landmarks and destinations. Please bring a bathing suit and comfortable cruise wear, sunscreen, light sweater and a hat.
Overnight in Santorini.
DAY 8. FLIGHTS OUT OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP |
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Included transfers to the Santorini airport.
Santorini connections to Athens or other European destinations for flights home. Flights not included.
Extend your trip with our Post-tour Options: Mykonos or Crete, with Tour Director Sandy Gregory
Santorini connections to Athens or other European destinations for flights home. Flights not included.
Extend your trip with our Post-tour Options: Mykonos or Crete, with Tour Director Sandy Gregory
CRETE. 5 DAYS. |
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Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands and the fifth-largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It has mountain villages, long sandy beaches, rocky bays, beach-bar-boogie & nightlife. Bathed in clear sunlight much of the year, the climate is one of the best in Europe. There is an abundance of wildlife, plants & flowers that are unique to the island. Breathe in the ever-present scents of wild herbs, taste fresh fruit, the best of the world’s olive oil and healthy, delicious cheeses. The island offers both developed tourist areas with resort hotels and also quiet coves, hidden beaches and invigorating mountain villages that reward the discerning traveler.
Day 1. Arrive in Crete
Tucked away in the northern part of the island is Heraklion, the island’s capital city, where we’ll start our time on the island. Our hotel is centrally located, walking distance to all the sights in town. From our hotel, we’ll take a walking orientation to the city winding through the streets of town to Lion’s Square. This square owes its name to the ornate Venetian fountain with lions that dominates the square. We’ll then stroll along 25th August Street to find some of the city’s finest buildings to hit the water at the Grand Venetian Walls of the city. Venetian conquerors left brilliant architectural monuments throughout the island and amazingly, even through the 20 years of siege with the Ottomans in the 17th century, many have survived to this day.
Included dinner in Heraklion. The Cretan diet is one of the best-known and healthiest culinary traditions in the world. This form of the Mediterranean diet exudes the unique way of life and terroir that can only be found on Greece’s biggest island. Cretans take immeasurable pride in producing this cuisine with solely Cretan products taken from the island’s unique geography.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 2. Crete Tour, including Knossos Minoan Palace & Museum
Only few kilometers south of Heraklion is Knossos, the capital of King Minos and the center of the magnificent Minoan civilization. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and has been called Europe’s oldest city. Our visit will take us a step back in time and some 4000 years and open a window to the most ancient civilization of Europe. Knossos’ architectural feats include some of our first “skyscrapers”, with light wells and bathrooms, impressive pillars and an ingenuous drainage system, aqueducts, irrigation, paved roads and magnificent frescoes. We’ll finish our tour back in Heraklion at the famous Archaeological Museum.
You’ll have the rest of the day to explore and enjoy this lovely city.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 3: Driving day tour to Rethymnon and then on to Chania.
Today we leave in Heraklion and travel to Rethymnon because the streets are so charming, the locals are so kind and the food is so good. It’s a seaside neighborhood that dates back to the 11th century. Here you’ll find prime examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture along with splashes of Turkish influence spread throughout the city.
We're then on to the old town of Chania. This port town is filled with charming architecture which reflects its Turkish and Venetian past. The lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the entire world, and welcomes us to the plethora of restaurants along the port with beautiful views of the harbor.
Overnight in Chania
Day 4: A Day in Chiana
Today is a day of choices. You can soak in the sights or join one - or a few - of our cultural activities.
Cooking Lesson: Crete has always been on the top of the Greek food hall of fame, and wine is always the ideal companion of traditional Greek food. During this cooking lesson, you will learn to make some of their favorite dishes a pair them with the perfect local wines.
Hike the Imbros Gorge: This is an easy 2.5 hour hike with plenty of trees for shade.
Enjoy a full day cruise to the islands of Gramvousa and Balos. You’ll enjoy clear waters and desert-isle sand on this day-long cruise to the first area of Crete to be liberated from the Turks in 1825. The Gramvousa/Balos region is a protected biotope. 400 plant varieties and 98 bird species inhabit the area.
Guided tour of Phaistos Palace, Gortys Antiquities and Matala Beach. The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete. After your visit, you are on to the Minoan Royal Villa/ Country Mansion of Ag Triada to see the Minoan and Mycenaean prehistoric layers and artifacts. Your tour then takes you for lunch and beach time at the hippie town of Matala.
Overnight in Chania
Day 4: Flights back
Included transfers to the Santorini airport.
Crete connections to Athens or other European destinations for flights home. Flights not included.
Day 1. Arrive in Crete
Tucked away in the northern part of the island is Heraklion, the island’s capital city, where we’ll start our time on the island. Our hotel is centrally located, walking distance to all the sights in town. From our hotel, we’ll take a walking orientation to the city winding through the streets of town to Lion’s Square. This square owes its name to the ornate Venetian fountain with lions that dominates the square. We’ll then stroll along 25th August Street to find some of the city’s finest buildings to hit the water at the Grand Venetian Walls of the city. Venetian conquerors left brilliant architectural monuments throughout the island and amazingly, even through the 20 years of siege with the Ottomans in the 17th century, many have survived to this day.
Included dinner in Heraklion. The Cretan diet is one of the best-known and healthiest culinary traditions in the world. This form of the Mediterranean diet exudes the unique way of life and terroir that can only be found on Greece’s biggest island. Cretans take immeasurable pride in producing this cuisine with solely Cretan products taken from the island’s unique geography.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 2. Crete Tour, including Knossos Minoan Palace & Museum
Only few kilometers south of Heraklion is Knossos, the capital of King Minos and the center of the magnificent Minoan civilization. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and has been called Europe’s oldest city. Our visit will take us a step back in time and some 4000 years and open a window to the most ancient civilization of Europe. Knossos’ architectural feats include some of our first “skyscrapers”, with light wells and bathrooms, impressive pillars and an ingenuous drainage system, aqueducts, irrigation, paved roads and magnificent frescoes. We’ll finish our tour back in Heraklion at the famous Archaeological Museum.
You’ll have the rest of the day to explore and enjoy this lovely city.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 3: Driving day tour to Rethymnon and then on to Chania.
Today we leave in Heraklion and travel to Rethymnon because the streets are so charming, the locals are so kind and the food is so good. It’s a seaside neighborhood that dates back to the 11th century. Here you’ll find prime examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture along with splashes of Turkish influence spread throughout the city.
We're then on to the old town of Chania. This port town is filled with charming architecture which reflects its Turkish and Venetian past. The lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the entire world, and welcomes us to the plethora of restaurants along the port with beautiful views of the harbor.
Overnight in Chania
Day 4: A Day in Chiana
Today is a day of choices. You can soak in the sights or join one - or a few - of our cultural activities.
Cooking Lesson: Crete has always been on the top of the Greek food hall of fame, and wine is always the ideal companion of traditional Greek food. During this cooking lesson, you will learn to make some of their favorite dishes a pair them with the perfect local wines.
Hike the Imbros Gorge: This is an easy 2.5 hour hike with plenty of trees for shade.
Enjoy a full day cruise to the islands of Gramvousa and Balos. You’ll enjoy clear waters and desert-isle sand on this day-long cruise to the first area of Crete to be liberated from the Turks in 1825. The Gramvousa/Balos region is a protected biotope. 400 plant varieties and 98 bird species inhabit the area.
Guided tour of Phaistos Palace, Gortys Antiquities and Matala Beach. The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete. After your visit, you are on to the Minoan Royal Villa/ Country Mansion of Ag Triada to see the Minoan and Mycenaean prehistoric layers and artifacts. Your tour then takes you for lunch and beach time at the hippie town of Matala.
Overnight in Chania
Day 4: Flights back
Included transfers to the Santorini airport.
Crete connections to Athens or other European destinations for flights home. Flights not included.
OPTIONal excursion TO TURKEY
Please inquire about one of our new, exciting post-tour excursions to Turkey:
Istanbul - Ephesus (4 Nights - 5 Days)
Highlights: Topkapi Palace-Hagia Sophia-Blue Mosque-Hippodrome-Spice Market-Bosphorus Trip-Ephesus-Artemis Temple-House of Virgin Mary
Istanbul - Ephesus - Cappadocia (6 Nights - 7 Days)
Highlights: Topkapi Palace-Hagia Sophia-Blue Mosque-Hippodrome-Spice Market-Bosphorus Trip-Underground Cistern-Artemis Temple-Ephesus-House of Virgin Mary-Kaymakli Underground City-Devrent Valley-Pasabag Fairy Chimneys-Avanaos Town-Goreme Open Air Museum-Uchisar Rockj Castl.
Istanbul - Ephesus (4 Nights - 5 Days)
Highlights: Topkapi Palace-Hagia Sophia-Blue Mosque-Hippodrome-Spice Market-Bosphorus Trip-Ephesus-Artemis Temple-House of Virgin Mary
Istanbul - Ephesus - Cappadocia (6 Nights - 7 Days)
Highlights: Topkapi Palace-Hagia Sophia-Blue Mosque-Hippodrome-Spice Market-Bosphorus Trip-Underground Cistern-Artemis Temple-Ephesus-House of Virgin Mary-Kaymakli Underground City-Devrent Valley-Pasabag Fairy Chimneys-Avanaos Town-Goreme Open Air Museum-Uchisar Rockj Castl.