Uncover a world of ancient treasures and authentic food on this indulgent adventure through 4000 years of culinary culture. From the pistachio farms and fish markets of the Saronic Islands to the olive groves and rugged coastline of the Peloponnese region, meet passionate cooks and local producers as you explore the diverse flavours and faces of Greece!
Costs:
Land $4,635 per person for double occupancy
Fees $500 per person taxes, fees & planning
Welcome to Athens! We encourage you to rest (or explore) on you day of arrival. Our adventure together begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm.
The start of our foodie odyssey starts with a plant-based mezze feast – an array of small plates typically accompanied by a glass of wine or ouzo, in a rustic taverna. Zucchini balls, vegan moussaka, salads, tomato balls, fresh beans with zucchini, fava beans and stuffed vegetables are just a few of the flavoursome dishes that may be on offer tonight.
This morning, take the city train to Piraeus port and travel by ferry to the island of Aegina, your first stop in the Saronic Gulf. After checking in at your hotel, drive to a local farm where you'll meet the owners for a tasty tour of their property. Say hello to their sheep and cows, sample their homemade cheeses and help make rizogalo (rice pudding). Next up is a visit to a local pistachio farm. It’s thought that pistachio trees were first planted on the island in the 19th century, brought to Aegina via Syria, and the Greek island of Chios. Enjoy a sample from the farm and be sure to seek out fistikato or fistiki Aeginis glyko, specialty pistachio sweets of Aegina. The late afternoon and evening are free for your own exploration.
After breakfast, stroll down and check out the catch of the day at the open fish markets by the port. Perhaps also stop past the island's most famous pastry shop to pick up some pistachio goodies to take with you. Next, board another ferry bound for Poros, a small Greek island renowned for lamb, olive groves and charming white houses with terracotta roofs. Take part in a cooking class with a local chef and learn to prepare some classic regional dishes, then feast on your creations over lunch. Enjoy a free afternoon by your accommodation’s pool or exploring!
Take a day trip to Hydra Island, a quintessential Greek getaway. Hydra is truly the gem of the Saronic Gulf and stands alone among Greek islands as the one free of wheeled vehicles – no cars, no scooters – just tiny marble-cobbled lanes, donkeys, rocks and sea. So, put your walking shoes on and get acquainted with the locals with a spot of people watching and enjoy this one-of-a-kind, Greek Island. Your tour leader will help you on this mission by taking you to a traditional sweet shop to try the famous “Hydraika Amygdalota ( Greek Macaroons), paired with delicious Greek coffee.The rest of the day is for you to relax, swim in clear waters or stroll along the marina, before returning to Poros in the evening..
Take a short ferry ride this morning before jumping in a private vehicle from Poros to Nafplio (with plenty of interesting stops along the way). First up, a small, family-run apiary. Visit their honey museum to learn how their bees make honey, before sampling their products with aromatic Greek tea, homemade bread and cheese. Travel onwards to the ancient site of Epidaurus. Named after Epidauro, the son of Apollo, the UNESCO World Heritage site. Your final stop today is at a family-owned ouzo distillery for a taste of their iconic Greek aperitif. Traditionally distilled in copper pots, ouzo acquires its distinct flavour from the addition of anise.
Arrive in Nafplio in the late afternoon, a charming seaside town, considered one of the most beautiful in the eastern Peloponnese.
Start your day with a visit to Mycenae to see the Treasury of Atreus, also called Tomb of Agamemnon. You’ll join a local guide to learn more about how the tomb is believed to have been erected in the period between 1350 to 1250 BC and is just one of nine intriguing beehive structures unearthed in this area. Next up, visit a family-owned boutique winery to sample their finest drops, accompanied by a selection of delicious snacks. Take a walk in the vines to stretch your legs before heading back to Nafplio where the rest of the day is free to explore as you wish.
Continue to the seaside town of Kardamyli, stopping en route to visit an olive oil mill. Walk through the olive groves and visit their mill, seeing the oil production process from start to finish. Enjoy a farmer’s snack here and tuck into some of their incredible local produce (alongside an olive oil tasting) before getting back on the road. Enjoy an additional stop in Kalamata for a short walking tour and market visit with a few more food tastings for good measure. You’ll arrive in Kardamyli by early afternoon, located in the rugged coastal region of the Mani Peninsula, south of Kalamata, this stunning village is set against a beautiful backdrop of the open ocean, cypress trees, wild olive groves, and distant snow-capped mountains.
This morning you may like to do an optional sea kayaking activity, exploring the coastline and caves of the Mani Peninsula or simply enjoy a little free time at your leisure. In the afternoon, be welcomed at a local home and learn how to make lalagia – a delicious Greek doughnut that can be served sweet or savoury. Afterwards, enjoy a Greek feast with your new friends. Home-cooked moussaka, stuffed vegetables, rice, salad and ice cream await!
Depart Kardamyli and stop to take in views of the Corinth Canal, a narrow, man-made canal that connects the Ionian and Aegean Seas. Journey onwards to Athens where you'll spend one more evening and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Excludes:
Demecia Lloyd and Kristi Carrara have been leading tours together for over 5 years. Their vibrant and caring personalities set the tone for a comfortable and enjoyable experience! You don't have to worry about a thing!
Demecia Lloyd has been drawn to exotic places and different cultures from a young age. She has traveled extensively, been part of the Peace Corp and lived in Panama.
She brings peace of mind to any trip she's on!
Kristi has been planning vacations for over 20 years. Her passion for travel can be felt by everyone she comes across.
She is especially thrilled to be exploring the off the beaten spots of Greece!