Travelmood - Family Adventures

Islands of Atlantis

15 Days Islands of Atlantis
Exploring the Cyclades

Introduction
Legend has it that Poseidon, the sea-god, thrust his trident into the mountains with such force that he drove them into the sea. Here they took root and formed the Cyclades Islands. Birthplace of Apollo, this rocky archipelago is rich in history. And with their whitewashed villages, translucent coves and seductive beaches, these are the loveliest of all the Greek islands.

COASTAL TRAILS OF SYROS & BEACHES OF PAROS
After enjoying some time in Athens - visiting the Acropolis, or perhaps wandering around the old clustered shops and tavernas of Plaka - we board the ferry for Syros - capital of the Cyclades. The port of Syros is a bustling centre of commerce between the islands (exporting, amongst other goods, the tastiest loukoumia delights in Greece!), but it's easy to leave the beaten track and there are some great coastal trails too, particularly along the south coast. Paros, dominated by the peak of Prophitas Ilias (750m), is famous for its white marble. The beaches are great fun for beach hikers and swimmers, and there's also a chance to catch a boat to Antiparos to visit the stalactite caves.

VOLCANIC SANTORI & 'LOST ATLANTIS'
Sailing via tiny Ios (Homer's resting ground), we make landfall at the island of Santorini (ancient Thira). Its craggy lagoon, which includes a cluster of volcanically active islets, is all that remains of the legendary home of the Atlanteans. A savage cataclysm around 1600 BC let loose a tidal wave that destroyed the whole civilisation. We can walk to the ghostly town of Oia, which clings to the volcano rim, and also explore the mountain-top capital at Thira: a landscape rich in archaeology as well as picturesque images of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches.

NAXOS: JEWEL IN THE CYCLADIC CROWN
The largest and probably most beautiful of the Cycladic islands is a great spot for local excursions. We'll explore its mountainous interior and hidden villages, perhaps climbing to the top of Mount Zeus. Naxos has endured the rule of many a seafarer, from the Venetians to the Turks - even Barbarossa the Pirate! - all of whom have left their mark. Another famous Naxian was Dionysus, god of the vine, and his descendants certainly take their viticulture seriously! There'll be time to relax, sample local wines and delicacies and to enjoy the beaches, before our voyage back to Athens.

TO BOOK CALL 08700 66 45 65