Greek Odyssey

Visit the picturesque villages of beautiful Mt. Pelion and learn about Greece’s earliest civilizations. Drive by motor coach to the Archaeological Museum of Volos, where you will have a guided tour before continuing through the scenic Mt. Pelion region. This was the homeland of Chiron the Centaur, tutor of mythological heroes such as Achilles and Hercules. The diverse landscape is a mix of mountains falling precipitously toward the Aegean Sea and lush valleys covered with fruit trees, dense forests and abundant streams. Just outside Volos, you will pass by picturesque Anakasia, Katochori and Portaria. Perched on mountain slopes, these villages feature many whitewashed, half-timbered stone houses. Arrive in Makrinitsa, where you will have free time to explore the traditional residences, small churches, cafés and scenic vistas at your leisure before returning to your ship.

Take in the breathtaking scenery of Meteora, where medieval monasteries seem suspended in midair. In the 14th century, Greek Orthodox monks came to believe that the tops of these dramatic rock formations rising from the surrounding plains would be the perfect location in which to attain a sense of peaceful isolation. Over time, 24 monasteries were built on the hilltops, producing a surreal sight that combines a spectacular natural landscape with human ingenuity. Drive through the plains of scenic Thessaly to reach Meteora. Prior to the construction of steps in the 1920s, ascending the summit was a perilous journey—visitors were hauled up in a net pulled by a rope. Climb the steps to visit two monasteries, where you will see ancient icons, frescoes and medieval manuscripts. After, stop at a local restaurant for lunch before returning to your ship.

Explore one of antiquity’s important religious centers and enjoy lunch in the shade of Mt. Olympus. In Greek mythology, Mt. Olympus served as the home of the major deities—the 12 Olympian gods. Embark on a panoramic drive by motor coach across Thessaly. You will arrive in Dion, a major religious center of Ancient Greece due to its proximity to Mt. Olympus. Visit the site and the local Archaeological Museum. See the Temple of Zeus, the god of gods, and those of Demeter and Isis—an Egyptian goddess and favorite of Alexander the Great. Admire the well-preserved theaters built during the Hellenistic and Roman eras and see the mosaic representing Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. Then, reboard your coach for a short drive to the village of Litochoro, where you will enjoy lunch while admiring the scenic views of Mt. Olympus.

Delve into the wonderful world of mushrooms, experiencing truffle hunting and a delicious al fresco pasta lunch. Embark on a scenic drive through the plains of Thessaly to the town of Kalabaka. Here, you will gain insight into the lifecycle of the mushroom at the Museum of Natural History. The museum’s collection consists of sculptures depicting the fungi’s stages of development and the different ecosystems in which they grow. You will take your newfound knowledge with you to the nearby forest, pausing during your journey for photos of Meteora’s striking medieval hilltop monasteries. Accompanied by your expert truffle hunter and trained dogs, learn the secrets of finding these mushrooms in their natural environment. Cap this unique experience with a mouthwatering meal of truffle pasta with mushrooms, accompanied by a glass of wine, in a delightful outdoor setting.

Join a hands-on cooking class at a family-owned farm to discover authentic dishes, including briam and strapatsada. Travel by motor coach to Portaria Village, nestled on the western slopes of Mount Pelion. Your destination is Karaiskos Farm, where sustainability and local produce are showcased during immersive cooking experiences. Here, you will learn about the region’s distinctive cuisine, characterized by its use of wild herbs, fresh vegetables and locally produced olive oil and wine. Upon arrival, roll up your sleeves and join the farm’s experienced chefs as they teach you how to prepare traditional dishes. Under their expert guidance, you will prepare briam, oven-baked seasonal vegetables seasoned with herbs; tirokouloura, a cheese pie with handmade phyllo pastry; and strapatsada, a Greek omelet. After, settle in to sample your creations before returning to your ship.

Journey through nature during a scenic hike along a route steeped in myth and legend. Depart by motor coach for Chania, the highest settlement on the storied Mount Pelion. This forested mountain is deeply intertwined with Greek mythology—named for Peleus, the father of Achilles, it is said to be the home of the centaurs and the site of the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, which set in motion the Trojan War. The wise centaur Chiron, mentor to heroes including Jason and Heracles, was believed to dwell nearby. Upon arrival, set out along the Centaurs’ Trail, a hiking route that offers views of lush greenery. Follow the trail toward Portaria, a small village known for its stone-built mansions and sweeping views of the Pagasetic Gulf, where light bites will be served at a local restaurant to refresh you after your hike. After, return to your ship.