An Autumn Adventure In Northern Greece Tour

This ‘adventure’ takes us to the surprising landscapes and natural beauties of northern Greece during a period when the colours of autumn should be painting the trees and when most tourists have already departed, which ensures tranquility and uncrowded places. The variety of the places visits provides a fantastic glimpse into the diversity and beauty offered in this region, not only in its spectacular scenery but also in its local tastes and distinct regional culture.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Thessaloniki
We transfer to and overnight at the Golden Star Hotel, situated in seaside Perea, approximately 20 kms from the city of Thessaloniki.  A dinner altogether will be arranged in a local taverna, a chance to get to know your fellow travellers.

Day 2: A glimpse of Thessaloniki and on to Metsovo.
We have the opportunity this morning to catch a glimpse of Thessaloniki, an atmospheric seaside city overflowing with historic sites and atmosphere.  We will take a stroll through the buzzy Aristotelous Square, the heart of the city, visit the old market and have time for coffee before starting our journey to colourful Metsovo. Check-in to the very comfortable Kassaros Hotel, for a two-night stay.

Day 3: Meteora Monasteries.
The joy of visiting Meteora is not just about these special monasteries, which are certainly magnificent in their own right, but it’s also the unusual and dramatic rock formations that provide the sensational setting for these historic monasteries which grab our attention. A visit here provides both history as well as natures grandeur. This evening will be relaxed to spend at leisure.

Day 4: Metsovo and on to Ioannina.
This morning, before leaving Metsovo we will visit the town’s excellent folk museum for a short guided tour, which will provide an excellent insight into how Metsovo became so prosperous, despite nearly 500 years of Ottoman occupation.  Leaving Metsovo behind we will venture into the region of Tzourmerka enjoying some wonderful views and a very unusual little museum.  Then it’s on to Ioannina with the evening free to relax and settle into the friendly and comfortable Anemolia hotel.

Day 5: Discovering Ioannina.
We spend the morning exploring Ioannina, having with us a local guide to provide us with a little of the town’s colourful history. After our tour is concluded, there will be free time to wander at leisure in Ioannina and have lunch before returning to our hotel.  Dinner altogether at a local taverna. 

Day 6: Day trip to Corfu.
We will journey to the port town of Igoumenitsa and catch the ferry to Corfu where we will spend our time discovering the picturesque historic backstreets of Corfu town. We will have a short, guided tour and then you will be at leisure to enjoy the town as you wish. Return late afternoon to Ioannina. This evening a tasty buffet dinner will be prepared for us at the hotel.

Day 7: The Zagoria villages. 
Our final day takes us into the wonderful and timeless region of the Zagoria villages where we will encounter spectacular scenery, authentic villages and wonderful old stone bridges, an exceptionally scenic trademark of the region.  We will also enjoy a leisurely and tasty lunch at one of the tavernas of the region serving traditional Epirot fare.  Evening at leisure.

Day 8 Transfer to Thessaloniki for return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 18 passengers.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Thessaloniki
• One night bed and breakfast at the Golden Star Hotel Perea, two nights bed and breakfast at the Kassaros Hotel Metsovo, four nights bed and breakfast at the Anemolia Hotel Ioannina 
• Three dinners and one lunch
• Transfers and full touring itinerary
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Single room supplement
• Holiday insurance
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTELS

Golden Star Hotel, Perea, Thessaloniki, 

Situated just 17 kilometres from Thessaloniki and a short drive from the airport, the 4-star Golden Star Hotel, set on the sea front in the small seaside resort of Perea, provides a relaxed place to stay for the start of our tour. The comfortable rooms all have balconies, ensuite facilities, air conditioning/heating. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar. All local facilities, including the beach (the sea is still usually relatively warm for swimming at this time of the year), are easily accessed on foot from the hotel.

Hotel Website

Kassaros Hotel, Metsovo

The cosy Kassaros Hotel ensures a taste of Metsovo tradition and hospitality. Decorated in traditional Metsovon style, this comfortable hotel is well-located just two minutes from Metsovos central square where you can find shops, tavernas and plenty of local atmosphere.

Hotel Website

Anemolia Resort Hotel, Ioannina 

This comfortable four-star hotel overlooking Lake Pamvotis is located approximately 4 kms from Ioannina’s centre. Set in landscaped gardens, facilities include a bar, spa, including sauna and hot tub, (various treatments also available at an extra cost).  The well-appointed and tastefully decorated bedrooms include all modern amenities.

Hotel Website