Europe

GERMANY – Highlights of Berlin

Posted by patricksyder on March 4, 2019
Posted in: Europe, Germany, Germany.

A four night stay in central Berlin at a luxurious 4* boutique hotel which offers a highly regarded restaurant plus historic pool and spa facilities; the perfect way to relax after a day sightseeing in this busy capital. Two excursions are included, one half day bus tour of Berlin and a full day visit to Dresden. The rest of your time is at lesiure to enjoy the vast choice of options available such as River boat cruises, Museums and Art galleries.

Cost of Package per person sharing a Twin/Double room:£695.00

Single Room Supplement £175.00

Tuesday 8 October
Day 1 – FLY TO BERLIN FROM THE UK
Arrival and transfer to the Hotel Oderberger for four nights with breakfast daily
Rest of day at leisure

Wednesday 9 October
Day 2 – IN BERLIN
0900 Private driving tour of Berlin (see detailed description below)
1300 Return to hotel. Afternoon at leisure (PM Options – Boat Cruise, Art
Galleries, Museums)

Thursday 10 October
Day 3 – VISIT DRESDEN
0900 Full day excursion to the city of Dresden
1800 Return to hotel

Friday 11 October
Day 4 – IN BERLIN
Day at leisure

Saturday 12 October
Day 5 – DEPART BERLIN. FLY to UK
Checkout from hotel by midday. Airport transfers can be arranged at reception desk

Included in Package
– Accommodation for 4 nights at the Hotel Oderberger https://www.hotel-oderberger.berlin/ with breakfast
– English speaking guide on tour days
– All sightseeing as per itinerary
– Entrance fees as per program
– Mineral water in minibus
– Transportation with modern AC Merecedes minibus
– Customary tips to guides and crew

Excluded in Package
– International Air flight
– Visa fees
– Airport transfers
– Items of personal nature
– Travel Insurance
– Lunches and Dinners
– Porters in/out of the hotels

GREECE – Thessaloniki and Mt Olympos

Posted by patricksyder on January 25, 2019
Posted in: Europe, Greece.

Coastal setting of historic Thessaloniki

Departure date: 5 – 9 April 2019

£695.00 per person based on sharing a twin room

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT CHARGE

This mountainous peninsula of mainland Greece, with its rugged and dramatic landscapes, was once home to the two of the greatest rulers of the ancient world; Philip II and Alexander the Great. This short intensive 5 day tour is entirely based in historic Thessaloniki, capital of Northern Greece. A World Heritage centre full of beautiful churches and Roman palaces. Nearby we discover Alexander the Great’s birthplace and capital, the ancient Greek city of Pella and explore the ancient sacred city of Dion, the religious centre of the Kingdom of Macedonia. We also visit the spectacular Royal Tombs at Vergina, resting place of the murdered Phillip II of Macedon

ITINERARY

DAY ONE: ARRIVE SALONIKA

Morning arrival on Easyjet. Afternoon tour of Thessaloniki, walking the streets of the old town to view the principal Roman heritage of the city including the Arch and Palace of Galerius and the Roman forum. There are also some fantastic Byzantine churches notable for their mosaics and frescoes littering the old town which we will visit and an excellent museum of Byzantine Culture.

DAY TWO: VISIT SANCTUARY OF DION AND PLATAMONAS.

This morning we explore the ancient sacred city of Dion, situated in view of the legendary Mount Olympus. This extensive sanctuary was the religious centre of the Kingdom of Macedonia and dedicated to Zeus.
Later we drive to Platamonas, to see its extensive Crusader castle, built in the early 13th century.

DAY THREE: VISIT PELLA AND VERGINA.

Today we discover Alexander the Great’s birthplace and capital at the Ancient Greek city of Pella. We also visit the spectacular Royal Tombs at Vergina, resting place of the murdered Phillip II of Macedon and father
of Alexander.

DAY FOUR: IN SALONIKA

Today we visit the Byzantine fortifications and upper town of Thessaloniki, a World Heritage Site before we awe in wonder at the treasures housed in the Archaeological Museum which also features a spectacular exhibition of gold from burials and excavations of the region. The afternoon is left free for personal exploration.

DAY FIVE

Transfer to airport for morning flight with Easyjet to Gatwick London

 

Whats Included:

  • Escorted by Patrick Syder from London Gatwick
  • Specialist PhD Greek Lecturer/Guide
  • All transfers
  • Centrally located boutique 4* hotel with breakfast daily
  • Entrance to sites

Whats not included:

  • Lunches and dinners
  • Gratuities
  • Personal Insurance
  • Easyjet flights from London Gatwick

 

 

BULGARIA – Surva Masquerade Festival Weekend

Posted by patricksyder on December 4, 2018
Posted in: Bulgaria, Europe. Tagged: , .

During the last weekend of January, the industrial town of Pernik, Bulgaria, is flooded with color and celebration for the annual Surva festival. The event, officially called the International Festival of Masquerade Games, is one of the largest of its kind in the Balkans, attracting tourists throughout Europe and Asia.

The festival was officially held for the first time in Pernik in 1966, but the tradition of winter masquerading has its roots in ancient and pagan traditions. During a two-day parade, participants take to the streets in ornate costumes and ostentatious masks that are intended to scare away ill-intentioned spirits and bring luck for the coming spring.

Costumes are typically made from goat or sheep furs and decorated with colorful fabrics, beads, and papier-mache. Mask styles typically vary by region, but folklore participants are judged on their costumes and from a series of performances held on the street and an outdoor stage.

SURVA FESTIVAL WEEKEND
25.01.2019 – 29.01.2019

Day-to-day Itinerary

25.01.2019 DAY 1 – TRANSFER SOFIA AIRPORT – HOTEL IN SOFIA (20 KM)
Arrival at Sofia airport with Easy Jet at 11.20 hrs. Transfer to a hotel in Sofia. Sightseeing tour of Sofia. Welcome dinner. Overnight and stay in Sofia.

26.01.2019 DAY 2 – SOFIA – PERNIK – SOFIA (75 KM)
Drive to Pernik. Day at the Festival. Late PM return to Sofia

27.01.2019 DAY 3 – SOFIA – PERNIK – SOFIA (75 KM)
Drive to Pernik. Day at the Festival. Late PM return to Sofia

28.01.2019 – DAY 4 SOFIA
Day at leisure in Sofia

29.01.2019 – DAY 5 – SOFIA – SOFIA AIRPORT (20)
Day at leisure in Sofia. Late check out at 18.00 hrs. Transfer to Sofia airport

COST: £695.00 per person
No Single Supplement charge

– Accommodation at 4 star hotels as follows:
Sofia – hotel Central Park or similar
http://www.centralparkhotel.bg/
– Welcome dinner on 25.01.2019
– Farewell dinner on 28.01.2019
– Guide services on Day 1, 2 and 3 and the transfers upon arrival and departure;
– Late check out on Day 5;
– Sightseeing tour of Sofia on Day 1;
– Transfers and transportation as per the program

CZECH REPUBLIC – Best of Bohemia and Moravia with Krumlov Medieval Festival!

Posted by patricksyder on July 23, 2018
Posted in: Czech Republic, Europe.

Stunning setting of Cesky Krumlov, location of the colourful Five Petalled Rose Medieval Festival

15 – 25 June 2019

The best of Bohemia & Moravia tour is a well-rounded exploration of the country, its people, culture, and nature. Tour well-preserved architecture of all periods, magnificent interiors, including the UNESCO-protected towns of Cesky Krumlov and Telc, and the Lednice-Valtice cultural landscape, known as the “Garden of Europe”. This is the most comprehensive tour, offering the widest scope of the best that Czech Republic has to offer. Tour includes travel along the Czech Greenways while enjoying 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It packs a wide range of interests, including architecture, nature, history, Jewish heritage, traditional arts and crafts, and personal encounters with ordinary people. The tour is scheduled to coincide with the Medieval festival held over 3 days in Cesky Krumlov that includes a spectacular procession in historical costumes featuring knights on horseback and many notables linked with the history of the town.

Best of Czech Bohemia and Moravia tour itinerary including Rose Petal festival in Krumlov

Day 1: Fly to Vienna
Depart from UK to Vienna. Transfer to hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure. Welcome dinner at traditional Viennese restaurant
Overnight in Vienna.

Day 2 : Vienna – Mikulov
Vienna is considered by many as one of the most charming cities in Europe. Full a sightseeing tour to explore the city’s most wonderful sights. View the impressive buildings of the Ringstrasse including the State Opera, the Burgtheater and Hofburg and the wonderful home of the Habsburgs. Afternoon visit to the magnificent Schonnbrunn Castle, summer palace of the Habsburgs with its spectacular rooms. At the end of the day transfer to Mikulov, Czech Republic, which was for centuries the most important cultural and administrative center of Moravian Jews.
Overnight in Valtice.

Day 3 : Mikulov, Lednice-Valtice area
Tour of Mikulov, its square with its graffito houses, the crypt of the Dietriechstein family, as well as the synagogue and Jewish Cemetery, where the oldest tombstones date back to 1605. The program will then concentrate on the unique Lednice-Valtice area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former estate of the Liechtenstein family which resided there from early 13th century until 1945. The area is graced by two magnificent chateaux and numerous “follies”, romantic structures set in a harmonious way into the surrounding landscape. Vineyards on the slopes of mellow hills, mirror-smooth ponds, nature reserves, bird sanctuaries, storks’ nests perched up on high trees – all these, plus excellent cooking and wine are among the simple pleasures of life in South Moravia. Do not neglect to walk through the chateau’s wonderful gardens. We will also drive through the beautiful lime-rock Palava Hills and visit the historic wine-growing village of Pavlov.
Overnight in Valtice.

Day 4: Mikulov – Vranov nad Dyji – Telc
Early morning drive to the small village of Vranov nad Dyji with its unique view of the chateau on a rock spur over the river. We stat the day with the tour of the magnificent Baroque chateau in Vranov, standing on the site of a 12th century castle which was never conquered and today offers an intriguing view of the surroundings area and an exposition of ceramics in style similar to that of Wedgwood from the local manufacturers. After the tour drive a short distance to the nearby Bitov castle, mirroring in the waters of the Vranov reservoir; then drive over to Cizov where you can see the last remains of the “Iron Curtain”. We continue the drive through the country to the the Moravian Renaissance town of Telc, architectural and artistic gem, unchanged by time and designated by UNESCO as a World Heritag site.
Overnight in Telc.

Day 5: Telc – Jindrichuv Hradec
We enjoy our morning on the spacious square of Telc, encircled with Renaissance gables and arcades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the Renaissance Chateau before continuing via Dacice and Slavonice to the nearby village of Mariz, located in the former no-man’s land on the Austrian border. We visit the nearby castle at Landstejn before taking a train ride on the curious narrow-gauge railway to Jindrichuv Hradec, yet another memorable town, situated on the banks of the river Nezarka. The advanced cultural level of the town is evident with the fact that its newspaper of 1495 is the oldest hand-written newspaper in the Czech language. The superb Renaissance chateau of the Rozmberks and the famous Bohemian tapestry centers are noteworthy and a joy to behold.
Overnight in Jindrichuv Hradec.

Day 6 : Jindrichuv Hradec – Trebon
This morning, take in the historic town and castle of Jindrichuv Hradec. After the visit, continue through the mosaic of ponds, woods and meadows of the Bohemian Lake District via Cervena Lhota,arguably the most fairy-like of Bohemia’s castles and Straz nad Nezarkou, home of the Metropolitan Opera singer Ema Destinnova. The tour ends in Trebon, a medieval city established back in the 13th century; parts of the early 16th-century fortifications have been preserved to this day. One can enter the charming town by any of the three historical gates, and enter into yesteryear.
Overnight in Trebon.

Day 7: Trebon – Cesky Krumlov
This morning we have free time to explore the town bore driving to the picturesque town of Cesky Krumlov, situated on the banks of the meandering upper course of the Vltava river. Today the Five Petalled Rose celebrations begin. A three day event that celebrates the spirit of the Renaissance age with the hubbub of jousts, craft fairs, medieval music, street plays, and fencing duels to culminate with the highlight of the festival – a spectacular procession in historical costumes featuring knights on horseback and many notables linked with the history of the town.
Overnight in Cesky Krumlov.

Day 8 : Five petalled Rose Festival in Cesky Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov, the jewel of South Bohemia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, universally recognized as a unique remnant of historic urbanism. The old town preserves, virtually intact and still vital, an unparalleled ensemble of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque structures. Among the attractions is the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic, the oldest working Baroque theatre in Europe and an open-air theatre with a revolving auditorium. We are able to enjoy the second day of the festival celebrating with the local population.
Overnight in Cesky Krumlov.

Day 9: Cesky Krumlov – Prague
Today we leave Cesky Krumlov and drive to Krasetin to take a cable car to the top of Klet, highest peak in the region with great vistas. Your next stop is the fairy-tale Tudor Gothic chateau of Hluboka, the best known and most visited castle in the Czech Republic. Continue on to Tabor for a tour of this historically important town founded by the Hussites in 1420 and was named after the biblical Mount Tabor. Your final destination today will be Prague, the magical city of a hundred spires built on the banks of the meandering Vltava river, with one of Europe’s most elegant castles overlooking this ancient, beautiful city.
Overnight in Prague.

Day 10: Prague
Morning tour of the glorious sights of this very beautiful European city, followed by a walk through the Old Town. Visit the main Square, the Town Hall and the Jewish Quarter. Afternoon free. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner in Prague.
Overnight in Prague.

Day 11: Departure to UK
After breakfast, transfer to Prague’s airport to board your homebound flight.

Cost £1595.00 per person sharing a twin room

Single Supplement charge is £395.00

Highlights:
– 6 World Heritage Sites (protected by UNESCO)
*Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
*Chateaux in Lednice – Valtice Area
*Renaissance square in Telc
*Medieval town of Cesky Krumlov
*Rustic baroque village of Holasovice
*Old Town of Prague
– old walled town of Trebon
– Jewish cemetery in Mikulov
– last remnant of the Iron Curtain in Cizov
– rolling pine-clad hills and fields adorned with carp ponds, beer hops growing on racks, brilliant yellow fields of grape, and world-famous Czech beer

About Czech Greenways:
The Czech Greenways is a newly-designated corridor of 100-year-old hiking trails stretching for 250 miles from Vienna to Prague along the Dyje River in Southern Moravia and the Vltava River Valley in Southern and Central Bohemia. It connects beautiful countryside with cultural monuments, historic towns and villages with restored castles and churches.
Since much of the Czech Greenways stretches along the former Iron Curtain, where there was limited access and no development for 45 years, the countryside remained untouched and the environment clean.

MALTA – Isle of Antiquity

Posted by patricksyder on July 21, 2018
Posted in: Europe.

Traditional Maltese Fishing boats (Luzzus) line the harbour at Marsaloxx

28 May – 4 June 2019

Malta Tour (MT) Dossier 2019

Click to download itinerary (pdf format)

The legacy of Malta’s rulers over the centuries is evident in its numerous palaces, medieval castles and ancient Neolithic temples. Most notable is the stunning range of architecture left by the Order of the Knights of St John who came to the island in 1530. Located north of Malta is the island of Gozo, with a history dating back to Homer and Greek mythology, it contains some of the archipelago’s most scenic natural attractions. The tour follows in the footsteps of the Phoenicians, ancient Greeks, Romans, Knights Hospitaller and British. Set at a relaxed pace with the convenience of all seven nights stay at the charming Victoria hotel in Sliema, a 4 star boutique property is built in typical Victorian style, and perfectly located for the towns’ restaurants and shops.

NORTH ITALY – The History and Gardens of Verona

Posted by patricksyder on October 25, 2017
Posted in: Europe, Italy.

THE HISTORY and GARDENS OF VERONA

6 – 13 April 2018

A leisurely week enjoing the botanical gardens and historical buildings of the South Tyrol, Lake Garda and Veneto regions of Verona

Draft Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Verona airport and transfer to the reserved hotel in Bolzano / Merano Area for two nights

Day 2 Merano and a blooming world of Wonders: the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff
Today you will visit a small jewel: the old town of Merano. A stroll through Merano’s old town takes you back to the Middle Ages. A fascinating route goes round the Portici, the arcades, the Steinach district and the three surviving city gates. A visit of the Gardens of Trauttmansdorf Castle is a must! Art and nature have been blending for 15 years at the Gardens, set in a natural amphitheater, with more than 80 garden landscapes from around the world and several unique Experience Stations.

Day 3 Bolzano at leisure in the city and Varone Waterfalls
At the beginning of the day you have the opportunity to have a coffee on the famous Piazza Walther in Bolzano , You can also go inside the Archaeological Museum and see the world-famous Oetzi Mummie. Continuation to Riva del Garda Area where you will reach the famous Varone waterfalls . Continuation to Riva del Garda. Free time in the city center. Three nights in a chaming 4* hotel overlooking the lake

Day 4 Gardone Riviera with the Heller Botanical Garden and Limone
On around 10,000 square meters of exotic plant species from all around the world , from the Alps to the Himalayas , from Mato Grosso to New Zealand , from Japan to Australia, Canada or Africa can be seen. The landscape of Lake Garda with its Mediterranean vegetation and the deep blue sheen of the lake is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Central Europe . Back to the wonderful village of Limone . First of all visit a Limonaia (Lemon Garden) The lemon houses are vestiges of a laborious and productive past. Free time in the city center. Back to Riva del
Garda.

Day 5 Malcesine, Garda and the Botanical Garden on the Monte Baldo
After breakfast we depart to Malcesine. A fascinating small village, on the foot of the Monte Baldo, with the stunning Castle Scaligero and its view. Free time in the city center. Continuation along the lake, through some interesting villages, like Brenzone and Torri del Benaco. You will reach Garda . Garda Town is situated on a magnificent bay surrounded by lush green hills. Enjoy the promenade which is one of the best of any Garda town. Continuation in order to reach the south side of Monte Baldo , the most famous mountain from Lake Garda . On the mountain at an altitude of 1,232 m , is located the botanical garden of Novezzi. Walk through the garden Three nights stay at a comfortable 4* resort hotel near the lake

Day 6 Mantova and Sigurtà
Today you can expect a tour between art and nature . In the morning you reach Mantua , a city of great historical and artistic value . Short walk and leisure. Optional visit to the ” Palazzo Ducale ” , the residence of the Gonzaga family . In the afternoon visit the beautiful Sigurtà Park , a park called ‘the temple of nature’ the extended over an area of 60 ha

Day 7 Sirmione and Verona
After Breakfast departure to Verona. Sstop in the city’s old town. You will have the opportunity to see the Arena , the herbal Place and Julia’s House. Free time in the city center. On the way back stop in Sirmione on south of the lake, on a about 4 km long peninsula that juts northwards into the lake. The small town with its historic buildings and narrow streets has become a popular destination because

Day 8 Fly to UK
Transfer to Verona airport after breakfast

Cost £1795.00 per person sharing a twin room

Single Supplement charge is £325.00

The price includes:
Accommodation in 4 stars hotels in double room/bath/sh/Wc, as follows:

– 02 x nights in Hotel SCALA in Bolzano http://www.scalahot.com

– 02 x nights in VILLA NICOLLI in Riva del Garda http://www.hotelvillanicolli.com

– 03 x nights in VILLA ROSA in Desenzano http://www.villarosahotel.eu

High quality hotels
Mini coach for the whole trip, Transfers included
English speaking tour escort/guide for the whole trip, for the whole visits
07 x dinner in Hotel or Restaurants, fixed menu, drinks not included
Entrance fees to the following gardens
– Trauttmannsdorf Gardens in Meran, including 90min local guide
– Botanical Garden on Monte Baldo, including local guide
– Lemon Garden in Limone
– Heller Botanical Gardens with some free time
– Waterfalls near Riva del Garda, free time
– Park Sigurtà, train trip included
The train follows its 6 km route known as the enchanted trail.

The price doesn’t include:
Lunches
Drinks during the meals
CITY TAX (to be paid directly)
Additional entrance fees
personal extras and tips
everything not mentioned under ‘the price includes’

SPAIN – Treasures of Andalucia

Posted by patricksyder on July 26, 2017
Posted in: Europe, Spain.

Stunning arched interior of the Mezquita, Cordoba

14 – 21 April 2018

Places Available

Over the centuries, Moorish Spain has captured peoples’ imagination thanks to its strategic location, fertile land, distinctive culture, unique architecture and the romantic fables associated with the region. Andalucía was a rich Roman province, a powerful Visigothic kingdom, the land of many Islamic emirates and even the seat of a caliph in the 10th century. Visit the magnificent Alhambra palace in Granada, the Mezquita in Cordoba, and the rich art and architecture of Seville. Andalucía is one of Spain’s most scenic regions, strewn with superb Hispano- Moorish architecture. As well as including two of Spain’s greatest sites – the Alhambra in Granada and the Mezquita in Cordoba – this tour explores some of Andalucía’s prettiest countryside and towns. We have the convenience of a seven night stay at a comfortable 3+ star boutique hotel located in the delightful historic town of Antequera, often referred to as the ‘Florence of Andalucía’.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Malaga. Drive to Antequera

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Malaga with British Airways. Drive to Antequera and transfer to our hotel. Welcome dinner at a traditional local restaurant (D)

Day 2: Ronda

Morning drive to Ronda, which sits in a picturesque location, astride the El Tajo gorge. Visit the bullring and museum. Free time before returning to Antequera (B)

Day 3: Seville

We drive to Seville and visit the House of Pilate, a 16th-century palace with strong mudéjar (Islamic) and Renaissance elements, and take a walk through the picturesque Jewish quarter and the Museum of Fine Arts, a converted monastery with a comprehensive collection of Spanish art dating back to the Renaissance, including paintings by Murillo, Seville’s foremost painter. Afternoon tour of the cathedral and the Alcázar. Seville’s cathedral is the largest in Europe and is Christopher Columbus’ burial place, while the Moorish Alcázar Palace is now home to the Spanish royal family. Dinner at a traditional local restaurant in Antequera (B, D)

Day 4: Antequera

Morning tour of Antequera, including the UNESCO listed Dolmens; vast burial chambers dating from 2500BC, the Alcazaba – Moorish hilltop fortress that dominates the town below plus one of the town’s famous churches. Afternoon at lesiure (B)

Day 5: Cordoba

Morning visit to the Mezquita, formerly the city’s mosque, to see its dazzling interiors. Continue to the picturesque Jewish quarter, a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and tiny squares, and view the synagogue. Afternoon visit the archaeological site of Madinat al-Zahra, a palatial town built in the 10th century for the caliphs of Cordoba. The restored palaces and houses of the town and the award-winning museum provide a unique glimpse into the life of Early Islamic Spain. Dinner at a traditional local restaurant (B, D)

Day 6: Granada

Full-day tour of Granada,spending the morning in the Alhambra, Spain’s foremost Islamic monument. Visit the Nasrid Palaces, the iconic complex of courtyards and low buildings; and Carlos V Palace, an impressive Italianate Renaissance edifice housing the Museum of the Alhambra; and the delightful gardens of the Generalife. In the afternoon we visit the Royal Chapel, housing Queen Isabella’s superb collection of Northern Renaissance art and the Cathedral, the first Renaissance cathedral in Spain, and the country ‘s second largest. (B)

Day 7: Malaga

We visit the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress, and the exterior of Gibralfaro castle before strolling along the 19th- and 21st century waterfront. After lunch we visit the Cathedral and Museum and enjoy free time in the old town. We return to Antequera later for our farewell dinner that has been arranged at a quality restaurant (B, D)

Day 8: Fly to London

Morning transfer to Malaga airport and fly to London with British Airways. (B)

Meal basis

As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner

Cost £1495.00 per person based on sharing a twin room
Single Supplement £250.00

GREECE – Classical sites of the Peleponnese

Posted by patricksyder on June 7, 2017
Posted in: Greece.


Source of the Oracle, Sanctuary of Apollo, Delphi

20 – 30 October 2019

Greece Tour (GR) Dossier 2019

Click to download itinerary (pdf format)

Greece is regarded as the cradle of European civilisation and this cultural journey visits the wonderful sites of the Classical period. Delphi was the centre of the world for the ancient Greeks, where mortals, via the ‘oracle’, communicated with Apollo. Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games, set in an idyllic pine-forested valley and Epidaurus, the greatest healing centre and finest theatre in the ancient world. Then there’s Mycenae, and a very different experience, a place of myths and legends and of a fierce, untamed people so vividly depicted in Homer’s epics. The tour also includes the amazing Christian monasteries at Meteora; 700-year old frescoed Byzantine structures perched precariously atop sheer pinnacles of rock. The six monasteries are still very much in operation, with their black-robed monks living a traditional, simple and ascetic way of life. Finally in Athens we visit the iconic Parthenon and the hugely acclaimed new Acropolis Museum. Along the way we enjoy the nation’s world renowned cuisine and region’s famous wines, the beautiful scenery of the Peloponnese coast and the warmth of its peoples and climate!

NORTH CYPRUS – Castles, Abbeys and Ancient Sites

Posted by patricksyder on October 31, 2016
Posted in: Europe, Northern Cyprus.

Views from Kantara Castle looking eastwards, North Cyprus

A relaxing tour based at a comfortable hotel located on the foothills of the Kyrenia Mountain range just below the beautiful village of Bellapais with daily excursions around the island to marvel at the range and wealth of architectural and scenic beauty. Controlled throughout history by the various superpowers of the time, we visit Greek and Roman antiquity, Byzantine churches, medieval abbeys and monasteries and Crusader Castles set dramatically into the hills. We explore the less developed region along the Karpas peninsula; the most beautiful stretch of the island’s dramatic coast while Kyrenia itself has a picturesque tranquil harbour.

26 September – 3 October 2023

£1695.00 per person based on sharing a twin room

£139.00 Single Supplement charge

ITINERARY

Day 1 Fly to Larnaca

Departure from London Heathrow with British Airways at midday to Larnaca. Evening arrival and private transfer to a lovely boutique hotel for seven nights, located on the foothills of the Kyrenia Mountain range just below the beautiful village of Bellapais. Included late dinner at the hotel (D)

Day 2 Visit St Hilarion Castle and Bellapais Abbey

We drive into the mountains to the 13th century castle of St Hilarion, the most complete of the region’s Crusader castles and with dramatic views to Kyrenia and across the coastal plain. We drive down to Kyrenia and its picturesque harbour for a break for lunch. In the late afternoon we drive to Bellapais Abbey, a magnificent Gothic building in the village where Lawrence Durrell wrote “Bitter Lemons” (B)

Day 3 Visit Nicosia

Today we drive inland to Lefkosa (Nicosia) with its fascinating collection of Crusader Gothic and Turkish Ottoman monuments set within the old Venetian fortifications. The finest is the former St Sophia Cathedral, now Selimiye Camii mosque, with its superbly carved porch and sculptured windows. (currently under restoration).Al We include visits to the beautifully restored Buyuk Khan or Great Inn, built in 1572 and the largest on the island, and the Dervish Pasha Mansion that now houses an interesting museum. Dinner at a local restaurant (B,D)

Day 4 Visit Soli and Vouni

We head west to the citrus groves and market gardens of Guzelyurt to visit the icons in the Church of St Mamas. We continue to see the remains of the 5th century BC palace at Vouni, wonderfully located with views of the sea and Troodos Mountains to the south. Nearby are the ruins of Soli, a Greco-Roman city, famous for its 5th century mosaic floored basilica (B)

Day 5 Visit Famagusta and Salamis

We visit the interesting and varied architectural wonders found within the old Venetian walled city of Famagusta, notably the Othello’s Tower and the former St Nicholas Cathedral, now Mustapha Pasha mosque, before continuing to the impressive and extensive remains of the ancient Greek site of Salamis. The day concludes with a visit to St Barnabas Monastery with its impressive collection of icons. Dinner at a local restaurant (B,D)

Day 6 Visit Kantara Castle and Karpas peninsula

An early morning start for Kantara Castle, located at the beginning of the Karpas and with stunning views to the sea and along the peninsula. We continue along the ‘pan-handle’ to Dipkarpaz and the site of a 5th century ruined basilica at Ayios Philon,. We have lunch overlooking a rocky bay, once a Roman harbour, before returning to Bellapais (B,L)

Day 7 At leisure in Kyrenia

We have a day to enjoy at our own leisure, perhaps a complimentary shuttle into Kyrenia and take a stroll and have a relaxing lunch in the harbour, or walk to nearby Bellapais village and in the surrounding foothills. A farewell dinner has been arranged at a smart Kyrenian restaurant this evening (B,D)

Day 8 Fly to UK

After a leisurely breakfast we depart our hotel late morning and transfer to Larnaca airport for your mid afternoon return flight to London Heathrow (B)

BALTIC CAPITALS – Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius

Posted by patricksyder on October 25, 2016
Posted in: Baltic Capitals, Europe.

riga-018
Gothic architecture of Riga Old Town

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are enhanced by three of the most enchanting capitals in Eastern Europe, and this itinerary provides the perfect introduction to each Baltic country by visiting all three. Although no more than six hours apart, each capital is highly individual in character and boasts an extraordinary wealth of historical buildings and an expanding cultural scene. Sampling the different atmospheres, flavours and customs will provide an invaluable insight into this captivating corner of Europe.