#fiskardo ionian islands kefalonia greece

[jaydeemedia]

[ad_1] From the silky soft sands of Crete to the volcanic black beaches of Santorini, the number of idyllic Greek holiday destinations are as endless as they are enchanting. But while limiting yourself to just one island (or city) on a vacation to Greece might be tempting for topping up your tan, planning a multi-centre Greece holiday is almost as easy as booking an all-inclusive. The biggest challenge? Whittling down which of the 200-plus inhabited islands to visit on a multi-destination Greece holiday. The easiest way to see as many of these beautiful beach destinations is to hop on a sailing tour or cruise. However, with decent train links on the mainland, and plenty of local ferries to choose from, you don’t necessarily have to sleep onboard to visit more than one sultry shoreline. Whether you’re seeking feta-filled days and citrusy-wine nights paired with myths and legends, or ancient archaeological finds combined with blue-and-white panoramas, these Greece holiday destinations can all seamlessly be turned into a multi-centre trip. Pair Kefalonia’s wines with Ithaca’s myths The blissful Ionian Islands offer some of Greece’s easiest to access beaches, with the airports on Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos all receiving international flights. But there’s also no shortage of ferry routes between this cluster of islands, making a multi-destination Greece holiday to Kefalonia and airport-free Ithaca – linked by ferry in less than an hour – a breeze. On Kefalonia, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous beaches such as Skala, Myrtos, Avithos and Foki Fiskardo to sun yourself on, spectacular boat trips along the coast (and into the Melissani Cave), and panoramic hikes through the dense forests of the Ainos National Park. The vineyards of Kefalonia, known for their Robola whites, are also well worth visiting if you can tear yourself away from the shoreline. As the larger of the two islands, there’s no shortage of high-end villas in Kefalonia, making it a better base – with daytime temperatures over 20°C from May until October, seeking out shoulder-season deals is a solid idea. The second Greece holiday destination of this trip is the smaller and more peaceful isle of Ithaca, best known for the myth of Odysseus. The Greek legend of this more than lives on, with regular readings of Homer’s Odyssey famous poem presented in the island’s cultural spaces. Beyond, it’s just as mystical, with turquoise-fringed bays and secluded sands offering a slightly more offbeat Greek experience. Kardamaina is a popular seaside town in Kos Contrast Kos’ beaches with Nisyros’ volcano These two Dodecanese Islands aren’t geographically far apart, but they can feel a world away from each other when you’re on them. Kos, a long loved beach holiday island is a great getaway from the UK thanks to the abundance of seasonal flights and package deals. Meanwhile, to visit volcanic Nisyros Island on this multi-centre Greece vacation you need only plan a day trip –however, I’d suggest scheduling a couple of nights to enjoy the serenity of this unique island. For the most part though, I’d suggest basing yourself on Kos. For a little more culture, stay in Kos Town, where the Roman open-air theatre, archeological museum and mosaics, and sea-facing fortress bring some history to an otherwise beach-focused break. Other more typical beach resort towns include laid-back Kefalos or more lively Kardamena, where the ferry to Nisyros departs. The second Greece holiday destination of this trip, Nisyros, is less about golden sands and more about the sulphur-spewing Stefanos Crater – one of the largest in the world. On the ferry approach, you’ll see the expected whitewashed downs that decorate the edge of this fiery island, but once you’ve taken the bus or hiked up to the crater – which you can actually walk inside of – it’s a different world. One of my favourite offbeat European destinations, I adored my time in Nisyros, and once the day-trippers have gone by sunset, it becomes even more serene.

Inside the crater of Nisyros Island Island-hopping around the cinematic Cyclades The Cyclades are one of Greece’s most famous and visited island groups. Although, it’s the Santorini’s azure-domed roofs and black sand beaches that have become the household name. Yet with crowds ever-growing on this overtouristed island, it’s never been a better time to consider one of the other islands in the gorgeous group. With more than 200 islands in the Cyclades group, seeing them all would be a mammoth undertaking. Some of the other most popular destinations include gay-friendly Mykonos, known for its nightlife, the idyllic and lesser-visited Milos where sandstone cliffs plunge into bath-like waters, charming Paros, and the largest island, Naxos. If you can’t decide which of the Cyclades to visit, why not bundle a handful together into an island-hopping trip. You’re not just limited to the giant floating-city-style cruises that ply the Mediterranean in summer either, there are plenty of small ship cruises of Greece to choose from, and the sailing season usually runs from spring until autumn. With all the legwork done for you, you can enjoy a few of the most beautiful Greek holiday destinations hassle free. Pin it! Top: Milos, Cyclades | Bottom: Thessaloniki Cathedral (Credit/Canva) All aboard from Athens to Thessaloniki  If you’re travelling to Europe in winter, or would prefer to focus on Greece’s mainland rather than islands, you can’t go wrong spending at least a few days in Athens, the country’s timeless and ethereal capital city. Laden with legends, landmarks and luxury offerings, there’s plenty more to see beyond the world-famous UNESCO-listed Acropolis. But why limit yourself to just one Greek holiday destination when Thessaloniki can easily be reached by train? My biggest tip when it comes to Athens is don’t rush; I made this mistake on my first whirlwind trip to the city and then subsequently had to return a couple of years later to see everything I missed. Of course, you’ve got the major highlights such as the Parthenon atop the Acropolis, the linked museum, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus Roman amphitheatre. But then there is so much more, such as the half-day worthy National Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine and Christian Museum with its standout mosaics, and the all-marble Panathenaic Stadium. Making a trip to Athens into a multi-centre Greece vacation is also straightforward, with the train linking the capital to the underrated second city of Thessaloniki in less than six hours. While not quite as rich in history as Athens, there’s more than enough ancient ruins and archaeological sights, such as the Roman Forum, Archeological Museum and Arch of Galerius to fill a day or two. The Museum of Byzantine Culture is also a good shout if you missed the one in Athens, while the waterfront is ideal for a stroll and to visit the White Tower. You’ll want to spend the majority of your time in Athens, of course, but a night or two in Thessaloniki will allow you to see a little more of the country, especially on the train ride. Explore the history of Athens, Greece, Combine cultured Corfu with the Albanian Riviera  For me, Corfu is one of the best islands to visit in Greece. I’ve been three times, and it never disappoints. You have got everything you could want from a Greek holiday here, with dramatic-yet-blissful beaches and bays – Paleokastritsa and Rovinia are two of my favourites – enough history and cultural attractions in the capital to fill a day or two, and first-class nightlife no matter if you want classy cocktails, a beachside bar, or an all night party – plus, it’s a great place to learn to scuba dive. But this is a Greece multi-destination holiday with a twist, as instead of taking a ferry to another Greek island, you’ll instead board to head to a different country: Albania. Corfu’s Venetian Fortress is a jewel in the island’s culture capital I honestly didn’t realise how close

the two countries were before we were driving along the coast of the Albanian Riviera and I checked to see what island was on the horizon. Needless to say, we took the two-hour ferry across to make the most of the opportunity. Albania itself also seems to be having a minute, yet with not too many flights yet, reaching the country’s south coast from Corfu can sometimes be easier, quicker and more affordable. I wouldn’t suggest doing this as a day trip, but splitting your time evenly between exploring Corfu and visiting some of the spectacular beaches along the Albanian coastline – the stretch around Ksamil being the most dreamy. Ksamil, on the Albanian Riviera [ad_2] Source link

[number23us]

Greek Girl with iPhone by BBMaui Via Flickr: BBMaui. Fiskardo Port, Kefalonia Island, Ionian Sea, Greece.

#Girl #Greek #Greece #Fiskardo #Kefalonia #Port #Ionian Sea #Ionian Islands #Island #Greek Islands #sea #water #ocean #people #iPhone #selfie stick

[giuliacolla]

A Family Flotilla in Greece

Here is the report of our 15-day flotilla in the Ionian Island.

The Family Flotilla is organised by Maurizio Anzillotti from Solovela.net with a special goal: to enjoy ourselves and at the same time to involve children aged 8/15 in a two-week sailing holiday.

We meet our flotilla in the port of Lefkas on July 27th, where we get our chartered boat, a Bavaria 30 Cruiser named Mojito at the Aquarius Yachts.

Three other boats check in at the same time, two in the Lefkas Marina, the third one in Preveza.

Later on at the restaurant we introduce ourselves:

Giampiero and I, no children along, from Cherasco, Cuneo on a Bavaria 30, the Mojito.

Maurizio and Nadia with Cloe and Chiara, later on also her fiancé Flavio, from Rome on a Bavaria 45, the Sophia.

Matteo and Francesca with Arianna and Gabriele from Rho, Milan on a Bavaria 40, the Philomela.

Marcello and Tiziana with Cristian and Bruno from Benevento, Naples on a Bavaria 37, the Sirius.

A 5th boat is due to join us on the 5th day of the cruise, an Amel 53, the Dory, with 5 people aboard: their owners Andrea and Liala with Giulia and their friends Massimo and Giovanna.  

The Family Flotilla is therefore composed by 20 people,14 adults and 6 children on 5 sailboats.

After a good meal (a delicious octopus and pasta al dente), we agree to meet the following morning at 10:30 in the channel, out of the port of Lefkas. Our first destination is  Meganisi, a small island 15 miles away.

First day, first problem: as we leave the port, our Mojito's propeller catches an underwater line and the engine dies; we must then call a diver who eventually frees our boat and we can reach the flotilla waiting for us.

The cruise ends happily in a northern bay of Meganisi, where we all moor and then have a round of drinks on the Sophia.

The second day we leave early in the morning in order to stop for a swim before heading to the bay of St. Nikolaou, Itaca. For the second day all navigation is done by motor, as in the morning there is no wind and in the afternoon it blows right from the bow.

On July 30th a storm is announced for the evening and the following day, so we look for a safe harbor. As the main port of Sami, Kefalonia, is full, we have to moor in Ay Eufimia.

Under the guide of our head skipper Maurizio, after throwing the anchor, we tie the boats with lines on the ground and also among them.

Once we feel safe we reserve a table at the restaurant just above us, where we can keep an eye on the boats and at the same time eat and relax.

That evening we all realize that as long as Maurizio is with us we can sleep on two pillows: he has such a long experience with boats and sailing that no problem is unsolvable for him.

The following morning, again with no wind blowing, we reach Sami where we refill the water and the fuel (no electricity is available). After a good swim in a rather rough sea, a lot of fun for the children, the Flotilla separates: the majority go to the restaurant, the minority, us, dine on the boat, and later on we admire the starry, end of July night.

The 1st of August at midday we head north towards Fiskardho, being finally able to hoist the sails for a couple of hours. The mooring in the bay is not easy but eventually we find a good place, next to a path that leads to the harbor.

After dinner we walk downtown, where we see the spot where the movie “Captain Corelli's mandolin” was filmed (starring Penelope Cruz and Nicholas Cage); we then stop at a bar with a remarkable restroom with an aquarium in it and we have Uzo (the national Greek drink).

Being Fiskardho very nice, the Flotilla decides to stay there another day, just moving to the other side of the bay. In the afternoon we go and visit the Venetian lighthouse and the remains of a Roman basilica.

August 2nd is quite unfortunate. Our plan is to sail to Assos, a lovely village in the west side of Kefalonia, where we wish to visit the fortress and the remains of the monastery.

Because of the poseidonia, though, only the Philomela succeeds in anchoring, while the other four boats have to head back to Fiskardho.

During the trip the engine of Sophia suddenly breaks and Maurizio and his crew must find a way to reach the port. They manage to sail for a while and later on Marcello pulls them with Sirius into Fiskardo where a mechanic will repair the damage.

The following day we celebrate at the Panorama Restaurant the rescued Sophia, our lost dinghy found and collected by Matteo, the reunion of the whole flotilla.

While dining Matteo and Francesca tell us how beautiful Assos was, the island we promise not to miss next time.

#holiday #fun #flotilla #sailing #greece #mediterreansea #travelling

[toposopos]

Fiskardo - Kefalonia island - Ionian sea - Greece

#reisen #bleibensiegesund #urlaub #viaggi #viajar #viagem #voyage #sailing #islands #inseln #europe #travel #mediterranean #europe travel #travel blog #traveling #sun #sunshine #sonne #sea #meer #mare #mer #wanderlust #tourism #sommer #sonnenschein #vacation

[charllieeldridge]

Kefalonia Island, Greece: A 5 Day Travel Guide

The biggest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia Greece is as diverse as it is vast. From the farmland and vineyards of the Paliki Peninsula to the sheer cliffs and rocky shoreline of the north, this island is filled with surprises.

“Look at the colour of the water, these beaches are amazing!” Nick and I were grinning ear to ear on the drive from the ferry terminal to our hotel. Passing by numerous little sandy coves, we were in awe of the pristine coastline. Our friend and driver, Jerry, responded with “Really? That’s nothing. Wait until you see Myrtos”.

We were about to be spoiled for choice when it came to Kefalonia beaches.

With just 4 nights to get under the skin of Kefalonia Greece, we consulted our map and came up with a game plan to tackle the island – which ended up being one of our favourite places to visit in Greece.

Ready to explore Kefalonia!

Don’t miss the traveller tips & advice at the bottom of each section, and our travel video at the end of this post! Also make sure you check out Our Greece Travel Guide for everything you need to know about travelling in Greece and the Greek Islands.

Kefalonia Island: Lassi & Argostoli

As with our travels on Zakynthos Island, our first stop was to pick up a rental car. Kefalonia Island is extremely mountainous and many of the natural sites and quaint towns are spread out. In my opinion, having a car here (and in most of Greece) is a must in order to see all of the wonderful places on offer.

Pulling up at White Rocks Hotel in Lassi, we couldn’t believe this would be our accommodation for the next 4 nights. An extremely friendly porter greeted us and took our backpacks up to the room. Opening the door, we were blown away by the views from our private balcony, which overlooked the gorgeous, blue flag Platis Gialos beach.

The room was modern and tastefully decorated, with an ensuite bathroom complete with a bathtub. The bedroom was perfect, but we were mesmerized by the view.

View from our balcony of the gorgeous Platis Gialos beach below

The entire property was set on a cliff above the sea. Not only was the blue flag beach right below our room, but the private Tourkopodaro Beach was just steps away. Tables and chairs lined the cement walkway on the cliffside, making it the perfect spot for breakfast, or a romantic dinner.

We found it difficult to peel ourselves away from these two beaches and our beautiful room, but there was much more of the area to discover. First up, the capital!

The private Tourkopodaro Beach, with the White Rocks Hotel up on the cliff

The capital city of Argostoli has some lovely plazas, numerous cafes & restaurants, walking streets and a waterfront promenade which is a great place for a stroll.

☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Zante (Zakynthos) – A List of The Best 15

There’s a footbridge (The De Bosset Bridge / Drapano Bridge), which connects Argostoli with the opposite side of the bay. This bridge is actually the largest stone bridge over a sea in the world and is a great place for a walk in the late afternoon. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot some loggerhead turtles in the water, as well as many sea birds.

One of the many walking streets in Argostoli

Lassi turned out to be an excellent place to base ourselves for the 4 nights on Kefalonia island. Not only was the capital city just 2 kilometers away, but Lassi itself had gorgeous beaches, many shops and an excellent tavern, Sto Psito, which we checked out on our first night on the island.

☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Corfu – A List of The Best

We entered through a flowery archway and made our way to the tables with a view of the sea. The open air patio was the ultimate dining spot, with a light breeze and unobscured views of the sunset. The owner, Christo, greeted us with a bottle of wine from the Sklavos Winery (more about that winery below!), followed by his recommendations for typical Kefalonian food.

A stunning entrance to the Sto Psito Restaurant

We sampled strapatsada (scrambled eggs with tomato and feta), traditional stewed goat with potatoes and a Mediterranean chicken with basil, sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. The ingredients were all locally sourced, freshly made and absolutely delicious! If you’re looking for a restaurant in Lassi / Argostoli, don’t miss this place.

Dinner with a view at Sto Psito Restaurant

TIPS & ADVICE:

The Platis Gialos beach is sandy and has clear water. There’s no shade here so bring an umbrella – or rent one. There’s an outdoor shower and a volleyball net.

Lassi offers beautiful beaches, restaurants and the White Rocks Hotel is a great accommodation option. You can choose half board, full board, or just the room itself.

The family-run restaurant of Sto Psito is our recommendation. Traditional meals are around €11 and up, while appetizers are €4 and up. Click to reserve.

Our car was rented with Etam KCG Travel which is located in Lassi.

Petrol costs €1.38 / Litre.

Kefalonia Island: The Paliki Peninsula

Kefalonia is a uniquely shaped, puzzle-piece-looking island with a mass of land dangling off of the western side called the Paliki Peninsula. In order to get over to the Peninsula, you must either take a ferry-boat across the channel from the capital of Argostoli, or you can drive (like we did) and make a day out of it.

Driving gave us the opportunity to witness the countryside morph from towering rocky coastline into flat farmland, marshy grasslands, vineyards and clay cliffs!

On the northern end of the peninsula, there are still some very dramatic cliffs. Most notably is Petani Beach with its aquamarine water and beachside taverns. It was a stormy afternoon when we visited, but this was still a stunning lunch spot – and a great place to sample the local seafood.

Petani Beach on a cloudy day

Will full bellies, we continued on to the southeastern end of the peninsula to the village of Lixouri, which is the second largest on Kefalonia.

This place is normally fairly busy and bustling, but when we visited, it was like a ghost town! 3,000 people inhabit Lixouri, yet there as no one around. It was Sunday, it was the shoulder season and it was also the time of day when the residents would be resting.

☞ SEE ALSO: Weather in Greece – When is The Best Time to Visit?

Feeling as though we had the place to ourselves, we strolled around the streets and enjoyed the peace and quiet. The main square of Plateia Petritsi is surrounded by cute cafes with views over the water.

Further back from the plaza you’ll find narrow alleyways with churches, while just 15 kilometers away you can find the isolated Monastery of Kipoureon.

Continuing further south for 7 kilometers, we arrived at the rust-coloured beach of Xi, which was backed by white clay cliffs and had the calmest water we’d seen so far.

This 4 kilometer beach is a sort-of DIY spa. Rub the mud from the cliffs all over your body and let it dry in the sun. Once it’s hardened, go for a swim to remove the clay and enjoy your soft skin!

Xi Beach was another unique stretch of sand that we added to our list of favourite Kefalonia beaches.

The unique Xi Beach is a beautiful spot for a swim, and a DIY spa treatment

After eating and lazing on the beach, we were feeling a bit thirsty and decided to visit a nearby winery and vineyard.

Over the past few years, we’ve become interested in wine and wine production. Having visited numerous wineries and vineyards in the nearby countries of Malta, Italy and Bulgaria, it was time to check out what Greece had to offer!

So far, we had been very impressed by the table wines in the country, and could only imagine what an oaked, aged bottle would taste like.

☞ SEE ALSO: Chios Greece – Our 5 Day Travel Guide

We met up with Mr. Sklavos, who is quite possibly the most laid-back person we’ve ever come across. We greeted him and within one minute, he had picked up a worm that was on the driveway, washed it off with water and gently placed it next to a vine.

This was our introduction to the winery, the owner, and the biodynamic practices taking place here.

The lush vineyard at Sklavos Winery, a very peaceful place

Worms are used to naturally aerate the soil and rather than using chemicals, the worms also aid in the removal of harmful minerals from the soil. They take in the minerals, process them, and “poop” them out as a healthy mixture of clay and humus.

The methods used here were fascinating! Not only the use of worms, but the fact that planting and harvesting is done based on The Maria Thun astronomical calendar.

Mr. Sklavos has just moved in here and will have tours ready within a month or so, but we were able to get an insider look into the production, the vineyards and of course, the wine itself.

We sampled the local varieties of Mavrodaphne and Vostilidi, wandered around the pristine vineyard and enjoyed chatting with the owner about his life and use of biodynamic techniques.

Nick with Mr. Sklavos himself – sampling wine from that massive barrel!

TIPS & ADVICE:

Check out Erasmias Petani Restaurant at Petani Beach for great seafood. Meals are around €10 each, and the portions are large – try the mussel risotto!

Sklavos Winery isn’t marked on maps yet, and the website isn’t up and running either. In order to get here, we suggest calling the owner, Mr. Sklavos, at 6946000748. He’ll be able to help you arrange a tour and tasting, and would be more than happy to do so.

Gas stations are few and far between on the peninsula (and actually, in Kefalonia as a whole). Make sure to gas up when you can.

From Argostoli to Lixouri, ferries run daily from 7:00am to 9:30pm, every half an hour until 5:30pm, after that, they are every hour. The cost is €2.80 for foot passengers and €4 for a vehicle.

Kefalonia Travel: Myrtos, Assos & Fiskardo (the North)

We were absolutely blown away by Myrtos Beach and the seaside towns of Assos and Fiskardo. These truly are some of the most amazing spots on Kefalonia island, if not Greece.

Rounding the final bend on our drive to Myrtos Beach, Nick slammed on the breaks and brought the car to a screeching halt.

Look at this view of Myrtos Beach! It’s unlike anywhere we’ve seen

Below us was the beach that we had heard so much about. The water was so incredibly bright and neon, that it seemed as though there was a spotlight below it, illuminating the sea!

There was hardly any sand, but the rocks were blindingly white, and the sheer cliffs backing the beach only added to its beauty. The Kefalonia beaches are some of the best beaches in Greece.

We floated in ecstasy in the powder blue water before heading off. With no umbrellas or trees here, by midday, the sun was at its most intense and we needed to seek out some shade, and some lunch.

Floating in ecstasy in the water of Myrtos Beach

Moving further north along the scenic coastline, we arrived at Assos. This colourful, quaint village is one of the most picturesque spots we’ve seen. With just 100 inhabitants, the Venetian-styled village is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon – which is exactly what we did.

The village of Assos as seen from the castle

Vines and flowers cling to pastel-coloured homes, low-rise buildings line the waterfront promenade and quiet little lanes provide a shady stroll. There is one small bay here with crystal-clear water and a couple of restaurants.

This is the perfect spot for cooling off after hiking to the remains of the nearby 16th century Venetian Fortress.

The prettiest door we’ve seen!

Apart from the main bay, there are numerous little hidden coves around the area, just take your pick!

Finally, after lazing on two gorgeous Kefalonia beaches, we made our way to the very northern part of the island to the more upscale sailing village of Fiskardo, which was lucky to escape damage from the 1953 earthquake (the rest of Kefalonia Island didn’t fare so well).

☞ SEE ALSO: Lesvos Greece – Our 5 Day Travel Guide

Well-known by sailors and yachties, this beautiful village is becoming more popular with tourists as well. The construction of hotels and a shopping center uncovered numerous, well-preserved remains from the Roman era – including graves, a bathhouse, a theatre and homes.

Boats docked at Fiskardo

As soon as we arrived, we made a wardrobe change from our beach sarong and board shorts into something more appropriate for dinner in this area.

Thankfully, the food wasn’t pretentious or overly priced and the people we encountered were just as friendly as everywhere else on Kefalonia island.

We settled in for a romantic dinner on the water at Vasso’s Restaurant, a recommendation from our friend Jerry. A bubbly waiter arrived with suggestions of the chef. Because we know Greek portions are massive, we had been mentally preparing ourselves for the upcoming feast!

To start with, we had a fresh Greek salad, a platter of local dips made with cheese and spices, yogurt and dill, and whipped potato with garlic. We moved on to fried local cheese, zucchini balls, tomato courgettes, and pastry stuffed with cheese. From there, a platter of deep-fried anchovies and squid arrived, followed by traditional meatballs and pasta.

The food at Vasso’s was delicious!

It was pure gluttony and we didn’t care. The food at Vasso’s was amazing!

Even though we were in a food coma, we had to drive 1.5 hours back to White Rocks Hotel where we promptly passed out after a memorable day.

TIPS & ADVICE:

Just minutes from Myrtos Beach is Alexandros Restaurant / Tavern. The food here is delicious and the family is lovely. Appetizers are from €2 and mains are from €6.50.

Hiking up to the castle at Assos takes about 30 minutes each way. Try to time your visit for when the sun is lower in the sky. Make sure to bring water, sunscreen and a hat – there are no vendors here. Admission is free.

For drinks at Assos, check out Blue Cafe. Big bottles of beer go for €3.50 and the view is free!

Fiskardo is a romantic village and even though it’s quite far from the capital, it’s worth the drive. Make sure to eat at Vasso’s Restaurant. The food there was fresh and local, while the service was professional and friendly.

Kefalonia Island: Melissani Cave & Sami

The diversity of Kefalonia island kept on coming!

When we heard that there was an underground river and cave located in the center of the island (like a cenote in Mexico), we had to check it out. Together with other tourists, we hopped on a little wooden boat and were paddled around by a guide.

An earthquake 5,000 years ago had an effect on this cave. Looking up, there was a massive opening in the ceiling, allowing beams of sunlight to penetrate the otherwise dark cavity. The illuminated, brackish water was so clear that we could spot eels down below.

Light penetrating the Melissani Cave

The water in the cave travels for 19 kilometers over the course of 2 weeks from near the city of Argostoli, before passing through this cave and emptying out into the sea. Although the boat tour was short, about 15 minutes in total, the guide was informative and the site was beautiful.

From here, the small harbour town of Sami is just a 2 kilometer drive away. This is where the 2001 movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed.

For us, this was just a little pit stop on our way back to our hotel, and even though it was a pretty place, we much preferred Assos and Fiskardo in terms of aesthetics.

TIPS & ADVICE:

Try to visit Melissani Cave around noon so you can see the sunlight beaming in through the ceiling. The entrance fee is €7 for adults and €4 for kids.

In Sami, a good restaurant with a beautiful setting is Il Familia. For €19, we had a huge mixed grill to share, plus bread, a dip and dessert.

Give Yourself Some Time to Travel Kefalonia

Kefalonia island is large, mountainous and very diverse. There are numerous towns, beaches and sites to explore. To really get a feel for the magic of this Ionian Island, make sure to give yourself some time, at least a week.

Our trip was much too short (due to ferry strikes, we lost a couple of days) and as we headed to the airport for our Aegean Airlines flight to Corfu Island, we were sad to say goodbye to this beautiful place, but are certain that we’ll be back to discover more of the hidden gems on offer.

Off on our Aegean Airlines (Olympic Air) flight to Corfu Island!

Kefalonia Travel Video

In my opinion, Kefalonia island has the best beaches in Greece! From Myrtos to Assos to Platias, this island is truly blessed with beaches. But that’s not all that there is too offer here. In this week’s episode, we rent another car on Kefalonia and explore for a few days.

We drive all the way around the island (except for the Southeast) and see many beautiful places including the Paliki Peninsula, Assos Town, Myrtos Beach, Fiskardo, Argostoli, Sklavos Winery and much more!

We eat delicious Greek food, swim in some of the most beautiful water we’ve ever seen, meet new friends, and try new wines.

This is definitely one of the best islands in Greece and we will return one day to explore some more. For now, check out our video for a guide to Kefalonia. 

For more on travelling Greece, have a look at our articles and information on the islands of Zakynthos, Corfu, Chios and Lesvos, Athens, Santorini and Crete!

A huge thank-you to Discover Greece for assisting with our stay on Kefalonia Island. For more useful advice and information on travelling to Greece, check out the wonderful Discover Greece travel portal. All opinions and thoughts remain our own, despite any complimentary services received. 

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[kansascityhappenings]

Biggest ever Roman shipwreck found in the eastern Mediterranean

Two thousand years ago, this ship was crossing the Mediterranean Sea full of its cargo of amphorae — large terracotta pots that were used in the Roman Empire for transporting wine and olive oil.

For some reason, it never made it to its destination.

But having languished at the bottom of the sea for around two millennia, it has now been rediscovered by archeologists, along with its cargo, and dated to between 100 BCE and 100 CE. And it has already been judged to be the largest classical shipwreck found in the eastern Mediterranean.

The wreck of the 110-foot (35-meter) ship, along with its cargo of 6,000 amphorae, was discovered at a depth of around 60m (197 feet) during a sonar-equipped survey of the seabed off the coast of Kefalonia — one of the Ionian islands off the west coast of Greece.

The survey was carried out by the Oceanus network of the University of Patras, using artificial intelligence image-processing techniques. The research was funded by the European Union Interreg program.

It is the fourth largest shipwreck from the period ever found in the entire Mediterranean and is of “significant archaeological importance,” according to George Ferentinos from the University of Patras, who along with nine of his fellow academics has unveiled the discovery in the Journal of Archeological Science.

“The amphorae cargo, visible on the seafloor, is in very good state of preservation and the shipwreck has the potential to yield a wealth of information about the shipping routes, trading, amphorae hull stowage and ship construction during the relevant period,” they wrote.

Most ships of that era were around 50 feet long, compared to this one’s 110 feet.

The boat — a reproduction of which currently sits at the Ionian Aquarium in Kefalonia (main image) — is the fourth Roman wreck to be found in the area. Classical-era shipwrecks are difficult to discern with sonar, as they sit close to the seabed and can often be hidden by natural features. The cargo hold is wedged six feet underground.

It lies about 1.5 miles from the entrance to the harbor of Fiskardo — the island’s only village to not be destroyed in World War II. The archaeologists think that the discovery indicates that Fiskardo was an important stop on Roman trading routes.

The survey, carried out in 2013 and 2014, also picked up three “almost intact” wrecks from World War II in the area.

But it’s the size of the cargo — 98 feet by 39 feet — and the intact amphorae which has excited the archaeologists.

The high resolution sonar images picked up the mass of jugs on the sea floor, filling out the shape of the wooden ship frame.

“Further study of the wreck would shed light on sea-routes, trading, amphorae hull stowage and shipbuilding in the period between 1st century BC and 1st century AD,” the scholars wrote in the journal.

The only remaining problem: what to do with the wreck.

Ferentinos told CNN that retrieving it is a “very difficult and costly job.” Instead, their next step is a cheaper one — “to recover an amphora and using DNA techniques to find whether it was filled with wine, olive oil, nuts, wheat or barley.”

They will then seek an investor to plan a diving park for the wreck.

In the meantime, the Ionian Aquarium museum in Lixouri, Kefalonia’s second largest town, holds other treasures from the waters around the island.

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports https://fox4kc.com/2019/12/16/biggest-ever-roman-shipwreck-found-in-the-eastern-mediterranean/

from Kansas City Happenings https://kansascityhappenings.wordpress.com/2019/12/16/biggest-ever-roman-shipwreck-found-in-the-eastern-mediterranean/

[tripstations]

The indispensable guide to finding the ideal Greek Isle for you

The Greek islands are having a moment – but how do you choose from the 6,000 scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas (albeit only 227 are inhabited)? 

Are you looking for an active family holiday or a romantic break? Do you prefer the hustle and bustle of a town or panoramic vistas and secluded coves? 

Scroll down to find the best island to suit you.

Crete for history lovers

Historic: Spinalonga, above, was made famous in Victoria Hislop’s book The Island and is a short hop from Crete

On every visit to the largest Greek isle, I discover something new (or rather old) – not surprising given that Crete has been occupied by invaders such as the Romans, Ottomans and Venetians. Vestiges of the past can be seen everywhere, from Castello a Mare, which squats at the entrance of the old port of Heraklion, to the Fortezza, the Venetian fortress at Rethymnon. Thanks to its southerly position, Crete has the longest summer in Greece and is a winter resort too. Blazing sunshine in December? Absolutely.

Don’t miss: The magnificent ruins of the Minoan palace at Knossos and other Minoan sites such as Phaistos and Ayia. The Venetian port of Chania with its lighthouse is a charming town to explore too.

Fans of Victoria Hislop’s bestselling historical novel The Island must head to nearby Spinalonga (ten minutes by boat from the village of Plaka), which was famously a leper colony for much of the 20th Century.

Top tip: You need at least seven days to do Crete justice. Two weeks? Even better.

Take me there: Many airlines fly direct to the island in high season, including Thomas Cook, Tui and easyJet.

Check in: We pulled up outside what appeared to be a traditional, whitewashed Greek house. Although it’s a five-star resort, the St Nicolas Bay Hotel has no desire to showcase glitzy bling or contemporary chic. It’s a Cretan hotel and it wants guests to feel it’s just that. From reception, we made our way down flower-strewn cobbled paths, olive groves and lemon trees. It felt like an unspoiled stone-built Cretan village, not least because the resort has its own pretty chapel.

Simple chic continued in our suite, complete with its own pool and framed by a picture-perfect sea view. In the resort, guests can dip into two outdoor pools, and there’s a private cove which tames the sea to become nature’s bathing spot.

The Poseidon spa looms high above the water, and an Elemis facial made for wonderful respite from soaking up the brilliant sun and swimming in the sea.

Foodies will fall in love with the hotel’s three restaurants. Who could tire of the decadent fish buffet with hunks of fresh tuna and smoked salmon tangled with the home-grown herbs that sprout all over the grounds?

The bars, boutiques and tavernas of Agios Nikolaos are a 20-minute stroll minute away. It’s easily manageable thanks to the breeze that blows in on this side of the island. But when you’re lying in the arms of Greek luxury – traditional, hospitable and so keen to please – it seems rude to wander elsewhere.

Olympic Holidays (olympicholidays.com) offers seven nights at St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel from £1,674pp, based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis and departing Gatwick on August 26.

Kefalonia for first timers

Hidden treasure: Kefalonia’s Lake Melissani with its magical light formations and cool slabs of rock

Immortalised in the Hollywood film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, the largest Ionian island lures a huge crowd. That said, you can still feel at one with nature in the parks, fir tree forests, and the endless beaches. It’s a perfect entree to the Greek islands.

Don’t miss: The tiny port of Fiskardo, known for its charming 18th Century buildings and fish restaurants, such as Apagio and Panormos, which flank the water’s edge.

If you fancy escaping the heat for a while, head to the subterranean Lake Melissani, with its magical light formations and cool slabs of rock. And the nearby cave of Drogarati, which is 200ft underground, is so renowned for its acoustics that orchestras are known to hold concerts there.

Fans of Constantine Cavafy’s poem Ithaka, or Homer-lovers like me, will want to take a 40-minute ferry trip to the rugged island of Ithaka, the mythical home of Odysseus.

Top tip: Hire a car so that you can enjoy the sheer freedom of cresting mountainous coastal roads – but watch out for stray goats.

Take me there: Fly direct from regional airports with carriers including Thomas Cook, Ryanair and easyJet.

Check in: The Petani Bay, near Lixouri, is an adults-only (over-16s) luxury hotel. It’s small and perfectly formed, with fantastic service and home-cooked food including tiny cheese-filled pies – a local speciality. Set high on a cliff, it has an infinity pool with breathtaking views of the wonderful Petani beach and bay. Prices range from £180 to £330 a night, depending on season and room size (petanibayhotel.gr).

Santorini for romantics

Sitting pretty: The picture-perfect clifftop village of Oia in Santorini, above

On the southern side of the Aegean Sea, this volcanic island is possibly one of the most photographed, with its whitewashed buildings and blue paintwork framed by the cobalt-blue sea. An abundance of adults-only hotels makes this a grown-up place and a magnet for honeymooners of all ages.

Don’t miss: The glorious sunsets or ancient remains at Thira. Boat tours allow you to admire Santorini from afar and drop anchor at bays that are inaccessible by foot. Locals recommend taking the ten-minute ferry ride to the tiny islet of Thirassia, where there is one hotel, 300 residents and not a lot to do except swimming in the clear, shallow waters. It merely adds to the romance.

Top tip: Black-sand, pebbly beaches (pack flip-flops) are not as pretty as clifftop villages such as Oia. In high summer, the beaches become crowded with adults rather than noisy toddlers.

Take me there: There are many direct flights in high season. In low season, you can fly via Athens with Aegean Airlines.

Check in: Opt for a super-luxury hotel to complement the opulent feel of Santorini. The new Andronis Arcadia takes some beating. All rooms are suites and – a first for the island – every suite has sunset views. It is also home to the largest spa on the island. Suites cost from £575 per night on a B&B basis (andronisarcadia.com).

Zakynthos For families of all sizes

The famous shipwreck on the beach at Navagio Bay in Zakynthos – this huge cove can only be reached by boat

Teenagers may enjoy the hedonistic pleasures of Zakynthos town but this island caters for all ages, be it sandy beaches for toddlers or foodie trips for adults. And thanks to its relatively small size, nothing is far away.

Don’t miss: Navagio is one of the most famous beaches in Greece. With the remains of a rusting shipwreck for shade, this huge cove can only be reached by boat. The sea is glassy and the limestone cliffs awesome. Combine a trip to Navagio with a visit to the nearby Blue Caves during an organised three-hour boat tour (getyourguide.com).

Top tip: To get away from it all, the drive up to the Keri Lighthouse works a treat. Here you’ll find the largest Greek flag in the world and views of the fabulous sea.

Take me there: There are regular flights during high season from most UK airports with British Airways and easyJet.

Check in: If you have children aged 12 or over, it’s hard to beat the Olea Suite Contemporary Hellenic on the north-east coast. The hillside location offers splendid isolation, yet it’s only a ten-minute walk to Tsilivi resort. Rooms cost from £393 per night in high season (oleaallsuitehotel.com).

Hydra for authenticity seekers

Known in Greek as Ydhra, this island 50 miles south of Athens feels like an original rather than a printed copy of what a Greek island should be. The harbour and Yhdra town are preserved as a national monument, and this island is traffic-free. Cycling? That’s also against the law. As such, it feels safe and homely for solo travellers.

Don’t miss: The Lazaros Koundouriotis museum, not least because the climb up steep alleyways to this ochre-coloured stone mansion is worth it for the knockout views. Otherwise, roam the town and harbour and marvel at the tiers of grey-stone mansions built mostly by 18th Century merchant families.

Top tip: You’ll need to like walking, so it is not great for young families. Pack good shoes and be prepared to carry your luggage from the harbour (though donkeys can be hired).

Take me there: Fly to Athens and catch the hydrofoil from Piraeus – it takes between one and two hours and runs five times a day.

Check in: The five-star Hydrea Hotel in the port of Idra blends the traditional with the modern. Double rooms cost from £322 in high season (hydrea.gr).

Alonissos for nature lovers

Alonissos is a beautiful and rugged island surrounded by some of the cleanest waters in Greece and one of the most popular hiking destinations in the northern Aegean

A beautiful and rugged island surrounded by some of the cleanest waters in Greece – it is the only permanently inhabited member of a mini-archipelago that has been designated a marine park.

Don’t miss: The island is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the northern Aegean. There are countless routes that have been surveyed, numbered and signposted. If you are ready for a tough climb, take on the Megalo Chorafi Mountain in the middle of the island. And wildlife enthusiasts will love the pine forests.

Top tip: Almost the entire population resides in the port town of Patitiri, so it gets a little crowded in summer.

Take me there: Fly to Skiathos, then take a two-hour ferry ride.

Check in: The Marpunta Resort is the perfect base – it has a range of sports and activities and a beachfront restaurant.

Seven days cost from £1,282pp based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis, departing Gatwick on September 10 (olympicholidays.com).

Naxos for the active

Naxos, above, is a place for the energetic – be it windsurfing or hiking around old farms and villages

This is a place for the energetic – be it windsurfing or hiking around old farms and villages.

Don’t miss: Hora (Naxos town) is a must for its network of alleyways, Venetian mansions and an idiosyncratic Catholic cathedral.

Top tip: The island starts to close down by mid-September.

Take me there: Fly to Mykonos and then take a 40-minute ferry ride.

Check in: The Naxian Collection in Stelida is a mix of minimalist villas and an elegant hotel. A grand pool suite is from £380 a night (naxiancollection.com).

The post The indispensable guide to finding the ideal Greek Isle for you appeared first on Tripstations.

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[gtfovacations-blog]

World's best sailing destinations

(CNN) — Anchoring in idyllic bays. Slipping into azure waters for a refreshing dip. Warm breeze filling the sails en route to the next enchanted spot. Drinks and dinner on board under the stars. Gentle lapping to loll you to sleep. And repeat. Day after blissful day. A sailing holiday is a passport to another -- watery -- world where land-based worries are blown away on the breeze. Those with the right qualifications can charter their own boat. Some prefer the help of a skipper and crew, others like to take charge while sailing into a flotilla for shared experiences. However one chooses do it, the life aquatic is not to be missed. First, however, comes the decision on which tip of the planet to drift towards. Here are some of the finest destinations on the planet for sailing holidays: Greece A land lapped by sparkling seas and seemingly more islands than stars in the sky. With sun-baked beaches, turquoise waters, olive groves, deserted bays, rustic harbors with white-washed houses and spilling bougainvillea, Greece provides the perfect canvas for a sailing odyssey. The Ionian, with Captain Corelli's Kefalonia in the south and Gerald Durrell's Corfu in the north, offers gentle breezes and easy line-of-sight sailing on Greece's west coast. Charming villages such as Kioni on Ithaca or Fiskardo on Kefalonia are some of the highlights. The stronger summer meltemi winds of the Cyclades chain to the east of the mainland, with islands such as Mykonos, Ios and the flooded crater of Santorini, offer a challenge to more experienced sailors. Further east, the Dodecanese islands off the Turkish coast offer a compromise -- not quite as windy but still untamed and authentic. From Rhodes north via Kos, Kalimnos, Lipsi and Patmos, the islands provide a snapshot of traditional Greece and as much life or solitude as you can handle. Another popular area is the Sporades north of Athens, with islands such as Skiathos and the picturesque, tumbling town of Skopelos, the film set for "Mamma Mia." Or there is the Saronic Gulf south of Athens, an area of easy sailing and short hops, with highlights such as historic Aegina, romantic Hydra and cosmopolitan Poros. Getting there: Flights to Preveza for the Ionian; Athens for the Saronic Gulf; Volos for the Sporades; Kos and Rhodes for the Dodecanese; Santorini, Mykonos and a host of local airports for the Cyclades. Turkey From isolated, pine-fringed coves to glitzy marinas and jet-set nightlife, the coast of Turkey offers something for every type of sailor. For those who want to truly relax, a traditional wooden gullet crewed by professionals could be the answer. The epicenter of Turkish sailing is Bodrum, an international resort on the north coast of the Gulf of Gokova. From there easy hops take you to quaint harbors such as Gumusluk, small bays with wooden jetties fronting local restaurants such as Cokertme, or remote inlets such as Amazon Creek with an idyllic, away-from-it-all feel. The Hisaronu Gulf has charming waterfront towns such as Datca, Selimiye and Bozburun as well as plentiful quiet anchorages. Sailing east past lively Marmaris takes you to the calm waters and gentle sailing in Fethiye Bay, with its scattering of secluded coves, some with a lone, rustic taverna. At the head of the bay are the bustling towns of Gocek and Fethiye for more restaurants and markets in which to haggle for rugs and local produce. Getting there: International flights to Bodrum or Dalaman. Croatia This Adriatic gem features historic towns, picturesque harbors and smart marinas, isolated anchorages and deserted islands in one neat package in the northern Mediterranean. Stretching from Pula down to medieval Dubrovnik, Croatia's coastline offers a wealth of sailing opportunities with reliable afternoon winds and more than 1,100 islands to explore. The remote Kornati National Park is an unspoiled oasis -- so stunning, in fact, it moved author George Bernard Shaw to write that God created the islands "out of tears, stars and breath." The Dalmatian coast south of Split contains the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis and Korcula, the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. There's everything from quiet coves and gentle towns to buzzy cosmopolitan Hvar and Dubrovnik-light Korcula. Beyond the forested island of Mljet lies the jewel in Croatia's crown: Romantic Dubrovnik, a UNESCO heritage site, with its charming Old Town. It's also must visit for sailing fans of "Game of Thrones," much of which was filmed here. Getting there: International flights to Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Zadar. Sicily, Italy Lying off Sicily's northeast coast like a bejeweled pendant are the awe-inspiring Aeolian IsIands. This rugged volcanic chain, named after Greek wind god Aeolus, features seven spectacular islands. Jutting out of emerald seas, each has its own personality, from the active cone and black sands of Stromboli and the hot springs of Vulcano, to vibrant Lipari and chic Panarea, to verdant Salina and car-free Alicudi and Stromboli. Lastly, Filicudi was nicknamed "Bone Island" because of the pirates who died there after long sieges. From historic Tropea on the Italian mainland, sailors can access the beautiful beaches and swimming spots, quiet anchorages and sleepy waterfront towns in which to savor authentic Sicilian cooking. For those with more time, or flying into the capital Palermo, the enchanting Egadi Islands off Sicily's northwest tip offer an equally isolated escape. Pretty Favignana is known as the tuna capital of the Mediterranean, while remote Marettimo provides solitude in a stunning setting. How to get there: Flights to Lamezia Terme Airport or Palermo. The British Virgin Islands (BVIs), Caribbean A sailor's paradise of warm winds, deep blue seas, blissful beaches and waterside shacks for eating, drinking and soaking up the island vibe. Hurricane Irma caused widespread damage in the region, but yachting and tourism is already bouncing back and the sailing is as good as ever. Tortola is the main island and the starting point for exploring the host of outlying islands and cays, with spectacular scenery, sheltered anchorages and superb snorkeling. There's Virgin Gorda, with its dramatic rock formations at The Baths; Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the four main islands, with famous joints such as Foxy's and the Soggy Dollar Bar; the coral atoll of Anegada with sunken shipwrecks and spectacular sea life; and Norman Island, said to be the inspiration for the novel "Treasure Island." Soggy Dollar Bar, White Bay, Jost van Dyke, British Virgin Islands; [phone] Foxy's, Great Harbour, Jost van Dyke, BVI; [phone] How to get there: Flights to Beef Island Airport, Tortola or to St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and take a ferry to Road Town. Antigua, Caribbean Antigua is reputed to have 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, so what better way to explore them all than by boat? The warm, gentle trade winds, turquoise waters and oh-so picturesque anchorages make it a sailor's idyll at the heart of the Leeward Islands. Ashore, historic Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is the throbbing heart, but further afield you'll find waterside dining for all budgets and lively rum bars, perfect for a famous "jump up" -- a dance session to the rhythm of steel drums. Sister island Barbuda -- 40 miles to the north -- has more birds than people and offers a gentler pace with pink sands and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. The famous Antigua Sailing Week regatta is a melting pot for sailors looking for competitive racing and punishing partying. How to get there: Flights to VC Bird International Airport, Antigua. Windward Islands, Caribbean Take a deep breath and inhale the exotic scent of spices drifting on the breeze. With reliable winds and blue-water passages, white-sand beaches and dazzling reefs, colorful towns and verdant hillsides, the Windward Islands will reward sailors looking for a true Caribbean adventure. From pretty St George's on lush Grenada, known as the "Spice Isle," at the southern end of chain, you can easily hop to Carriacou, Petite Martinique and Petit St. Vincent. The prevailing winds during the sailing season blow from the north east so many opt for a one-way passage south from St Lucia, starting at lively Rodney Bay before sampling the beaches and pointy Pitons of the verdant island. Cruising further south, there's Saint Vincent, the popular Admiralty Bay on the S-shaped Bequia (pronounced bekway), upmarket Canouan, tiny Mayreau lapped by aquamarine waters, and the spectacular reefs of the Tobago Cays Marine Park. How to get there: Flights to St Lucia or Grenada. Bahamas More than 700 coral cays stretch like a necklace into azure seas from the southeast coast of Florida. Gentle trade winds, sheltered waters and myriad marine life make the Bahamas an ideal destination for families and the less experienced. The Abacos are the epicenter of Bahamian sailing with the lively Marsh Harbour as the base from which to explore the 120-mile chain of islands. One day you can anchor off a pristine beach with crystal clear water such as Treasure Cay, the next moor up in one of the small colonial-era towns such Hope Town on Elbow Cay and New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay. Further afield the pink sand beaches on Eleuthera or the 365 cays of the Exuma group offer endless opportunities for exploring and relaxation. The big-game fishing, and diving at sites such as Dean's Blue Hole, the Abacos Train Wreck and the USS Adirondack is also spectacular. How to get there: Flights to Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay or Nassau. Thailand White-sand beaches backed by swaying palms and jungle, sheer limestone towers jutting out of jade-colored seas and exotic flora and fauna are just some of the treats on offer on a sailing trip to Thailand. From thumping Phuket, yachts push east into Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea to explore this mostly undeveloped region dotted by technicolor coral reefs, remote fishing villages and world-famous beaches and honey pots such as Maya Bay, the location for the film "The Beach," James Bond Island and the world-renowned Phi Phi islands. Add in friendly locals -- Thailand is the "Land of Smiles" after all -- and fragrant cuisine and you have the ingredients for zesty Asian adventure. How to get there: International flights to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport or Phuket. Seychelles The ultimate Instagram boast, Seychelles is a sailor's paradise in the Indian Ocean. Lying 1,000 miles off the East African coast, the archipelago offers the full castaway experience among 115 isolated islands dotted across aquamarine seas. The main yacht charter area is focused on the inner islands around the forested Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. Decent winds, warm water, snow-white beaches, kaleidoscopic coral and exotic wildlife, such as giant tortoises, coconut crabs and whale sharks, make the Seychelles a Shangri-la for sailors. From the main island of Mahe, yachties can island hop from one idyllic bay to another, mooring off brochure-worthy beaches such as Anse Source d'Argent, Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette before a peaceful night at anchor under the stars. How to get there: Flights to Seychelles International Airport on Mahe. Tahiti, French Polynesia Just the words French Polynesia are enough to conjure images of swaying palms, crystal-clear lagoons, blissful beaches and fringing reefs teeming with marine life. The islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, Huahine, Tahaa and swooned-over Bora Bora and are just the highlights of this exotic 118-island chain in the South Pacific. With balmy trade winds, a consistent climate and a combination of sheltered waters behind the reefs and more exciting open-water passages between islands, French Polynesia is a watery world like no other. Everyone from the artist Paul Gauguin to sailors, divers, snorkelers, sun-bathers and canoodlers are enchanted by the contrasts of turquoise seas, emerald mountains and cobalt skies of the Tahiti region. How to get there: International flights to Papeete-Tahiti, hop to Raiatea. Tonga, South Pacific This Polynesian kingdom of more than 170 palm-covered islands is a sailing gem in the South Pacific. Fewer than half of the islands are inhabited, meaning a voyage into the blue offers a true get-away-from-it-all experience. Picturesque Vava'u, with myriad islets, lagoons and coral reefs, is the starting point, either for quick hops or longer open-water passages to deserted tropical beaches and idyllic anchorages. Itineraries might take in beautiful Hunga Lagoon, a sunken volcanic crater, or unspoiled Port Maurelle Bay on Kapa, or friendly Lape where the locals are inclined to lavish you with a traditional Tongan feast. It's the stuff of quintessential South Pacific dreams, with world-class diving and snorkeling, sport fishing and humpback whale watching thrown in as standard. How to get there: International flights to Fua'amotu Airport on Tongatapu followed by domestic shuttle 150 miles north to Lupepau'u Airport on Vava'u. Or via Nadi on Fiji. Whitsundays, Australia: Between the coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef snuggles Australia's very own chain of 74 tropical islands. There's the famous Whitehaven Beach, a jaw-dropping curve of powder-white sand, world-class resorts on Hamilton and Hayman Islands and reefs teeming with life. From Shute Harbour near bouncing Airlie Beach, you can disappear into a blissful bubble of exhilarating sailing, remote beaches, sublime snorkeling and snug anchorages in jungle-backed bays perfect for evening sundowners on deck. For those just after a quick taste of paradise, plenty of ex-America's Cup and former racing yachts take tourists and backpackers on short overnight cruises to sample the silica sands of Whitehaven, the sublime views from Hill Inlet and possibly spot some whales migrating along the east coast of Australia. How to get there: International flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, domestic flights to Proserpine or Hamilton Island. Read the full article

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[moonlight-flowers]

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[firepowerflower]

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[naleiayachting]

Top 4 Best Places for Sailing Adventures in Greece in the area of Ionian Sea

With endless golden shores, brilliant turquoise waters, mild and warm weather, diverse landscapes around hundreds of islands of all shapes and sizes, cosmopolitan lifestyle and peaceful living on spectacular sun drenched towns, villages and coasts, Greece is an ideal sailing destination for all kinds of travelers. Undeniably the home to some of the beautiful islands around the world, Greece has something for everyone and embarking on sailing trip can be a perfect way to explore them.

When enjoying a sailing trip in Greece, you will have a great pleasure of getting many opportunities to try a variety of water sports activities that the clear blue waters has on offer. No matter whether you are a novice or expert, it’s worth making the most of what this wonderful country has to offer.

The Best Greek Islands for Sailing Adventures in the Ionian Sea

1. Ithaka Island

Well-known all over the world as the mythical island of Odysseus, Ithaka Island appeals to sailing enthusiasts with it`s laid-back atmosphere, the blue-green water and the spectacular lush greenery. This is a small yet ideal destination for both families and couples seeking for some romance in Greece. If arrived with a sailing yacht, you have plenty of wild anchorages to choose from and Vathy, Kioni, Frikes and Stavros towns to choose from. You can enjoy swimming in the crystal water, walking along the trekking paths and also enjoy your meal in fish taverns. On top of that locals are very welcoming and their slow style of living is something to learn from!

2. Kefalonia Island, Fishkardo Town

Intimately located beside the coral blue water, Fishkardo packs a heady punch with its romantically-coloured venetian buildings with a variety of upmarket restaurants and amazing accommodation options. Sailing to Fiskardo can exude a cosmopolitan buzz unmatched by the rest of the island mainly due to all the sailors visiting it. You will find yourself mooring next a a dozen of yachts along a quay, just in front of a tavern. What is more, the waters around Fiskardo make it an ideal destination place to dive!

3. Atokos Island

Atokos, a small Greek island on Ionian Sea and is one of the most westerly and also most remote amongst the Echinades islands. As the island is uninhabited this location is perfect for a secluded overnight stay. There are no buoys so one needs to anchor. The cliffs around the island are spectacular and snorkeling is superb!

4. Lefkada Island, Lefkas Marina –

Lefkas marina allows to access one of the most beautiful sailing destinations in Greece. It is placed nearby Aktion airport (10min drive) or 1.5h drive from Corfu. This makes it a perfect starting location for your sailing holiday in Greece. Based on the north east side of beautiful Lefkas island (or Lefkada), Lefkas marina is ideally located for sailing holidays discovering both the North and South Ionian including Lefkas, Corfu, Paxos, Ithaca, Kefalonia and Meganissi as well as much smaller Ionian islands and also the beautiful mainland coast of Greece.

Conclusion –

Greece is a must visit destination for anyone who wants to really experience the cruising waters. The sunny Greek Islands are home to some truly beautiful beaches, where you can simply relax on the golden sand or bathe in the sea. Book packages for sailing in Greece with Naleia Yachting and let our experts share their part of knowledge making a memorable Greece sailing trip of a lifetime!

For immediate availability, please make a visit to our website today and feel free to contact online! We will get back to you as soon as possible!  For more information stay social with us Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter and Yelp.

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[number23us]

Tassia by BBMaui Via Flickr: BBMaui. Fiskardo Port, Kefalonia Island, Ionian Sea, Greece.

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