MEDD

This gastronomic exploration of the Laconia region of Greece takes place at the former childhood home of Monemvasia’s most famous son, the beloved poet Giannis Ritsos. Mere minutes away on the mainland, the Liotrivi Mansion is now a boutique hotel and restaurant on an estate of vineyards and olive groves. Owner Kryiakos Klapsis will personally welcome you before you meet the chef. Your cooking lesson centers around the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients that are at the heart of cooking in Laconia – and, indeed, of every region of Greece.

Visit one of the most spectacular historic sites in the Peloponnese on this tour. Sit back and enjoy the views of the countryside on the hour-plus drive from the coast. The walled castle-town of Mystras, set onto the steep slopes of Mount Taygetos, is visible from afar. A winding road brings you to the castle gate, where you’ll begin your guided walk. The castle, built by a Frankish Crusader, is the oldest part of the site, with its original 13th-century design largely intact.

Explore the stone city of Monemvasia from the base of its rocky formation to the very top of the plateau. Walk up from the yacht to the lone entrance into the medieval castle. Your guide will take you along the narrow lanes and alleyways within it, sharing highlights of the history and architectural heritage as you pass the old houses, churches and other buildings. The main street opens out onto a square where the Church of Christo Elkomenos (Christ in Chains) stands. You’ll go inside to view the four surviving Byzantine icons on display.

A fourth-century earthquake separated a cliff from the coastal Greece creating a stand-alone rock on which a castle town was built, its unique location helping hide and protect it from attack. The name Monemvasia derives from two Greek words meaning single entrance. And there is only one way to enter this medieval town by local shuttle bus, whose defensive walls are only apparent once you enter the castle. Your guided tour begins here, with a walk down the narrow passageways and arched alleys, some barely wide enough to fit two people.

Explore Paleokastritsa, an area of unique beauty on the northwestern shore of Corfu. Rocky promontories cloaked in pine and cypress trees extend out into the sea, sheltering sandy bays and coves with azure waters glimmering under the bright sun. Enjoy a boat ride to the famous sea caves of Nafsika, Saint Nicholas and the Blue Eye, where geological formations, ground minerals and natural sunlight create amazing forms, colors and optical illusions.

Recharge your battery during this relaxing jaunt to a top destination resort on one of the best Ionian beaches. You will journey through the verdant countryside past quaint Corfiot villages to reach Moraitika, home to Domes Miramare. This elegant, adults-only resort known for quality service and luxurious facilities is part of the island's most prominent waterfront, with comfort and serenity designed into every detail. You will have over three hours to pay homage to the sun and sea gods who have showered their blessings upon this select slice of the Ionian coast.

Begin your exploration of the idyllic island of Corfu with a visit to the village of Lakones for a view of traditional Greek life and lovely vistas of the bay of Paleokastritsa. Then travel inland through colorful citrus groves to the Achillion Palace, a neoclassical villa built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1890. The marvelous palace reflects Elisabeth's fascination with Greek mythology and in particular her admiration of Achilles, who is represented in paintings and sculptures throughout the home and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Arguably the most famous chef in Greece, Ettore Botrini will be your host for an unforgettable day of shopping, cooking and dining. Star of the Greek version of the television show Hell’s Kitchen, Chef Botrini runs the Michelin-starred restaurant Botrini’s in Athens as well as Corfu’s Etrusco, which has been listed as the best restaurant in Greece and one of the top 100 restaurants in the world. Join this award-winning Corfiot Italian chef as he shops Corfu – where he was born and raised – for the freshest ingredients.

Known for its exceptional quality, The Governor Olive Oil is named for Count Capodistrias, a Corfu native who became the first governor of free Greece and founder of the modern Greek state. This special experience gives you a guided tour of the groves of lianolia olive trees with the personal touch of local experts speaking about the traditions of olive oil making. The current owner of the factory, Spyros Dafnis is one of three generations of the Dafnis family to tend the olives.

Combine the convenience of secure transportation from the yacht to the airport with a few hours of sightseeing in the Greek capital. Relax on the drive from the port of Piraeus into Athens where you’ll then follow a route that showcases key landmarks and monuments representing thousands of years of history. Sights include the ancient Panathenaic Stadium, used for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and a few events of 2004 summer games.