An authentic adventure to the Apokoronas province, the land of heroes, the heart of Cretan culture.
Starting from the archaeological site of Aptera, we will get into different time periods of Cretan civilization until modern times.
The ancient city of Aptera was already inhabited since the Minoan Times and was one of the greatest cities of the island, due to its location above Souda Bay and between the ancient cities of Minoa (nowadays’ Marathi) and Kasteli (close to Kalives)
As we continue our trip into the heart of the Apokoronas province, we will see the ancient monastery of Karydi, first mentioned on 1600 A.D, and the old traditional olive oil factory next to it, built in 1860 and consisting of 12 arches, a prefect mix of local architecture and Venetian influences.
The next stop is in Kalamitsi Alexandrou, a perfect example of a real traditional Cretan village. Starting with a walk through the various “neighborhoods” of the village and getting to know the daily life of its inhabitants, we are finally heading to the square of Kalamitsi for an authentic journey through local cuisine.
What’s better than an ice cold coffee or a fresh orange juice next to the river after this fantastic
traditional lunch?
We are now in the village of Vrisses, for the necessary rest and relaxing time before our walk to the ancient site of the “Elliniki Κamara” (Greek Arch), built between 300 B.C and 300 A.D, one of the oldest known bridges of the island.
Your Accommodation
10:00
We’ll meet at 4 p.m. at our hotel in Luzern (Lucerne) for a “Welcome to Switzerland” meeting. Then we’ll take a meandering evening walk through Switzerland’s most charming lakeside town, and get acquainted with one another over dinner together. Sleep in Luzern (2 nights). No bus. Walking: light.
Enjoy an orientation walk of Zurich’s OLD TOWN, Switzerland’s center of banking and commerce. Then, leave Zurich and start your Swiss adventure. You’ll quickly discover that Switzerland isn’t just home to the Alps, but also to some of the most beautiful lakes. First, stop at the foot of the Jura Mountains in the picturesque town of Biel, known as Bienne by French-speaking Swiss, famous for watch-making, and explore the historical center. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to lakeside Neuchâtel, dominated by the medieval cathedral and castle. Time to stroll along the lake promenade before continuing to stunning Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, with its fantastic lakeside location and breathtaking panoramas of the Alps.
Our morning drive takes us from Swiss lakes to Swiss Army. At the once-secret Swiss army bunker at Fortress Fürigen, we’ll see part of the massive defense system designed to keep Switzerland strong and neutral. Afterward, a short drive into the countryside brings us to the charming Alpine village of Engelberg, our picturesque home for the next two days. We’ll settle into our lodge then head out for an orientation walk. Our stroll through the village will end at the Engelberg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with its own cheese-making operation. You’ll have free time to wander back before dinner together. Sleep in Engelberg (2 nights). Bus: 1 hr. Walking: light.
An unforgettable trip to the high Alpine wonderland of ice and snow is the true highlight of a visit to Switzerland. Globus Local Favorite At an amazing 11,332 feet, the JUNGFRAUJOCH is Europe’s highest railway station. Jungfrau’s 13,642-foot summit was first ascended in 1811 and in 1912 the rack railway was opened. There are lots of things to do here: enjoy the ALPINE SENSATION, THE PANORAMA 360° EXPERIENCE, and the ICE PALACE. Also receive your JUNGFRAU PASSPORT as a souvenir to take home with you. The round trip to the “Top of Europe” by MOUNTAIN TRAIN will take most of the day.
It’s market day in Lausanne! Enjoy browsing and packing a picnic lunch for our 11 a.m. boat cruise on Lake Geneva. A few miles down-shore we’ll dock at Château de Chillon, where we’ll have a guided tour of this delightfully medieval castle on the water. On our way back we’ll take time to peek into the vineyards surrounding Lutry before returning to Lausanne. Boat: 2 hrs. Bus: 1 hr. Walking: moderate.
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