Grecian charms
Pulling in more than 13 million tourists every year, Greece is one of the world’s most popular holiday spots. And it’s not hard to see why. Spotless sands, centuries of history, and traditional sugar-cube towns are just the start of what the country has to offer.
With beautiful landscapes, happening cities and sleepy towns, a rich history and more than 6,000 islands to choose from, it's clear to see why holidays to Greece are so popular. The fantastic weather certainly helps to tempt holidaymakers too as temperatures soar from June to August.
Why go?
Greece holidays offer something for everyone - whether you want to explore ancient ruins, flop on the beach, eat mouth-wateringly fresh food or island hop...
Captivating Cape Sounion
This was a scenic drive from Athens, just 69km away from the capital. There were kilometres and kilometres of gleaming Aegean Sea, swimmers, mountains, and villas. In mythology, it is the place where Aegeus, the king of Athens jumped to his death in despair, believing his son Theseus had died in Crete. In a cruel twist of fate, Theseus in fact was not dead, he had just forgotten the deal made with his father prior to his quest to Crete. His ship left with black sails and if he was successful and was returning alive, the ship’s sails would be changed to white. In his excitement in defeating the Minotaur in Crete, Theseus had forgot to change the sails, with the consequence being that as his father waited on the cliff to see his ship return, he saw the ship returning with black sails. The sea is named the Aegean Sea after king Aegeus.
High on the cliff today stand the ruins of the ancient temple of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. The temple of Poseidon was built between 444-440 BCE. It stands at about 60 metres above sea level and like other temples has a rectangular shape. There were 34 columns originally and there are 15 of these still standing today. The columns remaining are surprisingly well preserved considering the wind up on the headland and daily exposure to the elements. Flanked on three sides by the sea, it is easy to see why this spot was an excellent vantage point for spotting incoming ships. The peninsula juts right out into the sea – it is the last point of land a sailor can see on leaving and the first point of land visible on returning.
There’s even some more modern day scribble (possibly around 1810-11) that is said to belong to Lord Byron himself, who carved his name on the base of one of the columns. It isn’t verified that it was done by Lord Byron himself but his carved name is visible on the marble.
I stand on the headland, mesmerised. The combination of the sea, the wind, the sun and the abundance of not just history but mythology at this location make it a magical spot to just stand and absorb it all. The columns themselves are mesmerising at any angle. On the other side, opposite the entrance I can see beautiful winding pathways up the nearby mountain. And those clear blue waters of the Aegean, so bright in colour that you really have to see it to believe it.
Cape Sounion is a place I am glad I visited. If you enjoy good views, archaeology, history, mythology or just nature, this is a lovely spot with all of the above!
Top 10 reasons why you should choose to visit Greece in 2016
The New Year incites each of us to think about and plan new travel experiences or even relive, past, joyful ones. With diversity in landscapes, experiences, alternative activities, gastronomy & wine and a culture starting from ancient times, to name a few, Greece offers a plethora of reasons for which one should visit. We have tried to limit ourselves to the top 10 reasons, in no particular order, for which a hopeful traveler should choose Greece as their next destination.
1. Because you’ve never been here before. Didn’t have the chance to visit Greece yet? Traveling to Greece for the first time is a life-altering experience. The unique culture and the beauty of the spectacular landscapes, alone, are enough to amaze you. Add on the rest Greece has to offer and prepare yourself for a long-lasting experience that you will remember forever.
2. Because you’ve been here before. Greece is the place where wonderful experiences never end. There is always more to explore, to discover, to see, to taste, to feel. Expand your senses in a place where the elements of nature offer countless possibilities. Can you recall the thrilling emotion of your first time here? Well, we can assure you that it never fades.
3. Because of its great climate. Perfect climate conditions allow every visitor to enjoy every season across the country. Not too hot but not too cold, Greece delivers the ideal climate that offers everyone the opportunity to enjoy memorable holidays with a wide range of activities.
4. Because it’s easy to get to (…and hard to forget). Whether by car, ship or airplane, Greece is easy to reach. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket now and live the Greek experience.
5. Because of its natural diversity. Greece has great diversity and a range of places and landscapes that cannot be found together anywhere else. Here, you will find something of everything. It’s like having a miniature world, where everything is included: from countless beautiful islands and awarded beaches, to huge snow-covered mountains, great forests and spectacular castle – cities.
6. Because of its monuments and UNESCO heritage sites. Get the chance to see, live, some of the most amazing monuments of the world, such as the Archaeological Site of Delphi or the breathtaking medieval town of Mystras, in the Peloponnese.
7. Because some things, you can only find in Greece. Tasting mastiha, made solely on the island of Chios, climbing the inimitable geological rocks of Meteora and diving in yet-to-be discovered coves, are just a few examples of what Greece has to offer. You do not want to miss the chance for such rare and special experiences.
8. Because Greece is the island empire. Greece is the land of the islands. Islands of different shapes and sizes; different personalities; different possibilities. Where some of the most beautiful beaches of the world are waiting for you. Here you will get the chance to relax body and soul, under the sun, enjoying crystal blue water and fun activities.
9. Because of the extraordinary taste of Greek cuisine. The world’s most exquisite Mediterranean flavors are before you. Food here is ten times better and healthier not only because recipes have been perfected over time, by generations of Greek families, but because Greek food is based on fresh products.
10. Because of the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. The meeting point of Greece’s past and future, holding the origins of Western civilization.
Alluring Athens
Athens is a sprawling metropolis, no doubt about it. I am not drawn to her vastness, shops and abundant café culture. It is her history which invites me in.
I have visited the Acropolis twice before and it never fails to mesmerise me. The history exudes from each part of this ancient rock which houses structures such as the famous Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea. Twice I have visited in spring, this third time I visited in summer. The difference is the amount of tourists. The increase in people means some of the magic of absorbing the history becomes lost. It’s still there, it’s just a bit drowned out from the babble of voices and sheer number of people at the site.
In spring it was quieter and cooler. You could walk around each part of the Parthenon and not have your path blocked by numerous groups. I had close to an hour up there and it was still not enough. I could spend hours just enjoying the feeling of the history, imagining ancient times and noting the differences in the structure as restoration works continue. This year, the restoration works had been ramped up when compared to the work I saw previously in 2012 and 2014.
I compared it to my 2012 photos and there is certainly more work occurring across the front (facing the Propylaea). You almost wonder whether all this restoration is destroying the original building but I guess they need to do this to ensure the Parthenon is able to be enjoyed for generations to come. Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best, “Earth proudly wears the Parthenon as the best gem upon her zone”.
After absorbing the history and beauty of the site of the Acropolis, I visited the new Acropolis museum. The first thing one notices, besides the modern architecture of the building itself is that around the entrance, there are numerous panels of clear glass. Why? Because the new museum is built on a large archaeological site where excavations are continuing. Thus, the visitor can view the works being undertaken and the ancient relics found there. So, feeling almost as if there is no floor beneath you, you can study the artefacts unearthed and watch continuing excavations.
The museum is filled with natural light and has been set up in a way that in essence mimics the way that these artefacts would be found on Acropolis hill. Accordingly, on the first floor visitors can see the artefacts found on the slopes of Acropolis hill. There is an upwards ascent to see these and visitors can also see the sculptures and other artefacts from the Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea.
It was a fascinating day spent exploring Athens and her history.
Show us your love!
The way you express your love for our country is awesome! Visit Greece’s social networks have been receiving a barrage of ‘loving Greece’ messages. Our followers’ warm and sympathetic comments of their own experience in Greece, the beauty and hospitality they encountered, have left us speechless. We’ve been receiving pictures depicting sun, sea, aromas and flavors of Greek land that reflect the land’s serenity and depict bright smiles of our friends who generously unfold their love for Greece. Post your comments, your own photos, using ovingreece. Share your moments. And show us your love.
The New Year incites each of us to think about and plan new travel experiences or even relive, past, joyful ones. With diversity in landscapes, experiences, alternative activities, gastronomy & wine and a culture starting from ancient times, to name a few, Greece offers a plethora of reasons for which one should visit. We have tried to limit ourselves to the top 10 reasons, in no particular order, for which a hopeful traveler should choose Greece as their next destination.
1. Because you’ve never been here before. Didn’t have the chance to visit Greece yet? Traveling to Greece for the first time is a life-altering experience. The unique culture and the beauty of the spectacular landscapes, alone, are enough to amaze you. Add on the rest Greece has to offer and prepare yourself for a long-lasting experience that you will remember forever.
2. Because you’ve been here before. Greece is the place where wonderful experiences never end. There is always more to explore, to discover, to see, to taste, to feel. Expand your senses in a place where the elements of nature offer countless possibilities. Can you recall the thrilling emotion of your first time here? Well, we can assure you that it never fades.
3. Because of its great climate. Perfect climate conditions allow every visitor to enjoy every season across the country. Not too hot but not too cold, Greece delivers the ideal climate that offers everyone the opportunity to enjoy memorable holidays with a wide range of activities.
4. Because it’s easy to get to (…and hard to forget). Whether by car, ship or airplane, Greece is easy to reach. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket now and live the Greek experience.
5. Because of its natural diversity. Greece has great diversity and a range of places and landscapes that cannot be found together anywhere else. Here, you will find something of everything. It’s like having a miniature world, where everything is included: from countless beautiful islands and awarded beaches, to huge snow-covered mountains, great forests and spectacular castle – cities.
6. Because of its monuments and UNESCO heritage sites. Get the chance to see, live, some of the most amazing monuments of the world, such as the Archaeological Site of Delphi or the breathtaking medieval town of Mystras, in the Peloponnese.
7. Because some things, you can only find in Greece. Tasting mastiha, made solely on the island of Chios, climbing the inimitable geological rocks of Meteora and diving in yet-to-be discovered coves, are just a few examples of what Greece has to offer. You do not want to miss the chance for such rare and special experiences.
8. Because Greece is the island empire. Greece is the land of the islands. Islands of different shapes and sizes; different personalities; different possibilities. Where some of the most beautiful beaches of the world are waiting for you. Here you will get the chance to relax body and soul, under the sun, enjoying crystal blue water and fun activities.
9. Because of the extraordinary taste of Greek cuisine. The world’s most exquisite Mediterranean flavors are before you. Food here is ten times better and healthier not only because recipes have been perfected over time, by generations of Greek families, but because Greek food is based on fresh products.
10. Because of the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. The meeting point of Greece’s past and future, holding the origins of Western civilization.
Alluring Athens
Athens is a sprawling metropolis, no doubt about it. I am not drawn to her vastness, shops and abundant café culture. It is her history which invites me in.
I have visited the Acropolis twice before and it never fails to mesmerise me. The history exudes from each part of this ancient rock which houses structures such as the famous Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea. Twice I have visited in spring, this third time I visited in summer. The difference is the amount of tourists. The increase in people means some of the magic of absorbing the history becomes lost. It’s still there, it’s just a bit drowned out from the babble of voices and sheer number of people at the site.
In spring it was quieter and cooler. You could walk around each part of the Parthenon and not have your path blocked by numerous groups. I had close to an hour up there and it was still not enough. I could spend hours just enjoying the feeling of the history, imagining ancient times and noting the differences in the structure as restoration works continue. This year, the restoration works had been ramped up when compared to the work I saw previously in 2012 and 2014.I compared it to my 2012 photos and there is certainly more work occurring across the front (facing the Propylaea). You almost wonder whether all this restoration is destroying the original building but I guess they need to do this to ensure the Parthenon is able to be enjoyed for generations to come. Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best, “Earth proudly wears the Parthenon as the best gem upon her zone”.
After absorbing the history and beauty of the site of the Acropolis, I visited the new Acropolis museum. The first thing one notices, besides the modern architecture of the building itself is that around the entrance, there are numerous panels of clear glass. Why? Because the new museum is built on a large archaeological site where excavations are continuing. Thus, the visitor can view the works being undertaken and the ancient relics found there. So, feeling almost as if there is no floor beneath you, you can study the artefacts unearthed and watch continuing excavations.The museum is filled with natural light and has been set up in a way that in essence mimics the way that these artefacts would be found on Acropolis hill. Accordingly, on the first floor visitors can see the artefacts found on the slopes of Acropolis hill. There is an upwards ascent to see these and visitors can also see the sculptures and other artefacts from the Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea.
It was a fascinating day spent exploring Athens and her history.
Show us your love!
The way you express your love for our country is awesome! Visit Greece’s social networks have been receiving a barrage of ‘loving Greece’ messages. Our followers’ warm and sympathetic comments of their own experience in Greece, the beauty and hospitality they encountered, have left us speechless. We’ve been receiving pictures depicting sun, sea, aromas and flavors of Greek land that reflect the land’s serenity and depict bright smiles of our friends who generously unfold their love for Greece. Post your comments, your own photos, using ovingreece. Share your moments. And show us your love.
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