Ancient Greece was the origin of democracy, history and theatre. Successive civilisations – Mycenaean, Classical, Byzantine – have left a language and a culture which survived centuries of Ottoman Turkish rule to re-emerge in the 19th century as modern Hellas. This was partially aided and abetted with the encouragement given by the young Lord Byron, who helped inspire the Greeks to throw off the Ottoman Empire.
In the modern age, the beaches, islands, ancient monuments and shrines such as Delphi and Dodoni still inspire the traveller, however there is so much more to Greece for active travellers. Few would realise, but it is, after Switzerland, Europe’s most mountainous state, with Mount Olympus, legendary home of the gods, reaching almost 10,000 feet/2900 metres. The main mountain axis extends from the Pindos range in the north, through the Peloponnese and on to the island of Crete - offering a fantastic backdrop when walking in Greece. Within the Pindos range are the wild and remote Zagoria Villages, famed for their traditional stone-roofed houses, and also the monasteries perched on the pinnacles of Meteora. Greece is botanically rich, notably Mt. Olympus and the Pindos peak of Smolikas. All of this makes it a rewarding experience to go walking in Greece.
Whichever trip you choose, you won’t regret an active Greek holiday. Join us as we explore the cultural and natural treasures of this remarkable country!