Island Hopping in Greece for Seniors
Monday 5 June 2023
Standing on the warm deck of a sailing boat or catamaran, it’s always a delight to catch first sight of a Greek island shore. The sight of the coastline raises your anticipation of beautiful soft-sand beaches, vibrant ports, scenic valleys and myth-laden archaeological sites. Escorted island-hopping trips in Greece are likely to take you through one of three of the country’s many groups of Islands. The Dodecanese are near Turkey and include the beautiful and historic Islands of Rhodes and Kos. The Cyclades are immensely popular with over-50s island-hopping tours, as they include beautiful Santorini and historic Naxos. Seasoned travellers also seek out boat trips around the Ionian Islands, for their great natural beauty and for the Venetian architecture and history on Corfu.
Island Hopping in the Dodecanese Islands
Over-50s travellers will find that escorted island tours in the Dodecanese often begin in Rhodes. The old town centre includes the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, housed in the medieval Hospital of the Kings. Fifty kilometres long the gorgeous coastline, sitting on a rock formation above the beautiful clifftop village of Lindos, is the Lindos Acropolis, with its ancient temples and theatres.
Two-and-a-half-hours sailing from Rhodes is the Island of Kos. This island is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant restaurants and cafes. Kos also offers historical attractions such as the Asklepion, an ancient healing centre, and the Castle of the Knights.
Island Tours in the Cyclades for Mature Travellers
The islands of the Cyclades are known not only for their gorgeous beaches and scenic villages, but also for their archaeological sites. Each stop on an island-hopping tour in the Cyclades is a journey into ancient times and an opportunity to further your understanding of Greek legends. See our guided Greece tours for wonderful opportunities to explore ancient and modern Greek culture.
As you sail through the islands, your first stop may be at Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Delos was once a thriving centre of ancient Greek civilization and according to legend is the birthplace of the god Apollo and his sister Artemis. Explore the vast archaeological site, and marvel at the beautifully preserved ruins of temples, houses, and theatres.
Next, set sail to Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades. The massive marble gateway, Portara, on the islet of Palatia points towards Delos, the birthplace of Apollo on the island of Delos, and overlooks the island’s main town. Standing at the Portara, you see panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, and in the evening you can see the most spectacular sunset, standing behind the Portara as the sun sets over the island of Paros.
Senior travellers on an island-hopping trip in the Cyclades will of course spend time in Santorini, a world-famous destination known for its dramatic cliffside villages. While Santorini is predominantly renowned for its natural beauty, it also boasts a rich historical past. Visit the Akrotiri Prehistoric Village, an ancient Minoan settlement that was preserved under layers of volcanic ash.
Our guided group tours for seniors show our dedication to offering mature travellers from the UK the best travel experiences available from the most trusted providers.
Seniors Sailing Tour in the Ionian Greek Islands
The Ionian Islands include Corfu, known for not only its vast white beaches and café lifestyle, but also its historic Venetian architecture and archaeological sites. Just walking and wandering through Corfu town is in itself a pleasure.
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, whose beautiful landscapes will resonate to those who have read Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Explore the underground Melissani Lake, a natural wonder where sunlight seeps through collapsed caverns, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. For historical interest, you can visit the impressive Saint George’s Castle in Peratata, a medieval fortress that offers commanding views of the island.
With captivating landscapes, fascinating history, and a warm Mediterranean ambiance, guided Greece tours for over-50s travellers give you an opportunity to explore first hand Greece’s cultural and natural treasures. Embrace the spirit of discovery and let the Greek islands weave their magic on your soul.