Navigation guide Greece

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Greece is probably its countless idyllic coves and beautiful picture-postcard landscapes. The panorama is very diversified, between exotic islands, volcanic lands and mountainous countryside. It offers infinite possibilities for great holidays, which is even more appreciable from a sailboat. You will enjoy a beautiful changing view, with the ability to dive into the turquoise sea at any moment.

Visiting Greece doesn’t only mean enjoying the idyllic coves, it’s also about discovering a rich and well-preserved legacy. You just need to look upon the Athenian Acropolis to figure this out ! The country has many antic sites which are quite impressive : Delphi, Olympia, where the Olympic Games were born, the Poseidon temple in the Cape Sounion, or even the Mycenae site in the Peloponnese. It’s simple, there are ancient ruins all over Greece ! Besides, during summer, theater plays, concerts and dancing shows take place in the ancient theater of Epidaurus, located just next to the Parthenon, as if we were back in time, in Ancient Greece.

Needless to say that referring to Greece automatically means thinking about its numerous and peaceful islands. Starting with the Cyclades, which contribute to the beauty and good reputation of the country. The obvious reasons are the beautiful blue & white houses, the turquoise water and the overdominant sun combined with the welcoming Greek culture. Can it be even better ? Less popular but still so charming, the Dodecanese islands, situated in the south-east of the Aegean sea near Turkey, offer many possibilities for great holidays, especially from a sailboat. Go for an island-to-island cruise, starting with the medieval town of Rhodes, before heading to the rest of the archipelago. Discovering the Saronic islands, also called Peloponnese island, is a great destination as well, as there are all different and enjoyable. Egina, one of the closest islands to Athens, is the pistachio paradise and an amazing place for beach lovers. In Hydra, enjoy this very charming pedestrian place, often considered as one of the most beautiful island in Europe. The Ionian islands are well-known for their mountainous landscapes, wonderful cliffs, the beautiful white-sand and turquoise-water coves. Corfou, the biggest island of the archipelago, symbolises the very spirit of the Ionian islands and is extremely beautiful with its wild coasts and authentic villages.

The Greek marine wildlife is very developed and varied, pleasing fishers and divers. Furthermore, thanks to the beautiful translucent sea, observing fishes and seabed is so easy. Thus, fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving are unavoidable activities, especially in the islands. For example, in Kalymnos, divers can enjoy swimming with sea sponges, lobsters and other aquatic species. Beyond the rich wildlife, the Greek coasts hide undiscovered caves, only accessible by swimming, which is ideal for snorkeling. Furthermore, the Aegean sea has witnessed many shipwrecks, making Greece an interesting destination to observe the boats remainings. As an example, Avantis III, a large cargo that sank in 2004 near Epidavros, is a well appreciated spot for scuba diving.

It’s not a secret, Greeks are bon vivant ! Which is not surprising at all when we look closer at their culinary specialties. Begin the meal with a range of appetizers, tzatziki, tapenade and a glass of ouzo, followed by a traditional moussaka and a Greek salad. In authentic tavernas, a dessert and an after dinner drink are often offered by the house ! The best snack to order when you are on the go is definitely a “gyros”, another greek specialty. It is a meat & vegetables sandwich, served in pita bread. And, we can’t talk about greek gastronomy without mentioning feta & olive oil, present in many traditional Greek dishes. Greeks highest strength relies in their huge hospitality. The people are very welcoming and warm, they love relaxing under the sun but also partying. Indeed, Greeks enjoy dancing, especially the sirtaki ! Don’t miss the chance to assist or even try this traditional dance !