itn Greek Tourism

GREECE&CYPRUS

Travelling to fabulous destinations in GREECE

• NOVEMBER 2022 • DECEMBER 2022 • JANUARY 2023

UNEXPLORED TREASURES

Places you need to visit

SEA TOURISM | AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES | THEMATIC VACATIONS

Greece as a whole

G

reece is best known for its captivating beaches and sunny islands that admittedly attract millions of visitors every year. This year, after the problems caused by the pandemic, tourist arrivals to Greece have reached an unexpectedly high level.

The top destinations were once again the islands of the South Aegean, with Mykonos, Santorini Rhodes, Crete and the Ionian Islands standing out. This has been repeated for many decades and there are many travelers who, when talking about Greece, bring to mind images of these regions.

George Karachristos Publisher of itn Greek Tourism

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However, these regions are only one part of Greece and not the largest we must say. The aim of the guide you are currently reading is to bring you in touch with areas of the Greek territory that are not so well known in the international tourist scene. Yet they are in high demand in the country’s domestic tourism and the desti-

nations themselves are looking for extroversion.

We will show you destinations of unique natural beauty, which provide many opportunities for thematic tourism for all seasons. This point here is the most important one. “Sea and Sun” has been and remains Greece’s dominant tourism product. No one disputes this, let alone us. But this product accounts for 22% of tourism activity in Greece. What about the rest 78%?

Culture, gastronomy, events, city break, activities in the unique Greek countryside are here to offer unforgettable experiences to visitors.

Experiences that can easily be combined with the summer vacation, but also other experiences that are suitable for autumn or spring, such as for example sightseeing tourism.

We hope that you will find interesting what we will present to you through itn Greek Tourism and we are convinced, we will create plenty of desires for different kind of excursions in Greece.

Publisher & Chief Executive Officer George Karachristos

Advertising Assistant Fotini Kourkoutsaki

ISSUE #01 • November 2022 • December 2022 • January 2023

Editors Editorial team of “itn Greek Tourism”

IT Department Georgia Tasiopoulou

Art Director Theodora Tsafou (doroudesign@gmail.com)

Contact: site: www.mact.gr • e-mail: info@mact.gr • Tel: +30 2110129575

PROPERTY OF MACT MEDIA GROUP

Advertising Department Gerasimos Tzakis, Aimilia Kokkaliari, Eva Ziaga

“itn Greek Tourism”is ISSUED quarterly All rights reserved by Mact Media Group

The digital tourism magazine travels around the world

www.mact.gr

info@mact.gr

211-0129575

• CONTENTS

November2022 December2022 January2023 44

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8-26 GREETINGS

Vasilis Kikilias (Minister of Tourism) Ioannis Plakiotakis (Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy) Angela Gkerekou (President of GNTO) Dimitris Fragakis (General Secretary of GNTO) Yiannis Retsos (President of SETE) Alexandros Vasilikos (President of the Greek Chamber of Hotels) Grigoris Tasios (President of HHF) Panagiotis Tokouzis (President of SETKE) Paris Loutriotis (President of SITESAP)

44 ATTICA

The land of myths

60 INTERVIEW

George Papadopoulos CEO of Xenia Resorts & Villas

66 ATHENS

An ancient city moving fearlessly toward the future

70 EPIRUS

Anything & everything you need

28 NEWS

34 IONIAN ISLANDS

White sand fading in deep blue waters

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130 88

112

126

134

82 IGOUMENITSA

122 LAMIA

148 FLORINA

88 CRETE

126 NISYROS

154 SEA TOURISM

102 WESTERN GREECE

130 LAKE PLASTIRA

Impressive nature, rich history

Ideal for all seasons

Full of contrast

A destination for all seasons awaits you

Beautiful and untouched

A unique experience!

112 KARPENISSI

134 METEORA

118 AGRAFA

144 SYMI

Let’s go for a ride… up high

The earthly paradise you will want to visit again and again

Breathtaking views

A country made for sailing by George Vernikos

162 THEMATIC TOURISM

Countless options for an unforgettable holiday

In the “heart” of Greece

Timeless glamour and nobility

154 7

Porto Palace Hotel Thessaloniki guarantees a restful stay and high-level services, among Superior and Comfort rooms, Business, Executive Suites, Vice Presidential and Presidential suites, recently remodeled to accommodate the modern traveler or professional.

Porto Palace Hotel is the only one in Thessaloniki which can host a 2500 participants meeting. The historical Grand Pietra Hall is the biggest conference hall in Northern Greece.

Porto Palace Hotel hosts the largest business events, local or international congresses as well as social events (wedding or baptism receptions, anniversary dinners etc.). It features 5 fully equipped meeting rooms and 5 large conference halls.

During summer, you can indulge yourself with the gastronomic menu and signature cocktails, while enjoying the views around the atmospheric environment of Ursa Minor Rooftop Bar & Restaurant.

Porto Palace Hotel Thessaloniki constitutes a unique hosp The 5-star hotel is housed in a historical building of 1913, p architecture. Porto Palace Hotel Thessaloniki stands out am in Thessaloniki. Its superb location by the new harbor prov Aristotelous Square (2km or 5-minute drive), which is serve shuttle bus service. Hotel also offers free open parking wit Keep up with your training program at Pulse Gym & Fitness Station and enjoy relaxation and a wide range of spa treatments for the well-being enthusiasts.

www.portopalace.gr | 65, 26th Octovriou Avenue | 546

pitality choice in Thessaloniki. preserving its industrial mong other hotels vides direct access to ed by the hotel’s complimentary th a capacity of 300 cars.

628, Thessaloniki-Greece | T. +30 2310 504504 & +30 2310 504500 | info@portopalace.gr

• GREETINGS • ANTZELA GKEREKOU

Greece is so much more

than just its star-islands

Antzela Gkerekou President of the G.N.T.O.

B

y my capacity as President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, I greet the first digital edition of the ITN Greek Tourism magazine. I am sure that, with many years of experience and deep knowledge of the field of GreekHospitality, the entire ITN GREEK TOURISM digital team will

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continue to operate as the outstanding ambassador of Greece that they are.

The concept of ITN GREEK TOURISM is fully in line with the national strategy for Greek Tourism, as planned by the Ministry of Tourism and implemented by the G.N.T.O. Greece is a top-quality destination,

completely safe from every perspective, with a sustainable sign, ideal for holidays at any time of the year.

In this context, the G.N.T.O. presents and proposes a series of new, less displayed destinations. Little hidden islands, green fields in the mainland of Epirus leading to enchanting beaches. Greece is so much more than just its star-islands. It is an inexhaustible kaleidoscope of alternative landscapes anddestinations. You will discover all these hidden secrets at ITN GREEK TOURISM. Greece offers an infinite wealth of authentic experiences. Marine Tourism, Gastronomy, Cultural and Religious Tourism, Alternative Tourism, Agritourism, City Break, Health and Wellness Tourism, Conference, Sports Tourism as well as Mountain-Winter Tourism. Each region of the country has its own palette of unique experiences, its own locale cuisine, with quality local product,s but also its own authentic, cultural wealth. You see, Greece encompasses hundreds of local, enchanting destinations each of which holds its own distinct place on the international tourist map.

So, we’re calling readers, with the help of ITN GREEK TOURISM’s digital content, to chart their own personal routes, which will lead them to this other, more authentic side of Greece.

Finally, I wish this first digital edition of ITN GREEK TOURISM the best of luck in navigating its way into the international market.

Sofitel Athens Airport is a unique blend of refined French art de vivre and generous Greek hospitality. It is the promise of both luxury and convenience. This modern, 5-star hotel offers blissful comfort and exceptional service. Choose from its wide range of exquisite rooms and suites.

Unwind in its inviting indoor swimming pool.

Then savor fine Greek or cosmopolitan cuisine in the hotel’s sophisticated restaurant, or sip a signature cocktail in its stylish lounge bar.

This sumptuous haven is just a 2-minute walk from Athens International Airport. The nearby metro and suburban rail stations fast-track you into the beating heart of central Athens, Syntagma Square, in only 35 minutes. They also put you in easy reach of the Port of Piraeus and Marousi business district. Cultural heritage is close at hand too: a 30-minute drive will whisk you to the famous Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. And for seaside relaxation, beautiful beaches lie just a stone's throw away.

With charm and savoir-faire, Sofitel Athens Airport will enchant you, offering an ideally located, well-connected base for your stay in the Greek capital.

Enjoy a unique oasis, at once lavish and convenient, just a step away from a vibrant global hub.

Sofitel Athens Airport | Athens International Airport, 190 19 Spata, Greece | sofitel.accor.com | all.accor.com

IONIAN ISLANDS

• CRETE

34

White

fading in de

Ionian of I

nds sla

Regio n

CRETE •

sand

deep blue waters 35

• IONIAN ISLANDS •

Carefree spirit The Ionian Islands have a temperate climate, seawaters as deep as they are refreshing, verdant mountains, a rich cultural heritage and a carefree spirit; the ideal combination for your holidays during which you will enjoy a well-developed tourism infrastructure, hotels, restaurants, water sports centres, cultural events and numerous sights, historic monuments, and museums.

Scattered along the mainland’s western coastline, the Ionian Islands are a cluster of 12 large and small islands covering an area of 2,200 sq. km. There are six large ones: Zakynthos (Zante), Ithaki (Ithaca), Kerkyra (Corfu), Kefalonia (Cephallonia), Lefkada (Leucas), and Paxoi. The small ones are Antipaxoi, Ereikoussa, Mathraki, Othonoi, Meganisi, Kalamos, Kas- tos and Strofades isle group south of Zante. Together with Kythira and Antikythira (both at a distance from the rest, opposite southern Peloponnese and Lakonia’s coastline) they form Eptanesa (meaning Seven Islands).

Being part of the Greek mainland once, the Ionian Islands were torn away when part of the terrain sank due to the seismic activity along the Ionian Sea’s coastline fault; that accounts for the area’s rugged shores, beautiful beaches and imposing mountains that used to be part of the Pindos Mountain Range across the Greek mainland. It also accounts for the sea depth in the area, reaching 4,406 m., registered as the greatest in the Mediterranean.

Living in a

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Famous beaches and water sports

dream

Award-winning and famous all over the world, the exotic beaches of Lefkada will enchant you: Egremni, Porto Katsiki, Kathisma - as well as of course the famous beach with the Shipwreck in Zakynthos also known as “Navagio”. Voutoumi and Vrika in Antipaxos are the favourite beaches of those who come by boat, while Schinos in Ithaca is the beach of the famous. The beach of Myrtos in Kefalonia, with its imposing cliffs, white sand and deep blue waters, is a true postcard. In all the Ionian islands there are dozens more large and small beaches with full organization and all water sports.

The large Ionian islands are leading in the field of water sports. Lefkada is the paradise of wind surfers and kite surfers, who love the beaches of Vasiliki and Myloi. Sailors, again, based in Nidri, make excursions to the dream islands of Lefkada, Meganissi, Kalamos and Kastos. To the north of Corfu, the Diapontia Islands are a very popular destination for sailors, who also sail around the island. Paxos, Antipaxos, Kioni of Ithaca, cosmopolitan Fiskardo of Kefalonia are favourite destinations of those who sail in the Ionian Sea all summer long. Trails through lush green landscapes can be found on all the Ionian islands, as well as wonderful cycling routes.

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Athens • Attica

Travel begins 54

So much to live at Novotel Athens!

4-6, Michail Voda Street • 104 39 Athens - Greece • T. +30 210 82 00 700 • HØ866@accor.com • www.novotel.com • www.all.accor.com

interview

• INTERVIEW

George

Papadopoulos CEO OF XENIA RESORTS & VILLAS

A stable summer destination 60

The online business has grown very much as nowadays guests have the confidence of the access in published reviews in order to select their accommodation

To GEORGE KARACHRISTOS

G

eorge Papadopoulos is CEO of Xenia Resorts & Villas and he shares his thoughts about the season we just went through and what is to expect for the next year.

- Mr Papadopoulos, it is a pleasure to host you on itn Greek Tourism. Xenia Resorts operates properties in several destinations in Greece and also you provide consulting services in accommodation companies in Santorini, Evia, Lefkada, Corfu, Attica, Athens, Navarino area and others. Your experience in the international hospitality industry lasts for over 25 years, and also your academic graduate and post graduate background in 2 London public universities, makes your opinion valuable. We would like to share your thoughts for the hospitality industry in Greece during the following season and the following years.

Thank you for your invitation. Greece has proved to be a stable summer destination, even during difficult times, but it has not grown so much.

Lately there are significant investments, and a trend to unpack the

Herodion Hotel: Ιs more than accommodation and doesn’t provide only a room to stay. It’s a place where timeless elegance and contemporary design meet the rich historical heritage of Athens. The hotel has been hosting guests from all over the world for the last 47 years.

Point-a Bar & Restaurant: At the 5th floor of Herodion hotel, you can find an urban paradise of unique allure and live the gastronomy experience at the top.

Philippos Hotel: The guests of our hotel live a remarkable experience in a city that celebrates its rich past in every way.

The cosy and chic ambiance of the interiors is enhanced with contemporary elements while our premium services give to accommodation a new meaning.

Gargaretta: The name of one of the oldest

neighborhoods of Athens, which tends to be forgotten with the passage of time. If you are looking for an inspiring and entertaining bistrot, you are in the right place.

Acropolis View Residence

Atrium: Is a wonderful greenhouse inside Herodion Hotel full of light that operates all year long. A remarkably inviting space with sofas, a fire-place, a classic 360o bar made from walnut wood and tables.

Herodion Family Apartment

Apartments: Residential hospitality the new step: The Acropolis View Residence and the Herodion Family Apartment are the new additions under this Hospitality Group’s umbrella that underline the Group’s forward-looking philosophy and embrace the needs of modern travelers. Large, independent spaces where one can enjoy privacy but also the exclusive services of the Herodion Hotel: from breakfast and Jacuzzi, laundry and room service to priority for reservations at Point-A.

H&P Hotels & Restaurants: Enjoy the finest of Greek Hospitality

Two hotels, two apartments, a restaurant with an amazing view and a bistrot are the apotheosis of hospitality right next to the Acropolis. Experience a warm hospitality in one of the most privileged locations in the Center of Athens.

H&P HOTELS (HERODION & PHILIPPOS) www.herodion.gr • www.philipposhotel.gr

+30 214 4025700

www.facebook.com/HerodionHotelAthens

www.instagram.com/herodionhotelathens

www.linkedin.com/company/hphotels-athens

• INTERVIEW

- What are the strengths and opportunities for the hospitality in Greece the next and following years?

The short distance from northern Europe, and Balkans makes Greece always a destination with easy access, either through short flights, or through the new highways connecting Greece with neibourhood countries.

Online reviews have forced the accommodation providers to improve their establishments, and to offer a more up-to-date product, which creates a better experience to the guests visiting Greece.

- What are your plans for the future?

For the following season we already have started works and plan to open a small boutique in the main square of Amarynthos in Evia, 1 hour from Athens, which we transform the

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The lack of quality personnel will create severe operational issues.

Selling Prices have been increased due to the increases in costs, but the service levels have been reduced

ex- police station of the city to luxury suites, and in the same area, we have acquired 2 attached waterfront pieces of land next to the Porto Evia Boutique Hotel, where our architects have designed a top end product with 25 seafront suites with private pools where pools will be also located on the first and second floor as well as the ground floor and public swimming pool by the luxury seafront bar restaurant. Also in our plans is to extend our consulting services to more properties, although this will be done selectively with long term agreement. We are glad that there is a strong demand at the moment from hospitality companies to cooperate with us in the field of hotel management, technology innovations, and mainly assisting them in sales with a more progressive way.

Greece  Peloponnese  Mani  Diros  Haria T: (+30) 27330 52922 | M: (+30) 6977 233829 • www.pyrgosarapaki.gr • email: info@pyrgosarapaki.gr | www.pandoramani.gr • email: info@pandoramani.gr

EPIRUS

• EPIRUS

Anything & every 70

of on Epir i g

us

Re

EPIRUS •

ything you need

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• EPIRUS •

All year round Epirus manages to be a one-of-a-kind destination: an enviable combination of cultures and traditions, with a natural environment unique in Greece, and it never fails to surprise and delight its visitors.

Epirus is located in the north-west corner of Greece and is an ideal travel destination all year round.

Is the part of the world that combines everything. In a very short time, you can be transported from the top of the highest mountain to the green waters of magnificent beach in Parga or Igoumenitsa. You can admire the modern architecture in Ioannina, as well as the traditional nobility in Metsovo, you can engage in intense activities and enjoy the peaceful tranquility.

The Epirus region contains two of the ten largest national parks in Greece: the Vikos-Aoos National Park and the Pindos National Park (Valia Kalda), as well as important wetland reserves such as Lake Pamvotida and the Kalamas and Ambracian Deltas, which have been declared vulnerable areas and are part of the Pan-European Ecological Network Natura 2000.

It is a virgin natural habitat, one of contrasts, harmoniously combining the wild beauty of green mountains with the calm blues of the sea.

Exploring and tasting the une 74

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nexpected

Gastronomy The food and drinks of Epirus could easily themselves be a solid reason to visit Epirus, as the many and different altitudes, the various cultural influences and habits prepare the visitor for its particularly rich gastronomy.

Indeed, if we consider the tradition of fishing in the Ionian Seas and the Amvrakikos Gulf, as well as the fact that only 10% of the mainland is fertile land, it is easy to understand why seafood such as the mullet, the sardine, the shrimp, the trout, the famous eels of Amvrakikos are cooked in several recipes and variations, while in the mountains the pies have the first say, savory or sweet–did you know that there are as many as 178 recipes for pies in Epirus– the famous cheese products, such as smoked Metsovone (PDO product), the piquant kefalotyri, and of course the meat.

Note that there are three more kinds of Epirus cheese with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) certification that you should absolutely try: feta, galotyri and kefalograviera, all produced in all 4 Regional Units of Epirus.

Even the water in Epirus is a delicacy: with so many mountains, rivers and lakes, it flows abundantly all year round directly from its sources. And when it comes to the distinct drinks of Epirus, the protagonists are the PDO white wines of Zitsa, as well as the mountain red wine from the vineyards of Metsovo, a Product of Geographical Indication (PGI). The Epirus tsipouro and their sour cherry and houndberry variations are equally fascinating.

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Pelion • Thessaly

Travel begins 86

SSI (Scuba Diving International) Diving Learning Programs by INTERMARE DIVERS We have the statutory license from the Port Authorities, as well as a Recreational Diving Provider Registration Number #420 from the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy.

We work exclusively with the SSI Diving Organization and provide diving training according to their standards.

We organize diving excursions in Greece and abroad We train divers to become proficient in both theoretical knowledge and skills in the water. At the same time we provide them with the corresponding diver training qualifications, in each case exceeding the minimum set of qualifications required by the SSI and we also have instructor schools.

We train and certify divers in the following Dive Learning Programs:  TRY SCUBA DIVING  SCUBA DIVER  OPEN WATER DIVER  ADVANCED ADVENTURER DIVER  REACT RIGHT  RESCUE DIVER  SCIENCE OF DIVING  DIVE GUIDE  DIVE MASTER  NIGHT DIVER  DEEP DIVER  NITROX DIVER  PERFECT BUOYANCY DIVER  ...And more qualifications

5-7 Agiou Spiridonos street | 18535, Piraeus, Greece +30 210 4100010 | intermarepireas@gmail.com www.intermaredivers.gr

CRETE

• CRETE

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Ideal for

n of Cre gio

te

Re

CRETE •

all seasons

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• CRETE •

T Stavros

Arnaoutakis Governor of Crete

he revised indicators for the development of this year’s tourist season confirm the initial optimism of tourism operators. On our island, the increase in tourist flows justifies the people of the industry. The consistent entrepreneurs, the responsible employees, the collective bodies, who responded to the new and special conditions and maintained the position of our island on the world tourist map.

By maintaining its position at the forefront, Crete, apart from being a popular tourist destination, is now established as a destination for the organisation of international conferences, major sporting events and, of course, as an island that offers unique experiences in all four seasons of the year.

2022 is a landmark year for Greek and global tourism, which is trying to overcome the shocks of the pandemic of the previous two years. In this environment, entrepreneurs and employees, state and local government must intensify their framework of cooperation.

Shortly before the end of this year’s tourist season, we must build on our experiences, confront our missteps and, of course, plan the next steps on a new and more solid basis. Keeping optimism, planning for the future of tourism.

Crete: Always at

the forefront

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CRETE •

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• CRETE •

Sea & Sun Crete offers the ultimate combination of carefree holidays and natural beauty. Thousands of kilometres of coastline carved by the sun and the wind. Crystal clear waters that exhaust the colour palette of blue and green. Steep mountains that rise violently above the sea... This is the backdrop that accompanies Crete from coast to coast.

The sea temperature never drops below 15 degrees in winter, especially in the south.

Winter swimming against the backdrop of the white-washed mountain peaks of the Cretan mountain ranges is a unique experience that has been attracting more and more fans in recent years. The sunshine most days of the year keeps the sea at a good temperature, creating the feeling that in Crete it is always summer.

Windsurfing and kite surfing are very popular water sports in Crete, with the number of fans growing rapidly and spectacularly year after year.

Visitors also have the opportunity to escape to the magical world of the deep, choosing from a large number of companies operating in the diving sector.

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Rela

& unique

NOVEMBER 2022 • DECEMBER 2022 • JANUARY 2023

Gastronomy The Cretan diet has attracted the attention of scientists all over the world, surprising them, with research results showing extremely positive effects on the health of Cretans.

Crete, with its unique biodiversity and special climatic conditions, is a place that allows the growth of exceptional endemic herbs and wild plants. Combined with the mild livestock farming and its by-products, its dietary habits have been shaped over the centuries and have established the reputation of the Cretan diet as the healthiest among all the Mediterranean diets.

The basic characteristics, such as the use of pure ingredients, simple recipes, respect for seasonality and the minimal processing of food, are the uniqueness of Cretan cuisine.

The “green” agriculture and the certification of the products is the shielding of these values that we inherited through our food culture, which allows us to repeat that the Cretan diet is not just what we eat but the way we live and produce.

axation flavours

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WESTERN GREECE

• EPIRUS

102

Full of cont

Region

Western f o

eece Gr

ntrast

EPIRUS •

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• WESTERN GREECE •

The sense of transition The Region of Western Greece includes the geographical units of Aitoloakarnania, Achaia and Ilia. It is a place “full”, complete, where its value is derived from the composition of its contrasts.

In every corner, the Region of Western Greece is full of contrasts:  “full” of classic and modern, peaceful landscapes,  “full” of sea and mountain,  “full” of ancient wonders and new technological achievements,  “full” of tradition and modernity, - “full” of wild nature,  “full” of winter and summer,  contrasts that attract and define “beauty”.

The nature of this ‘beauty’ is not only aesthetic.

It is above all the sense of change, of transition.

This alternation of contrasts is the rhythm of life in the Region of Western Greece, a region that promises to keep the visitor away from monotony.

In Etoloakarnania, beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains and magnificent lakes make up a mosaic of summer and winter destinations. Apart from being the largest prefecture in Greece, Aitoloakarnania is one of the most beautiful with a rich history and culture, with many archaeological sites and the most castles.

In the land of Achaia, which is a year-round tourist destination, the mountains Panachaiko, Erymanthos and Helmos play a leading role, while each of its many rivers tells its own story. In the summer, it welcomes you to its beautiful seaside villages, while in winter it is worth taking the car and discovering its charming winter destinations, where nature plays its own games...

Natural beauties, history, great monuments and sights, beautiful beaches, hospitable people are waiting for you in Ilia. You will walk in the archaeological site of ancient Olympia, where the Olympic spirit was born and developed, you will discover its enchanting riverside areas, you will swim in its wonderful beaches, you will be fascinated by its mountain villages...

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Promise to keep

away from

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Gastronomy

es

the visitor

m monotony

Εtoloakarnania will surprise you in the gastronomy part as well. Taste the “golden” egotaracho of Messolonghi, the fresh gampara of Vonitsa, the traditional flagouna, the cockerels and the toast of Xiromeros, the delicious aromatic meats of mountainous Nafpaktia, the gruyere of Amphilochia, the pretzel of Aetoliko.

You will be surprised by the Agrinio preserves, kasimari, ladorevani and katimari sweet spoon, while don’t miss to try the salty pumpkin pie, with local, yellow pumpkin.

As far as nightlife is concerned, the heart beats in Agrinio. Full of people and laughter, the cafes and alleys of Agrinio invite you to visit them without regret.

Achaia has a great tradition in winemaking.

The jewel of the “Ahaia Klaus” since 1861 is the oldest and most famous ambassador of Greece in the world of winemaking, operating until today.

The search for a unique taste will lead you to the villages of mountainous Achaia. Look for the famous formaelopita. Simple, but delicious flavours, like kayanas with fresh tomato or the oily bean soup. Fermented bread made from local wheat, often baked in wood-fired ovens.

Traditional pasta, trahanas and tuttumakia (the well-known noodles), etc., traditional pasta made with flour, milk, eggs and salt. They are cooked in various ways in many recipes, either as a soup, or with chicken, or with beef, etc.

In Ilia, thousands of acres of vineyards are cultivated with local and imported varieties that produce wine of very good quality. In recent years, wine production has boomed from wine producers who have invested in the product by producing organic and non-cultivated wines. The prefecture is famous for the excellent quality of its olive oil. One of the most important crops of the prefecture is the watermelon of Ilia, while a relatively new crop with a constantly rising trend is the strawberry.

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• KARPENISSI • CENTRAL GREECE

Let’s go, for a ride... up high!

A

place of spring is waiting for you to explore. It is, of course, Karpenissi and its villages, in the prefecture of Evritania.

A destination worth visiting all year round, it enters its most beautiful season, where the colours of autumn and winter and the aromas of nature make up a magical landscape out of a fairy tale.

What makes this blessed place stand out is the combination of religious, cultural, alternative, sports and gastronomic tourism. A short distance from the town of Karpenisi we find the Ski Centre Velouchi 2340 meters

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The Night of Wishes custom where the sky is filled with flying lanterns on Christmas Eve is only a taste of the cultural activity of the Municipality during Christmas period

of Mount Tymfristos, a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts and not only, since it is one of the longest running ski resorts in Greece. The activities don’t stop there of course, infinite hiking trails, organized rafting, canoeing-kayaking on the rivers Karpenisiotis, Trikeriotis, Tavropos and Krikeliotis and off road adventures with open SUVs, satisfy even the most demanding visitor. These activities are the trademark of the place, for this reason the Mountain Museum was founded, the first in Greece, in the center of Karpenissi, with rich equipment from personal collections of athletes and from the

NOVEMBER 2022 • DECEMBER 2022 • JANUARY 2023

first Greek expedition to the Himalayas. Finally, one can also be guided virtually through a VR mask to the top destinations of the region.

In Karpenissi you will experience the warm hospitality and enjoy cultural activities, such as the Winter Celebrations. They start when the town and villages put on their festive clothes for the Christmas period. The tree lighting, theatre performances, art workshops, concerts, the street party in the town centre with music, dancing, hot drinks and bonfires and the Night of Wishes custom where the sky is filled with flying lanterns on Christmas Eve are

a taste of the cultural activity of the Municipality.

And because food unites us, we could not omit the rich gastronomy of the place with local products such as fir honey, dairy products such as tsalafuti, goat butter and yoghurt, traditional handmade pies, cold cuts, the most famous of which is Prosuto, the smoked trout from the Karpenisiotis river, meat products such as wild boar stew, hashapiko (beef in clay in the hovoli) and of course the abundant tsipouro that warms the body and the heart.

All that remains... a walk on high, to live every experience!

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• LAKE PLASTIRA • KARDITSA • THESSALY

A unique experience!

P

lace of unparalleled natural beauty and unique aesthetic experience! Every season has its own colours, which are reflected in its crystal-clear waters, making it unique!

In its waters are mirrored remote mountain peaks, sometimes snow-covered, sometimes with deep green slopes, ready to reveal the splendour of the Agrafa mountains.

Here, the natural environment harmoniously intertwines with history, tradition, architectural and religious monuments and picturesque villages.

The people’s days and deeds.

It is considered one of the few positive examples of human intervention in Nature. Today the lake is a popu-

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lar mountain destination for alternative tourism, with multiple options A place of experiential learning and experience, in all seasons!

WINTER, THE SEASON WHEN LAKE PLASTIRA LOOKS LIKE A FAIRY TALE SETTING!

The ultimate winter destination! Especially when it is snowing the area is transformed into a fairy tale setting. Unique experiences with the visitor becoming an explorer. Discovering the charm of snow, from walking, learning to ski on the small slope of the “Karamanolis” shelter, mountaineering for the initiated... to the warmth of a fireplace!

Activities now take on a different content: from horseback riding on

the snow, hydro-bikes on the lake, walking on organized trails. Unique experience and essential acquaintance with the forests, the majestic mountains, the running waters, the Greek Nature!

Especially on Christmas days, the visitor is introduced to ancient customs, which are still alive, such as the “marrying of the fire” on Christmas (24/12) and the “rogacharia” on 5/1.

Experience the turn of the year in the “wishing pond”, with hundreds of floating candles by participating in an interactive dance-theatre performance (31/12).

LAKE PLASTIRAS IS AN OPEN ECO-MUSEUM IN AGRAFA

Unique for its richness, it offers op-

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portunities for experiential learning and learning, with the colours of each season! In addition to the Natural Environment, the whole year awaits you: The ancient Temple of Apollo (Moschato). The Botanical Garden and the Environmental Centre (Neochori). Emblematic monasteries, such as Korona and Pelekiti, but also many churches. The Municipal Museum of History “Nikolaos Plastiras” and the Open Air Museum of Contemporary Art (Morphovouni), which is under construction. The Museum of Wine and Vine (Mesenikolas).

Water mills and mandanias, customs and events.

Activities, for all interests... and stamina! Simple hiking, mountaineering, mountain biking, hydro-biking on the lake, rowing, horseback riding, archery, swimming, fishing, are some of the activities. For the alternative seekers... there is the sport of tasting, local delicacies and Mesenikola wine!

Soon the lake will offer the experience of ballooning!

It is the favorite place of photographers, because it is offered for every kind of photography. It is also an ideal place for romantic religious and civil weddings, in the unique Park of Love, next to the lake.

Lake Plastira Karditsa: a unique experience that invites you to live it!

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• METEORA • THESSALY

In the “heart” of Greece

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he Municipality of Meteora is a strategic geographical point in the centre of Greece with huge tourist interest! It receives visitors from every corner of the earth, who exceed two million visitors throughout the year!

The unique geological phenomenon of the Meteoric Rocks (Meteora) which is framed by the Holy Monasteries of Meteora literally hanging between heaven and earth, makes up one of the most impressive Unesco World Heritage Sites.

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From the unique sunset, the tour of the Meteoric paths, the authentic rich gastronomy and the rich cultural identity with its many museums, to the possibility of a city break, the municipality of Meteora is an attraction for unforgettable holidays!

It is a municipality with a rich and wider cultural heritage that allows the visitor to tour its beauties and experience unique experiences by participating in activities related to climbing, hiking, gastronomy, cycling and many others depending on the geographical terrain and the wishes of the visitor.

Let us not forget that the Municipality of Meteora, with its vast area and the diversity that characterizes it, offers many options to anyone seeking alternative forms of tourism. From the unique sunset of Meteora, the tour

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of the Meteoric paths, the authentic rich gastronomy and the rich cultural identity with its many museums, to the possibility of a city break, the municipality of Meteora is an attraction for unique and unforgettable holidays!

Let’s think about how challenging and interesting it is, at the same time, for someone to wander the paths between the rocks of Meteora, to visit a monastery, to get to know the way of life of the monks, to talk with them, to gain unique experiences being between heaven and earth...

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• SYMI • DODECANESE

S

Timeless glamour and nobility

ymi with its unique beauty attracts thousands of visitors every year. Characteristic of the island are the well-preserved neoclassical houses and the two-storey stone houses of traditional architecture, that remind of the time when the island was economically prosperous. Symi pleasantly surprises with its changing landscapes. Its mountainous terrain with high and steep mountains ends in lacy coasts and small bays.

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On the beaches of the island you will enjoy the clear seas and the wonderful nature. Symi’s rich history is reflected in the island’s important sights and in the exhibits of its archaeological and folklore museum.

It has all the conditions for an unforgettable holiday. Luxury hotels and complexes of rooms to let. Taverns, restaurants and ouzeri that promise you unique culinary delights. Bars for your night out and many cultural events organized by the municipality

to experience first-hand what island entertainment means. NOS, Marathounta, Pedi, Agios Georgios, Nanou and Panormitis are the most famous beaches of Symi, but among them there are many bays where you can enjoy swimming all alone.

WORTH SEEING

The neoclassical mansions in the harbour of Symi in Yalos, places that keep the colour of the past alive. Five hundred wide stone steps lead you

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from Yialos to Chorio, Ano Symi.

Once it was the only road from one settlement to the other.

The Spetsaria, the old municipal pharmacy with its glass containers and characteristic inscriptions in a building from 1884.

Archangel Michael the Panormitis.

The pilgrims queue up, but the wait is worth it: the energy is pervasive in the church. Famous for his miracles, Panormitis is a major pilgrimage site in the Aegean.

Symi’s rich history is reflected in the island’s important sights and in the exhibits of its archaeological and folklore museum.

It has all the conditions for an unforgettable holiday

To get to know the island on foot, the ideal starting point is the route Symi - Panormitis. The hiker should start early to avoid the heat of the midday.

The route has plenty of greenery and is dotted with churches: Agios Konstantinos, Panagia Strateri, Agios Ioannis, Agia Marina of Nera and the monastery of Great Sotiris. A detour from this point leads, through a forest of cypress trees, to the area of Kourkouniotis, where there are 11 restored stone wine presses.

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