Greece: Crete & Santorini

The Greek Islands beckon with mesmerizing scenery and a fascinating historical legacy. Timeworn rural lanes lead through cypress and olive groves en route to remote villages seldom visited by outside travelers. Such captivating locales as Armeni and Heraklion reveal rare glimpses into what life was like across the eons—from traces of Europe’s earliest civilization, the Minoans, to ruins of Greco-Roman city-states, architectural marvels of the 19th-century Venetian period, and even troop refuges from World War II. Breathtaking gorges punctuate mountain paths that ascend to hillside hamlets and a renowned monastery and descend to sun-dappled, seaside hamlets fringed with sandy beaches. On Santorini, one of Greece’s most idyllic island escapes, the famous Caldera volcano inspires awe—and provides exhilarating walking along its rim and through its foothills. Nature’s awesome power and human settlement did not always blend harmoniously, however, as evidenced in village ruins unearthed from the ashy aftermath of ancient volcanic eruptions. Intriguing discoveries await around every turn, each day of your adventure embraced by a gentle Mediterranean atmosphere perfect for walking.
    Accommodations on this journey to the heart of the Greek Isles showcase their stunning beauty. The simple charm of seaside hotels, the warm welcome of a family-owned pension, and spectacular views from Oia where you stay in resort apartments all enhance a sense of immersion and escape. Whether dining at an elegant coastal restaurant, in a quaint village taverna, or beneath a shady tree at trailside, meals draw on the region’s natural bounty—delectable seafood, fresh olives, and pasta flavored with local herbs.