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VIEW TOWARDS KORĈULA “WE DON'T LIKE CROWDS, IMPERSONALIZATION, OR RUSHING. WE DO LIKE KNOWLEDGEABLE, PERSONAL SERVICE, GREAT FOOD AND LEARNING AND SEEING NEW THINGS. OUR GULET CRUISE TO CROATIA WAS ALL THAT AND MORE. WE WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND ANY PETER SOMMER TRAVELS TOUR.” James & Gail South, Florida, USA 51

CRUISING THE DALMATIAN COAST:FROM SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK Dalmatia, the southern part of Croatia’s “FANTASTIC TRIP WITH THE PERFECT COMBINATION Adriatic Coast, is a region of immense OF GUIDED TOURS AND FREE TIME SPENT ON DECK, natural beauty and historical significance, an SUNBATHING, SWIMMING OR LOUNGING IN THE area where many fascinating strands in the SHADE. EVERYONE COULD ENJOY TIME THE WAY IT story of human struggle and achievement SUITED THEM. WE ALSO HAD A PLEASANT GROUP are woven together into an extraordinary OF FELLOW TRAVELLERS - AN INTERNATIONAL tapestry of culture. MIX - THAT MADE FOR GREAT LUNCH AND DINNER CONVERSATIONS. LAST BUT NOT LEAST OUR Even a casual glance at the map reveals much about this FANTASTIC GUIDE HELENA TOMAS, WHO MADE unusual place: while Croatia as a whole lies between the ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY FASCINATING. HER Mediterranean, the Balkans and Central Europe, Dalmatia ENTHUSIASM FOR HER TOPIC WAS CAPTIVATING AND itself is a country of mountains, sea and islands – important MADE YOU WANT TO LEARN EVEN MORE, AND, APART for ancient travellers and traders and perfect for a gulet FROM HER GUIDING, SHE WAS FUN AND INSPIRING cruise! AND CREATED A WONDERFUL ATMOSPHERE.” It is almost impossible to describe the splendour of the Eva Lindgren, Sweden miraculously well-preserved Palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian at Split, repurposed as a medieval city centre, or the grandeur of Dubrovnik, heart of the thriving Renaissance trading republic of Ragusa, with her broad streets, fine monuments and mighty walls. Both are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage while the tiny and intimate walled town of Korčula on the island of that name, a true Adriatic gem, is on the tentative list for World Heritage status. All of these joys await you, along with many opportunities to swim in azure waters, to relax on your elegant gulet, to sample the delicious Croatian cuisine – uniting all the cultural influences that have affected the region with the high-quality meats and fish it produces – and to try the area's fine wines. Cruising the Coast of Dalmatia is an unforgettable experience, a holiday of great beauty and a voyage of discovery.52 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

TROGIR SPLIT AIRPORT SPLIT 2 BRAČ ENERGETIC HVAR DUBROVNIK VIS DUBROVNIK KORČULA AIRPORT MLJETHVAR FROM SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK summit of Vidova Gora, the tallest Mountain in the Adriatic islands, to enjoy the splendid view over the Dalmatian coast and islands we’ll be SAT JUNE 2 - SAT JUNE 9, 2018 exploring over the coming week. After rejoining our gulet we cruise to the island of Hvar. SAT SEPT 22 - SAT SEPT 29, 2018 Day 4: We explore Hvar town, a labyrinth of stone houses set Tour Guide: Dr. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic between slopes and sea, including the archaeological collections housed in the castle overlooking the port and in the seaside 8 DAYS - £3,495 / Single Supplement: £875 Franciscan monastery, which reveal the island’s past identity as the ancient Greek city state of Pharos. Later, we cross to the remotest SAT SEPT 15 - SAT SEPT 22, 2018 island on our itinerary, beautiful Vis, where we will explore the remains of Greek Issa before discovering the immense charm of the Tour Guide: Dr. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic traditional harbour town that has taken its place. 8 DAYS - £3,550 / Single Supplement: £875 Day 5: After a morning visit to the excellent archaeological museum of Vis, we cruise east along the lovely island of Korčula towards FROM DUBROVNIK TO SPLIT (Itinerary Reversed) Korčula town, one of the prettiest in the Adriatic and a candidate for SAT SEPT 22 - SAT SEPT 29, 2018 UNESCO World Heritage status. The afternoon brings great vistas of Korčula, Hvar and the nearby mainland. Tour Guide: Dr. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic 8 DAYS - £3,495 / Single Supplement: £875 Day 6: We explore the picturesque lanes and squares of Korčula Town and visit its beautiful cathedral and ecclesiastical museumDay 1: Our gulet is about 30 minutes from Split Airport at the Marina - a veritable cabinet of curiosities - and the city museum with itsBaotić near Trogir. Welcome drinks and dinner on board. archaeological exhibit. After a delicious lunch we cruise east for a swim off the verdant island of Mljet. We spend the evening in a prettyDay 2: In the morning, we enter the harbour of Split. The medieval cove.heart of this lively city sits within the towering remains of the Palaceof Diocletian, built for the Roman emperor’s retirement in AD Day 7: Time for the tour’s final highlight. After a leisurely morning305 and the best-preserved structure of its kind. We explore its and a final swim, we visit Dubrovnik, once better known as Ragusa,underground vaults, its walls and gates, as well as the wonderful Venice’s chief rival in the Adriatic. We tour its remarkable walls,domed cathedral – originally built as Diocletian’s mausoleum. After which protected the city from attack for many centuries, explorelunch, we cruise to the fjord-like bay of Pučišća on the island of Brač. the grand streets and elaborate monuments of its historic centre and pay a visit to the superb maritime museum. There is also time toDay 3: We begin the day with a visit to the stonemasonry school of take in the place’s unique atmosphere – and perhaps engage in a littlePučišća, where the island’s ancient tradition of working and producing shopping. Farewell dinner on the gulet.high-quality stonework continues to this day. Brač stone was usednot only in the construction of the Palace of Diocletian, but also in Day 8: Departure transfers to Dubrovnik airport, about i hour away.Berlin’s Reichstag and Washington’s White House. After a visit to thearchaeological museum in the charming village of Škrip, we ascend the 53

CRUISING THE DALMATIAN COAST:FROM ŠIBENIK TO ZADAR Cruising the Dalmatian Coast: from Šibenik to Zadar offers an astonishing historical and cultural tour of one of Croatia’s most diverse coastal regions, an area rich in verdant landscapes and sparkling seascapes, delicious culinary delights and breathtaking architecture. The cruise features a wealth of unique natural vistas. From Šibenik’s towers, the view opens upon a forested coastline mirrored by serried tiers of islands, seemingly stretching beyond the horizon. In the Krka Valley, a river has spent eons eating its way through horizontal layers of limestone, forming a series of great waterfalls: an amazing sight. The same can be said for the Kornati archipelago, a surreal panorama of countless tiny rock islets piercing through the shimmering surface of the Adriatic. Quieter and less frequented than Dalmatia's south, the region offers a dazzling mosaic of cultural and historical attractions. Beautiful Šibenik is graced with a truly magnificent cathedral, listed as World Heritage, and a trio of mighty fortresses. Zadar's Venetian walls, likewise on the World Heritage list, protect a most unusual mixture of Eastern and Western architectures as well as one of the most outstanding collections of ancient glass in Europe. In Nin, a tiny island hosts one of Croatia's medieval capitals. Magnificent Trogir offers a near-fully preserved medieval cityscape, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. This cruise brings you to all these experiences in style and comfort, aboard a beautiful Turkish-built gulet. Approaching the islands, coast and towns on the glittering Adriatic, you will have an unforgettable voyage. THIS WAS OUR FOURTH PETER SOMMER TRIP (WE JUST HAVE TO KEEP COMING BACK) AND THIS ONE CERTAINLY DID NOT DISAPPOINT. AS BEFORE, WE FOUND THE COMBINATION OF BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, HISTORY, CULTURE, GOOD FOOD AND GOOD COMPANY IMPOSSIBLE TO RESIST! OUR LOVELY GUIDE, IVANA, MADE EVERYTHING COME ALIVE FOR US AND THE CAPTAIN AND CREW COULD NOT HAVE DONE MORE. Simon Tompsett & Alison Ledgerwood, UK EARLY CROATIAN CHURCH OF ST. DONAT, ZADAR54 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

NIN ZADAR 2 KRKA VALLEY WATERFALLS BIOGRADKORNATI ISLANDS NA MORU ENERGETIC BRIBIR SKRADIN SPLIT AIRPORT ŠIBENIK SPLIT TROGIR SAT MAY 26 - SAT JUNE 2, 2018 - Tour Guide: Prof. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic 8 DAYS - £3,495 / Single Supplement: £875 SAT SEPT 8 - SAT SEPT 15, 2018 - Tour Guide: Prof. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic SAT SEPT 15 - SAT SEPT 22, 2018 - Tour Guide: Prof. Helena Tomas or Dr. Ivana Jevtic 8 DAYS - £3,550 / Single Supplement: £875Day 1: Arrivals. Your gulet awaits you in goods from all over Europe. We then cruise Day 6: A morning cruise south throughhistorical Šibenik, about an hour from Split to Zadar, a city where history abounds. We island clusters to explore the impressive andairport. Welcome drinks and dinner on board. explore the Venetian fortifications, Roman beautiful city of Šibenik, with its crooked walls, fascinating church of St. Donatus with lanes, quaint squares and superb cathedral,Day 2: In the morning, we enter the vast its strong Byzantine and Carolingian influences a masterpiece bridging the Gothic andestuary of the river Krka, mooring at the and the excellent archaeological museum. Renaissance styles, now a UNESCO Worldbeautiful riverside town of Skradin. From Heritage site. High above are grand medievalthere, we set out for the historic citadel Day 4: In the morning, we visit the incredibly fortresses, built to secure this valuable andof Bribir, ancient Varvaria, where a mighty beautiful museum of ancient glass at Zadar, strategic town, which offer vast and epic viewsRoman fortification wall surrounds the remains witnessing a presentation of the millennia-old out to sea. The city's archaeological museum isof many eras, including the early Middle Ages. art of glass-blowing. We then head inland one of the best in Croatia.Later, we admire the magnificent waterfalls on an excursion to Nin, one of Croatia’snear Skradin, before cruising through the first medieval capitals, set on a tiny island in Day 7: We cruise along the beautiful shores ofŠibenik archipelago for a delightful swim in a a serene lagoon. The local archaeological Šibenik County, passing by countless islands,quiet bay. museum sets the scene for a place of immense before finally making our way to Trogir. The historic depth. In the afternoon, we cruise out medieval city, a World Heritage Site set onDay 3: We explore the UNESCO-listed to a cove on one of the neighbouring islands. a little island, preserves its RomanesqueVenetian fortifications, the Roman walls, the and Gothic streetscape nearly completely.fascinating church of St. Donatus with its Day 5: We cruise out to the fabled We explore its labyrinthine lanes, delightfulstrong Byzantine and Carolingian influences Kornati Islands, a fairytale scattering of piazzas, charming sea front and the cathedraland the excellent archaeological museum. Its innumerable rock islets set in one of the most of St. Lawrence with its magnificent portal,exhibits include parts of the extraordinary striking maritime landscapes in the entire one of the finest works of Romanesque Art incargo of the Gnalić Shipwreck, discovered only Mediterranean. In this National Park of crystal Europe. Farewell dinner on board.a few miles away. This Renaissance merchant clear waters, glorious swim spots abound.ship, named Gagiana, sank in 1583 on a voyage Conditions permitting, we visit Tureta, a Day 8: Departures from Marina Baotić to Splitfrom Venice to Constantinople carrying an Byzantine beacon fortress, part of a long string airport, about 30 minutes away.unbelievably rich cargo of manufactured of such sites along the Dalmatian shore. 55

A GASTRONOMICGULET CRUISEThere are many great reasons to visit Croatia’s “KEBABS,Dalmatian Coast: a beautiful maritime landscape, numerous MARVELLOUS MEZES,picturesque old towns and cities, with the various treasures they EGGPLANT IN MANYcontain, and the fascinating and convoluted history of a region that has DIFFERENT FORMSoften been at the intersection between different cultural spheres. It AND DISHES, OCTOPUS STEW, LAMB, STUFFEDis this setting between cultures that has created Croatia’s wonderful CALAMARI, SEA BREAM AND YOGHURT WITHcuisine, a major attraction for the traveller in itself. EVERY MEAL - IT WAS ALL DELICIOUS AND OPENED OUR EYES TO THE WONDERFUL ASPECTS OFCroatian cooking is based on the excellent produce the country MEDITERRANEAN AND ANATOLIAN CUISINE.”provides, both from her shores and inland regions: a vast arrayof fish and seafoods, excellent local meats, vegetables a-plenty Philip & Joanne Roudebush, Kansas, USAand a great range of fruit, pampered by the many days ofsunlight that Dalmatia is famous for. But it is the way theseingredients are used that makes Croatian food so distinctive:over the centuries, Croatians have incorporated influencesfrom all over the map into their local cuisine. Mediterraneanand North Italian, Balkan, Slavic and Central European,Ottoman Turkish and Austrian influences have all made theircontributions.On this cruise, we will explore the food and cuisine of Dalmatia,Croatia’s most maritime region. Travelling on an elegant gulet,with ample opportunity to swim in blue Adriatic waters, to admirethe scenery and to simply relax aboard, but also to marvel at someof Dalmatia’s cultural wealth, we will discover the gastronomic richesof islands and mainland in the most insightful and enjoyable fashionpossible. Visiting local producers, sampling the most authentic regionaldishes, the area’s finest wines, best liqueurs and most exquisite oliveoils, participating in cooking classes led by experts and eating atselected konobas (a unique Dalmatian phenomenon that has evolvedout of traditional wine cellars) and restaurants, you will spend a weekdiscovering the delights of Croatian cooking – and eating and drinking.56 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

TROGIR SPLIT AIRPORT 2 SPLIT ENERGETIC BRAČ DUBROVNIK HVAR DUBROVNIK AIRPORT VIS KORČULA MLJETHVAR SAT SEPT 29 - SAT OCT 6, 2018 Tour Guide: Prof. Helena Tomas or Filip Budić 8 DAYS - £3,495 / Single Supplement: £875Day 1: Our gulet is at Marina Baotić, about 30 minutes from Split Day 5: Following a long and relaxing crossing to the island of Korčula,Airport. Welcome drinks and dinner aboard. we’ll visit the sleepy village of Žrnovo, where a local family produces an amazing array of organic products from exclusively local sources:Day 2: We cruise to Split, where the enormous Roman Palace of olive oil, vinegar, dried fruit and fruit preserves, candied citrus peels,Diocletian was repurposed as a medieval town centre. Here, we liqueurs and vermouth, herbal teas, capers, pickled onions and muchaccompany a local chef to the markets to buy ingredients for what is more. After a thorough tasting, we drive to the picturesque medievalto be our lunch of Dalmatian specialities. We make lunch together, town of Korčula and enjoy dinner in one of the island’s best localin the form of a superb and highly enjoyable cooking class. In the restaurants.afternoon, we cruise south to the island of Brač. Day 6: A chance to swim on a restful morning before we go ashoreDay 3: After a leisurely morning and opportunities to swim, we to explore the Dingač region on the Pelješac Peninsula. The localexplore the island’s interior. Lunch is at a traditional olive press in vineyards, set on immensely steep south-facing slopes, receive overthe tiny and extraordinarily beautiful village of Škrip, with a chance 2,500 hours of sunshine per year, its intensity increased by reflectionto taste local cheeses, pršut (cured ham), wine, oil and jams. Close from the sea. From the Plavac Mali grape, local winemakers produceby is the delightful local archaeological museum and a whole series of one of Croatia’s most celebrated red wines, known as Dingač: anfascinating historic buildings. We head up to Vidova Gora, the highest intensely aromatic dark red dry wine of profound flavours. We visit apeak in the Adriatic islands, for breathtaking views before descending winery to see the vineyards and sample their produce before cruisingto a small farmstead set in a forest clearing, where we help to on to overnight in a pretty bay.prepare dinner, using a peka, the metal cooking bell so distinctive ofDalmatia and the Balkans. Day 7: We begin the day with a journey to the historic town of Ston, which was strongly fortified by medieval Ragusa (modern Dubrovnik)Day 4: We journey south to the island of Hvar and head inland to to guard the area’s resources, especially the enormous salt pansexplore the Stari Glad Plain, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage and the vineyards of Pelješac. We tour the historic salt works andsite, where today’s farmers still grow their vines, fruit, vegetables visit one of the area’s famous oyster farms, set in one of the nearbyand grains in a system of fields set up by ancient Greek colonists shallow coves. After a wonderful seafood lunch in the Old Town, we2,400 years ago. Later we travel up into the hills to one of the return to our gulet and continue southward to the bay of Slano.most traditional surviving konobas in Dalmatia. Here we samplehomemade wines and learn of the local culture of the konoba and Day 8: Departure transfers to Dubrovnik airport, about 1 hour away.customs surrounding the drinking of wine. 57

WALKING AND CRUISINGSOUTHERN DALMATIAWalking and Cruising Southern Dalmatia is an enticing combination of a gulet cruise with walks and hikesthrough some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. Ancient forts, beautiful towns, great castles and lovely churchesline the trail, and our guides will use them to bring the country’s rich and turbulent history to vibrant life.A series of highlights await you day by day. At Ston, you’ll walk atop the unique 5 km wall, the longest linear defence in medievalEurope, built in the 14th and 15th centuries to protect a landscape of prime agricultural land and precious salt pans in one of theAdriatic’s most important wine-growing regions. On Mljet, a network of paths and tracks will offer you an ever-changing set ofvistas, taking in sea and lake, hill and valley, and a string of sites ranging from prehistory via the Romans to the Middle Ages. NearOrebić on the Pelješac peninsula, you will discover a mighty Iron Age citadel, a long-forgotten centre of tribal power, set on aremote and wild plateau high above the sea. On Hvar, you will explore the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,where local farmers are using the same tracks and maintaining the same field boundaries that their ancient Greek forebears laidout when they colonised the island 100 generations ago: a living archaeological landscape. On Brać, the monastery of Placa with itswhite plastered roofs sits in a silent valley far away from the travails of modern civilisation, reachable only on foot.You will also experience this magnificent stretch of Croatia’s coast through its delicious local produce: a cornucopia of delightsawait: fresh seafood, fine wines and superb meat and cheese dishes. Travelling aboard a traditional and elegant gulet, you’ll havethe pleasure of anchoring in beautiful bays and coves and picturesque harbours, the perfect way to discover the Dalmatian coast.58 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

SPLIT AIRPORT SPLITTROGIR BRAČ HVAR MLJET KRKA RIVER BLACA MONASTERY SLANO BAY DUBROVNIK DUBROVNIK AIRPORT 1323 SAT SEPT 29 - SAT OCT 6, 2018 INITNETNESNIVSIEVE Tour Guide: Prof. Helena Tomas 8 DAYS - £3,495 / Single Supplement: £875Day 1: We embark at the little harbour Day 4: We begin the day with a hike up village of Gazul. After a rustic traditionalof Slano, about an hour from Dubrovnik to the beautiful Nakovana plateau, high lunch, we descend the Blaca Gorge,airport. Welcome drinks and dinner on above Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula. visiting the striking monastery of theboard. In an evocative landscape setting, we same name along the way. discover a stupendous prehistoric hillfort,Day 2: In the morning, we walk the an ancient sacred cave and a picturesque Day 7: We cruise to the mainland and\"Great Wall of Ston\", one of the most abandoned village. then walk up to the stunning fortressunusual historical fortifications in Europe. of Klis. Set on a rocky promontory,Erected in the 14th and 15th centuries Day 5: Our morning starts with us inaccessible from three sides andto protect the precious salt pans and the heading to the island of Hvar. Here, we with stunning views all around thispeninsula itself, the wall stretches for make our way from the serene little port monumental fortification was once the5.5 km from Ston to Mali Ston. In the of Stari Grad to walk in the hills above gateway to Dalmatia.afternoon, we make the short crossing to the Stari Grad Plain before exploring thethe verdant island of Mljet. plain itself, Croatia's most unusual World Day 8: Transfers to Split airport about 30 Heritage site: the field system laid out by minutes away.Day 3: On Mljet, we explore an the Greek settlers of Pharos twenty fourimportant nature reserve, following centuries ago, and still in use. “I LEARNED SO MUCH FROM OURromantic forest tracks and passing a GUIDES. HELENA, THE ARCHAEOLOGIST,Roman palace, an Illyrian stronghold, Day 6: We cross to the wonderful island BROUGHT HISTORY ALIVE FOR US.”a pretty pair of lakes and a beautiful of Brač. Here, we head up to admire themedieval monastery set on a lake island. views from Vidova Gora, the highest peak Phyllis Meichel, New Jersey, USALater, we cruise to the Straits between of all the Adriatic Islands, followed by aKorčula and Orebić. wonderful forest walk to the mountain 59

ABOUT GREECEGreece is a land irrevocably connected in our in the islands' interiors, away from the gaze of pirates, lies aimagination with the glories of the ancient wealth of holy sites: prehistoric sanctuaries, ancient shrines,world: the magnificent temples of Delphi and medieval chapels and monasteries.Olympia; the military might of Athens andSparta; the land that gave birth to democracy, These historical riches are embellished by the natural wondersphilosophy, theatre and beautiful art. that abound throughout Greece: barely-active volcanoes, hot springs, snowy peaks, fertile plains, beautiful coves and, inGreece lives up to this billing, but goes far beyond it. It is a land the spring, abundant wildflowers. The best time to visit is lateof deep blue seas, long sandy beaches, snow-capped peaks spring (April-early June) and the late summer (September/and strings of beautiful islands. It has a wonderful cuisine, with October).the emphasis firmly placed on fresh produce simply cooked.Athens, the capital, is a magnificent place to begin exploring From crystal waters to delicious food, golden sunshine tothe country and sample the juxtaposition of old and new. The abundant antiquities, Greece has all the ingredients for avibrant modern city is lorded over by the soaring mass of the wonderful cultural holiday.Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon. Other equally splendidruins rear up throughout the city centre. MACEDONIA THESSALONIKIThe other mainland regions each have their individual IOANNINA LARISSAfascination and all of them are spectacular: the Peloponnesewith its deep roots in prehistory and mythology; mountainous GREECE VOLOSCentral Greece an with astonishing array of superbarchaeological exhibits and of course Northern Greece, CORFU TURKEYAlexander's Kingdom of Macedon, jam-packed with first-rateancient sites rarely noticed by mass tourism. DELPHI AEGEAN SEA SAMOS PATRAS ATHENS KOSTurning towards the islands, Crete is a land of its own, afascinating panorama of stunning landscapes and breathtaking OLYMPIA CYCLADEScoastlines, home to an enduringly fascinating prehistoric PELOPONNESEcivilisation and to many historic towns and villages. RHODESThe location of the Cyclades and Dodecanese Islands, betweenthe Greek and Anatolian mainlands, has endowed them with a CRETEwealth of wonderful archaeological sites and museums. Manyof the islands are crowned by magnificent medieval (Byzantine,Crusader and/or Ottoman) castles or by the rakishlylabyrinthine traditional villages so typical of the region. Hidden6 0 P E T E R S O M M E R TTR AV E L S

“CRUISING TO THE CYCLADES WAS A JOY FROM START TO FINISH. WE ASSEMBLED ON THE BOAT, A MIXTURE OF PEOPLE FROM USA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, HONG KONG AND THE UK. TRIED TO REMEMBER NAMES AND MET THE CREW WHO WOULD LOOK AFTER US ALL. TALKS OVER MEALS WERE EXCELLENT. OFF THE NEXT MORNING FOR ADVENTURES WHICH WERE SUCH FUN AND SO EDUCATIONAL. THE PLEASURE WE HAD GETTING TO KNOW EVERYONE, LOUNGING ON THE BOAT WATCHING THE SWIMMERS AND THE BLUE AEGEAN SEA AND GOING ON THE LAND TRIPS WAS IMMENSE. I CAN THOROUGHLY RECOMMEND THIS VOYAGE.” Margaret Harris, UKDELPHI 61

EASTER IN ATHENS THE KERAMEIKOS “A HUGELY ENJOYABLE TRIP AND A VIVID EXPERIENCE OF WHY THE GREEKS DID WHAT THEY DID AND HOW THIS UNDERSTANDING WAS ACHIEVED THROUGH THEIR ART, ARCHAEOLOGY AND BUILDINGS. THE TRIP ALSO LEFT ME WITH A GREATLY INCREASED APPRECIATION FOR THE BEST OF GREEK CUISINE.” Tony Corrigan, Sussex, UK Athens has a unique place in the history of Western Civilisation – it defines our image of ancient Greece. The ancient Athenian calendar was dominated by religious festivals like the Panathenaia, Dionysia or Eleusinia, occasions when the city state acted out its own identity. Today, Orthodox Easter is the most important festival in modern Greece: celebrated passionately, solemnly and eventually exuberantly, it is a central expression of Greek identity and a spectacular experience for visitors. This new tour combines a thorough introduction to Ancient Athens with a chance to observe the Easter festivities or to participate in them! Our expert guides, steeped in Athenian life – ancient and modern – will show you all the major remains of the Classical, Roman and medieval city: the sacred rock of the Acropolis with its venerable monuments and its superb museum; the ancient Kerameikos cemetery; the Agora, the political, commercial and civic heart of the ancient city; and the National Museum, the world’s most important treasury of Ancient Greek Art. You will walk the streets and squares that were touched by immortal characters such as Aeschylus, Pericles, Herodotus or Socrates, the people who allowed Athens to become a cultural beacon shining across the millennia, creating or advancing philosophy, tragedy, comedy, history, art and architecture. In parallel, you will have a daily chance to observe the celebrations of Orthodox Holy Week, from intimate and quaint observances to the drama of processions, all culminating in the celebration of light on Easter night and the exuberant feast of Easter Sunday. Apart from deep archaeological and historical insights, you will experience a slice of modern Athenian life, as well many opportunities to enjoy some of the very best Greek food and wine at some of our favourite venues – including Easter specials. Your base for the week long tour is a fine 5 star hotel located near the heart of the city and old town, with perfect access to all its sights and amenities.62 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

AEGEAN SEANORTHERN ATTICA MARATHON NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUMELEUSIS MT. LYCABETTUS ATHENS BRAURON KERAMEIKOS PLAKA BENAKI AGORA MUSEUM ATHENS AIRPORT ACROPOLIS THEATRE OF DIONYSUS SOUTHERN ATTICA THE NEW ACROPOLIS MUSEUM SOUNION TEMPLE OF NIKE, ATHENS ACROPOLIS 2 MON APR 2 - MON APR 9, 2018ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall and Dr. Maria Girtzi 8 DAYS £TBC / Single Supplement £TBCDay 1: Arrival in Athens. Transfer from the airport, Neoclassical houses, we make our way to the Anavysos to see the tableau vivant of the Passion.about 40 minutes away, to our hotel in the centre National Archaeological Museum, home to the After dinner, we visit the church of Agios Georgiosof the city. most iconic treasures of ancient Greek civilisation. Karitzi in the heart of Athens to hear beautiful choral singing, mourning the epitaph, the symbolicDay 2: The day is devoted to the Acropolis and its Day 4: In Greek Orthodoxy, Thursday is the day of tomb of Christ.slopes. We visit the Theatre of Dionysos, where the Crucifixion. After a free morning, we set out onAeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes a long excursion to Northern Attica. We visit the Day 6: Holy Saturday is day of general mourningproduced their plays and where Saint Paul may beautiful site of Brauron, a sanctuary of Artemis and fasting (optional for our guests, of course).have spoken. We follow the peripatos, the ancient connected with the poignant story of Iphigeneia’s We continue to Eleusis, one of the most importantpath around the Acropolis, before climbing human sacrifice and divine redemption. A late sanctuaries of ancient Athens, hinged on a storyto the sacred rock to view the city’s eternal seaside lunch is followed by a visit to the Pentelikon of entering and leaving the Underworld. In theachievements. Passing through the gateway of the quarry, where the marble for the Parthenon was evening, you have the option of observing themighty Propylaea, we explore the fabled temples cut, and the Byzantine cave chapel of Davelis. Easter celebration of the Ethiopian and Armenianof Periclean Athens – dainty Athena Nike, the Later, we proceed to the monastery of Daou (Moni communities before we meet for the midnightincomparable and enormous Parthenon, and the Penteli) to observe Holy Thursday observances, mass in Agioi Anargyroi, one of the most ancientornate Erechtheion, the most sacred place in the accompanied by a re-enactment of the Crucifixion. churches of Athens, to see the first appearance ofancient city. In the afternoon, we visit the superb the Holy Light in Greece. The experience will beAcropolis Museum, devoted entirely to finds from Day 5: Holy Friday is a solemn day in Orthodoxy, followed by a traditional late-night Easter meal.the Acropolis itself. the day on which the Saviour is absent and when his funeral is observed. Appropriately, we visit Day 7: Easter Sunday is a day of joy, celebrationDay 3: In the morning, we visit the Agora, with its the Kerameikos, the most important cemetery of and indulgence and we enjoy the traditionalwealth of remains from Classical, Hellenistic and ancient Athens, with its extraordinary examples Greek Easter feast of lamb in a taverna in the city,Roman times and its informative museum. After a of funerary sculpture. after a lunch of traditional celebrating alongside the people of Athens.stroll through Plaka, the Old Town of Athens, to lenten dishes, we visit the stunningly beautifulview its Roman, Hellenistic and Byzantine remains Temple of Poseidon at SouniToEnMoPnLtEheOsFouNtIhKeEast Day 8: Transfers for Athens airport, about 40rubbing shoulders with Ottoman mansions and tip of Attica. On the way back, we stop at minutes away. 63

EXPLORING CRETE: “THIS WAS OUR 5TH CONSECUTIVE PETER SOMMER TRAVELS TRIP AND, AS USUAL, ITARCHAEOLOGY, NATURE AND FOOD LIVED UP TO ALL EXPECTATIONS. OUR GUIDES WERE GREAT. THEY ENTERTAINED AND IN- FORMED US AND LOOKED AFTER US SO WELL AND BROUGHT THE HISTORY OF CRETE TO LIFE. THE FOOD AND WINE WERE EXCELLENT AND WE ARE NOW TRYING TO DECIDE WHERE TO GO FOR OUR 6TH TRIP! ” Simon Tompsett & Alison Ledgerwood, UKAPTERA MON APR 16 - SAT APR 28, 2018A spectacular land tour of the legendary island Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall and Dr. Maria Girtziof Crete. 13 DAYS - £3,995 / Single Supplement: £660The historical significance of Crete, largest of the Greek islands, Day 1: Arrival in Iraklio (Heraklion). Transfer from airport about 15is second to none. The island’s stunning prehistoric \"Minoan\" minutes away. Welcome drinks and dinner.civilisation, its renowned Classical cities and the rich remains of theRoman, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman cultures lead us right Day 2: We drive eastwards along the coast to the extensivethrough to its turbulent 20th century history. remains of the Minoan Palace at Malia and its surrounding town, founded over 4,000 years ago – a perfect introduction to MinoanBesides such historical and archaeological riches, the island is a archaeology. We drive up into the Dykti mountains to the celebratedplace of extraordinary natural beauty and diversity. Its inhabitants Lasithi Plateau, 1,000m above sea level and famous for its white-are fiercely proud of their homeland and maintain its many sailed windmills. After our first village lunch, we take a panoramictraditions, including the fabled Cretan hospitality. To take full walk to one of the region's sacred caves, before returning to Iraklio.advantage of these riches, our tour includes a vast variety of Before dinner, we stroll through the Venetian heart of the city, oncedifferent landscapes and ancient sites, bringing you into direct known as Candia.contact with its coasts, mountains, gorges and fertile plains, as wellas its historical villages and towns.The tour also offers centre-stage to Cretan cuisine, in the formof excellent meals in carefully-selected restaurants and tavernas,as well as wine tastings at regional vineyards. At night, you will bestaying in beautiful surroundings, ranging from elegant Venetianpalazzos to traditional inns and agritouristic properties in serenemountain villages.64 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

GOUVERNETO CHANIA RETHYMNO HERAKLION APTERA ELEFTHERNA LISSOS WHITE MTS KNOSSOS MALIA SITEIA PALAIKASTRO 2 ARCHANES AG. NIKOLAOS SFAKAENERGETIC MT.IDA VATHYPETRO PSYCHRO LATO AG. TRIADA PHAISTOS MT.DYKTI GOURNIA ZAKROS GORTYN KAPETANIANADay 3: We begin exploring East Crete by visiting the scenic Hellenistic Day 8: Free day, yours to relax or explore the lanes and vistas ofcity of Lato, boasting wonderful views over the gulf of Mirabello. Chania. You are free to choose your own options for lunch and dinner.We stop by the Byzantine/ Venetian church of Panayia Kera with itsfamous frescoes and continue to the incredibly well-preserved Minoan Day 9: A stunning drive along the edge of the White Mountains totown of Gournia, where we can walk along 3,500-year-old lanes. Our Souyia on the south coast. We take a short boat ride to rarely-visitedvillage hotel to the east is situated in a picturesque mountain village. Lissos, one of the loveliest ancient cities in Crete, set in a cove only reachable by boat or on foot, followed by lunch on a beautiful beech.Day 4: This day is devoted to the island’s easternmost region, wherewe visit three archaeological highlights: the museum of Siteia with Day 10: A morning drive to the Akrotiri peninsula to visit thethe famous gold-and-ivory \"Palaikastro Kouros\", the Minoan town of monastery of Agia Triada and its small museum of icons. We drivePalaikastro itself, and the town and Palace of Zakros, where rich finds by the magnificent Bay of Souda, site of the island’s British andhave provided much information on Minoan trade. After a beachside Commonwealth war cemetery, to the vast Classical and Roman citylunch, we return to our hotel. of Aptera, followed by a village lunch. We end the day in the grand Venetian city of Rethymno, where we stay in a 16th century palazzo.Day 5: We return westwards for a highlight of the tour: we exploreCrete’s most famous archaeological site, the great Minoan palace Day 11: In the morning, we visit Eleftherna, one of the oldest andof Knossos, followed by lunch and a wine tasting in the lush Peza most important ancient cities, set in the beautiful Amari valley andregion, the heart of Cretan wine-making. We continue south into the still undergoing excavation. The brand-new site museum is full ofAsterousia Mountains, towering above the rugged southern coast. fascinating treasures. Later, we explore the highlights of Rethymno: its Venetian castle, Ottoman mosques and fascinating architecturalDay 6: A morning tour of the Minoan palace at Phaistos, the most details.impressive of its kind, its panoramic setting overlooking the hugeMesara Plain and the snowy peaks of Mt. Ida. Next, we discover the Day 12: We return to Iraklio to visit the Archaeological Museum, onebeautifully located Minoan town of Agia Triada, said to have been a of the world’s most important exhibits of prehistoric art and artefacts,summer residence for the rulers of Phaistos. After lunch and a visit to a magnificent showcase of the Minoan culture. After a relaxingthe superb ethnographic museum at Voroi, there is time to relax. afternoon, we conclude with a final gourmet dinner.Day 7: We investigate the island’s Roman capital, Gortyn, with an Day 13: Transfer to Heraklion airport about 15 minutes away.array of excavated buildings and other largely unexcavated ruins. Wecontinue into the western half of Crete, to enjoy lunch and a tasting ata famous winery in the most fertile part of Crete. We end the day at alovely seafront hotel in the beautiful Venetian city of Chania. 65

EXPLORING THE PELOPONNESE“WE TOOK THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED AND THAT MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. EXPLORING THE PELOPONNESE,TRULY DID EXPLORE. WE DISCOVERED GREEK WILD-FLOWERS, AND GREEK WINE, LOCAL GREEK FOOD-DISHES(INCLUDING WILD BOAR). WE STAYED IN DELIGHTFUL AND UNUSUAL SMALL HOTELS AND VISITED ALL THE USUALSITES LIKE MYCENAE, AND OLYMPIA BUT WITH TOUR LEADERS, ARCHAELOGISTS HEINRICH AND NOTA, FALLENHEAPS OF STONES AND MASSED MUSEUM DISPLAYS CAME ALIVE AS BUILDINGS AND LIFESTYLES, AND THE HISTORY,ICONS, AND WALL PAINTINGS OF BYZANTINE CHURCHES WERE EXPLAINED TO A GROUP WHO OF TRAVELLERSMUCH MORE FAMILIAR WITH WESTERN ART. THEY OPENED UP A WORLD THAT ALL THE STUDYING FROM BOOKSCANNOT GIVE. THE ONLY TROUBLE IS I WANT TO GO BACK FOR MORE\"! A WONDERFUL TRIP”Denise Young, Victoria, AUS MONEMVASIAThe Peloponnese conjures up images of ancient glories, epic struggles, valiant heroes and majesticvistas. The mere mention of names like Arcadia or Corinth, Sparta or Olympia, Nemea or Mycenaeawakens our imagination, reminding us of fascinating legends and dramatic historical scenes reachingfar across the ages.The fame of this large peninsula that forms the southern part of the Greek Mainland rests on its long and often spectacularhistory, making it a veritable heartland of European and Western culture. From the first farmers of the Neolithic to the BronzeAge Mycenaeans, via the glories of Classical Greece and Rome and the splendours of the Byzantine Empire, all the way up to theOttoman Empire and the Greek War of Independence, the Peloponnese has often been centre-stage to key historical events.The region is also central in Greek myth - home to the heroes of Homer’s Iliad like King Agamemnon and Nestor, the deeds ofHerakles (Hercules) and a place often frequented by the Gods themselves, be it in love or wrath.Join us in bringing these fascinating places and their history to life. You’ll journey through stunningly beautiful scenery, from smallfertile plains to rough and rugged mountains and rocky peninsulas jutting out into the blue waters of the Mediterranean. You’lldiscover many of the area’s most famous highlights, including no less than six UNESCO World Heritage sites: the gargantuanBronze Age fortifications of Tiryns and Mycenae, the Classical splendours of Olympia, famous for the games that still bear itsname, the grand Temple of Apollo at Bassai, Epidaurus, home to the finest of all ancient Greek theatres, and beautiful ByzantineMystras with its painted churches.66 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

ATTICA WED MAY 2 - WED MAY 16, 2018 ACHAIA Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall & Dr. Maria Girtzi ELIS NEMEA CORINTH ATHENS TIRYNS WED OCT 10 - WED OCT 24, 2018 OLYMPIA CORINTHIA ATHENS ANDRITSAINA INT. AIRPORT Tour Guide: Heinrich Hall MYCENAE 2 IONIAN SEA DIMITSANA EPIDAUROS 15 DAYS - £4,425 / Single Supplement: £820ENERGETIC We use elegant hotels of 3-5 stars ARCADIA ARGOLID Includes all meals except one lunch and two dinners NAFPLIO BASSAI MESSENE SPARTA MYRTOAN SEA MONEMVASIA MESSENIA MYSTRAS KALAMATA LACONIA PYLOS METHONIYou’ll also discover wonders off the beaten track, like mountainous AREOPOLISArcadia with its perched villages and gorge-side monasteries andthe majestic Mani Peninsula, where a romantically wild landscape is DIROS CAVESperfectly matched by its belligerent traditional architecture. MANI PENINSULANaturally you’ll savour some of the region’s best traditional cuisine, sample many of the fine wines that have been cultivatedhere for millennia and stay in delightful accommodations and locations. Led by a team of archaeologist guides with many years’knowledge and experience of the region, this tour will introduce you to the splendours of one of the ancient Mediterranean’s mostsignificant regions. As you explore its historical and cultural majesty as well as its natural beauty and living traditions you’ll gain atrue and unforgettable sense and understanding of what the Peloponnese was and is. THEATRE AT EPIDAUROS“A WONDERFUL ROMP THROUGH THE HISTORY,ARCHAEOLOGY, FOOD, WINE AND CULTURE OF THEPELOPONNESE. IT WAS INTELLECTUALLY STIMULATINGAND ALLOWED US TO REALLY ENJOY THE GREEK FOODAND SAMPLE TO LOCAL WINES”Sarah Anne Reeckmann, NSW, Australia 67

EXPLORING THE PELOPONNESEMASK OF AGAMEMNON, NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, ATHENSDay 1: Arrival in Athens. Transfer from airport, about 40 minutes away, to our Day 4: We explore the history and architecture of Monemvasia in detail,hotel in the centre of the city. Welcome dinner starting with the picturesque Venetian Lower Town before ascending the heavily fortified plateau above, crowned by the 12th century Byzantine churchDay 2: We set out, passing the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow strip of land of Agia Sophia, perched precipitously on a clifftop. We visit an excellent localthat connects the Peloponnese to the mainland and separates the Corinthian winery after lunch to taste the region’s produce, followed by an easy-going freeand Saronic Gulfs. After a glance at the mighty Corinth Canal, we visit Nemea, afternoon.a famed sanctuary of Zeus that was a bone of contention between Corinthand the Argolid. Its informative museum, impressive temple and splendid Day 5: Westwards into the heart of Laconia: legendary Sparta, to visit the verystadium, entered by a long vaulted tunnel full of graffiti left by ancient athletes, interesting archaeological museum. In the afternoon we explore Mystras, theare set in the fertile hills of Greece’s best-known wine regions. At a winery capital of the medieval Despotate of the Morea, among the most important oflunch, we sample the region’s signature Agiorgitiko wine. We spend our first all Byzantine sites, comprising a castle, city walls, monasteries and a plethoraPeloponnesian night in Nafplio, one of Greece’s most attractive towns. of churches with superb fresco decoration. We finish the day in the Mani peninsula.Day 3: A morning visit to Nafplio’s superb Archaeological Museum to admireits important prehistoric collections, including the Dendra Panoply, one of the Day 6: A day devoted to exploring the legendary Mani Peninsula, the wildworld’s oldest surviving suits of full body armour. We then travel southwards and rugged southern tip of Mainland Greece, with its rugged villages of toweralong the coast, crossing beautiful mountain landscapes into Laconia; the houses and its hidden-away medieval churches. Our tour includes a boat-rideancient land of the Spartans. We stop at the mountain village of Kosmas, its in the breathtaking cave of Diros and a visit to the Oracle of the Dead at capemain square shaded by venerable plane trees, before reaching our destination, Tainaron, believed in antiquity to be an entrance to the Underworld.the extraordinarily beautiful medieval walled town of Monemvasia, set on arocky island that juts into the Aegean Sea.68 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

Day 7: We travel along Mani's western shore Day 11: Today is given over to exploring the STATUE OF A SPARTAN WARRIOR - LEONIDASinto Messenia, the Peloponnese's lushlyfertile southwestern region. At Kardamyli, wild and mountainous beauty of Arcadia, SPARTA ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUMwe visit the picturesque Old Town and theMourtzinos Tower, offering insights into famed for its out-of-this-world remotenessthe area's chequered history. On reachingKalamata, we stroll through the lovely old since antiquity. In the morning, we visit thetown and visit the wonderfully diversearchaeological museum. mysterious Sanctuary of Apollo at Bassai,Day 8: An excursion into western Messenia. with one of the best-preserved ClassicalHere, we visit the Mycenaean “Palace ofNestor” and the museum at nearby Chora. Temples in Greece. After lunch in one of theWe explore the enormous and well-preserved Venetian castle of Methoni, and characteristic mountain villages, we makebefore our return to Kalamata, we stop atPylos to take in the charming town and its our way to the monastery of Agios Ioannisgrand views over the Bay of Navarino, wherea Turkish fleet was destroyed by the Greek’s Prodromos, hanging from a cliff face highallies in 1827, and the island of Sphakteria,where Sparta suffered its first major defeat above the Lousos Gorge. ENESEQUIAE NET POSANDA NTIORECTEMto Athens during the Peloponnesian War in425 BC. Day 12: Leaving the mountains behind, we continue eastwards to Tegea, where we visitDay 9: We leave Kalamata for ancient the archaeological museum. Another wineMessene, the stunning capital built for the tasting, focusing on the famous produce ofMessenians in the 4th century BC, after the Mantineia region, is followed by a drive tocenturies of submission to Sparta. Ongoing the vast Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, Kingexcavations are revealing the unusually well- Agamemnon’s capital in Greek myth, withpreserved remains of the city, set on a plateau its Cyclopean walls and the emblematic Lionoverlooking the sea far below, surrounded Gate. We explore the site and its museumby an astonishing system of walls, towers thoroughly before continuing to Nafplio.and gates, and containing a theatre, agora,public fountains, sanctuaries and one of the Day 13: In the morning, we discover thefinest ancient stadiums in Greece. Later, we unbelievably massive Bronze Age fortificationtraverse the lush countryside of Northern of Tiryns. Then, we set out for the easternMessenia to enter the territory of ancient Elis, Argolid, to see the Mycenaean bridge ofspending the night at Ancient Olympia. Kazarma, said to be the oldest standing road bridge in the world before reaching theDay 10: We tour the site of Olympia in depth. Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidauros. TheThe great sanctuary of Zeus, famous for the site, set in peaceful scenery, features thesacred quadrennial festival and athletic games best-preserved ancient theatre in Greecefirst established in 776 BC. The vast site, set renowned for its perfect proportions. Afteramongst olive trees and between two rivers, lunch we return to Nafplio for a free lateincludes temples and sanctuaries, training afternoon.grounds and gymnasia. The site museumcontains a vast collection of ancient Greek Day 14: Before leaving the Peloponnese, “WE LOVED THE EXPLORINGweaponry and wonderful sculptures from we stop at Corinth, to wander through thethe Temple of Zeus. In the afternoon, we remains of the fabulously wealthy ancient city, THE PELOPONNESE TOUR. WEenter scenic Arcadia to spend the night in the including the grand Archaic Temple of Apollo, SAW AMAZING SIGHTS ANDstriking mountain village of Dimitsana. and the marble-paved Roman high street, LEARNED SO MUCH ABOUT lined by colonnades. We return to Athens, THEM FROM HEINRICH. THIS IS where we visit the National Archaeological OUR SECOND PETER SOMMER Museum to see the fabled gold treasures from TRAVELS TOUR AND WE'LL Mycenae, among them the so-called Mask of DEFINITELY BE SIGNING UP Agamemnon. FOR MORE!” Day 15: Transfers for Athens airport, about 40 minutes away. Linda & John Ujifusa, USA 69

CRUISING TO THE CYCLADES“AN AMAZING TRIP IN ALL RESPECTS. THE GUIDESWERE KNOWLEDGABLE AND FUN. THE ISLANDS WERESTEEPED IN HISTORY, THE MUSEUMS AND RUINS WEREFANTASTIC, THE ARCHITECTURE AND VISTAS WEREBREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL, THE FOOD WAS SUPERBWITH EACH MEAL A DINING EXPERIENCE. THE SHIPWAS COMFORTABLE AND A VERY MUCH A PART OFTHE ADVENTURE. WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND THISTRIP!”Dr M. Paula Neumann, Virginia, USAJoin us for the ultimate Greek island adventure, as we Day 1: Our gulet is about 35 minutes from Kosexplore the history and natural beauty of the Aegean Airport in Kos Harbour. Welcome drinks andSea. dinner.Clear blue waters, vast island-dotted horizons and a wide range of ancient and Day 2: After a morning tour of the Asklipieion ofmedieval treasures combine to make Cruising to the Cyclades the quintessential Kos, one of the most famous healing shrines of theGreek island experience. This two-week cruise through the Dodecanese and ancient world, we briefly enter Turkey for customsCyclades archipelagos is a carefully chosen mix of the world-famous (such as formalities at the resort of Turgutreis for customsglorious Santorini, laid-back Kos, mountainous Naxos and UNESCO-listed formalities. We continue to the island of Pothia,Delos) and rarely visited secrets of the Aegean (such as remote Astypalaia, where we visit one of the last remaining traditionalpicturesque Nisyros and tiny Anafi), each one with its own distinctive charac- sponge-washeries.ter and beauty. Day 3: Wonderful maritime scenery abounds as weThis region has been a crucible of history from the very earliest times. Its make the long westward crossing to the picturesquearchaeological sites range from Bronze Age cities to Classical temples, Byzan- harbour of Katapola on the stupendously ruggedtine monasteries to Crusader castles. Your expert guides will bring them all to island of Amorgos in the Cyclades.life and as the islands glide by you will travel through the pages of history. You'llalso experience glorious landscapes, traditional villages and bustling harbour Day 4: On Amorgos, the striking Chora (islandtowns. Why not join us for a unique experience of exploration and relaxation, capital), and the Chozoviotissa monastery, perilouslya perfect mix of culture and nature, in a truly epic maritime setting? clinging to a cliff-face overlooking the Aegean far below. Weather permitting, we continue our cruise northwestwards, towards the famous island of Mykonos.70 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

MYKONOSDELOSPAROS NAXOS BODRUM AMORGOS KALYMNOS KOS ASTYPALAIA NISYROS SANTORINI ANAFI 2 SAT MAY 19 - SAT JUNE 2, 2018 - 15 DAYS - £4,195 / Single Supplement: £1,095 SAT SEPT 1 - SAT SEPT 15, 2018 - 15 DAYS - £4,395 / Single Supplement: £1,175ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall & Dr. Maria GirtziDay 5: We make an early visit the stunning Ekatonpyliani Day 10: Conditions permitting, we Day 13: We make our way tomorning crossing to Delos. One Church, one of the most drop anchor at the small, rarely- the labyrinthine port village ofof Greece’s most important important Byzantine monuments visited and unspoiled island of Mandraki on Nisyros to explorearchaeological sites. Its shrines, in the Aegean, and the local Anafi, with its single village and a its excellent archaeologicaltheatre and other public buildings archaeological museum, Byzantine monastery built over an museum. In the afternoon admireand its rich array of public illustrating the use of the famed imposing ancient temple of Apollo, the superb ancient fortificationsculpture make for a fascinating Parian marble for sculpture. before continuing to a beautiful of Paliokastro before visitingvisit. In the afternoon, we cove off the island of Astypalaia. the volcanic crater of Stefanos,continue to Naxos, the largest of Day 8: Onwards to Santorini, followed by dinner in the village ofthe Cycladic islands. where we anchor within the Day 11: On Astypalaia, we take a Emporio, perched on the rim of enormous volcanic caldera. In its leisurely walk through the stunning the caldera.Day 6: In the morning, we glamorous capital, Fira, we visit chora, one of the most beautifulexplore Naxos, including its the museum dedicated to the in the Aegean, with its grand Day 14: We return to Kos Town, asuperb collection of prehistoric island’s extraordinary Bronze Venetian castle offering breath- beguiling mix of ancient, medievalCycladic figurines. Later, we visit Age civilisation and enjoy the taking views across the blue sea. and modern. Here, we visitthe 1500-year old church of the unforgettable views. the Casa Romana, one of thePanagia Drosiani and the ancient Day 12: Weather permitting, we best-preserved Roman privatemarble quarries at Flerio, where Day 9: An excursion to the Bronze make a westward crossing to the homes in Greece, and the island'sunfinished 2600-year-old statues Age town at Akrotiri, the Pompeii little island of Giali. There is ample excellent archaeological museum,lie as if asleep on the ground. of the Aegean, destroyed and time to swim and relax, plus an as well as the harbour-sideLater we make a sunset visit to the preserved by a volcanic eruption opportunity to go ashore and look Crusader Castle (if open). A finalfamous Portara, the huge marble around 1,600 BC, followed by a for traces of Giali's long industrial chance to shop, snack or just relaxgateway to a long-lost temple. visit to a traditional winery. In the heritage as a source of pumice in the bustling town square. afternoon, we have time to relax in the recent past, and one ofDay 7: We cross to pretty in the pretty village of Oia. obsidian, a rare volcanic glass, in Day 15: Transfer to Kos airportParoikia on the island of Paros and prehistory. about 30 minutes away. 71

THE ISLAND OF SYMICRUISING THE AEGEAN:FROM KOS TO PATMOS The Dodecanese islands are perhaps the most ethereally beautiful part of the Aegean. Set in a sparkling topaz-blue sea, they have a rich and intricate history stretching back millennia, and a distinctive culture. From the deck of our gulet, you will cruise in comfort as the islands come to you, each with its own distinctive silhouette and story: mountainous Kalymnos; Nisyros with its brooding volcanic cone; Patmos crowned by its extraordinary monastery - a World Heritage Site; serene, secluded Pserimos and Kos, visible throughout the cruise as a long horizon-defining ridge and blessed with great archaeological wealth. Anchoring in coves of the bluest shimmering water and harbours with pastel-painted houses rising above you, you can relax as you wish before dining on meals freshly prepared on board or served at carefully selected tavernas on the islands themselves. In a tranquil and unhurried way, you can drink in the vistas of picturesque villages, rocky backdrops and volcanic cones as verdant headlands and glittering bays slide by. The islands have a long history as a place where cultures met and learned from each other, or came into conflict. Our expert guides will introduce you to some of the finest traces of this long past, ranging from prehistory via the Greek and Roman eras to those of the Byzantines, Knights of Saint John and the Ottomans, but also the 20th century Italian occupation of these islands. From the food, sounds and atmosphere of the welcoming tavernas, to the unique local craft of sponge-diving, you will come away feeling truly immersed in this varied archipelago’s many delights.72 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

2ENERGETIC SAT MAY 26 - SAT JUNE 2, 2018 “I FOUND THE WHOLE TRIP TO BE MOST SAT JUNE 2 - SAT JUNE 9, 2018 ENJOYABLE. THE FELLOW GUESTS WERE DELIGHTFUL, THE CREW WAS GREAT, THE FOOD 8 DAYS - £2,775 / Single Supplement: £675 VERY GOOD AND MOST OF ALL THE TWOTour Guides: Prof. Tony Spawforth & Nota Karamaouna GUIDES WERE KNOWLEDGEABLE IN EVERYTHING WE SAW. THE MOST IMPORTANT THING WAS WE SAT SEPT 1 - SAT SEPT 8, 2018 GOT TO LEARN A THING OR TWO BUT ALSO RELAX AND HAVE FUN...” 8 DAYS - £2,775 / Single Supplement: £675 Tour Guides: Dr. Helena Tomas & Nota Karamaouna Gary Johns, California, USADay 1: We embark on our gulet, 35 minutes from the airport. Day 5: In the morning, we visit the archaeological museum ofWelcome drink and dinner on board. Kalymnos, home to a rich collection of ancient Greek sculpture. Outstanding even amidst the fine marbles is the over life-sizeDay 2: We begin our adventure by exploring the archaeological ‘Lady of Kalymnos’, a superb and near-complete bronze. In themuseum of Kos, a superb collection ranging from prehistory to the afternoon, we continue southwards, anchoring near the tiny islet ofRoman era. We then set out for our first crossing, stopping at the Pserimos or off the rugged Kefalos peninsula at the western tip ofTurkish resort of Turgutreis before continuing to Leros. Kos.Day 3: On Leros, we make our way to the formidable Castle of Day 6: Southwards to Giali, for ample time to swim and relaxPanteli. Its extensive medieval walls crown the heights of the before we enter the port of Mandraki on Nisyros. Here, weformer ancient acropolis as it sits high above a deep blue sea and discover Hellenistic fortification of Palaiokastro, probably builtoverlooks a fascinating scenery of coves, bays, and a dense jumble by the Rhodians to secure their northernmost possessions.of ornate mansions. From the castle we take a stroll around the Afterwards, we enter the island’s huge volcanic caldera to visit thetown at Lakki before making our way westwards to sacred Patmos. atmospheric steam crater of Stephanos.Day 4: In the morning, we explore the extraordinary cultural Day 7: After a morning visit to the archaeological museum ofriches of Patmos. We discover the Cave of the Apocalypse, now Mandraki, we return to Kos. There, we explore the Casa Romana,a chapel,and traditionally the refuge of St John the Divine as he the vast mansion of a Roman aristocrat. Afterwards, we go to thecomposed, or transmitted, the Book of Revelations. At the great beautifully-set Asklepieion, the most important sacred site on theMonastery of Saint John, we find one of Greece's greatest medieval island. Farewell dinner on the gulet.treasures. The setting, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site,is stunning and reveals a thousand years of life in a small and remote Day 8: Transfer to Kos airport, about 35 minutes away.island. In the afternoon, we set out for the island of Kalymnos. 73

CRUISING THE AEGEAN:A FAMILY TOURThis cruise among the timeless Islands ofthe Dodecanese archipelago is a perfect andentertaining introduction to the varied historyof the Aegean Sea and its inhabitants.It is also the fabulous setting for our family cruise in Greece.Every day on Cruising the Aegean: A Family Adventure bringsnew discoveries, new things to learn, and new places to enjoytogether. The spirit of discovery and the joy of engaging withthe many stories the region has to tell go hand-in-hand withample time to relax, swim, snorkel, kayak, or simply gaze at thescenery - the perfect way to truly enjoy this famously beautifularea in an unforgettable way.As always, wonderful food will complete the days,from breakfast on deck in the morning sunshine tolively bustling tavernas providing dishes of glorioussalads, slow-roasted meats and freshly caughtseafood. The experience is unique, exciting andmost of all fun!74 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

MANDRAKI, NISYROS “WHAT A FANTASTIC HOLIDAY! EXCELLENT ACCOMMODATION ABOARD AND OUR GUIDES NOT ONLY EXPERTLY GUIDED US THROUGH THE ANTIQUITIES OF THE AEGEAN BUT ALSO TOOK CARE OF ALL OUR NEEDS. WE SHARED OUR HOLIDAY WITH A VERY LOVELY FAMILY TOO AND CAME AWAY WITH HAPPY MEMORIES AND GOOD FRIENDS. THIS HOLIDAY DEFINITELY RATES IN OUR TOP 5 BEST EVER TRIPS, SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!” Leon & Anita Grenyer, London, UK 2 SAT JULY 28 – SAT AUG 4, 2018ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Dr. Helena Tomas & Dr. Maria Girtzi 8 DAYS - £2,850 (children up to 12, £2,750) / Single Supplement: £795Day 1: We embark on our gulet, 35 minutes from the airport. Day 5: In the morning, we visit the archaeological museum ofWelcome drink and dinner on board. Kalymnos, home to a rich collection of ancient Greek sculpture. Outstanding even amidst the fine marbles is the over life-sizeDay 2: We begin our adventure by exploring the archaeological ‘Lady of Kalymnos’, a superb and near-complete bronze. In themuseum of Kos, a superb collection ranging from prehistory to the afternoon, we continue southwards, anchoring near the tiny islet ofRoman era. We then set out for our first crossing, stopping at the Pserimos or off the rugged Kefalos peninsula at the western tip ofTurkish resort of Turgutreis before continuing to Leros. Kos.Day 3: On Leros, we make our way to the formidable Castle of Day 6: Southwards to Giali, for ample time to swim and relaxPanteli. Its extensive medieval walls crown the heights of the before we enter the port of Mandraki on Nisyros. Here, weformer ancient acropolis as it sits high above a deep blue sea and discover Hellenistic fortification of Palaiokastro, probably builtoverlooks a fascinating scenery of coves, bays, and a dense jumble by the Rhodians to secure their northernmost possessions.of ornate mansions. From the castle we take a stroll around the Afterwards, we enter the island’s huge volcanic caldera to visit thetown at Lakki before making our way westwards to sacred Patmos. atmospheric steam crater of Stephanos.Day 4: In the morning, we explore the extraordinary cultural Day 7: After a morning visit to the archaeological museum ofriches of Patmos. We discover the Cave of the Apocalypse, now Mandraki, we return to Kos. There, we explore the Casa Romana,a chapel,and traditionally the refuge of St John the Divine as he the vast mansion of a Roman aristocrat. Afterwards, we go to thecomposed, or transmitted, the Book of Revelations. At the great beautifully-set Asklepieion, the most important sacred site on theMonastery of Saint John, we find one of Greece's greatest medieval island. Farewell dinner on the gulet.treasures. The setting, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site,is stunning and reveals a thousand years of life in a small and remote Day 8: Transfer to Kos airport, about 35 minutes away.island. In the afternoon, we set out for the island of Kalymnos. 75

WALKING AND CRUISINGTHE DODECANESE 132 SAT SEPT 22 – SAT SEPT 29, 2018INTENSIVE Tour Guides: Dr. Michael Metcalfe 8 DAYS - £2,775 / Single Supplement: £675Each island of the Northern Dodecanese has affluent (and pious!) population; retracing the steps that medievala subtly different feel from its neighbours, a islanders took to reach their settlement, hidden from the pryingvariety derived from the islands' landscapes eyes of pirates and set atop a tall windswept cliff on tiny Telendos; orand geography, filtered through their history, realising that a peaceful and seemingly empty agricultural landscapeand tangible in their local architectures, on Kos conceals the remains of an ancient city, with walls, tombs,traditions and even cuisines. shrines and even a theatre. These are just examples of the unique engagement with place, landscape and history that Walking andThe combination of the islands you will visit and the walks we have Cruising the Dodecanese offers to you.prepared on each will offer you a panoramic insight – literally andmetaphorically – into a region of enormous historical depth, and Accompanied by our expert guides, you will gain an intimateone that conceals a great wealth of hidden beauties rarely noticed by understanding of each island, its landscape, its past and present, andvisitors. its individual character, complemented by the pleasure of travelling on an elegant gulet, the wonderful food prepared on board orYou have access to a wide range of cultural, historical and served at superb local tavernas, and the joys of swimming or relaxingarchaeological insights on all our tours and cruises - but there are aboard.some things you can only find by walking, by experiencing each placeintensely with mind, eyes and body. This is not just an experience Day 1: Our gulet is about 35 minutes from Kos Airport in Kosof each island's nature and topography, it is an intimate approach Harbour. Welcome drinks and dinner.to wonderful things that most visitors have no chance of seeing:encountering large and somewhat mysterious military installations Day 2: After dropping by the Turkish resort of Turgutreis for customsfrom the Second World War on a remote hilltop on Leros; discovering formalities, we cruise north to the rocky island of Kalymnos and takethe ruins of a string of elaborate Early Christian churches in a tranquil a lovely walk through the long valley of Vathy in the afternoon, visitingvalley of Kalymnos that must once have been the centre of a large, a series of fascinating ancient sites ranging from an imposing ancient Greek fortress to an array of beautiful early basilica churches and an extensive necropolis.76 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

LEROS KALYMNOS TELENDOS KOS NISYROSDay 3: We continue northwards to Leros, where we will hike to the top of Mt Patela, an important military installation in the Second WorldWar, riddled with mysterious tunnels built by Italian troops and crowned by the “acoustic mirror”, a near-unique leftover of 1930s technology.Day 4: A scenic crossing takes us to the tiny islet of Telendos, a limestone outcrop rising from the Aegean Sea. In the afternoon, we will walk tothe Early Byzantine clifftop stronghold at Agios Konstantinos, a place suspended between sea and sky. Returning to the little port, we explore ahuge basilica church and a series of well-preserved Byzantine tombs.Day 5: To the Kefalos Peninsula in Western Kos. Here, a leisurely walk through a peaceful agricultural landscape gradually reveals a series oftombs, terraces, walls, churches, temples and a theatre: the remains of the city of Astypalaia, still almost entirely unexplored.Day 6: We begin the day with a hike into the central uplands of Kos, to the impressive eyrie that is the crusader castle of Palaio Pyli. Thepanoramic view from the ramparts of the castle encompasses the seas and islands we have travelled in the previous days. In the afternoon wehead into new waters, cruising south to volcanic Nisyros.Day 7: Our final walk of this cruise takes us along the slopes of the vast caldera that forms the interior of Nisyros, where we will discover thetimeless connection between the island’s fiery geological inheritance, its fertile volcanic soils, and the lives that humans have made here formillennia. In the afternoon we cruise back to Kos, where we will enjoy a farewell dinner aboard.Day 8: Transfer to Kos airport, about 35 minutes away.CASTLE OF PALAIO PYLI 77

CRUISING THE DODECANESETHE MAIN HARBOUR, SYMI “WE SPENT TWO WEEK CRUISING THE DODECANESE ISLANDS, FROM PATMOS IN THE NORTH TO RHODES IN THE SOUTH. I NEVER GET TIRED OF SAILING THE GREEK ISLANDS ON A GULET. IT'S SUCH A RELAXED AND ENJOYABLE WAY TO TRAVEL - BEAUTIFUL BLUE SEAS & SKY, LOTS OF FRESH FOOD (AND COLD BEER!), INTERESTING ARCHAEOLOGY & PRETTY HARBOURS. AN UNEXPECTED BONUS THIS TRIP WAS TO STAY OVERNIGHT IN THE SHELTERED ANCHORAGE OF UNINHABITED ALIMIA - A PLACE USED 2,300 YEARS AGO BY THE RHODIAN FLEET. WHAT A FASCINATING LINK TO THE PAST!” Jim Cleary, London, UKThis spectacular gulet cruise takes you from the famous island of Day 1: Our gulet is in Kos harbour, about 30 minutes from KosKos through the entire Dodecanese chain, including eleven of the airport. Welcome drinks and dinner on board.most beautiful and evocative of the Greek islands and no less thanthree UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites. Day 2: After a visit to the Asklipieion, one of the antiquity's most famous healing shrines, we cross to the Turkish resort of TurgutreisThe sites you see include world-famous relics, like the for customs formalities. We continue back to Greece, to the islandAsklepieion of Kos, the extraordinary archaeological museum of Leros, where we anchor in the lovely Bay of Panteli.of Samos, or the medieval fortifications of Rhodes, each amongthe most important of their kind. On the smaller, off-the-beaten- Day 3: On Leros, we visit the Castle of Panteli, used as a citadel bytrack islands you gain a more intimate view of traditional Greek the Byzantines, the Knights of St. John and the Ottomans, beforeisland life, with their picturesque harbours, village squares having a glorious lunch and wine-tasting at a rural estate. Afteradorned with pebble mosaics and beautiful domestic architecture. strolling through the unusual Italian military town of Lakki, weThese islands are also rich in diverse landscapes: craggy hilltops, continue to the sacred island of Patmos.strange volcanic formations and of course coastlines featuringa succession of bays and islets. Another highlight is the series Day 4: In the morning, we visit the Cave of the Apocalypse and theof meals you'll enjoy at selected venues throughout the islands, mighty Byzantine monastery of St. John, a World Heritage Site,ranging from home-cooked local cuisine in family-run tavernas to set in the attractive town of Chora. In the afternoon, we cruise toreal gourmet food, the finest the region has to offer. Samos Island.From fabulous food to epic history, this is a fascinating journey Day 5: The charming port village of Pythagoreio was built on thethrough Greek culture, past and present. ruins of the ancient island capital. We visit the great sanctuary of Hera, the extraordinary Tunnel of Eupalinos, a miracle of ancient engineering, and the excellent archaeological museum at Vathi, with its rich finds from the sanctuary of Hera.78 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

CASTLE OF PANDELI, LEROS SAMOSPAPTAMTMOOS SAEGEAN LEROS SEA KALYMNOS KOS AKOIRSPORKTOS SYMI NISYROS RHODES TILOS RHODES CHALKI AIRPORT 2 SAT SEPT 22 - SAT OCT 6, 2018 ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall & Dr. Maria Girtzi 15 DAYS - £4,345 / Single Supplement: £1,175Day 6: After a morning tour a Roman official or merchant, Day 11: We make the crossing to Day 13: We continue toof the superb archaeological and its beautiful museum with a Chalki (weather permitting), a Rhodes, the chief island of themuseum at Pythagoreio, rich collection of statues. In the small island not far from Rhodes. Dodecanese. Here, we visithighlighting the long and colourful afternoon, we cross to the little There, we ascend the medieval the extraordinarily completehistory of ancient Samos, we islet of Giali. castle and ancient acropolis as medieval Old Town with itscross southwards to a cove off the sun sets. Again weather enormous ramparts, crowned bythe rugged island of Kalymnos. Day 9: We make the short permitting, we anchor at the the Palace of the Grand Masters, crossing to the small but islet of Alimia, where the ancient former headquarters of theDay 7: In Pothia, the main beautiful island of Nisyros, Rhodians wintered their naval Order of the Knights of Sainttown of Kalymnos, we visit the where we visit the small but fleet. John (or Knights Hospitaller).museum with its wonderful excellent archaeological museumcollection of ancient sculpture, before exploring the superbly- Day 12: We continue to the Day 14: After visiting the ancientas well as a local sponge- preserved ancient fortifications beautiful island of Symi with its city’s acropolis with its shrineswashery, representing the role at Palaiokastro and the stunning lovely neoclassical port town, and sanctuaries, we explore theof Kalymnos as the last outpost steam volcano at Stefanos. one of the prettiest sights in the rich collections of the excellentof the ancient trade of sponge- Mediterranean. We spend the archaeological museum, houseddiving. Later, we make our way Day 10: We travel onwards to afternoon wandering its winding in the medieval Hospital of thesouthwards, to Kos. a bay off the green and remote streets, visiting the Acropolis Knights. Farewell dinner on island of Tilos, to visit the and savouring the magnificent board.Day 8: A day devoted to beautiful monastery of Saint local architecture. In the eveningexploring the extensive remains Panteleimonas and the tiny a chance to enjoy a drink and Day 15: Transfers to Rhodesof the ancient city of Kos, with museum devoted to the island’s dinner at a local taverna. Airport, about 30 minutes fromits Agora, its Casa Romana, extinct species of pigmy elephant. Rhodes Harbour.the richly-decorated house of 79

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN THEERECTHEIONGREECEWe have created two tours that offer you the chance to extend your travels before or after your cruise or land tour in Greece. If youhave never travelled to Athens before, or if you have been multiple times, we have the perfect itinerary for you. Of course, if you seesomething that you want to change, or would prefer to include instead, or if you have less or more time in which to travel, please just letus know and we will craft an itinerary just for you.THE HEART OF CLASSICAL ATHENSThere are many ways to visit Athens and many great things to discover, but the stunning monuments of the city's ancient past remain hermost famous assets. Based on our experts’ intimate, long-standing knowledge of Athens, this tour gives you an overview of the mostimportant archaeological sites and exhibits in Athens in just a few days, perfect for a first-time visitor, but also as an intense ‘refresher’for those who have visited before. The focus is on the Classical era, the 5th and 4th centuries BC, when Athens was at the height of herpolitical power, ruling the Aegean and re-inventing herself as a cultural beacon. During just a few generations, Athens left an indeliblemark on the history of human civilisation, making enormous contributions in so many fields, from sculpture, through architecture,philosophy, science and theatre. It is also the era when Athens invented a new form of political organisation: democracy.The tour includes all major monuments in the city, offering proper exploration and detailed explanation of each in turn. In the park-like Agora, you discover the economic, political and commercial heart of the city. At the Theatre of Dionysos, you visit the birthplaceof an art form, where Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides and Aristophanes first produced their masterpieces. Nothing compares to themagnificent Acropolis, our next destination, home to the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, two of the most influential works of worldarchitecture. The magnificent state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum houses the fascinating material excavated on the sacred rock, includinga superb exhibit of the Parthenon’s much-admired and much-discussed reliefs and statues. At the National Museum, a vast treasurehouse containing many of the finest works of art ever discovered in Greece, you can marvel at the wonders of Mycenaean Greece,observe the development of Greek sculpture or study the scenes of life, death and myth depicted on Athenian pottery.All this glory is embedded in a vibrant contemporary city. Modern Athenian urban life is another part of the experience, making this atour that encompasses five millennia of history. The experience is completed by our selection of restaurants, introduing you too the bestf Greek cuisine and the finest samples of Greek wines available in Athens.80 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

ATHENS OFF THE BEATEN TRACKA tour designed for those who have been to Athens beforeand are eager for more, but also for newcomers looking for anunconventional and inspirational take on this great city.If you've already visited Athens, you will have seen all or manyof the must-see Classical monuments in the centre. But a first-time visit to a great city can rarely do more than scratch thesurface: there is always more to see, to experience, to savour,to discover. Less famous sites and museums hold great treasuresof beauty and insight; side-streets and back lanes open up newperspectives and vistas; local guides reveal unheard stories andshow you their very venues; entirely new and fascinating aspectsof the place and its history, ancient and modern, can be exploredand enjoyed.You will enjoy sweeping views from Mount Lycabettus, thestriking limestone outcrop next to the centre, taking in all ofAthens from ancient monuments to modern sprawl, down tothe sea and beyond. You will have time to examine the superbcollection of medieval and post-medieval art and artefacts inthe eclectic Benaki Museum: stunningly ornate Ottoman-erainteriors, wonderful traditional costumes from across Greece,countless further unexpected beauties, all explained and broughtto life by our expert guides. You will also have a chance to admirethe timeless art on display in the grand Byzantine Museum:venerable icons, dazzling frescoes, a forgotten phase of Greeksculpture. In Piraeus, you will discover unparalleled ancienttreasures - including extraordinary bronze statues - in the portcity's Archaeological Museum, before exploring ancient harbour'sdefences. In Central Athens, our exploration next brings us tothe Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest in the Greek mainland,and absorbs the historic spirit of the Pnyx, where the fullassembly of the ancient city's citizenry debated war and peace.We then scale the Hill of Philopappos, crowned by an ancienttomb that offers panoramic views of the Acropolis.Complemented by the pleasures of the modern city, this tourwill open your eyes on a different Athens, one that few visitorsexperience.THE KERAMEIKOS PIRAEUS ARTEMIS 81

ABOUT IRELAND “ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS 10 DAY TRIP AROUND THE ISLAND, EXPLORING THE CULTURE, HISTORY, AND BEAUTY OF IRELAND - NOT TO MENTION THE CUISINE! LED BY A WONDERFUL, KNOWLEDGEABLE, AND VERY PERSONABLE PAIR OF GUIDES. ACCOMMODATIONS WERE OVER THE TOP - EVERYTHING FROM CASTLES TO LOVELY COUNTRY HOMES, SURROUNDED BY BEAUTIFUL GARDENS.” Russell & Melanie Chapman, Louisiana, USA KYLEMORE ABBEY AND LAKE82 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

MONASTERBOICE KNOWTH For years, it has been our dream to offer tours in Ireland - and we are thrilled to see that dream become reality. In recent years, the Peter Sommer Travels approach to travel, accommodation, gastronomy and - last but not least - narrative has made our Mediterranean tours a unique and premium experience. The decision to apply the same approach to the United Kingdom has made it a logical step to also include its smaller island neighbour in our agenda. Heinrich, our resident expert in Greece, has spent more than a decade of his life in Ireland and harbours not just a fascination, but a deep and personal affection for the country, its people and its culture. Paired with his profound knowledge of Irish archaeology, that affection has become the foundation for our Irish itineraries. N.IRELAND The same ideas that have established our acclaimed Exploring Tours as some of the best-prepared and most carefully crafted cultural travel IRELAND DUBLIN offerings in regions of Greece and Italy are the background for our Irish tours:. They include: painstaking attention to detail based on WALES intimate knowledge of a region, a holistic view of land and culture, bold \"outside the box\" thinking and a passionate ambition to present ourCORK guests with the best, the most interesting, the most real experience of an area and its history. Based on these principles, our tours in Ireland will be of equal interest to the first-time visitor and to the seasoned connoisseur of the \"Emerald Isle\". Why not join us in discovering the beauties of Ireland, from the urban vistas of Dublin via the rich heritage of the country's Eastern province, Leinster, to the wild and rugged Atlantic Shores of Connaught? 83

POULNABRONEEXPLORING IRELAND:THE HEART OF THE EMERALD ISLE The Emerald Isle, the Island of Saints and Scholars, the Home of the Rainbow: So many clichés have been used to describe Ireland, all of them based on some element of truth and none of them sufficient to capture the enormous fascination of this most unusual island. At Peter Sommer Travels, we are excited to present Exploring Ireland: The Heart of the Emerald Isle, a tour in a country that is spectacularly rich in beauty, in history, in character, in hospitality and – most of all – in stories. In the Irish countryside, layers of history are often situated not – as one would expect – one above the other, or one superseding the other, but side-by-side. A Neolithic tomb may share a field with a Celtic fort, remnants of an Early Christian monastery may stand in the grounds of an 18th century 'Great House', a medieval Round Tower may overlook a traditional fishing village. Each monument has its own legends, stories or myths attached to it, but all are embedded in the peaceful beauty of the Irish landscape and its many shades of green. Likewise, Ireland's towns and cities and their architectural and cultural heritage reflect the turbulent history of a country that has contributed so much to this world's music and literature and to our shared human imagination.84 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

CÉIDE FIELDS TRIM CASTLEROCKFLEET RATHCROGHAN CASTLE NEWGRANGE KYLEMORE ABBEY TRIM GALWAY BOHER DUBLIN BURREN CLONMACNOISEDUN AONGHASA POULNABRONE MOONE GLENDALOUGH HIGH CROSS 2 MON JUNE 11 - THU JUNE 21, 2018 ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Heinrich Hall & Dr. Siobhán Hargis 11 DAYS - £4,595 / Single Supplement: £775 Includes all breakfasts, 8 lunches and 6 dinnersExploring Ireland is a unique tour, created on the basis the country's history and exemplifies the remarkableof an intimate acquaintance with the country and a Irish hospitality. The experience will be rounded off bypassionate love for it, gained through many years of enjoying the many fine qualities of Irish gastronomy,living and travelling there. Designed to present a rich including some of Europe's best seafood and meats,and insightful panorama of Ireland's heritage, tradition as well as local cheeses and the island's famous beersand culture, it takes in some of the famous must-see and whiskeys. The surprising originality and excellentsights, such as the Megalithic tombs of Newgrange craftsmanship of modern Irish cooking are an attractionand Knowth, the stupendous Celtic cliffside fort at in themselves.Dun Aonghasa in the Aran Islands, the great monasticcentre of Clonmacnoise, the pristine Norman castle Exploring Ireland aims to offer the perfect introductionat Trim and, of course, the dazzling heart of Dublin for travellers newly discovering the country, but alsowith its excellent museums. These are matched and a new and deep insight for those already in love withcomplemented by places more off-the-beaten-track: Ireland.stone-carved crosses, windswept tower houses,mysterious 'royal' sites of Gaelic mythology, plus a “SEAMLESSLY ORGANIZED WITH ACADEMIC GUIDESnever-ending array of extraordinary scenery, rangingfrom the heart-achingly lovely to the stark, lonely and WHO KNEW HOW TO IMPART KNOWLEDGEwild. Another central aspect of the tour is the rangeof carefully-selected hotels, among them renovated WITHOUT EVER BEING PATRONIZING.castles, manors and town houses. Each of them evokes THEY COMBINED HUMOUR, PATIENCE AND PROFESSIONALISM IN EQUAL PARTS. WELL DONE, PETER SOMMER TRAVELS, FOR THE THIRD TIME!” William & Stephanie Ford, Gauteng, South Africa 85

EXPLORING IRELAND:THE HEART OF THE EMERALD ISLE NE WG R ANG EDay 1: Arrivals. Transfer from Dublin Airport about 30 minutes Age tombs, the most famous of them the dolmen of Poulnabrone,away and check in at the hotel, a 19th century castle on much older countless fortified Celtic farmsteads, medieval castles and ruinedfoundations, just outside Dublin. monasteries. At the wonderfully restored Castle of Dysart O'Dea, we visit the medieval Tower House with its archaeological exhibits beforeDay 2: In the morning, we head for the Wicklow Mountains to visit returning to our hotel and a free evening to dine at your leisure.the breathtakingly beautiful valley of Glendalough with its importantEarly Medieval monastery, founded by Saint Kevin. Its Round Tower, Day 5: We take the ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands.pre- Romanesque chapels and early High Cross, offer a splendid Aran holds a special place in Irish culture, preserving the languageintroduction to this important aspect of Ireland's history. Later, we and a traditional lifestyle that reaches back through centuries andhave a private tour of Russborough House, built in the mid-18th beyond. The island provides the dramatic setting for a whole seriescentury by Richard Cassels, Ireland's most famous Palladian architect. of monuments, including the vastly impressive and stupendouslyIn the afternoon, we stop by the 9th century High Cross of Moone, atmospheric fort of Dun Aonghasa, set on the very edge of a tallone of the finest in the country before returning to Dublin. vertical cliff overlooking the Atlantic and dating to the Early Iron Age. The rocky island's landscape is a monument in itself, criss-crossedDay 3: We set out into Ireland's midlands, for the tiny village of by thousands of kilometres of drystone walls. After returning to theBoher in County Offaly. Its parish church contains one of the most mainland, we make our way to our hotel, a 19th century countryremarkable treasures of Irish Early Medieval metalwork: the Shrine mansion overlooking the quintessential Connemara seascape ofof Saint Manchan, a superb mixture of Celtic and Viking styles. Next, Roundstone Bay.we explore Clonmacnoise, set on the banks of the broad majesticShannon, with its towers, churches and magnificently carved High Day 6: In the morning we explore the fabled beauty of Connemara.Crosses. Later we stop at Galway to have a look at the centre of this We admire stupendous maritime landscapes and visit the 19th centurytiny but lively and attractive city and its excellent historical museum folly that is Kylemore Abbey, in a majestically wild setting, surroundedbefore reaching our hotel, in a renovated 18th century manor house in by wondrous Victorian gardens. Passing the shores of Ireland's onlythe Burren. fjord, Killary Harbour, we stop by Doo Lough, profoundly connected with the Story of the mid-19th century Great Famine, a watershed inDay 4: Today is devoted to the Burren, the extraordinary limestone Irish history, before continuing to our hotel in a 19th century estatelandscape the makes up the Northern part of County Clare. Beyond outside Ballina, County Mayo. An evening free to dine at leisure.its sheer and outlandish beauty, the area contains monumentsfrom all periods of Ireland's history: dozens of Neolithic or Bronze HADRIAN'S WALL, ENGLAND, UK86 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

THE ARDAGH CHALICE, DUBLIN ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM DUN AONGHASA, INISHMOREDay 7: We spend the day exploring this extraordinary landscape the most significant such ensemble in the world, lining the perimeterof immense wetlands containing the unique Neolithic Céide Fields, of the enormous burial mound. At Newgrange, we enter the mostas well as the sheer cliffs of Downpatrick Head and one of several celebrated of all Passage Tombs and witness a demonstration of thebeautiful and romantic medieval monasteries in the area. Our leisurely annual winter solstice phenomenon that makes the tomb one of theitinerary permits us to experience this wild and remote corner of world’s oldest sun observatories. Later, we have a look at the superbIreland and of Europe properly, giving us deep insights into a region 10th century High Crosses at Monasterboice before continuing to ourapparently forgotten by time. Eventually, we return to our estate near final hotel, set in a wonderful location and in the very heart of Dublin.Ballina. An evening free to dine at leisure.Day 8: We leave the West Coast behind and make our way eastwards. Day 10: Our last day is dedicated to Dublin itself. We engage withAt Tulsk in County Roscommon, we visit Rathcrogan, one of the the city’s many pasts, Celtic and Viking, Anglo-Irish and Neoclassical,four Celtic 'Royal Sites', the Iron Age capital of Connaught and the Georgian and Victorian, Joycean, Wildean and modern. At themythical home of Queen Maeve (or Medb). Its mysterious mounds and National Museum's archaeological section, we draw the strands of ourearthworks are the living green theatre of ancient Irish myth and lore, journey together and revisit much of Ireland's early history, includingevoking the great heroes and heroines of old Irish epics. Continuing an incredible collection of Bronze Age gold and a stunning selectioneastwards, we reach the County of Meath, one of the heartlands of of Early Christian metalwork, objects of sheer unbelievable intricacy.medieval Ireland. The superb Anglo-Norman castle of Trim, with its Lunch and the afternoon is free time for those who want to exploreexquisitely preserved keep by the banks of the River Boyne, opens or shop, or for a tour of the city's medieval heart. In the early eveninga whole new narrative on the English conquest of Ireland, starting in we have a private visit to see the extraordinary Book of Kells, a superbthe late 12th century AD, and beginning centuries of conflict, but also illuminated manuscript from about 800 AD and arguably the mostof cultural contact, all of which contributed to making Ireland what splendid book in the world, as well as the wonderful Long Room ofit is. We spend the night at an 18th century manor house with many Trinity College's library, followed by our final farewell dinner.connections to this region's history. Day 11: Departures. Check out from the hotel and transfer to DublinDay 9: Our day starts with a detailed tour of Brú na Bóinne, the Airport, about 30 minutes away.great complex of Megalithic Passage Tombs at the Bend of theBoyne. At Knowth, we admire a gallery of Megalithic art, arguably 87

ABOUT ITALYItaly is the quintessential holiday MILAN TRIESTEdestination offering something TURIN GENOA VENICEfor everyone and it does so withthe unique style and panache BOLOGNAthat keeps the legend of LaDolce Vita alive. FLORENCEGood food and wine, slow-cooked regional ROME BARIspecialities, abundant fresh local produce, finewines and interesting liqueurs make Italy a NAPLESgourmet heaven. Its renowned opera houses,unrivalled architectural heritage, millennia of CAGLIARIarchaeological riches and stunning galleriesof renaissance art cannot fail to impress and MESSINA REGGIO DIfascinate. If you prefer an active holiday,then Italy’s varied terrain provides plentiful PALERMO CALABRIAopportunities for walking, hiking, climbing,swimming and scuba-diving. Or, if it’s the CATANIAquiet life that attracts you, the gloriousbeaches, wonderful lakes and serene city one place is like another and all deserve to besquares make for unsurpassed locations from explored at length and at leisure.which to watch life drift languidly by for aweek or so. Peter Sommer Travels specialises in providing cultural tours and cruises to selected ItalianThe Italian landscape is divided into regions in the company of expert guides. Wenumerous regions by its rugged coastline, visit the most impressive sites and museums,dramatic mountains and the Mediterranean enjoy spectacular scenery and the mostSea itself. Each region maintains its own delicious local foods and wines and ensureparticular traditions and rhythms of life. that you have plenty of time for personalTouring in Italy from north to south and east reflection and relaxation. Why not join us forto west can feel as though you’ve travelled the ultimate Italy tour?through an entire continent in miniature: no88 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

“THIS WAS AN INTRODUCTION TO SICILY ON A GRAND SCALE. BYDAY WE WERE TAKEN BACK TO THE GREEKS AND CARTHAGINIANSAND COULD FEEL THEM AROUND US AND BY SUNSET WE COULDIMMERSE OURSELVES IN THE HOSPITALITY, THE FOOD AND THEWINE OF MODERN SICILY. THE GUIDES WERE OF THE HIGHESTSTANDARD AND THEIR ORGANISATION AND PLANNING RESULTEDIN AN EASY AND COMFORTABLY PACED TOUR.FROM THE FIRST CONTACT WITH PETER SOMMER'S OFFICE TO THELAST FAREWELL TO THE GUIDES IN SICILY THE COMPANY EXCELLEDIN EVERYTHING THEY DID!”Richard & Anne Preece, Wirral, UKTHE COLOSSEUM 89

EXPLORING SICILYLying at the heart of theMediterranean and commandingthe narrow sea-lanes that connecteast to west and north to south,Sicily attracted merchants, seafarersand settlers from every point of thecompass.The passage of time and a host of invaders have 2 SUN APR 8 - SAT APR 21, 2018bequeathed a wealth of archaeological sites andmonuments to the island. Phoenicians, Greeks, ENERGETIC Tour Guides: Prof. Tony Spawforth & Lucia IaconoRomans, Arabs, Normans, Byzantines and Aragonesehave all left their enduring legacy on Sicily in the form SUN OCT 7 - SAT OCT 20, 2018of rich and diverse cultural and culinary traditions. Tour Guides: TBC & Lucia IaconoThis tour provides an unforgettable encounter with 14 DAYS £4,595 / Single Supplement: £690the island’s long history and culture. Not only does Includes all meals except two dinners & two lunchesit take in the wonderfully preserved remains ofthe Greek, Roman and Phoenician cities that studits coasts, where honey-coloured ancient templeslie amid orange groves and almond trees, it alsoexplores the baroque towns that hug its steep hillsand the great modern metropolis, Palermo.The temple-crowned cities of Selinunte and Agrigento, and the ancient island-city of Motya now rest in a serene splendour belyingtheir dramatic and turbulent histories. From the heights of Erice, home to Venus, goddess of love, you will see the majestic sweepof the coast, before travelling east to the vine-clad slopes of Mount Etna. Besides its historical riches, the island is a place ofimmense natural beauty and diversity. We traverse its many varied landscapes filled with springtime flowers and enjoy a number ofpleasant walks to savour the romantic vistas.Sicily’s picturesque and historic towns are a feast for the senses, and there will be plenty of time to explore their piazzas andmeandering streets, or sample their increasingly renowned and varied wines before ending your day in atmospheric hotels orgrand rural estates set in the heart of the Sicilian countryside. Our tour is complemented by excellent meals in specially chosenrestaurants, wineries and local trattorias, highlighting some of Sicily’s richest gastronomic traditions.90 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

\"ONE OF THE 50 BEST ESCORTED TOURS\" - THE TELEGRAPHGREEK TEMPLE SELINUNTE “EXPLORING SICILY WAS MEMORABLE ON MANY, MANY LEVELS . REFLECTING ON THIS TRIP SINCE MY RETURN HOME, I THINK IT WAS NOT JUST BECAUSE OF THE DEPTH OF KNOWLEDGE & COURTESY OF THE GUIDES, THE IMPECCABLE ORGANISATION, THE GREAT ACCOMMODATION & WONDERFUL MEALS BUT ALSO BECAUSE WE WERE SHOWN SICILY BY PEOPLE WHO REALLY LOVE IT & MADE US RESPECT & LOVE IT TOO.” Maggie Cash & Robert Garlick, Victoria, Australia 91

EXPLORING SICILY “Two activity-packed weeks that contained a cornucopia of experiences--wonderful historic cities and antique villages,marvelous boutique hotels,intriguing archeological sites,fascinating people,remarkable ancient places of worship,splendid vistas, excellent museums,and great food and wine, all packed into full days with an easy rhythm that was wholly enjoyable.” Graham Donaldson & Jean Nichols, Maryland, USATHE ISLAND OF MOTYADay 1: Transfer from Catania airport approx. 45 minutes away. Arrival Day 4: We journey south to the lovely Baroque town of Modica,and welcome dinner in Siracusa, ancient Syracuse, one of the most rising steeply in terraces from the valley floor. Fortified by its uniqueimportant of all ancient Greek cities. chocolate, derived from the original Aztec recipe, we carry on to the Greek city of Gela on the south coast, to view its extraordinarilyDay 2: A short journey up the beautiful Anapo valley brings us to well-preserved city walls and get our first glimpse of the long sandythe World Heritage Site of Pantalica, an enormous late Bronze southern beaches. We finish the day in Agrigento.Age necropolis, with its many tombs honeycombing the rocky hills.After indulging in a traditional Sicilian country lunch near the town Day 5: A free morning to relax in the superb Agriturismo and enjoy itsof Palazzolo Acreide, we visit the hilltop site of the Greek colony of extensive grounds before heading to the medieval and modern centreAkrai before returning to Siracusa. An early evening tour of the island of Agrigento to enjoy a sumptuous lunch, stroll through its streets,of Ortygia, the heart of the ancient city, is followed by dinner at a admire its churches and civic architecture, and pause at the Santotraditional pizzeria. Spirito convent to try some of the nuns’ delicious cakes and biscuits.Day 3: A day in Siracusa. We begin with the Archaeological Park, Day 6: The morning is spent exploring the heart of Agrigento, ancientplanted with gloriously scented lemon groves, which contains some Akragas, a Greek city famed for its wealth and extravagant spending.of Syracuse’s finest ancient monuments, including a Greek theatre The collection of Classical temples here is one of the finest to bethat remains in occasional use today. Syracuse’s darker history can be seen anywhere in the Mediterranean. In the afternoon, we completewitnessed at first hand in the extensive quarries, excavated by armies our tour of the ancient city and its renowned museum, and enjoy aof slaves, where we will enter the famed Ear of Dionysius with its relaxing dinner in beautiful surroundings.unusual acoustics. After visiting Castello Eurialo (the ancient Euryalus),a powerful fortress built over 2,400 years ago by the tyrant Dionysius Day 7: A drive along the coast through Montalbano country brings usto dominate and defend the city, we will enjoy a relaxing lunch before to the breathtaking ancient site of Selinunte and its famous temples,visiting the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum. The rest of the devastated by the Carthaginians in 409 BC. In the afternoon weafternoon and evening will be free to explore more of the city, sample travel to ancient Lilybaeum to view the well-preserved remains of athe local specialities and dine at a restaurant of your choice.92 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

Carthaginian ship and the finds from this ancient multi-cultural Afterwards we visit our final site, the dramatically-situated Greekcity, many of which retain their original painted decoration. and Roman city of Taormina, perched above a beautiful stretch of coast. A farewell dinner at our beautiful Agriturismo.Day 8: We continue to Sicily’s western coast and take a short Day 14: Transfer to Catania airport, about an hour’s drive away.boat trip to the island site of Motya, a major Phoenician citydestroyed by Dionysius of Syracuse in 398 BC. The extensive TELAMON, AGRIGENTO MUSEUMremains of the city include the Tophet (a cemetery forchildren sacrificed to their gods) and, in the on-site museum, THE CHURCH OF SAN GIORGIO, MODICAthe Motya Charioteer, one of the most celebrated ClassicalGreek sculptures. After Motya, we travel to Marsala to enjoy a “THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO ENJOY THE GLORIOUSsumptuous Sunday lunch, and then take a leisurely walk through ANCIENT RUINS AND THE EXCELLENT MODERNthe ancient quarry of the Cava di Cusa, where column drums still DINING IN SICILY THAN BY JOINING THIS TOUR!”lie unfinished in a landscape of olive groves and vineyards. Jane Atkins, Florida, USADay 9: Our first stop is the ancient city of Segesta, with its fine 93Doric temple in a tranquil and beautiful setting, and the stunningviews from its beautiful little theatre on the adjacent hillside. Wecontinue on to the mediaeval town of Erice where you are freeto take lunch at a restaurant of your choice and to take in thesweeping views from its heights and finish the day in Palermo.Day 10: A free morning in Sicily’s cultural capital. Time to explorethe markets, enjoy some street food or find a restaurant forlunch, see a puppet show or visit some of the city’s attractivemedieval churches and nineteenth century opera houses. In theafternoon we take a short drive to Monreale where we will visitMonreale’s twelfth-century cathedral, one of the finest Normanchurches, blessed with a beautiful golden cycle of Byzantine-stylemosaics. After absorbing the splendid view of Palermo below, wereturn for a free evening to explore the city’s sights, aromas andtastes and dine at leisure.Day 11: After a morning touring Palermo’s archaeologicalmuseum and the refined nineteenth-century Villa Whitaker,residence of the famed English wine merchants and aristocrats,we drive to the Greek city of Himera (site of two enormousbattles that changed the history of the entire island) and on to arelaxing late afternoon at our hotel in the rolling hills at the footof the Madonie Mountains on the north coast.Day 12: We visit the lovely archaeological museum of Aidone andhave lunch in a renowned local restaurant. In the afternoon wevisit the sprawling and opulent Roman villa of Piazza Armerina,with its world-famous mosaics, and then continue on to our finalaccommodation of the tour, on Mount Etna.Day 13: Having caught many glimpses of Mount Etna in thedistance, we finally visit it for a guided hike on the volcano’sslopes before refreshing ourselves at a nearby winery.

CRUISING THEAEOLIAN ISLANDSThe Aeolian Islands, a gorgeous volcanic archipelago off the Northern Coastof Sicily, are renowned for offering a relaxed and luxurious retreat to rich andfamous Italians, while also being home to some fascinating archaeological sitesfrom the ancient cultures of Southern Italy. SAT JUNE 23 – SAT JUNE 30, 2018 2 Tour Guide: Dr. Michael Metcalfe ENERGETIC 8 DAYS - £3,650 (limited to 10 guests) / Single Supplement: £985Strung out in two intersecting lines, with a handful of their fellow islands always visible on the widehorizons, they create one of the most perfect areas for gulet cruising in all of Italy, and one of the mostvaried set of island experiences that can be enjoyed in just a week of glorious cruising.Although they lie tantalisingly close to each other, each island has its own vibrant identity, and offerssomething unique and enticing to the discerning traveller. From the spectacular food and wines of verdantSalina to the soaring majesty of Stromboli, with its smoking crater, lovely hiking trails and ever-presentpromise of fiery lava flows reaching down to the sea. From the feeling of peaceful isolation on sparselypopulated Filicudi, with its beautifully-located Bronze-age village, to the famed hedonism of gorgeousPanarea, with its lovely flower-lined paths and renowned night-life. Each of these islands offers a distinctiveexperience and adventure, brought together with exceptional meals, wine, swimming and cruisingthroughout.Most travellers to these islands crowd on and off the speeding hydrofoils that ply these waters, draggingtheir luggage along the crowded jetties while searching for their accommodation for the night. You willcruise in stately splendour, watching with a glass or a book in hand as the islands pass slowly by; swimmingin the beautiful clear waters of a succession of gorgeous coves and bays, while your ever-attentive crewprepare the table for a delicious meal. To view these islands in this way is to partake in the very best thatthey have to offer, day after perfect day.94 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

STROMBOLI CAPO GRAZIANO FILICUDI BASILUZZO “THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS...WHAT PANAREA A SUBLIME ADVENTURE...ACTIVE MILAZZO VOLCANOS, BLUE MEDITERREANCATANIA AIRPORT SALINA SEA TO SWIM IN, BRONZE AGE SETTLEMENTS TO BE EDUCATED LIPARI ABOUT, FOLLOWED BY GLORIOUS FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCES VULCANO WITH MICHAEL...THE ULTIMATE GUIDE. PARADISE FOUND.” Lee Coleman & John Pandolfini, Victoria, AUS 95

CRUISING THE AEOLIAN ISLANDSDay 1: Your gulet awaits you in the port of Milazzo on the FILICUDINorth-East coast of Sicily, 1 hour and 40 minutes’ drive fromCatania airport. Welcome drink and dinner on board. before preparing to step ashore again for dinner at one of theDay 2: Your day begins with a lovely morning cruise to a renowned local restaurants.beautiful bay on the coast of Lipari, for a first swim in the Day 4: A short cruise brings us to the lovely islet of Basiluzzo,Mediterranean and a delicious lunch served at anchor. The for a restful morning of swimming, reading, sunbathing andstunning island vistas unfold across the wide horizon as we exploring the unexpected Roman heritage of this isolated spot.cruise across to the island of Filicudi in the afternoon. After After lunch, the stark but fertile island of Stromboli is our finaldropping anchor in the tiny harbour, we will disembark and destination for the day. An active volcano spearing steeply outwalk along the quiet lanes to the Bronze Age village at Capo of the sea, its smoking summit will have been visible for much ofGraziano, set in a stunning location with magnificent views. our voyage so far. Its infamous lava flows are now intermittent,Here we discover the story of the early inhabitants of the island and many walking paths have been forged on its flanks. Forand explore their millennia-old settlement before returning for those who wish, it will be possible to join our hiking guide tosunset drinks and dinner aboard our gulet. experience this volcano first-hand; anyone who prefers a moreDay 3: The famously hedonistic island of Panarea beckons us sedate afternoon is welcome to enjoy the views from the decktoday, at the end of a glorious long cruise eastwards through of the gulet instead!the island chain. A relaxing swim and lunch on board will Day 5: Salina, the verdant island at the northernmost tip of thebe followed by a leisurely stroll along the flower-lined paths central spine of the archipelago, is the famed producer of somethat lead from the small island port to the strikingly-located of the most charismatic wines in Italy. We will visit one of thearchaeological site at Capo Milazzese. After exploring the ruins, innovative new wineries on the island, before sampling theiryou could enjoy another swim, or perhaps sample one of the produce over a sumptuous lunch at one of the region’s finestfamous Sicilian granitas, or taste a perfectly chilled glass of wine, restaurants. A visit to the charmingly presented Museum of Emigration brings our historical journey right up to the early96 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS 20th century.

THE MOTYA CHARIOTEERDay 6: We cruise to Lipari, largest of the Aeolian Islands, stopping to CAPO MILAZZESEenjoy a long swim on the way. After stepping ashore in the bustlingharbour town, we will visit the astoundingly rich archaeologicalmuseum on the fortified headland overlooking the two harbours.After exploring its collections, there will be plenty of time to strollthrough the streets, admiring the local architecture and browsingthrough the shops, before we head up into the hills to visit aspectacular new winery overlooking the strait between Lipari andSalina. A light meal will be served in the vineyard, to accompany ourwine tasting, as the sun sets over the archipelago.Day 7: A day of pure leisure and relaxation, filled with swimming,sunbathing, delicious food and chilled wine as we take a leisurelycruise back to the mainland port of Milazzo, stopping off at Vulcano,the final island of our cruise, on the way.Day 8: Transfer to Catania airport, about 1 hour and 40 minutesaway. THE CHURCH OF SAN GIORGIO, MODICAARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, LIPARI WALKING ON VULCANO 97

CRUISING THE AMALFI COAST“With room for just 10 guests aboard its 6 cabin gulet, this bay of Naples and Amalfi Coastcruise offers top-notch history tourism in super-luxe comfort.”National Geographic Traveller Magazine This gulet cruise combines some of the greatest archaeological and cultural jewels of the Amalfi coast and the Bay of Naples with all the pleasures of travelling aboard a beautiful and traditional wooden boat. We will visit some of the best-known cultural sites in the world, such as Naples, Capri, Ischia, Pompeii and Amalfi, famed for their extraordinary beauty and their immense historical importance, as well as some lesser known sites such as the Imperial villa at Baia and the outstanding Roman frescoes at the Villa Oplontis. The mountains and villages of this region are justly renowned for their picturesque charm and there is no better vantage point than the deck of our gulet as we cruise along the coast or ride at anchor as delicious meals are served. There is ample opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean Sea, or sit back and relax, read a book, enjoy a glass of wine, or discuss the sights and sounds of the day with new friends. “SOPHY WAS ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT. EXTREMELY WELL-INFORMED AND PERSONABLE.” C Eyton, Buckinghamshire, UK98 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS

BAIA NAPLES AIRPORT BAIA NAPLESISCHIA POMPEII MARINA DI STABIA POSITANO AMALFI CAPRI SAT SEPT 1 - SAT SEPT 8, 2018 2 Tour Guides: Dr. Sophy Downes & Francesca Del Vecchio ENERGETIC 8 DAYS - £3,650 (limited to 10 guests) / Single Supplement: £985THE BASILICA, POMPEII Day 1: Our gulet is about afternoon we return to our Day 6: Inland across the 30 minutes south of Naples boat and cruise to the island mountains to Pompeii, airport at the Marina di of Ischia to swim and relax. the most spectacular and Stabia. Welcome dinner on Day 4: We explore Pithecusae complete archaeological site board. on the island of Ischia, one of in Italy. We will explore it in Day 2: We cruise to the Baia/ the first Greek colonies in the detail and picnic among the Pozzuoli region, where we west, before cruising south to ruins, then cruise west to will explore the beautifully the island of Capri, where we anchor off Positano. located Imperial villa at Baia can swim in the azure waters Day 7: A last chance to and enjoy a sumptuous meal of its stunning rocky coastline. swim as we head past rocky in a seaside trattoria. Day 5: A leisurely walk from Sorrento to our gulet’s home Day 3: To Naples, where Capri town to the Villa port, the Marina di Stabia. we will spend the first half Jovis, set at the very tip of We will discover the beautiful of the day exploring the the island with breathtaking Roman frescoes of the Villa historic centre of this city views all round. The Emperor Oplontis, among the finest and visiting the world-famous Tiberius spent a seclusion in the world, before ending archaeological museum swathed in lurid rumours in the tour with a sumptuous (which displays many of the this Roman imperial palace. In farewell meal. most evocative finds from the afternoon we cruise for Day 8: Transfer from our the site of Pompeii) before Amalfi and an evening stroll gulet to Naples airport, about lunching in a traditional to admire its cathedral, the 30 minutes away. Napolitan pizzeria. In the Duomo. 99

A GASTRONOMIC TOUR OF SICILY‘‘One of The 50 Best Cultural Tours’’ - The Telegraph‘‘Embark on the Gastronomic Tour of Sicily for amouth-watering vacation’’ - USA Today Eastern Sicily is home to a wonderfully vibrant culinary tradition even by Italian standards – thanks to its abundant and delicious local produce and a vast range of cooking styles drawn from the many peoples who graced these shores, from Byzantines to Arabs, from the Normans to the Spanish. On this tour you’ll enjoy some of its most unique culinary delights. The region’s rolling hills and fertile plains produce seemingly unlimited quantities of fresh fruits, nuts and vegetables, while the uplands' abundant flocks and herds provide delicious cheeses and meats. Rich fishing grounds fill the market stalls with an enormous range of marine delicacies. To round it off, Sicily has begun to produce some of the most highly regarded new wines in Europe to accompany its long-renowned ices, fruit drinks and digestifs.100 PETER SOMMER TRAVELS