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A tour in the myths of Greece A tour to the forests, rivers, mountains and islands of Greece could hide many surprises. High mountaintops filled with pinewoods and rare wild flowers, lakes and streams composed of gurgling running water and animals and birds that discover their refuge within such a rich nature, are a few of the many wonders that such a valuable land could offer. Additionally, caves and places that are connected with people, locations and creatures of Greek Mythology comprise a complement to the enchantment of this natural scenery as Greece is formed by settings associated with myths that hold the capability to thrill, as long as you travel with an attitude to determine the country’s mysteries… The cave of Polyphemus At Makri in the county of Evros a very large cave is found. Tradition regards it as the cave in which Polyphemus lived, where Odysseus or the… “Noone” managed to blind him! The cave is really impressive in size, consists of remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations and includes a floor with two chambers and a second floor on the top, with a single chamber. The excavations that were done had brought to light shells and slabs of clay, which contain a significant archaeological value. The route to the Underworld Acheron is a river in Epirus, which stems from the Souli Mountains and flows into the Ionian Sea. The mystery of its caves, its murky waters and its path between the dangerous and dark ravines have all praised the imagination of the ancients, who have identified it with Hades and
considered it as the main passage towards him. In particular, according to mythology, the plain of Acheron was the place inhabited by the souls of the dead. The river formed the course through which Kharon led the souls to the Acherousia Lake, in the depths of which the kingdom of Hades was positioned. For this reason, the necromancy of Acheron was established on the northeast shore of the Acherousia Lake over a cave at the confluence of the rivers of Acheron and Kokitou, the most important place of worship of the gods of the underworld and of communication with the souls of the dead. The lake of the Stymphalian birds and the valley of Nemea The lake of Stymphalia is located in Corinthia at an altitude of 626 metres and is regarded as the place where, according to tradition, the Stymphalian birds lived, huge birds of prey. The extent of the lake is not specified, as it shrinks or grows depending on weather conditions. It is worth noting that from the waters of Stimphalia the valley of Nemea is watered, the place where Leo, a lion that spread fear, lived in a cave. The Stymphalian birds and the lion of Nemea were eventually killed by Hercules. The mythical mountain of the Olympian Gods Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and is known worldwide due to its mythology, since the ancients considered its peak to be the residence of the Gods and its ravines that of the Muses. On Mount Olympus most myths about Dionysus, Orpheus and the Muses are localised, while on its foot great cities and temples of antiquity are found, where you could wander to discover many places of worship. A large part of Olympus has been characterised as a National Park, while UNESCO declared the mountain as a “Biosphere Reserve”. The head of Zeus If you happen to find yourself in Heraklion and notice the west side of Mount Youchtas from afar, you will realise that its ridge forms a head of a person placed in a recumbent position. Legend supports that it is Zeus, the father of the Gods and humankind, who is now permanently sleeping, lying between the Cretan mountains which once bore him. Today, Mount Youchtas is a remarkable habitat and archaeological park that includes the total extent of the mountain and the gorges of Astrakiano, Kounaviano and Knosano. The location of the Lernaean Hydra Approximately 10 kilometres from the village of Mili in the county of Argolida the ruins of the Ancient Lernaean are found, a place known in mythology as a result of the fight between Hercules and the Lernaean Hydra, a dragon with a body of a snake and nine heads, which lived in a bog. The monster was killed by Hercules in his second feat with Iolaus. The Lernaean is sometimes referred as a river, sometimes as a source and sometimes as a lake and implicitly as a plain, from which the whole area obtains its name. Apart from the Lernaean, the river and sources of Amimonis, the source of Amfiaraou and the lake of Alcyone, which was considered as fathomless and one of the entrances to the underworld, also existed. According to tradition, Dionysus descended from the lake to Hades in order to bring Semele. The calm waters of Alcyone are said to pull forever whoever attempted to swim within them. The cave of Calypso Othonoi is the largest of the diapontia islands that are located in the northwest of Corfu (access to them is available by excursion boats that commence from Sidari, the small port of Agios Stefanos and Corfu). Two key characteristics that it contains are its impressive rocks and the existence of many marine caves, which compose a magnet for divers, but also offer an unforgettable boating experience to the visitors. According to mythology, Othonoi is identified with the legendary island of the beautiful nymph, Calypso, which kept Odysseus captive for seven years. The cave of Calypso, which comprises one of the major attractions of the island, provides a complete visionary imagination to its visitors on what the Homeric hero had encountered.
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The centre of the Earth The "navel", the centre of the Earth, as the ancients believed, was in Delphi. According to tradition, the navel was the tomb of the dragon, Python, the son of the Earth, who was killed by God Apollo. However, another version regards Zeus letting two eagles from the ends of the universe and from two different directions to find the centre of the earth. They flew and met in Delphi. Consequently, Zeus threw the sacred rock and Delphi became known to the ends of the then world as the “navel of the Earth” or otherwise, the centre of the world. For many centuries it constituted a high spiritual and religious centre and a symbol of unity for the Hellenic world.
CRETE
A place of tradition and culture In Crete, as nowhere else, the multicultural and distant past is reflected in all the aspects of modern life, such as in the language, dances, music, food, arts and handicrafts. The Cretans never abandoned their past and tradition composes an integral part in their lives as they serve it faithfully in every occasion. There are many attractions that a person could solely meet in Crete, which are particularly surprising, but also provide experiential learning to their visitors. Hence, if you ask the travellers of the island for their impressions on the tradition and culture of the Cretans, be sure that the following are prominent in their memory and heart! Hospitality The Cretans are famous for their hospitality, in fact many believe that this is related to the origin of Zeus, who was born in Crete and was considered to be the patron of hospitality, hence was given the name “Xenios”, meaning host. Therefore, the Cretans as genuine descendants of Xenios Zeus offer their hospitality with complete selflessness and with only one motivation, the notion of respect towards their fellow human beings. There is no chance for someone to stop at a coffee shop in a village to ask for any information and to not be treated by the locals with at least their traditional alcoholic beverage named as, raki or to even be invited to lunch or dinner. Events The Cretans had always loved the events as they break the boredom of everyday life and illustrate their customs and traditions. On summer evenings in various cities of the island craft fairs, theatre, music, film and dance festivals are conducted. The feasts of the Saints are repeatedly framed with great celebrations, accompanied by the Cretan lyra and dances in the village
squares or the yard of churches, bringing to the surface traditions that are retained since the epoch of Minoan Crete. There are many festivals that have been associated with a product of a village and comprise an opportunity for a great traditional feast to occur. The feast of the potato, courgette, eftazymo bread, coke oven pushing, wine, traditional soft cheese called myzithra, gruyere, honey and snails are just some of the feasts that take place and are accompanied with a free trial of the traditional products that each area has to offer. However, in winter the appetite for revelry does not come to its conclusion. During the evenings in many corners of the island celebrations are organised indoors such as the “rakokazana”, where the process of distilling raki for friends turns into a traditional feast with dancing and music. Another great winter festival is the Carnival season, which lasts for ten days, a period when the streets are filled with masked people, while the events culminate with the Carnival parades in all the cities of the island. A Cretan diet For the Cretans, the secret of good health and longevity is simple. They eat whatever is produced by their rich land! They know how to enjoy different flavours, thus in their diet there are many fruits, vegetables, herbs, horticultural crops, legumes, cheese and bread. They produce scent to the taste with wonderful aromatic herbs, prepare sweets with natural sweeteners, honey and molasses and accompany their meal with excellent Cretan wine or raki. They do not eat meat very often or did not eat until a few decades ago. The main trunk, however, of the Cretan diet could not be anything else apart from the miraculous virgin olive oil, which is used exclusively as a source of fat, completely blocking the harmful animal fats. The Cretan cuisine is famous for its unique flavours, while the longevity of the Cretans owing to their diet has been formed to a case for investigation from which emerged that Crete is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet and offers one of the most exciting and healthiest cuisines in the world. In fact, recent reports on healthy diet, which is known as the "Mediterranean”, are based on the Cretan diet. During your stay on the island, you could taste exquisite recipes that are made from Cretan products, which stand out for their excellent quality and authentic flavour. As you will see, the Cretan dishes exude a strong sense of the land and offer a truly sensual dining experience, hence every time you eat a salad knowing that the wild herbs that it includes come from the mountain that rises in front of you or cheese, which is prepared with milk from goats that graze on local grass, you experience the proud exaltation of the island’s intense flavours from fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the traditional Cretan cuisine in small restaurants, taverns and at the rakadika (relaxed evening hang-outs where raki is served). In the villages of the island, you will find homemade and well-cooked dishes that will completely satisfy your taste sensations. For those who love fresh fish and magnificent views of the sea on the coast of Crete, there are many fish restaurants that serve delicious seafood specialties and fresh fish influenced by Cretan cooking styles.
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Crete
A wedding memory that lasts forever
Crete is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece; it is regarded as an island that attracts thousands of tourists every year owing to the famous archaeological sites, the unique natural beauty and the ability to combine picturesque scenery with cosmopolitan life. Hundreds of thousands of resorts and tourist centres that exist around it offer to the visitors an exceptional and unforgettable vacation. An island that has been praised with rich history and culture, 5000 years ago became the cradle of the famous Minoan civilisation and the motherland of Zeus. Here, on the mythical and sacred mountain of antiquity named as Mount Idi, the greatest of the Gods, Zeus, was born and raised, a myth that generated a rich mythological tradition with famous actors being Europe, Minos, Pasiphae and the Minotaur‌ This sunny island is a perfect choice for a memorable holiday in the Greek islands, while it also composes an ideal paradise for honeymooners. This land is located between three seas: the Aegean Sea to the north, the Libyan Sea to the south and the Ionian Sea to the west and it is considered to be one of the few places on earth that can be compared for the beauty and romance that nature has created. Crete is the perfect destination for a honeymoon as it keeps hold of beaches with white sand, a sea of turquoise-blue waters, a bright sun that shines 300 days a year and an aura of clean air from the White Mountains or otherwise,
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Lefka Ori. A riot of colours, the fresh air, the amazing smell of the sea breeze, the blue sky, the dense olive and orange groves that cover the hillsides and the most delicious and healthy food in the world add to the magical atmosphere of the most important events in your life. This soil is the birthplace of the Ancient Minoan civilisation, an island, which is associated with many myths and legends, being famous for its rich archaeological and architectural monuments of diverse cultures and eras, which were created by the Arabs, Venetians and Turks, who lived in this land for centuries. Mosques, Byzantine monasteries, churches and Venetian fortresses and palaces, all provide a unique landscape that blends harmoniously with the European culture. Specialised companies on the island could undertake the professional design and organisation for an unforgettable wedding, reception, but also holiday that would follow after your wedding. They could help you to organise your wedding ceremony, honeymoon and everything else you might need for the accomplishment of a dreamy wedding. The only thing you have to do is to decide between the many options offered on how you would like to live this experience of yours in Crete! Whatever your choice might be, either at a traditional villa in the countryside or in a renovated mansion or in an ultra-modern hotel located in a panoramic position with breathtaking views of the sea, here as nowhere else you will undoubtedly enjoy an extraordinary honeymoon, while wherever you might be on the island forms a great starting point in discovering sights and attractions as well as tasting the outstanding Cretan cuisine and of course, in experiencing the island’s remarkable nightlife.
Spa Holidays in the award-winning hotel
Le Meridien Limassol Spa & Resort Cyprus boasts an extensive range of health and welfare spas, which offer a broad range of traditional and alternative treatments and therapies. It is after all, the birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, thus it is quite reasonable for Cyprus to be a “vigorous paradise”. By luxuriating in these oases of tranquility that are situated at some of the island’s top hotels, where beautiful surroundings overlook the lush gardens and stunning views, you may be pampered to your heart’s content. The myriad of facilities designed for your absolute wellbeing include: indoor and outdoor pools, freshwater and saltwater pools, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, hammams, fully-equipped gyms, aerobics studios, treatment rooms and beauty salons. Friendly and attentive staff will fulfill your every need by revitalising and energising you with beauty and health treatments to tone your body and clear your mind. You will be given counseling and fitness assessments that fit your own specific requirements and personalised sessions to make you feel special. You are bound to feel rejuvenated with the wide array of services on offer. Fortunately, spa centres in hotels are not addressed any more solely to the rich and famous, but they have turned into places for people in need of renewal and wellness. Hence, choose such a haven for ultimate relaxation and through the vast range of programs offered, discover what is right for you. Below is a description of some of the magnificent and purifying treatments that are offered by the spa hotel “Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort” in Cyprus, which was voted as the best Spa in Europe and in the world. The palm trees and swimming pools with rocks, where the water flows like a waterfall, create an exotic landscape and the perfect setting for your ultimate renewal. The Jewel in the resort's crown is the 3,000-square metre “Le Spa” with seven elegant mosaic indoor-outdoor seawater pools, each with its own temperature and salinity, 34 treatment rooms, discreet and personal attention, tranquil environment, a relaxing area with breathtaking views of the sea, a hammam, saunas and a stateof-the-art health club facility with a heated indoor pool. Thalassotherapy Thalassotherapy comes from the Greek word “Thalassa”, which means sea. This treatment is considered to be the medical use of seawater as a form of therapy. The properties of seawater are believed to have beneficial effects upon the pores of the skin. In thalassotherapy trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium and iodide are found in seawater and are believed to be absorbed through the skin. The benefits to your health are amazing - improved circulation, boosting of the immune system, reduction of cellulite, toning of skin, detoxification, muscle relaxation, improved sleep and increased energy. Watsu - Under Water Therapeutic Relaxing Massage This unique treatment is performed in the high-density pool of Le Méridien Spa and Resort, where the body is supported by the natural buoyancy of the water and the capable hands of the masseur. The treatment takes the form of mobilisation and stretching movements to return the skel-
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etal system to a natural balance, whilst applying both pressure and manipulation techniques to the meridian lines and points in the body, thus, encouraging the circulation of energy within 40 minutes. Harmony Massage From the soles of your feet to the crown of your head, this treatment is much more than just a massage. Warmed pure essential oils are applied to your body inducing sensations of pleasure and wellness to deeply heal your mind and body, whilst soothing your soul. Four Hands Harmony Massage From Hawaii, traditional Lomi Lomi Massage movements sweep the length of the body like a synchronised dance. The experience of having two intuitive therapists working at the same time is the closest that one could imagine to such a mystical experience of the sublime. Four expert hands complement and follow each other to caress and comfort your body's energy flow, resulting in the ultimate experience of the power of touch. Journey of the Senses From the Mediterranean shores of Cyprus, warm, volcanic stones are used to give balance, energy and relieve tension. Cypriots traditionally use the riches of the island to protect, nourish and moisturise their sun-kissed bodies, conditioning their skins with the most exotic aromas and textures imaginable. Drench yourself in the natural nourishment and sensuality of milk and frangipani scented oil and take your senses on a journey of pure indulgence. Candelles and Pierres Massage The authentic concepts of a sensorial treatment by 3 massage candles will relax, firm and energise your body. The application of warm volcanic stones on the chakras of the body will give balance, energy and relieve the symptoms of tension. The satin texture with a moisturising effect leaves the skin soft, regenerated and supple. The three pleasant fragrances will take you on an intense stimulating journey.
KERMIA BEACH BUNGALOW HOTEL The ultimate dream vacation The Kermia Beach is a tourist complex ideal for families and people looking for quiet, serene and holidays. It is located in a stunning location overlooking one of the most spectacular sunsets of Cyprus, away from noise, between the famous resort of Ayia Napa which lives in the pulse of the cosmopolitan life and Cape Cavo Greco, a park of natural beauty. The hotel is built in an area of 60,000 square metres directly by the sea, it looks like a small village with vast gardens that extend until the beach. It is one of the most beautiful coastal parts of the island and this
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“hotel village” respects perfectly the natural landscape that surrounds it. The earthen colours combine the green of nature and the blue sea that is made of crystal clear waters, a clean and protected sandy beach awarded with the blue flag, safe, even for young children. The hotel has 154 spacious, ground floor bungalows with a kitchenette (Studio, One-bedroom and Two-bedroom bungalows) all with a veranda and a garden, Cypriot Architecture, with all the modern comforts and the sweetness and warmth of the Cypriot hospitality. The harmonious combination of simplicity and luxury will charm the visitor. The recent renovation of the bungalows has given it a lighthearted Island air feeling which relaxes you and makes you remember every minute that you are on vacation. The entrance and the gardens of the hotel welcome you with a newly renovated touch that extends parallel to the Superior Garden View and Superior Front Sea View Bungalows. The hotel’s gastronomy is based on quality levels. The visitor has a choice of dining in four Restaurants: In the “Cavo Greco” restaurant with a buffet and theme nights with live music and shows, in the “Alkion” a la carte grill restaurant for candle light dinner, in the Japanese “Kioku Sushi Bar” for fine Asian creations as well as in the traditional restaurant “Meze House” with Cypriot creative cuisine. The hotel has 2 bars. At the “Sunset Bar”, the visitor will enjoy hot and cold drinks as well as refreshing cocktails overlooking the blue Mediterranean sea and the “Albatross Pool Snack Bar” for light meals and cocktails next to the lagoon pool of the hotel. In the main building there is a minimarket, souvenir, conference room, gym and sauna. A coin operated laundry service is also vailable. There are a variety of services for athletes such as: – Tennis (5 courts) – Archery – Windsurfing – Mountain Bike Station – Mini-football – Diving centre – Water sports Also offered - Aerobics, Massage, Water polo, Volleyball, Basketball, Beach Volley and Minigolf. The umbrellas and the beds at the pool and at the beach are offered complimentary to our customers. In the specially built children’s club (4 - 12 years old), which operates under the supervision of multilingual speaking qualified staff weekly activity programmes are organised. There is a playground, children’s menus, as well as baby sitting. The friendly and discreet approach of the staff throughout the duration of the guest’s stay will remain unforgettable. Feel the ultimate in relaxation at the Kermia Beach Bungalow Hotel as you take a trip to the dream.
Magnificent Roman mosaic artwork in Paphos This wonderful art that was born in the prehistoric era in Mesopotamia around 4000 BC was devised for the decoration of ancient temples. Initially, in the form of semi-columns decorated with clay nails that contained a coloured head, which shaped red, black and white geometric designs. Such mosaics exist in the "Columns of Uruk", which composes one of the oldest and most important cities of the Sumerians. In continuation, the Greek civilisation gradually refined and developed the mosaics to a complete picture of natural gravel, which due to its variety of colours and sizes they owe their name to it. The Greeks spread the technique of the mosaics in the Hellenistic world and to the Romans since Greece was part of the Roman Empire. The Romans are characterised by the popularisation of the mosaic and its introduction to its refined form, both in the architecture of their residences and their temples. They turned the art of the mosaic to a decorative tool up to the 3rd century BC. The art of the mosaic was utilised, apart from on floors, in the architecture of gardens (fountains with mosaics), in decorating canopy baths and buildings and later on, in plying Christian religious icons.
In Cyprus, there are Roman mosaics in Paphos in residues of houses that were built between the 3rd and 5th centuries AD. They are considered to be masterpieces of art mostly inspired by Greek mythology, however, what remains unanswered is on who lived and for how long in these magnificent homes. The name given to every residence is related to the images of its mosaics, which are daily visited by foreigners and locals to admire the excellent technique of the ancient artists, who created them with the anticipation in resisting the ravages of time. The House of Dionysus The decoration of the mosaics and the mythological compositions are the main characteristics of this restored Roman villa, which dates from the 2nd century AD. The villa has been designated as the "House of Dionysus" thanks to the many representations of Dionysus, God of wine. This villa probably belonged to a member of the Roman government class or to a wealthy citizen of Paphos. The House of Theseus The mosaics of the villa of Theseus are found close to the House of Dionysus and date from the 2nd century AD. The visitor could admire the extraordinary, interesting geometric decoration as well as mythological representations. What are worth seeing are the mosaics, which depict Theseus slaying the Minotaur and the birth of Achilles. The House of Orpheus The mosaics of this villa belong to the 3rd century AD and are located west of the villa of Theseus. There are three representations of mythology that are worth seeing and are those depicting Orpheus with his lyre, Hercules and the Nemean lion and the Amazon. The House of Aion The mosaics of the villa of Aion date from the 4th century AD and are close to the mosaics of Dionysus and Theseus. The five scenes of mythology that are worth seeing are those that represent the bath of Dionysus, Leda and the Swan, the beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids, Apollo and Marsyas and finally, the triumphal procession of Dionysus. The House of Four Seasons This villa is located north of the House of Orpheus. It took its name due to the mosaic that depicts the personification of the four seasons, which dates from the first half of the 3rd century AD.
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Where magic touches the body and soul The Green Care Spa of Evangelia Sakka is a centre that offers beauty treatments combined with alternative therapies such as reflexology, sperotherapy, Indian head massage, manicure, pedicure, skin-tightening treatments, the moisturisation and regeneration of the face and body, waxing and makeup. It is a modern spa that could pamper you from head to toe. The Green Care Spa is an anti-aging centre of physical and mental uplift. Through many specialised treatments, you will be provided with immediate renewal results that will surely impress you. For more information, you could visit www.greencarespa.gr where you will be informed in detail on all the treatments and products offered. In the heart of the town of Chania, Evangelia Sakka, in 2004, launched the pharmacy named as My-Pharmacy, a modern space that aims the choice of the most appropriate products in order to satisfy each customer’s needs, placing as its priority in accomplishing demands and
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in informing its customers on each product that may be of interest on its proper use to maximise the desired effect. The cooperation between a pharmacist and a doctor is always sought for the selection of the right treatment and the cooperation between the patient and the pharmacist for the right use of each medication in order to produce more accurately and in a faster pace, the desired result in every treatment. Evangelia’s special love towards alternative forms of treatment such as homeopathy, aromatherapy and herbology have enabled her to generate a space with skills and knowledge and a detailed customer information desk, making the pharmacy a complete health care centre with a range of products that help in restoring peace of mind. You could visit the pharmacy on www.my-pharmacy.gr to see all the products that the pharmacy proposes and to order the products that may be of interest to you. The service includes and delivery.
CRETE
The path towards the morphology of adventure Crete, the island of contrasts with Minoan palaces, Roman towns, Venetian castles, blue waters of the Mediterranean, deep canyons, coastal paths and charming fishing villages, is an ideal destination for family vacations that combine outdoor activities with educational adventure. In Crete, as nowhere else, you could experience an adventurous destination close to its nature and rich history. If you are adventurous parents and your children want to feel as if they are explorers then, you could all enjoy together exciting activities by discovering the real Crete! If you prefer though guidance, better organisation and more company then, you may contact an agency that organises adventurous holidays and let their experience guide you to great places on the island that are worth a browse!
Speleology The rough morphology of Crete includes a plethora of caves that make the island a speleological paradise with caves of high speleological and ecological importance. Its approximately 2000 caves compose of apart from stunning monuments of nature and a hodgepodge of myth, history, natural beauty and secrets awaiting their discovery. The caves though operated and as refuges for the locals from the various conquerors of the island and became places for fighting and sacrifice. They even hosted saints such as Saint John the Hermit, but also many who chose the ascetic life as done in the Goumenospilio cave of the Agiofarago gorge in Heraklion.
River Trekking A refreshing adventure for spring and summer! Cross rivers, swim and enjoy the natural waterslides and beautiful small waterfalls in places of extraordinary beauty. It is a joyous and interesting activity that appeals to the whole family. Choose at which gorge you will cross the river, wear your swimsuit and take with you a little snack, a bottle of water and definitely …a camera! You will observe a path of an outstanding beauty in the gorge of Sarakina in Ierapetra, on the river of Kourtaliotis, which ends to the famous beach of Preveli through a palm forest and the amazing gorge of the river of Patsou with plane tress.
Hiking The ideal way to explore the heart of Crete is by hiking in the mountains, coastal trails and gorges. The sounds, colours and fragrances of the Cretan nature will soothe and rejuvenate you, while enjoying the rhythm that you prefer through astonishing routes. Wander in paths of rich flora and fauna and on rural roads in the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) and Mount Psiloritis. Meet the mountainous villages and "authentic" Cretans with their traditions. Choose your route, reach a point by car and from there take a closer look at everything that you could not discover through rapid, planned trips with multitudinous groups.
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Excursions commencing from the Rodon Hotel in Agros In the mountainous and picturesque village of Agros on the mountain that dominates the region, is built in traditional architecture, the Rodon Hotel. Rodon is known for its superb combination of comfortable accommodation, stunning panoramic views, warm Cypriot hospitality and a good homemade cuisine. In the decade of the 80s, the residents and friends of the village of Agros proceeded to the ambitious reconstruction project of the Rodon Hotel, which aimed on the tourism development of the village. The hotel owes its name to the small fragrant roses that abound in the area, making Agros Pancyprian as the first village in the production of rosewater, but also of dishes, beverages and products from rose. The hotel was launched in 1986 keeping hold of its own story and currently, consists of fully renovated rooms and venues with an upgraded service in order to please all the demands of modern travellers. The hotel is offered for relaxation, education, good and traditional food, physical exercise, a healthy lifestyle and quality entertainment. It is ideal for events of every form and on every occasion (weddings, baptisms, gatherings). It is also ideal for visitors with special interests who prefer hiking , climbing , cycling, walking in beautiful nature trails, studying the natural (flora-fauna) and built environment (stone houses) of the area, as well as the lifestyle of the residents of the Cypriot countryside. Rodon is also accessible for people with disabilities. Today, Agros, as a result of Rodon, composes one of the busiest tourist resorts of Cyprus. Locals and foreigners spend pleasant breaks from their everyday life in a village that consists of restaurants, cafes, small workshops of local traditional products and many interesting activities. The tourism development has helped to increase the number of resi-
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dents and the expansion of the village, determining it as one of the largest villages in the Pitsilia region. By staying at the Rodon Hotel, which is positioned in the heart of mountainous Cyprus, an opportunity for experience evolves as you take an excursion in the surrounding area. Here, the nature lovers could enjoy great hiking trails and driving routes, meet neighbouring villages that are located just a few kilometres from Agros and live in the rhythms of rural Cyprus. The Byzantine churches of the Holy Cross of Agiasmati in close proximity to the village of Platanistasa, the Holy Cross in the village of Pelendri and Panagia tou Araka outside the villages of Saranti and Lagoudera will monopolise your interest as they are globally considered to be monuments of Orthodoxy with a great religious and historical value that are under the protection of UNESCO. Furthermore, in the village of Agros there are two historic churches, the church of Our Lady of Mercy a former monastery of Great Agros in which the image of Our Lady of Great Agros (one of the 70 icons painted by Apostle and Evangelist, Luke) is found and the church of Saint John the Baptist. The small churches of Saint Kyriaki and Saints Gerasimon, as well as the museum of the artist and icon painter, Solon Frangoullides, are also worth a visit. By descending from Rodon towards the three neighbourhoods of Agros, you will discover the unique of their kind “traditional crafts� with delicious spoon sweets, the ancestral traditional desserts soutzouko and paluze, the pure and genuine honey from the bee, the rustic Halloumi cheese and the traditional smoked and dipped into wine cold cuts. Additionally, you will find the pottery workshop and smell the wonderful aroma of the roses, from which, apart from the famous Agros rosewater, various other products such as tea, liqueurs, aperitifs, wines, aromatic candles and biological cosmetics are produced. Get to know the secrets of the evolutionary course of fine wines and make tastings at one of the local wineries. You will even discover the village’s fresh fruits and vegetables and the flower shop with its amazing flowers, aromatic plants and trees. In the historic centre of the village, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the digestive water of Agros, along with Cypriot coffee or a rustic hot tea, in one of the traditional cafes. The view of the surrounding greenery overwhelms the travellers as the colours and scents of nature form a breathtaking beauty due to the countless trees mainly, apple trees, cherry trees, peach trees, walnut trees, hazelnut trees, adventitious roots and ubiquitous roses. This astonishing and harmonious image that relaxes the eyes and calms the soul looks like a divine intervention, where one could feel complete peace and tranquility. If you are a sports fan and enjoy action such as climbing, cycling, hiking, walking in beautiful nature trails and visiting historical, religious and cultural sites in the area, you could ask for more information from the hotel reception for the planned activities that are organised for all kinds of tastes and ages. You could even be informed about the cultural events that take place in the village, which you should not hesitate to attend! What will surely remain in your memory as an unforgettable experience is the hospitality of the residents, the traditional dishes and the amusement accompanied with delightful music that lasts until the morning hours!
Ayia Napa An extreme attraction of blue beauty A paradisiacal land for vacation! The golden sandy beaches of Ayia Napa gently touch upon the east coast of the island of Cyprus. Once being a small picturesque fishing village, Ayia Napa with its stunning coasts of astonishing white sands, its wonderful beaches and beautifully blue waters, today is bustled with life and a cosmopolitan atmosphere and is regarded as the main and most popular summer resort of the Mediterranean. The shallow, calm and crystal clear waters have made this coastal area a heaven of extreme attraction for beach lovers and enjoyable water sports. While you are there, spend the day by sunbathing on one of the many magical beaches, by swimming in the warm waters or by even taking a short cruise along the coast to observe from cosmopolitan beaches to secluded coves and incredible sea caves. Additionally, you could take another trip to Cape Greco, a place of an indescribable beauty, where you will obtain the opportunity to go for diving and enjoy the exceptionality of the seabed through underwater observations. At night, you could go out and dine at one of the many restaurants that serve international cuisine or at traditional taverns with delicious local dishes, while later on, you could enjoy every moment by dancing and having fun with the most modern rhythms in some of the many nightclubs that the area consist of. If you love being inspired with culture and tradition, then you will feel truly pleased by visiting this extraordinary destination as year round events and festivals are organised by its municipality that strongly express the island’s culture and traditions. Ayia Napa Ayia Napa is a very famous destination for summer holidays. People from all over the world visit this amazing cosmopolitan resort to enjoy in particular, the sun and sea on its remarkable beaches that will surely not disappoint them. Come to Ayia Napa and discover a unique temptation within the crystal waters of the Mediterranean, take pleasure in having a peaceful walk across the shore, enjoy the excitement that the water sports have to offer and try to take upon new and unprecedented experiences hence, getting to know your strengths and weaknesses or perhaps even, any new abilities. Moreover, take a chance to relax in the spas of luxurious hotels that will unquestionably satisfy even your highest expectations. Go for shopping in the trendiest stores you could ever imagine, take a walk or ride around the main busy streets that the town keeps hold of, where you will find many restaurants, cafes and taverns to enjoy scrumptious international but also local delicacies, as well as pubs and nightclubs with Greek and foreign music. The nightlife in Ayia Napa is simply‌ incredible! For all kinds of tastes and all ages! Without doubt, in the town of Ayia Napa you will find an outstanding atmosphere and an excellent service and what makes this breathtaking place so unique is that everything is constantly provided with a smile. Therefore, what exactly prompts a contemporary traveller! The Monastery The medieval monastery located in the centre of Ayia Napa is dedicated to Our Lady of the Forests. The 16th century church is partly underground and carved into the rock. Undoubtedly, what will impress you
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the most is a century old sycamore in front of the south gate, which is believed that it is over 600 years old! Within the convent an ancient icon of the miraculous Virgin Mary of Napa is kept. The monastery is surrounded by a high wall with carved stones and the whole complex has a great medieval architecture. The Sea Museum What is remarkable is the Sea Museum situated at the municipality of Ayia Napa, where in a pleasant environment you could explore the role and importance played by the sea in the history of Cyprus from antiquity until today. The exhibits of the museum include fossils of marine organisms and animals aged up to 100 million years old and stuffed sea animals and organisms like fish, turtles, seals, birds, starfish, sea urchins, sponges and corals. However, the most awe-inspiring exhibit of the museum is the life-size effigy of the ancient ship in the era of Alexander the Great that was found wrecked off the coast of Kyrenia. Apart from the exhibits, within the spaces of the museum a few shops, a cafe and a place for educational programs are also available. The Port Enjoy a coffee or lunch beside the waters of the Mediterranean at the port of Ayia Napa. Gaze upon the colours of the sea as they change in the sunlight and let the relaxing sounds to lure and accompany you to beautiful moments. The anchored boats and other vessels offer to the landscape a tranquil atmosphere that will undeniably calm your spirit. At the port, what will surely surprise you is the cosmopolitan aura that exists as there are so many people, who wish to visit and sit in its restaurants and cafes. Its location offers a special view to both foreign and local visitors alike and is regarded as an ornament to the town of Ayia Napa, by producing an exceptional sensation both during the day and night. The beaches of Ayia Napa The beaches of Ayia Napa are considered to be among the best that exist in Cyprus. The crystal blue waters and sandy beaches are what make each guest to adore them and become attracted to their beauty. From cosmopolitan beaches to almost empty ones, with white or golden sands, well organised to completely isolated ones, at either a green or deserted environment, with calm waters to large waves, with steep cliffs to remarkable caves, in this part of the world you could find any type of beach that would satisfy your needs without having to travel miles just to find it. If you are either an athletic or adventurous type of person and you like action, you will be impressed by the wide variety of water sports available on the beaches of Ayia Napa. Your adrenaline will reach its heights and will provide you with a unique experience. On the other hand, if you prefer to be in a calmer state then take a ride on a boat to which its bottom part is actually like a submarine! The windows that it consists of will let you observe throughout your journey the magnificence that the underwater life has to offer and when an anchor is casted, a diver feeds the fish in front of your eyes within the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea or even better why not dive for yourself and let them eat from your own hands?
Cyprus The meeting point of the sky and earth The place for prayer. The place for worshipping nature. For some, a place to escape from everyday life. For others, it is regarded as their daily lives. Moments of everydayness blended with moments of relaxation. Common denominators: experiences, satisfaction, peace and diversity of the ordinary. It is almost certain that whoever reaches or lives permanently in Cyprus will feel at least something of the above. The island is large and the options are countless. The time that is required is from an hour to unlimited in order for someone to live what would please him or her the most.
of peace and communication with God boost human stamina for the hardship of our epoch. The religious heritage of Cyprus, rich in history and monuments, overwhelms any Christian visitor. Magnificent churches, small stone-built churches, Byzantine hagiography in churches and monasteries with ecclesiastical museums elicit admiration worthy of any space that houses the sublime faith to the Christ. The passage of time and the religious perception of the Christian Cypriots have given a large number of churches and a diversity in both architecture and the size of churches that someone could observe.
Churches and monasteries The churches and monasteries in Cyprus are hospitable to visitors. From parish churches in towns to Byzantine churches on the Troodos Mountains, chapels but also monasteries offer tranquility to the visitor. Places
Wine The wine records its own historical course on the island, which in recent years through the “Wine Routes” it highlights the particular characteristics of the Cypriot wine. Routes to the wine villages, visits to vineyards, wineries and local wine museums comprise for the visitor as sources that reveal the local wine. The journey with destination to wine is an experience of wine tastes combined with traditional dishes. The sun, the Mediterranean climate and the fertile soil are factors for the cultivation of vines on the island since antiquity, but also for the production of quality wines with the top being the sweet and fragrant Commandaria. The expansion of vineyards in some villages became the core, which around it rotate the daily lives of the residents. The wine as power became a tradition and a long-lasting history. It shaped the landscape, where the presence of vines dominates in plains and ridges of low mountains. Cypriot cuisine A unique and highly enjoyable pleasure for many! In Cyprus, as nowhere else, the great variety of food, the cleanliness and quality local ingredients play a vital role for someone to feel completely satisfied by the gastronomy of the place. Despite the plethora cuisine choices, the traditional Cypriot cuisine ranks first with its king being the well-known “Cyprus Meze”. The parade of the various appetisers, cooked and grilled dishes that will pass from the table tastefully compensate anyone who may think about his or her silhouette. Do not miss for any reason the experience of the Cyprus Meze, but also and of the other traditional dishes in a tavern, even if you escape for a while from your usual diet. It is no coincidence that the Cypriot cuisine gains more and more fans who seek it in many parts of the earth! The acquaintance with tradition If you do not get to know the tradition of a place, then your tour is not complete. Cyprus, scattered with villages, divulges through these a more crystallised concept on hospitality, the beauties of nature and the joys of a more human everydayness. In the villages, the morals and customs are inherited from generation to generation. Many of these such as the traditional occupations that have been annihilated by the industry revive through small festivals that are mainly organised during the summer by each village. The architecture that characterises most of the villages in Cyprus is simple. It combines stone for building walls, tiled roofs and protruding chimneys, narrow streets and courtyards with every kind of container that has been made a flower pot. This simplicity is the characteristic beauty of the villages of Cyprus, which in combination with their rich cultural heritage and natural landscape are becoming interesting destinations for touring at any time of the year.
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