MIRABILIS Meteora Boutique Hotel
Truffle Hunting Experience & Natural History and Mushroom Museum of Meteora
The Meteora Monasteries
Meteora Food & Drinks
Vergina Highlights
Chalkidiki Highlights
Chalkidiki Food & Drinks
Thessaloniki Highlight
Thessaloniki Food & Drinks
Date & Location Activity
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Departure from Athens to Meteora (around 9-10am)
Diana Stefanou (guide) to accompany the family.
Check in to Mirabilis Boutique Hotel – rooms booked: 1 Deluxe Suite, 1 Superior Double Room & 1 Standard Double Room.
Truffle Hunting starting at 14:00 and visit the Meteora Museum.
Activity duration: approximately 3 hours.
Thursday, August 22, 2024
PROPOSAL
Monday, August 26, 2024
Check out from Mirabilis Boutique Hotel early morning.
Meteora Monasteries visit. Approximate visit duration: 1 hour.
Off to Vergina to visit the Royal Tombs and Palace. Approximate visit duration: 1 hour.
Light lunch and then departure to Halkidiki.
Check in to Sani Resort – reservation was made by the family directly.
Driver and Guide back to Athens.
A day trip to Thessaloniki.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, Mediterranean COSMOS Shopping Mall and Moni Vlatadon.
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Check out from Sani Resort and back to Athens.
Departure from Kalamata to Geneva.
1. Final No fo guests.
Car: Mercedes Sprinter Mini Bus
Driver: Chris Tsimpidas
Guide: Diana Stefanou
Meteora Hotel: Mirabilis Boutique Hotel
Truffle Hunting & Meteora Museum: Nikos Pallas (owner)
2. To confirm with the family that it is ok to have Diana in the same car.
3. To confirm with Diana the time of Meteora visit.
4. Restaurant Proposals.
1. Restaurant proposals for Vergina and Halkidiki.
Car: Mercedes Sprinter Mini Bus
Driver: Chris Tsimpidas
Guide: Diana Stefanou
Halkidiki Hotel: 22 – 28 reservation to Sani Resort.
Car: TBC (to be arranged with Sani Resort concierge)
Driver: TBC (to be arranged with Sani Resort concierge)
Guide: TBC
Car: TBC (to be arranged with Sani Resort concierge)
Driver: TBC (to be arranged with Sani Resort concierge)
Dispatcher: Alex Ballas
1. Restaurant proposals for Thessaloniki.
1. Flight Details
Meteora is a destination famous for its unique rock formations and ancient monasteries perched on top of high cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and a sense of awe at the natural beauty and human ingenuity. Visitors can explore the monasteries, some of which are still active, and learn about their rich history and spiritual significance. Whether you're hiking the trails, enjoying the panoramic vistas, or discovering the area's cultural heritage, Meteora promises an unforgettable experience.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Meteora, the MIRABILIS Boutique Hotel offers an unforgettable escape into nature's wonder. Surrounded by towering rock formations and ancient monasteries, the hotel provides guests with stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
MIRABILIS Boutique Hotel fuses luxury and nature, making it the ideal destination for those keen to explore Meteora's rich history and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The interior of MIRABILIS Boutique Hotel is designed with elegance and comfort in mind. Each room is tastefully decorated, combining modern amenities with cozy, welcoming touches. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations with plush bedding, stylish furnishings, and private balconies that showcase the stunning scenery. The hotel also features a delightful dining area where you can savor delicious local cuisine.
Booking has been made for 1 Suite, 1 Superior Double Room & 1 Standard Double Room.
This tour starts with an exciting truffle hunt in the beautiful forests surrounding Meteora. The search for these rare and valuable mushrooms is led by expert guides and their trained dogs. It's a thrilling experience, as you watch the dogs expertly sniff out truffles hidden beneath the forest floor. After the hunt, you'll enjoy a delicious meal featuring the truffles you've found, offering a true taste of Meteora's natural bounty.
The tour continues with a visit to the Natural History and Mushroom Museum. Here, you can explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich biodiversity of the region. The museum features an impressive collection of natural history specimens, as well as an extensive display of various mushroom species. You'll learn about the different types of mushrooms, their uses, and their importance to the ecosystem. It's an educational and enjoyable way to end your truffle hunting adventure, providing deeper insights into the natural wonders of Meteora.
These ancient monasteries are perched on top of huge rock pillars, some reaching over 400 meters high. Built hundreds of years ago by monks seeking peace and solitude, the monasteries look like they are floating in the sky. Today, six of these incredible buildings are still active, welcoming visitors from all over the globe who come to see their beauty and learn about their history.
Each monastery at Meteora has its own unique charm and story. The Great Meteoron is the largest and oldest, offering stunning views and hosting a fascinating museum. Varlaam Monastery is known for its beautiful frescoes and impressive wooden barrel, once used to haul supplies. The Holy Trinity Monastery is famous for its appearance in the James Bond movie "For Your Eyes Only."
Chalkidikiis a destination that offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its unique shape that resembles a trident, Chalkidiki has three distinct peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. Each peninsula has its own charm and attractions, making it a versatile spot for all kinds of travelers.
Kassandra is lively, with sandy beaches, bars, clubs and restaurants. Popular spots include Sani and Pefkohori.
Sithonia offers a peaceful paradise for nature lovers: lush forests, hidden coves, and scenic hiking trails. Notable beaches are Kavourotripes and Kalamitsi.
Mount Athos is a unique spiritual place, home to the autonomous monastic state of the Holy Mountain. Although access is restricted to men and those with special permission, boat tours offer stunning views of monasteries and rugged cliffsides.
Beyond its natural beauty, Chalkidiki also boasts rich cultural heritage. Ancient cities like Stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle, offer a glimpse into Greece’s storied past. Nearby, Aristotle’s Park offers the opportunity to interact with experimental instruments based on Aristotle’s textbooks.
The local cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and excellent local wines and olive oil. You can further seek tradition in the mountain village of Arnaia, a hidden gem that authentically showcases Greek village life of the 19th century.
Finally, your stay in Chalkidiki is incomplete without a visit to the only inhabited island in Central Macedonia: Ammouliani. The island’s picturesque beaches are perfect for a relaxing escape from the mainland.
Mnēmes Farm is a hidden gem in Pefkochori, offering a unique farm-to-table experience. The restaurant is set on a picturesque farm, where you can enjoy fresh, organic dishes made with ingredients straight from the fields. The serene atmosphere and delicious, homemade food make it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Located in the luxurious Amoa Hotel & Spa, Kyma offers a fine dining experience with stunning sea views. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients. The elegant setting and impeccable service make Kyma an ideal choice for a special night out.
Kokkinos, situated in the charming town of Ouranoupoli, is known for its traditional Greek cuisine. The restaurant features a cozy, rustic ambiance and a menu filled with classic dishes like moussaka and grilled lamb.
For seafood lovers, Mourmoura in Polychrono is a must-visit. This seaside restaurant offers an array of fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes. Enjoy the catch of the day while sitting on the terrace overlooking the beautiful Aegean Sea.
Bubo, located in the luxurious Eskies All Senses Resort, combines modern design with exquisite cuisine. The menu features innovative dishes that blend international flavors with local ingredients.
Armyra, in the coastal town of Lerissos, is renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. The restaurant's beachfront location offers a lovely setting to enjoy a meal, with the sound of waves adding to the ambiance.
The ancient first capital of Macedonia, Agai, now lies in modern day Vergina. Beneath this city, an area now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, two royal burial clusters have been uncovered: that of the Temenid dynasty and that of Philip II.
The most notable tomb is that of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, buried alongside his grandson Alexander IV. Philip II’s tomb is particularly remarkable. His lavish burial chambers hide nearly perfectly preserved treasures; a golden larnax with the star of Vergina, intricate golden burial wreaths, alongside weapons and armor.
Adjacent to these remarkable tombs is the grand palace of Agai, constructed during the reign of Philip II (359 – 336 BCE). Alognside the Parthenon, it is considered one of the most significant structures of classical Greece. Constructed atop a hill, the palace was visible across the entire Macedonian basin.
The palace was built with luxurious materials, many of which are visible today. Marble stucco columns form a square surrounding the palace, known as the grand peristyle of Agai. Perhaps more astonishing to view are the ornate mosaics of the palace grounds.
The culinary scene in Thessaloniki is a testament to its rich historical legacy and modern creativity. Indeed, UNESCO has named it a Creative City of Gastronomy. At Glykanisos, seafood lovers are treated to imaginative dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients. The elegant Mavri Thalassa in Kalamaria provides a refined dining ambiance with stunning sea views and traditional Greek delicacies. For a touch of Mediterranean flair, 7 Thalasses in the city's heart is perfect after a day of shopping. For an intimate experience, Duck Private Cheffing offers a homey feel combined with culinary excellence.
Thessaloniki is not only a haven for food enthusiasts but also a treasure trove of cultural wonders. The Museum of Byzantine Culture invites you to explore the splendor of Byzantine art and history. Another must-visit is the Vlatadon Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Byzantine monastic life. The iconic White Tower stands as a sentinel over the city's rich history. As you ascend its six floors, you embark on a journey through Thessaloniki's past, exploring its economic, cultural, and social milestones, culminating in breathtaking views from the tower's balcony.
No visit to Thessaloniki is complete without indulging in a world-class shopping experience at Mediterranean Cosmos. Located in Pylaia, this premier retail destination boasts over 200 stores.
The Mediterranean Cosmos shopping center is Thessaloniki’s premier retail destination, offering a blend of luxury, variety, and convenience. Located in Pylaia, just a short drive from the city center, this sprawling complex invites you to indulge in a world-class shopping experience.
Upon entering the Mediterranean Cosmos, you are greeted by a vibrant atmosphere with over 200 stores featuring international and Greek brands. From high-end fashion boutiques and electronics shops to beauty stores and specialty retailers, the mall caters to every one of your shopping needs.
Beyond shopping and dining, Mediterranean Cosmos offers numerous entertainment and leisure activities. You can catch the latest film at the state-ofthe-art cinema or attend one of many events hosted throughout the year.
Mediterranean Cosmos is a vibrant social hub where you can spend an entire day shopping, dining, and being entertained, making it a must-visit destination during your stay in Thessaloniki.
