Greece - Off the Beaten Track - self drive tailor made holidays - REDISCOVER THE WORLD

Arrive at Athens Spata Airport and collect your rental car. Drive to your hotel in Athens.

In the morning leave Athens for Delphi. Drive across the fertile plain of Boeotia past the towns of Thebes, Levadia and the charming mountain village of Arachova, famous for its colourful carpets and rugs. Continue on to Delphi, the centre of the Ancient World, to visit the site and the impressive archaeological museum, containing the famous 'Aurige' (Charioteer) in bronze.

In the morning drive to Kalambaka through the numerous villages of Thessalia. Today you have the chance to visit Meteora. The monasteries at Meteora rise dramatically out of the Thessalian Plain above the Pinios River as it emerges from the Pindus canyons. These gigantic rocks have been etched by time into a variety of shapes; grey stalagmites rising towards the sky, they appear as nature's gift to the pious who, driven by faith, opted for solitude and a life of worship.The monasteries with their wooden galleries crown the summits of these formidable pinnacles. Precariously hanging over the sinister abyss, with the Pindus range at their back and the vast plain and woods below, these hermitages form one of the most truly breathtaking sights on earth. These monasteries have offered security and solitude to the faithful during times of persecution. This was particularly true at the end of the Byzantine period and the start of Ottoman rule over Greece. The history of Meteora dates from the 11th century and the first monasteries were established in the 14th century. The most important of these is the Great Meteora. Of the 24 monasteries built in the 15th and 16th centuries only five are still inhabited today. All contain priceless historical and religious treasures.

A beautiful drive up into the mountains to visit Metsovo, one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Greece, built like an amphitheatre on one of the highest peaks in the Pindos range at an altitude of 1160m. Its 4000 inhabitants are sturdy highlanders, many of whom still wear traditional costume and proudly preserve their local heritage. Tradition is kept alive in the distinctive woodcarvings, hand woven fabrics and folk art. Also particularly impressive are the smoked cheeses and robust red wine. The village has many small Byzantine churches, well worth a visit. Above Metsovo spreads the magnificent 'Politses' plateau with Alpine scenery, forests of beech, fir and pine and the man-made lake Aoos, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

Morning drive down to Ioannina, capital of Epirus, built on the shores of Pamvoti Lake. Ioannina is a fascinating city with history everywhere you walk; a boat trip to the island is a must. Drive on to Zagorochoria, 46 traditional settlements bounded by Mounts Mitsikeli, Gamila and the Aoos River which form a distinct geographical and cultural region. This region is one of the country's richest in animal and plant life - many rare species are found in this area, including bear, deer, wild goat and jackal. Authentic stone architecture stands out in many villages, the houses having been built exclusively in local grey stone. In Eastern Zagori the most beautiful villages are Tristen, Grevenitsa and Frambouni. In Central Zagori the following villages stand out: Vista, Monodendri (the starting point for hikers wishing to walk the Vikos Gorge as far as the Voidomatis Springs), Tsepelovo and Skamneli. In the west are Mikro/Megalo Papingo, best known for their authentic stone architecture.

Spend the day enjoying the scenery in the Vikos Gorge National Park, the deepest and longest canyon in Europe. At the feet of the left wall of the canyon (1350m) are the sources of the Voidomatis River where you can swim and also walk to the beautiful Spiliotissa Monastery. If time permits take a detour up to the village of Konitsa, just 12 km from the border with Albania.

In the morning leave the magical Zagori area and drive down to Karpenissi in the Evritania region (Central Greece), passing by small villages. This equally spectacular countryside with forested slopes and countless streams provides a very enjoyable and scenic drive. Karpenissi, the district capital is built on the foothills of Mount Timfristos (960m). Among the plane, fir and chestnut trees this town is an ideal starting point for excursions to nearby traditional villages like Korischades, with its excellently preserved stone houses, Mikro and Megalo Horio, Proussos, Domnitsa and Agrafa (its surroundings offer many secluded paths for those who like to walk).

Leisure time depending on flight departure time. Drive to Athens Spata Airport and drop off your rental car.

Tour includes: Car rental for 8 days with unlimited kms, CDW insurance, all taxes. Hotels based on 6 nights on tour and 2 nights in Athens in mostly 3* hotels (4* and 5* hotels available on request). Bed and breakfast basis throughout.

If you would like to visit these wonderful places without driving then we can supply a private driver for the duration of the tour.

Types of cars

* Group A’: Fiat Seicento 1.1 or similar

* Group B’:Toyota Yaris 1.0 (a/c) or similar

* Group C’: Fiat Punto or Toyota Yaris 1.3 (a/c) or similar

* Group D’: Hyundai Accent 1.4 (a/c) or similar

* Group D1’: Toyota Corolla 1.4 (a/c) or similar

* Group E’: Toyota Avensis 1.6 (a/c), Nissan Primera 1.6 (a/c) or similar

GREEK ISLANDS	GREEK MAINLAND	INFORMATION

[Corfu]	[Parga]	[Getting to Greece]
[Aegina/Poros/Hydra]	[Sivota]	[Fly Drive & Coach Tours]
[Samos]	[Athens]	[Walking & Activities]
[Skiathos/Skopelos/Alonnisos]	[Thessaloniki]	[Car Hire]
[Crete]	[Evia]	[Customer Comments]
[Lefkas]	[Winter Destinations]	[Picture Gallery]
[Cephalonia]	[Other Mainland]	WHY REDISCOVER?