History and Natural Beauties of East Macedonia

MT. ATHOS – STAGIRA – FILIPPI – KAVALA – PORTO LAGOS – ALISTRATI CAVE – KERKINI LAKE

4 days – 3 nights from Thessaloniki – Small Group

Day 1: Thessaloniki – Arnaia – Mt Athos Cruise – Ouranoupoli
Begin early in the morning from Thessaloniki to Northern Halkidiki. On the way, we will stop at the traditional village of Arnaia, which is famous for its Macedonian architecture, walk through its quarter, and visit The Metropolitan Church of Agios Stefanos, which is the only religious monument in Greece where the faithful can attend services while admiring the archaeological remains just below their feet, as a glass floor separates the church from the archaeological site. Close to the area of Arnaia we will have the opportunity to visit a winery and taste the local wines. Continue to the village of Ouranoupoli to join one of the Cruises to Mount Athos. We will have the chance to see from the boat the world-wide known monasteries on the western part of Mount Athos and learn their history. After the Cruise check-in at the hotel, and we will enjoy a special dinner inspired by the ancient Greek cuisine at the port of the village.

Day 2: Stagira – Amphipolis – Philippi – Kavala
Breakfast at the hotel and depart to Ancient Stagira, to discover the birthplace of the famous philosopher Aristoteles and admire the magnificent view from the hilltop by the sea. Next stop Amphipolis and the emblematic lion dating back to the 4th century B.C, before we head to Philippi the ancient town which was founded by the Macedonian King Philip the II, father of Alexander the Great. In the same area is Lydia were Saint Paul establish the first Christian church in Europe. Transfer to Kavala in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Toxotes – Porto Lagos – Xanthi
Breakfast and drive to Toxotes a village that lays besides Nestos River. Drınk a coffee at the old square of the village or take a walk along the paths, this area will fill you up with “green” images. Continue to Porto Lagos a small scenic village next to Vistonida Lake, a rich biotope which hosts 322 bird species, a perfect place for birdwatching. Next stop Xanthi, a city full of history, walk the old town where you see a blend of local, Greek Neoclassical and Ottoman architecture, Byzantine churches and picturesque squares all of them remain untouched through the years, full of springs and pristine forests. Dinner and overningt in the lively city of Xanthi.

Day 4: Alistrati Cave – Lake Kerkini – Thessaloniki
Breakfast at the hotel and departure to the village of Stavroupoli for a short stop before we end up to Alistrati Cave, one of the largest caves in Europe, its explored surface reaches 25.000 sq.m and its stalagmites and stalactites are of unique beauty. Next stop lake Kerkini surrounded by Mounts Belles and Mavrovouni, one of the top European bird watching destinations, where over 300 bird spacies have been observed there. A boat ride will give you the chance to observe them closer. Late at noon we take the road back to Thessaloniki.

*Extra nights can be arranged in Thessaloniki or at any other part of the tour.

*Package descriptions and pricing are subject to change without notice.