For many, the notion of sailing in Greece is often one of flotilla’s, large groups and crowded waters however, our sailing holidays in the Saronic Islands could not be further from this. Join gorgeous Zorba in Athens for a skippered, charted sailing holiday in the Saronic Islands and step off the beaten track to experience authentic Greece and remote escapism.
THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE SARONIC ISLANDS
The Saronic islands are renowned for their natural beauty which has long-drawn writers and artists seeking to draw inspiration from the stunning scenery. Blessed with stunning beaches, secluded coves and ancient olive groves, the isles boast more lush vegetation than many other Greek islands. Surrounded by clear cerulean seas which glitter under the bright Grecian sun, they offer an unparalleled natural beauty. While away the hours exploring uninhabited islands, soak up the sun on deserted beaches and snorkel in warm waters before relaxing on Zorba’s deck and absorbing the picturesque landscape with a drink in hand.
EXPLORE ANCIENT GREEK HISTORY
No holiday to Greece would be complete without taking in the 2500-years of history and with the Saronic islands having played a pivotal role in the history of Greece, the islands offer plenty of historical attractions. Stop off at Aegina to visit the Temple of Aphaia, one of three historical Greek monuments which form the so-called holy triangle of antiquity, along with the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. Head to car-free Hydra, one of the most popular islands, navigate yourself through the cobbled streets to the fascinating Museum of Historical Archives and Bastions. Hydra town has been restored and preserved exactly as it was in the 1800’s with breathtaking Venetian style architecture looming tall and proud above the harbour. Or call in at Poros, the island made up of two parts having formed as the result of a volcanic explosion in 273BC, to visit the Holy Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, founded in 1720 by the then-Archbishop of Athens.
SARONIC ISLANDS – FOOD AND DRINK
Although they lie in close proximity to Athens, each of the Saronic islands proffer their own personality and true Greek hospitality, with tavernas lining harbours and hillsides. Sailing in the Saronic islands is utter bliss and with so much to explore, we guarantee that come the evening, you’ll have worked up a healthy appetite! We step ashore each evening to allow guests the opportunity to enjoy the warm Greek hospitality and fabulous food – the islands have even featured on one of Rick Stein’s culinary journeys and it is easy to see why. The food offering in the Saronic islands is unbelievable, from locally produced wine to home-grown fresh-out-the-field produce, there is plenty to tempt the hungry sailor. Dine in waterside taverna’s, absorb the views from rooftop garden restaurants in the mountains and hunker down in unassuming backstreet eateries. This region loves it’s food and drink, the only thing the people love more is sharing it with those who take the time to visit.
Sailing Holidays in the Saronic Islands
Sound enticing? Then jump aboard Zorba this season for a sailing holiday in the Saronic islands, with cheap flights from the UK to Athens and the boat moored just a short taxi-ride from the airport, joining us couldn’t be easier! Sail with Zorba >
