Mount Geraneia is an impressive mountain range, situated in Corinthia and West Attica, Greece. It is consisted of the Saronian Gulf, the Gulf of Alkyonides and the Corinthian Gulf.
London is a 4th class city in Laurel County, Kentucky, US. It is the seat of this county and the second largest city called London in the United States.
Burlington is a census-designated place, located in and being the county seat of Boone County, Kentucky, United States. The climate of the area is mainly characterized by humid, hot summers and generally mild to cool winters.
Louisville is the 28th most populous city in the United States and the largest city in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. It is also since 2003 the nominal and historical seat of Jefferson County. The city of Louisville is gifted with many recreational parks and other places ideal for total entertainment of both locals and foreign visitors.
Enjoy a couple of days in Phoenix and you will never regret it! It is the largest city and the capital of the state of Arizona. It is also the most populous state capital in the United States.
The beautiful city of Sedona straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in the northern Verde Valley region in Arizona. Sedona is a place that offers many cultural sites, recreational opportunities, impressive landscapes and that's why it attracts about 4 million visitors every year.
The beautiful city of Sedona straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in the northern Verde Valley region in Arizona. Sedona is a place that offers many cultural sites, recreational opportunities, impressive landscapes and that's why it attracts about 4 million visitors every year.
The beautiful city of Sedona straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in the northern Verde Valley region in Arizona. Sedona is a place that offers many cultural sites, recreational opportunities, impressive landscapes and that's why it attracts about 4 million visitors every year.
The beautiful city of Sedona straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in the northern Verde Valley region in Arizona. Sedona is a place that offers many cultural sites, recreational opportunities, impressive landscapes and that's why it attracts about 4 million visitors every year.
Mount Kissavos or Ossa, is situated on the east side of Thessaly region, facing the amazing Tempi Vale and Mount Olympus to the north, whereas to the west the beautiful plain of Larissa. The location offers many opportunities for outdoor activities and adrenaline sports, such as hiking, canyoning and mountain biking.
Xanthi is a beautiful city in Thrace, Northeast Greece. The old town of Xanthi is known for its striking architecture including many Byzantine Greek churches, neoclassical mansions of Greek merchants from the 18th and 19th centuries and Ottoman-era mosques. It is the capital of the Xanthi regional unit of the administrative region of East Macedonia and Thrace.
Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, known worldwide for its mythological importance, as according to the religion of the ancient Greeks, the 12 "Olympian" gods lived there. Located in Pieria region, on the borders of Macedonia and Thessaly, this incredible mountainous massif has a number of peaks with the highest of all, called Mytikas, reaching a top elevation of 9573 ft / 2918 m and is surrounded by deep gorges and areas of outstanding biodiversity.
Period of operation: Year round – Best season 20/4 to 20/10
Duration: 6 days (5 nights).
Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, ATV, Cooking Lessons, Sight Seeing
Skill level: Suitable for all skill levels.
Minimum participants: 2.
Minimum age: 5 y/o
You can take your pick and design your own schedule. Get in touch and get a price!
Day one:
Pick up from: El. Venizelos airport or Athens or the port of Patra or Kalamata Airport and transfer by car to the small but picturesque traditional hotel in Langadia, 200 km distance and over 2 hr and 30 min drive.
Get settled in and enjoy the rest of the day with great views of the surrounding scenery, rest and relaxation. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner consisting of a plethora of local dishes, drinks and more.
Day two:
8:30 Traditional Greek breakfast at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma” consisting of: coffee and/or beverages of your choice, trachana soup, traditional homemade bread toasted on charcoal, butter and homemade jams, natural fruit juice, local free-range eggs and honey, pies and local sweets. (Breakfast will be repeated for all days of the program).
9:30 Depart for the traditional village of Dimitsana, visit the Open Air Water-Power Museum, the Monastery of Prodromos and Ancient Gortyn.
The Open Air Water-Power Museum in Dimitsana is a thematic museum that highlights the importance of water- power in a traditional society, presenting the basic pre-industrial techniques that use water as the main source of energy for the production of various products. The area is approximately one square kilometer, in which a large craft complex was operating in the pre-industrial period that used the water of the homonymous source, the famous headland of Saint John as driving power.
The Monastery of Prodromos (Baptist) is built at the root of a cliff on the left side of the gorge Lοusios, near the beautiful villages of Stemnitsa and Dimitsana. The landscape is impressive and reminds Meteora and the Great Cave. The church of St. John the Prodromos is a single aisle, domed, basilica temple and is decorated with remarkable Christian paintings. Frescoes are also featuring the outside of the temple, magnetizing the eyes of every visitor.
The archaeological site of Ancient Gortyn is located on the right bank of the river Lousios, in a charming location at the exit of the gorge. It is drivable from the villages of Greek (6 km) and Atsicholos (4 km) and also the Monastery of Prodromos. Ancient Gortys was an important town of Arcadia in ancient times. Even today the ruins still attract the interest and admiration of visitors, combined with the natural beauty and tranquility of the place.
14:00 Lunch at a nearby village on the way to Lagadia.
Relaxation – Leisure
Day Three:
7:30 Traditional Greek breakfast at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma”.
9:00 Day hiking in the 1st Certified Greek trail “Menalon Trail”, route 8 Valtessiniko-Lagadia (duration 4-5 hours, necessary hiking equipment). Mountain guide upon request. Stop for rest and brunch at the spot of “Grias Lithari”.
The Menalon Trail received a certificate of competence as one of the Leading Quality Trails (Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe) and is now proposed by the ERA to all European hikers as a coherent, interesting and safe mountain adventure. The Menalon Trail is the 8th European path that has received this important quality and safety guarantee.
15:00 Lunch at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma”
16:00 Relaxation – Leisure
19:00 Cooking Lessons – Seminar of local dishes preparation
Day four:
8:00 Traditional Greek breakfast at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma” including coffee or beverage of your choice, trachana soup, browned hand-made bread, butter and home-made jams, natural fruit juice, local fresh eggs and honey, traditional pies and local desserts.
9:00 Depart to the archaeological site of Olympia (65 km – 1.5 hours)
An amazing route connects the village of Lagadia with Ancient Olympia. The harmonious alternation of landscapes gives the feeling of traveling through time. Deep dense canyons, lush vineyards, pine-covered slopes and riverside areas. The Ladon River meets Alpheus that passes through the valley of Olympia near the archaeological site. Words are just unnecessary…
One visit is just not enough in the place that gave birth to the Olympic Games. The greatness of the ancient Greek culture never ceases to impress. In this corner of Peloponnese you will love the father of Gods, Zeus in his holy place. Just imagine raised in front of you one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, the imposing gold and ivory statue of Zeus of 13.5 m, sculptured by Phidias. You will also admire with awe the famous Hermes of Praxiteles. You will feel the aura, glory and wisdom of a culture that enchanted the whole world and also that you are in the starting line for a trip back in history, to the glory of ancient Greece.
14:30 Return – Visit to a river trout farm and meal
Relaxation – Leisure
Day five:
08:30 A rich traditional breakfast at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma”, including coffee or other drink of your preference, trachanas soup, handmade bread, butter, variety of homemade marmalades, fresh fruit juice, local eggs and honey, traditional pies and local sweet treats.
10:30 Transfer to a natural beauty area of the Menalos Mountain for mountain biking
14:00 Lunch in a traditional tavern of the area with local delicacies
16:00 Return to Lagkadia – Rest
18:30 Tour of the traditional village of Lagkadia – acquaintance with the local sightseeing’s, the history and culture of the place.
A short walk around the neighborhoods and streets of the village feels like a travel back in time, when stone was the primary material in the hands of the skillful craftsmen whose chisels resound in the narrow village streets.
In the neighborhood higher up, close to the church of St. John, one can see the old stone mansion of Deligiannis (former Prime Minister of Greece) and feel his presence still strong around. The central road of Lagkadia is particularly impressive. It once was a very commercial one, since Lagkadia are situated in the central road connecting Tripolis with Pyrgos.
The pride of the village is the church of the Archangels, built in 1808 with the monumental steeple-clock (1910) proudly superimposing among the buildings of stone. In the central squares, the huge trees surround its views. Further up, one can see the school, built in 1864, dominating over the stone steps bringing up memories from the historical days when the first practical high school opened its doors after the revolution of 1821.
The afternoon stroll is finishing with a visit at Panagia of Gounaris where, weather permitting, the majestic sunset over the Ionian Sea will steal your heart. End your thirst in the natural spring below the chapel.
Relaxation – Leisure
Day six:
08:00 Traditional Greek breakfast at the Snack Bar Cafe “Aroma” including coffee or beverage of your choice, trachana soup, browned hand-made bread, butter and home-made jams, natural fruit juice, local fresh eggs and honey, traditional pies and local desserts.
09:00 Departure to visit the Kapsia Cave. The Kapsia Cave is around 15km outside Tripolis and 1.5km away from Kapsia village. Experts rank the Kapsia Cave in the top 10 list of the most valuable caves in Greece. The cave is located in the confined geological basin of the Mantinean plateau and is associated with the complex system of natural sinks, a characteristic of the aquifer. Among the findings in the cave, are human bones and pottery of everyday utensils.
10:30 Departure for one of the following : Mykines or Ancient Korintos or the Acropolis Museum, upon communication with the group. Greek fast-food lunch – gyros souvlaki. Return to the airport for departure.
NOTES
Our role starts at the entrance point of the clients/groups in our country (airport, port or other) and finishes again at the point of departure.
We take care of everything required for a pleasant and safe stay of our clients within our country.
These include the below:
Not Included:
No expenditures are included for transportation on own initiative whether in group or individually which is not included or needed for the purposes of the activities.
Museum tickets or tourist guide’s fees if requested. These often change and may not interest everyone.
Any other activity or need beyond the ones described in the suggested program, unless previously agreed with the organisers.
Travelling costs from an individual’s or group country of residence to Greece and back are not included in the total cost of the excursion, hence must be arranged by the individual or group itself.
The schedule may be modified by the organizers according to the number of participants.
Day 1: After you arrive in Paro international airport, you will be received by our representative.
The flight into Paro on Druk Air/Bhutan airlines (only international flight) is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of Bhutan. If the weather is clear you can see magnificent views of the peaks, give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land on arrival at Paro international airport.
Check in Hotel with welcoming tea or coffee. After lunch we will drive towards the ruins of DrugyelDzong, the dzong was built in 1649 under the behest of ZhabdrungNgawangNamgyal to commemorate victory of an invasion from Tibet. In early 1950s, the dzong was almost completely destroyed by fire. It is listed as a tentative site in Bhutan’s Tentative List for UNESCO inclusion. On the way to DrugyelDzong we will stop for a while at the view point where you can see the Tigers Nest which you will be hiking on your last day of the tour. Today’s short drive is mainly to let you all acclimatize to the altitude. If time permits take a leisurely walk around Paro town.
Day 2: Paro – Paro (Day Hike to Tiger Nest)
After breakfast we will drive to the base of Taktsang (Tigers Nest) and start the hike to the magical temple known as Taktsang (the “Tiger’s Nest). This hike is mainly kept on the second day in order to acclimatize. Taktsang is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the Himalayan World. The temple itself is perched on a granite cliff that drops 2,000 feet to the valley floor. The name is derived from a legend that Guru Rinpoche flew across the mountains to this spot on the back of a tigress,
Reaching a cave in which he meditated for three months, converting the people of Paro Valley to Buddhism during his stay. The path takes us through a forest of oak and rhododendron and we arrive at a small chorten surrounded by prayer flags. With a little more effort, we will reach a tea-house and a spectacular view of Taktsang. That will be our lunch stop. Those who choose can hike further, to an overlook that is almost at eye level with the temple.
Day 3: Paro to Thimphu (60 Km)
Today after breakfast, we will drive towards Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan. On the way we will stop at TamchogLhakhang to see one of the oldest Iron Chain Bridge from 15th century. Later once we reach Thimphu we will check in to the hotel first. Then after taking a rest for a while, we will take a ride towards the big Buddha Statue. The biking trail (3.5 Km) starts from Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Statue) and ends at debsi. Once we reach at the end point of the trail, we will be riding back to the capital.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha(75 Km) (cycling)
Today will be a major hill challenge to the famous pass at Dochula,(45 Km from Thimphu), known for its spiritual energy and 108 Chortens that are atop the pass. On a clear day you will see Eastern Himalayan Mountain Ranges. After lunch descend down the pass through pristine forest.
Later in the evening we will visit PunakhaDzong: Dzong located in between two rivers, mo Chu (Female River) from its left and pho Chu (Male River) from its right, it was built in 1637 by ZhabdrungNgawangNamgyel in commanding position at the confluence. The Dzong was called DrukPungthangDecchenPhodrang (the palace of Great Happiness) in olden days and arguably the country’s most attractive Dzong
Overnight at Punakha
Day 5: Punakha – Punakha
After breakfast drive through Punakha Valley. For further exploration of this scenic valley, the destination for this morning, hike up through the farm land to KhamsumYuelayNamgyelChorten,a shrine built by royal family a startlingly ornate and elaborate structure with images of VajraKila and superb view of Punakha Valley. The hike will take around 2 hours.
Then while coming back we will stop at the suspension bridge where the white river rafting starts. Mo Chu river with 20 Km course comprising around 15 rapids with 2 – 2+ rapids.
Drifting past imposing 17th century PunakhaDzong, watching world’s rarest bird, the white belled Heron in its natural habitat and Kingfishers frolicking on riverbank – all these topped off with spectacular sight of serene lush green alpine valleys, are the most amazing experience you would love to treasure and we will be stopping at the old WangdiphodrangDzong.
Overnight at Punakha
Day 6: Punakha – Thimphu
Today we will be driving back to Thimphu. There will be no programs related to adventure today. Today we will be spending our time by visiting temples and other cultural sightseeing.
On the way we will be stopping at Dochula Pass and we will be spending some time. Later we will check into the hotel and then we will start our program. We will be visiting The National Institute of ZorigChusum: is the center for Bhutanese Art education. It was set up by the Government of Bhutan with the sole objective of preserving the rich culture and tradition of Bhutan and training students in all the traditional arts forms. The curricula cover a comprehensive course of drawing, painting, wood and slate craving, embroidery, sculptures, weaving and paper making. Then we will be visiting Folk Heritage Museum: it is a restored three-story traditional rammed mud and timber that resembles the rural household in the Thimphu area during the mid-19th century, domestic tools equipment that were used by rural families of that period and also provides you a glimpse of lifestyle, items and artifacts of Bhutanese villages and rural households.
Later we will Visit National memorial Chorten which was built in 1974 in the memory of our Third king H.M Jigme DojiWangchuk , who had wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, died before his plan came to fruition. However the Royal family and Cabinet resolved to fulfill his wishes. Later in the evening we will be visiting TashichhoeDzong the “Fortress of Auspicious Religion” where today like most of the other fortresses in Bhutan serves as the Administrative and Religious Center. Evening at leisure in Thimphu town.
Tomorrow we will be going for a trekking which starts from Thimphu and ends in Paro. It will take 6 days to complete. You can leave your luggage with Colorful Bhutan Travels and they will transfer your language to Paro. Make sure you carry your own Sleeping bag and other necessary trekking equipment. Your Trekking Guide will brief you in the evening at the hotel.
Overnight at Thimphu
Trekking over view
Druk Path Trek is one of the finest short treks in Bhutan. Leading through an ancient trading route, over high mountain passes, it connects the valleys of Paro and Thimpu. Trail passes through alpine yak pastures, spectacular rhododendron forests and beautiful lakes stocked with snowy mountain trouts.
Camp at Phajoding
Day 7: After Breakfast you will be driving towards the radio station from there the trekking will start.
BBS tower to Phajoding:
Distance 4-5 km, 4 to 5 hours, 1,130 m ascent, camp altitude 3,750 m. After reaching the tower you will be walking uphill through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Once you reach the Phojoding Monastery, the trekking staff will be ready with your tents pitched and waiting for you with tea and some snacks. You can go and visit few monastery and interact with monks and teacher.
Day 8: Phajoding – SimkotraTsho (lake)
Distance 10 km, 6-7 hours, 680 m ascent, 130 m descent, and camp altitude 4,110 m. The day begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount GangkarPuensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and several other Himalayan peaks. The campsite is close to SimkotraTsho Lake.
Camp at SimkotraTsho
Day 9: SIMKOTRA TSHO – JIMGELANG TSHO
Distance 11 km, 4-5 hours, 400 m ascent, 820 m descent, camp altitude 3,870 m.
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and past Janetso Lake. You may come across some yak herder camps where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. This lake is known for its giant sized trout. The campsite is close to the JimgelangTsho Lake
Day 10: JIMGELANG TSHO – JANGCHULAKHA
Distance 11 km, 5-6 hours, 330 m descent, 230 m ascent, and camp altitude 3,770 m.
The trail follows a ridge and on a clear day the view of the mountains and valley are simply stunning. You may see herders and their yaks around your campsite.
Camp at Jangchulakha
Day 11: JANGCHULAKHA – JILI DZONG
Distance 10 km, 2-3 hours, 50 m ascent, 310 m descent, camp altitude 3,480 m
You begin with a steep climb for roughly an hour and a half, then the slope evens a bit and the ascent is more gradual. The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron tress and thick alpine forests.
Camp at JiliDzong
Day 12: JILI DZONG – PARO
Distance 7 km, 2-3 hours, 1,090 m descent, today we will be descending all the way to Ta Dzong (National Museum) in Paro. Our car will be waiting for us. Then we will directly drive towards our hotel where you can take shower and rest for some time. Later we will drive towards the town for shopping.
We will try Hot Stone Bath at Paro before the Cultural Show Program
Later in the evening we will arrange a Cultural Show. You will be witnessing our traditional folk dances and also mask dances which are usually performed during the famous festival called Tshechu here in Bhutan. Colorful Bhutan Travels arranges cultural show for their clients to take back home not only the memories of natural beauty of the kingdom of Bhutan but also some memories of our unique culture (songs and Dances) and traditions which you may cherish throughout your life.
Day 13: Paro
After breakfast, depart from Paro Airport. Your guide will be there to see you off on behalf of the company.
Cost Inclusion:
Cost Exclusion:
Tour cancellation & refund policy (please contact)
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