Guest of Honour 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Historical cities of the Mediterranean
Valletta - Athens
Dates:
15/04/2024
to
23/04/2024
days
nights on board
With featured guest Léonor de Récondo, writer and violonist.
Between Greece and Italy, set off a board Le Bougainville for a cruise discovering two civilisations that have left traces of their intertwined presence in the Mediterranean. During an extraordinary nine-day odyssey, you will hear accounts of the history and secrets of the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Italy, with its ancient archaeological sites, Renaissance palaces, citrus perfumes and internationally recognised cuisine, will welcome you for a few days of unforgettable visits. In the southernmost part of the Boot, you will sail towards Sicily, the Puglia region and Calabria, with three ports of call. Stroll the paved streets with their unique charm in Syracuse, walk on the lungomare, the sea front promenade, in Reggio di Calabria with the majestic Etna as a backdrop, and travel through time and history as you discover the former Greek city of Gallipoli.
It will now be time to set sail towards Greece . The legendary Peloponnese will plunge you into the country’s tumultuous and glorious past. Nafplio is an opportunity to discover the mythical sites of Epidaurus and Mycenae, respectively a ancient theatre and a pre-Hellenic city, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Monemvasia, a gem breathing poetry and revealing its Venetian and Byzantine architecture, commingles with the hustle and bustle and charm of Gythio, which was a former seaport of Sparta then a Roman naval base. In Epirus, you will be transported by your exploration of Parga, bathed by the Ionian Sea, with its fortress, built by the Normans in the 14th century, overlooking the pretty fishing port.
Ref : EG150424
Your itinerary
With featured guest Léonor de Récondo, writer and violonist. A cruise between Greece and Italy, to discover some of the most beautiful sites on the Mediterranean shores. UNESCO World Heritage Sites:...
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Your trip in detail
Our guest of honour
Léonor de Récondo
The Mediterranean Sea is our cradle of travel and beauty, it is also the place of escape and dreams. Many artists, since the Greeks and Romans, following the path of spices, have crossed it in search of a new art, a new technique. I suggest we stop for a few moments at the beginning of the 18th century and follow the ardent life of Ilaria, who was Vivaldi's pupil behind the walls of the Pietà.
Léonor de Récondo
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Complete your trip
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE LYRIAL
07/11/2023 to the 22/11/2023
LE LYRIAL
01/10/2023 to the 08/10/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
06/02/2024 to the 03/03/2024
LE BORÉAL
07/07/2024 to the 20/07/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Léonor de Récondo
Léonor de Récondo was born 1976 into a family of artists, her mother a painter and father a sculptor. A violinist, she has recorded numerous albums and performed in France and abroad, notably with baroque music ensembles. She founded the Yriade Ensemble that specialises in 17th and 18th century cantata repertoires.
A writer, she has written eight novels, La Grâce au cyprès blanc (Le Temps qu’il fait, 2010); Rêves oubliés (Sabine Wespieser, 2012); Pietra viva (Sabine Wespieser, 2013) which was a huge success; Amours (Sabine Wespieser, 2015, Grand Prix RTL-Lire et Prix des Libraires); Point cardinal (Sabine Wespieser, Student Novel Prize, France Culture-Télérama, 2017); Manifesto (Sabine Wespieser, 2019); La Leçon de ténèbres (Stock, Ève Delacroix Prize from the Académie française, 2020), and Revenir à toi, (Grasset, 2021, LGF, 2022).
Language spoken: French
Photo crédit: JF PAGA
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Léonor de Récondo
Léonor de Récondo was born 1976 into a family of artists, her mother a painter and father a sculptor. A violinist, she has recorded numerous albums and performed in France and abroad, notably with baroque music ensembles. She founded the Yriade Ensemble that specialises in 17th and 18th century cantata repertoires.
A writer, she has written eight novels, La Grâce au cyprès blanc (Le Temps qu’il fait, 2010); Rêves oubliés (Sabine Wespieser, 2012); Pietra viva (Sabine Wespieser, 2013) which was a huge success; Amours (Sabine Wespieser, 2015, Grand Prix RTL-Lire et Prix des Libraires); Point cardinal (Sabine Wespieser, Student Novel Prize, France Culture-Télérama, 2017); Manifesto (Sabine Wespieser, 2019); La Leçon de ténèbres (Stock, Ève Delacroix Prize from the Académie française, 2020), and Revenir à toi, (Grasset, 2021, LGF, 2022).
Language spoken: French
Photo crédit: JF PAGA
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- With featured guest Léonor de Récondo, writer and violonist.
- A cruise between Greece and Italy, to discover some of the most beautiful sites on the Mediterranean shores.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Valletta, Syracuse, the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Nafplion, the Acropolis in Athens.
- An all-new port of call in Gallipoli to immerse yourself in the gentle way of life of the Puglia region and discover the ancient history of this former Greek city.
- Sicily with the call at Syracuse.
Ports of Call & Excursions
15 April 2024 - Valletta
Embarkation 15/04/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 15/04/2024 at 18:00
The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
16 April 2024 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 16/04/2024 early morning
Departure 16/04/2024 evening
Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
17 April 2024 - Reggio di Calabria
Arrival 17/04/2024 early morning
Departure 17/04/2024 early afternoon
At the southern tip of the Italian boot, Reggio di Calabria guards the eastern shore of the Strait of Messina. From the lungomare, the sea front promenade, there are magnificent views over Sicily, a little over 3 km away, and Etna. Rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, Reggio is set out in a grid pattern and has Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture that add to its charm. And the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region’s confectionery and perfumery. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. It is one of the most important in Italy and among its collections are the famous Riace Bronzes, the stunning Greek statues dating from the 5th century BC that were found off the coast in 1972.
18 April 2024 - Gallipoli
Arrival 18/04/2024 early morning
Departure 18/04/2024 late afternoon
Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kalle polis, meaning beautiful town, is very aptly named. Located on the heel of the boot, the town known as “the pearl of Puglia” has many attractions. The whiteness of its façades recalls its Greek origins while its architecture echoes its multiple influences. Its old town, perched on a limestone island, concentrates the cultural heritage of this city with a thousand faces, alternately a Roman colony, then Byzantine, the property of the Popes, Norman, under the rule of Taranto… By itself, it tells the story of the different civilisations of the Mediterranean Sea.
19 April 2024 - Parga
Arrival 19/04/2024 early morning
Departure 19/04/2024 mid afternoon
An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colourful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheatre, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns.
20 April 2024 - Gythio
Arrival 20/04/2024 midday
Departure 20/04/2024 evening
Located in the south of the Peloponnese, on the Mani Peninsula, Gytheio was the main port and naval base of ancient Sparta, located around fifty kilometres inland. In Roman times, the port experienced significant expansion thanks to trading in imperial dye; in fact, the region had an abundance of murex, the rock snails from which this dye, loved by the Romans, was extracted. The town is nestled against Mount Koumaros and dominated by a citadel. Take a stroll and fall under the charm of the calm that reigns over the stairways bordered by small neoclassic houses with steps overrun with wild flowers.
21 April 2024 - Monemvasia
Arrival 21/04/2024 early morning
Departure 21/04/2024 evening
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
22 April 2024 - Nafplion
Arrival 22/04/2024 early morning
Departure 22/04/2024 early evening
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Do not be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. Some of the must-see visits are the ancient agora on the plateau of Akronafplia, Italianate arcades in Syntagma square as well as the baroque fortress of Palamidi on a hillside of the same name. At the top of the hill, views of the gulf and the surrounding mountains are simply awesome. If you want to chill out by the water’s edge, walk along the Arvanitia promenade to a beautiful creek in the shade of cedars and cypresses.
23 April 2024 - Athens
Arrival 23/04/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 23/04/2024 at 08:00
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
Archaeological site & Ortygia
Depart the pier by coach and drive to the archaeological area, which you will reach after a short drive.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for fights between gladiators and wild beasts, the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century BC to celebrate the “Eleutherian Feast”, the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons, the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo and the Greek Theatre, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, constructed in the 5th century BC and successively enlarged.
Upon completion of the visit, re-board your coach for the short drive to Ortygia, which you will visit on foot. On Ortygia Island discover the Piazza Pancali (the ruins of the Temple of Apollo of the 6th century BC), Corso Matteotti, Archimede’s Place, Piazza Duomo. Visit the Cathedral in Baroque style, erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva: in the interiors, see the undamaged twelve Doric columns. Then visit the fountain of Arethusa, the nymph praised by Pindar and Virgilio in one of the most touching and fine myths. Several nobility palaces – majority of them originating in the 15th and 16th centuries – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Then, return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles (2,5 km) of walking over uneven terrain and cobble stones as well as steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). This tour is not recommended for passengers with reduced mobility.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Noto, Baroque town
Depart by coach from the port through the countryside, passing through villages and almond groves as you make your way to Noto, the second largest town in Syracuse province and the best example of Sicilian Baroque architecture on the island.
You will cross on foot the Public Gardens, where it is possible to admire the busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style.
Besides the 18th century Cathedral, currently under restoration after damage suffered during 1990 earthquake, other impressive buildings are the Churches of St Domenico and of St Charles (del Colleggio), the “Ducezio” Palace and “Villadorata” Palace.
Noto has been declared a Heritage site by UNESCO, who also provides financial support for the reconstruction of monuments destroyed during 1990 earthquake.
A refreshment will be offered at a local bar and then you will enjoy some free time to browse around before commencing the return drive to Syracuse.
-
Restoration works on the monuments of Noto (after damage suffered during the 1990 earthquake) are almost completed but access to church interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves approximately 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking mostly over easy terrain, except for steps to enter churches. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The palace visits are only outside visits. This tour is not recommended for guest with limited mobility.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Nikopolis & Preveza
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Ancient Nikopolis. The city of victory was founded in 31 BC by Augustus, in honour of his victory over Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium.
Your first stop will be made at Nikopolis archaeological site. The town grew and flourished both in Roman times, which numbered about 30,000 residents but also later in Christian times. This archaeological site houses many monuments scattered over an area of about 600 ha (1500 acres). Among the most important monuments, you will admire Roman and especially Byzantine walls, a theatre, baths, aqueducts and parts of the old churches.
Then, you will visit the Nikopolis museum which contains collections of architectural parts and sculptures from the ancient city and offerings from the cemetery of Nikopolis.
Following your visit, you will board your coach for a short drive to the town of Preveza. During your walking tour around the picturesque small port, you will visit the old town streets, passing by the public market building. Built in 1939 to house the grocery and butchery shops of the city, the building houses today the Municipality’s Cultural Centre.
Then, you will walk to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Agios Charalampos (outside visit) before continuing passing by the Venetian Clock Tower. This building, built in 1752, is a typical example of the architecture of the Venetian domination. Its solar clock and the older temple contributed to the reputation of the town.
Finally, you will return to your ship in Parga.
- This excursion involves 0.62 mile (1 km) of walking on uneven terrains with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 90 participants.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
City of Arta & Archaeological Museum
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ¼ -hour drive to Arta, region of Greece still largely untouched by tourism.
The modern town of Arta sits on the ancient site of Ambracia. An ancient Corinthian colony dating back to the 7th century B.C. which later became the capital of the Kingdom of Pyrrhus in about 295 B.C.
Arriving into Arta, who means “fortress”, you will see the famous stone bridge standing over the river Arachthos. The bridge dates back to the 17th century but it is built on the site of older bridges that go back even further to the time of Pyrrus. Legend has it that the bridge's builder, frustrated with each day’s work being ruined by the river, was advised by a bird that the problem could be solved by putting his wife in the foundations which he actually did.
You will enjoy the panoramic view from the bridge on the river and its surroundings before continuing to the Archaeological Museum of Arta, located just a short distance from the bridge and near the banks of Arachthos River.
This museum, fully renovated, houses the antiquities from the wider region of Arta and the exhibits cover a time span from the Palaeolithic to the Roman times. The collection includes funerary stelae and burial offerings from the cemeteries of ancient Ambracia finds from the ancient city of Ambracia, as well as from the "Koudounotrypa" cave, and several other sites in the region of Arta.
Arta is also famous for its Byzantine architecture and churches, the most beautiful and famous one being the church of Panagia Parigoritissa, dating from the 13th century. This church, crowned with towers and domes, is ornate with wall paintings inside dating back hundreds of years that you can discover during your visit.
Following your visit to the church take a stroll around the colourful pedestrian street of the town with its little shops and cafes before you board your coach again for your return drive to the port of Parga.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking, over flat and paved terrain. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothe is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking & rafting at Acheron River
After five minutes walk through the town of Parga, you will board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Gliki village.
This little village sits next to the picturesque Acheron River known as the mystical river Styx of Greek mythology believed to lead to the entrance of the underworld and Kingdom of Hades. According to tradition, Zeus was devastated when the Titans drunk from the water and then he condemned the river to remain eternally under the earth.
In this beautiful surrounding with rich vegetation and crystalline waters which comprise a unique natural landscape you will start a 45-minute guided walk and exploration through the banks of the river. In some parts of your walk there are lakes and water pits.
Returning back to the starting point, you will board the rafting boats in groups of 6 per boat and together with your boat instructor you will raft for approximately 7 minutes in the transparent waters of the river which flows through the forest slopes of the canyon and the Gliki gorge.
Then, you will enjoy refreshments with local snacks in one of the river side taverns before you board your coach and return to Parga.
-
This tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking on uneven paths with, sometimes, water up to the knees. The water level can be rise until upper thighs. This tour is not recommended for guests with any mobility challenges. Participants must be able to embark and disembark from a rafting boat. We recommend you wear water shoes and waterproof clothes or clothes that you can get wet. The boat instructor is English speaking. The water temperature is often fresh. Each rafting boat can welcome 6 participants and the rafting boat lasts less than ten minutes. The minimum age to participate in this excursion is 10 years. This tour is limited to 36 participants.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Corinth & Canal crossing
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ½-hour drive to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
Back in the ancient times, Corinth was amongst the richest cities and this is quite evident by its remains, including the huge Agora (Market Place) and the Temple of Apollo (6th century BC). The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, are still continuing today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations extended also to the fortress on Acrocorinthos. But also, the prehistoric settlements, the Theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepeion, the cemeteries, the Quarter of the Potters, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover is the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 4 miles (6.3 km) long, 70 feet (21 m) wide and has sloping sides, which reach 170 feet (52 m). The depth is at 26 feet (8 m). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean Seas to provide a short cut seems to date back to at least Roman times.
To complete this experience, you will board a local boat from the village of Isthmia, to navigate along the canal. Refreshments will be served on board.
Following your crossing of the canal, you will enjoy a buffet lunch before boarding your coach and return to Nafplion.
-
This tour involves approximately 1 ½ hours of extensive walking and standing on uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The local boat is not private for PONANT guests. The refreshment and the lunch are included on your tour. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €170
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Archaeological site & Ortygia
Depart the pier by coach and drive to the archaeological area, which you will reach after a short drive.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for fights between gladiators and wild beasts, the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century BC to celebrate the “Eleutherian Feast”, the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons, the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo and the Greek Theatre, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, constructed in the 5th century BC and successively enlarged.
Upon completion of the visit, re-board your coach for the short drive to Ortygia, which you will visit on foot. On Ortygia Island discover the Piazza Pancali (the ruins of the Temple of Apollo of the 6th century BC), Corso Matteotti, Archimede’s Place, Piazza Duomo. Visit the Cathedral in Baroque style, erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva: in the interiors, see the undamaged twelve Doric columns. Then visit the fountain of Arethusa, the nymph praised by Pindar and Virgilio in one of the most touching and fine myths. Several nobility palaces – majority of them originating in the 15th and 16th centuries – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Then, return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles (2,5 km) of walking over uneven terrain and cobble stones as well as steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). This tour is not recommended for passengers with reduced mobility.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Noto, Baroque town
Depart by coach from the port through the countryside, passing through villages and almond groves as you make your way to Noto, the second largest town in Syracuse province and the best example of Sicilian Baroque architecture on the island.
You will cross on foot the Public Gardens, where it is possible to admire the busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style.
Besides the 18th century Cathedral, currently under restoration after damage suffered during 1990 earthquake, other impressive buildings are the Churches of St Domenico and of St Charles (del Colleggio), the “Ducezio” Palace and “Villadorata” Palace.
Noto has been declared a Heritage site by UNESCO, who also provides financial support for the reconstruction of monuments destroyed during 1990 earthquake.
A refreshment will be offered at a local bar and then you will enjoy some free time to browse around before commencing the return drive to Syracuse.
-
Restoration works on the monuments of Noto (after damage suffered during the 1990 earthquake) are almost completed but access to church interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves approximately 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking mostly over easy terrain, except for steps to enter churches. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The palace visits are only outside visits. This tour is not recommended for guest with limited mobility.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Nikopolis & Preveza
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Ancient Nikopolis. The city of victory was founded in 31 BC by Augustus, in honour of his victory over Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium.
Your first stop will be made at Nikopolis archaeological site. The town grew and flourished both in Roman times, which numbered about 30,000 residents but also later in Christian times. This archaeological site houses many monuments scattered over an area of about 600 ha (1500 acres). Among the most important monuments, you will admire Roman and especially Byzantine walls, a theatre, baths, aqueducts and parts of the old churches.
Then, you will visit the Nikopolis museum which contains collections of architectural parts and sculptures from the ancient city and offerings from the cemetery of Nikopolis.
Following your visit, you will board your coach for a short drive to the town of Preveza. During your walking tour around the picturesque small port, you will visit the old town streets, passing by the public market building. Built in 1939 to house the grocery and butchery shops of the city, the building houses today the Municipality’s Cultural Centre.
Then, you will walk to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Agios Charalampos (outside visit) before continuing passing by the Venetian Clock Tower. This building, built in 1752, is a typical example of the architecture of the Venetian domination. Its solar clock and the older temple contributed to the reputation of the town.
Finally, you will return to your ship in Parga.
- This excursion involves 0.62 mile (1 km) of walking on uneven terrains with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 90 participants.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
City of Arta & Archaeological Museum
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ¼ -hour drive to Arta, region of Greece still largely untouched by tourism.
The modern town of Arta sits on the ancient site of Ambracia. An ancient Corinthian colony dating back to the 7th century B.C. which later became the capital of the Kingdom of Pyrrhus in about 295 B.C.
Arriving into Arta, who means “fortress”, you will see the famous stone bridge standing over the river Arachthos. The bridge dates back to the 17th century but it is built on the site of older bridges that go back even further to the time of Pyrrus. Legend has it that the bridge's builder, frustrated with each day’s work being ruined by the river, was advised by a bird that the problem could be solved by putting his wife in the foundations which he actually did.
You will enjoy the panoramic view from the bridge on the river and its surroundings before continuing to the Archaeological Museum of Arta, located just a short distance from the bridge and near the banks of Arachthos River.
This museum, fully renovated, houses the antiquities from the wider region of Arta and the exhibits cover a time span from the Palaeolithic to the Roman times. The collection includes funerary stelae and burial offerings from the cemeteries of ancient Ambracia finds from the ancient city of Ambracia, as well as from the "Koudounotrypa" cave, and several other sites in the region of Arta.
Arta is also famous for its Byzantine architecture and churches, the most beautiful and famous one being the church of Panagia Parigoritissa, dating from the 13th century. This church, crowned with towers and domes, is ornate with wall paintings inside dating back hundreds of years that you can discover during your visit.
Following your visit to the church take a stroll around the colourful pedestrian street of the town with its little shops and cafes before you board your coach again for your return drive to the port of Parga.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking, over flat and paved terrain. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothe is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking & rafting at Acheron River
After five minutes walk through the town of Parga, you will board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Gliki village.
This little village sits next to the picturesque Acheron River known as the mystical river Styx of Greek mythology believed to lead to the entrance of the underworld and Kingdom of Hades. According to tradition, Zeus was devastated when the Titans drunk from the water and then he condemned the river to remain eternally under the earth.
In this beautiful surrounding with rich vegetation and crystalline waters which comprise a unique natural landscape you will start a 45-minute guided walk and exploration through the banks of the river. In some parts of your walk there are lakes and water pits.
Returning back to the starting point, you will board the rafting boats in groups of 6 per boat and together with your boat instructor you will raft for approximately 7 minutes in the transparent waters of the river which flows through the forest slopes of the canyon and the Gliki gorge.
Then, you will enjoy refreshments with local snacks in one of the river side taverns before you board your coach and return to Parga.
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This tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking on uneven paths with, sometimes, water up to the knees. The water level can be rise until upper thighs. This tour is not recommended for guests with any mobility challenges. Participants must be able to embark and disembark from a rafting boat. We recommend you wear water shoes and waterproof clothes or clothes that you can get wet. The boat instructor is English speaking. The water temperature is often fresh. Each rafting boat can welcome 6 participants and the rafting boat lasts less than ten minutes. The minimum age to participate in this excursion is 10 years. This tour is limited to 36 participants.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Corinth & Canal crossing
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ½-hour drive to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
Back in the ancient times, Corinth was amongst the richest cities and this is quite evident by its remains, including the huge Agora (Market Place) and the Temple of Apollo (6th century BC). The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, are still continuing today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations extended also to the fortress on Acrocorinthos. But also, the prehistoric settlements, the Theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepeion, the cemeteries, the Quarter of the Potters, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover is the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 4 miles (6.3 km) long, 70 feet (21 m) wide and has sloping sides, which reach 170 feet (52 m). The depth is at 26 feet (8 m). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean Seas to provide a short cut seems to date back to at least Roman times.
To complete this experience, you will board a local boat from the village of Isthmia, to navigate along the canal. Refreshments will be served on board.
Following your crossing of the canal, you will enjoy a buffet lunch before boarding your coach and return to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 1 ½ hours of extensive walking and standing on uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The local boat is not private for PONANT guests. The refreshment and the lunch are included on your tour. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €170
According to availability, price per passenger.