Culinary Quests

Vineyard and Archeology Experience (Full Day), Friday

As yet undiscovered by most Americans, Greece produces some amazing white, and even red, wines. Approximately one hour’s drive from Athens, the northeastern Peloponnese is a region of rolling hills covered by olive groves and vineyards overlooking the Aegean Sea. There is no better way to learn about the production of the famous wines of Nemea than to tour the Palivou Estate vineyard, winery and aging cellar. The final stop is the tasting room where you will taste the award-winning Estate wines. If you wish, you may have the option to participate in the grape harvest that takes place during August and September.  We end our day with a tour of the ancient theater of Epidaurus, a Greek archeological site that has been very well preserved and is still in use today with frequent plays, concerts and festivals.  Minimum of 4 people required.

Price: $253.00

Taste of Greece (Full Day), Thursday

Eleni will walk with you through culinary history of the past and present. You will taste the small and large culinary miracles that every day Greek shop owners, restauranteurs and merchants have for sale. Through the Central market we will taste some of the best Greek traditional desserts, honey, dry rusks and traditional sweet delights. We will stop and enjoy the aroma of fresh spices and herbs at local emporiums as well as experience the shopping of traditional cookware and linen. Of course wine tasting will be included. Our last stop will be to enjoy dinner at a traditional tavern that has its doors open to Greek people -- the kind of tavern hidden in small alleys and, unless you are in the company of a local, very difficult to find.  Minimum of 4 people required.

Price: $202.50

Poseidon's Temple (Half Day, PM Only), Tuesday

Travel to the southernmost point of Attica and experience the wonder previously known only to ancient sailors who were first welcomed home to Athens by the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. The Temple, appropriately dedicated to the god of the sea, is set on spectacular cliffs over the Aegean and remains remarkably intact despite its age, dating back to the 5th century B.C. The Temple is only one attraction here - the stunning view of the island of Kea on one side and Peloponnese on the other, will compete for your attention. After trying to find the spot on one of the columns where Lord Byron carved his name, complete your perfect day by enjoying wine with Greek meze as the sun sinks into the blue Aegean Sea.  Minimum of 4 people required.

Price: $132.00

Artisanal Products of Greece: Wine, Cheese and Honey (Half Day, PM Only), Monday

Depart for a wonderful drive along the "Athens riviera" where you will enjoy a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens most beautiful outskirts (Glyfada,Vouliagmeni, Varkiza).  We will proceed to visit a local winery in the small town of Spata and taste some of the locally-produced wines.  We will proceed to visit the caves of Peania and a local cheese maker in Koropi.  Afterwards, we will enjoy a visit with Mr. Tasos, a local beekeeper and a good friend, and sample the famous Greek honey.  Minimum of 4 people required.

Price: $91.00