Sample the Best of Greece

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Sample the of best GREECE

1 friendly & personal service.. We focus all our energy and resources on one thing: sharing with you some of our our services favourite, loveliest parts of Greece and the Greek islands. • Special Interest Packages Katrea Holidays is synonymous with quality tailor-made services in the fields of • Luxury Travel independent and escorted travel and the organization of meetings, conferences and • M.I.C.E. other corporate events. We pride ourselves in anticipating our clients’ wishes and • Cruises & Yachts ensuring that each and every aspect of their trip is perfect. • Accommodation We share with you our personal knowledge of the very best that Greece has to offer. • Transportation Services We’ve explored every region we suggest, visited the archaeological sites and museums, inspected the hotels, walked the paths, taken a dip in the sea to make sure everything is exactly what you expect.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family or part of a large group, we are here to guide you through your selection process. Our experienced consultants will work closely with you to design a perfect itinerary and ensure that you will feel the authentic pulse of Greece.

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let our greece become truly friendly & SODALES FRINGILLA LOREM IPSUM DOLOR your greece too... personal service massa lorem Contents

4 5 Let our greece become your greece too ... Full of natural beauties, lush landscapes and untrodden spots, crystal clear waters, sun-kissed golden beaches, picturesque villages, colourful islands and cosmopolitan capitals, contemporary lifestyle and traditional features: the multifaceted personality of Greece will satisfy even the most demanding visitor.

Whether you are looking for history and mythology, art and culture, folklore and tradition or religion, you will no doubt find something to suit your taste. How about relaxing a few days by the sea or exploring mountainous villages, lakes and rivers? Or tasting the unique cuisine and local wines?

Greece will put a spell on you!

6 7 mythology & history art & culture religion & faith folklore & tradition

Greece is the Land of History, the cradle of European Two closely interwoven concepts which express every-day Centuries–old churches, monasteries and cells decorated Tradition is strong in Greece. civilization. A country whose lore stretches back almost life in Greece. Music, theatre, literature, poetry, dance, archi- with excellent mosaics, paintings and icons bear witness to Dancing and singing at “panigiria” (traditional feasts held 4,000 years. tecture, sculpture, pottery, weaving, painting and jewellery the persistence of faith and tradition and give testimony to on some religious or commercial occasion), music festi- A country with archaeological sites and monuments that making have a longstanding tradition in Greece. the country’s rich religious heritage. vals, monastic events -- or simply, old men sipping their give visitors the opportunity to make a unique journey This crossroads of rich and diverse civilisations always gives In Western Thessaly, Meteora, the 14th century Byzantine coffee or “tsipouro” and playing “tavli” at some “kafeneio”. through the rare mosaic of history and culture which has you the opportunity to turn your holidays into a monasteries perched on the tops of rock towers; in the All these occasions, and many more, will make your trip a left an indelible mark on every region. creative escape. Chalkidiki peninsula in northern Greece, Mount Athos, a memorable experience. The Acropolis of Athens, the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio, The breathtaking scenery and the sunlight that brings out unique place dedicated to prayer and worship; on the island Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tiryns, Pythagoreion, the richness of colours never fail to inspire you. of Patmos, the monastery of St. John the Theologian and the Vergina, Mystras, Dilos, Knossos and Phaestos, Delphi… Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is believed to have the list is long and thrilling. written the Book of Revelation. These places count among the most wondrous monuments world-wide. Travellers can also follow the steps of St Paul through the biblical sites.

A lifetime experience!

8 9 GEOLOGY & GROUND morhology FLORA & FAUNA HOT springs & spa outdoor activities

The geographical position of Greece, on the convergence White poplars, spearheaded cypresses, chestnut, pine, fir Greece has 752 thermo-metallic springs all over the country, Thanks to the wonderful Mediterranean climate and the area of two tectonic plates, results in a complicated geologi- and olive trees; wild flowers, many of which are mentioned most of them known since antiquity. Over the years they variety in its landscape, Greece is a fantastic destination for cal structure and a great variety of geoforms, formations and in classical poetry and mythology, such as evosmon, anem- turned into cosmopolitan centers, attracting many people for the outdoor enthusiast. 16,000 km of coastline, processes: the Petrified Forest on the island of Lesvos; the one, violets, tulips, peonies, narcissus, parthenium, primrose spa-therapy and entertainment. The world renowned quality an unbelievable number of islands, mountains with peaks gorges of Samaria in Crete and of Vikos and Aoos in Epirus; and chamomile. Wildlife includes boar, bear, wild cat, brown of the Greek waters combines with readily available mineral reaching over 2,000 metres, lakes, wild rivers, incredible the caves of Alistrati and Petralona in Macedonia and those squirrel, jackal, fox, deer, wolf. The wild goat (agrimi), which water and therapeutic mud to make a very attractive rock formations, peacefully sleeping volcanoes, gorges and of Deros and Limnes in the Peloponnese; the waterfalls in has disappeared from the rest of Europe, still lives in parts of environment for the development of thalassotherapy beautiful aesthetic forests create the perfect setting for Edessa; the rock formations in Meteora; the volcanoes of Greece and on the island of Crete. Migratory and native birds centers. Most of the hotel resort complexes operate a whole range of outdoor activities: mountain climbing, Santorini and Nisyros; the fossilized areas in Pikermi, Attica, abound and there are more than 250 species of marine life. thalassotherapy centers on their premises. skiing, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, canyoning, Tilos and Samos, just to name a few. These images will Due to the astoundingly rich flora and fauna they They are ideally situated in areas that allow one to enjoy the hiking, trekking, horse-riding, sailing, scuba diving, impress you every step of the way and will undoubtedly be support, many of these environments have been designated peaceful surroundings, amazing scenery and the great windsurfing … imprinted on your mind for ever. as National Parks and are protected as such, while as a result relaxing and soothing experience. The possibilities for active holidays in Greece are endless. of infrastructure developed over the last decades, they constitute today ideal destinations for winter and alpine tourism.

A lifetime experience!

10 11 Gastronomy shopping enterntainment family holidays

Have a glass of wine in the shade of a tree, taste the wide Are you looking for souvenirs or for fashion items? For inter- Whatever your idea of entertainment, in Greece there are Greece is an ideal destination for families. Little children variety of Greek dishes at a small “taverna” by the sea or national brands or for traditional creations? Would you prefer endless attractions and activities to suit all tastes. love fairy tales. What better way for them to enjoy Greek at some picturesque mountain village, near the fireplace shopping in boutiques or in department stores? Vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, theatre festivals, sports, mythology than at so many archaeological sites? with good company.. There are no two areas in Greece travelling along wine routes, you name it. And what better way for parents to relax than knowing where the cuisine is identical. Each region has its own Whatever your choice, let us guide you through the count- that their children are having fun in a safe environment? delicacies, depending on its microclimate, its proximity to less possibilities. sweet or salt waters, the roots of its inhabitants. Unique ingredients, the Greek philosophy of slow eating and sharing, the country itself and the atmosphere in general: that’s what makes a Greek meal an unforgettable experience.

A lifetime experience!

12 13 sample the best of greece ... Whether it is summer, autumn, winter or spring, Greece can offer you unique moments!

Greece is a small country that boasts a rich history and an unrivalled legacy, but also enormous diversity.

The possibilities are endless and there is always something excitingly interesting to discover!

Greece will put a spell on you!

14 15 Athens The capital of Greece, birthplace of democracy.

. The Acropolis and the Parthenon . The Plaka area . History and Culture . Gastronomy . Nightlife….

To name but a few reasons why Athens is a must!

A sprawling modern metropolis, and yet as you go around, you feel as if you walk in and out of the past. Goddess Athena watches on you from the Holy Rock as you stroll along the narrow passages of the old town. And then, just a few short steps away, you enter a bustling commercial area with classy shops!

This is where the Parthenon, that marvel of architecture, was created. Wherever you stand, wherever you turn, you will be enfolded by the city’s long and rich history.

Modern, but also romantic, with busy streets and squares, shop windows that are a riot of colour, but also little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighborhoods such as Plaka.

Here you will find whatever your heart desires.

16 17 Athens Hotels Athens Hotels

DIVANI ACROPOLIS MELIA ATHENS 5* METROPOLITAN HOTEL 5* NJV ATHENS PLAZA 5* ATHENS GATE 4* ATHENS WAY 4* FRESH HOTEL 4* GOLDEN AGE 4* PALACE 5* This simply irresistible luxury hotel A contemporary hotel with a Unique cosmopolitan atmo- Supreme location. Affordable Located in the historic district A brand-new minimal hotel near Downtown in the heart of Athens, A unique boutique hotel, situated in Athens, sits just below the shad- refined appearance located sphere, combines traditional luxury. Exceptional, personalized of Athens, exactly opposite the the exlusive area of Kolonaki. Fresh Hotel is a stylish, urban in one of the safest and most ow of Acropolis in the heart of Athens. hospitality and luxury. Located service. One of the best Temple of Olympian Zeus. Ideally located in the business resort,with unconventional accessible areas of Athens in front of the Faleron Olympic downtown Athens hotels. centre of Athens and very close atmosphere, cool and thoughtful offering visitors relaxing and Coastal Park. to historical centre of the city, service. enjoyable stay.

RADISSON BLU ST GEORGE AIROTEL A FOR ATHENS 4* HERA BOUTIQUE HOTEL 4* MAGNA GRECIA 4* NEW HOTEL 4* AIROTEL PARTHENON 4* ATHENS PARK 5* LYCABETTUS 5* STRATOS VASSILIKOS 5* Offers a unique opportunity to the A small intimate four star In the heart of the old city, A new urban hotel in the center A splendid structure situated A true home-away-from home. A chic property, designed for A new vision in accommoda- visitor to enjoy an excellent stay boutique hotel in Athens with an where past meets present, only of Athens, embracing the city’s in Athens, ideal destination for A leading deluxe hotel located the discerning traveler. Situated tion and relaxation offers a at the hotel, right into the heart Acropolis view in the prime steps away from the Acropolis heritage and contemporary unique and unforgettable stay. on the border of the central park in Kolonaki, the most exclusive next-generation hotel expe- of the old Athens. central location of the Plaka Museum. of Athens, Pedion Areos (Martian quarter of Athens. culture. rience. district. Field).

AIROTEL ALEXANDROS 5* AREOS HOTEL 4* ATHENS ATRIUM 4* ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE POSEIDON 4* PRESIDENT 4* TITANIA HOTEL 4 SUP* ACROPOLIS SELECT 4 * Enjoys a strategic location within This new, modern and very stylish Known for its comfort, EXCLUSIVE HOTEL 4 SUP * easy reach from Kolonaki shopping boutique hotel is situated next to personal service and classic A unique Boutique Hotel in the Located in the “Athenian Riviera” Towers over one of the most Right in the heart of the Histor- Ideally located within the vicinity centre, the National Gallery, and Pedion Areos (Martian Field). elegance, is one of the most heart of Athens City where style at the seafront of Paleo Faliro, significant hubs of Athens. Hotel ical and Commercial Centre of of the Acropolis and Plaka and many other attractions. overlooking the magnificent is only a few minutes away from only a 15 minutes walk from the promising 4 star hotels in and comfort are happily coupled Athens, creates its own “page” in to offer a pleasant stay. Argosaronic Gulf. Museums, Archaeological Sites the history of Hospitality. heart of Athens. 18 Athens. and Commercial Center. 19 Crete Land of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur Full of mountain villages, long sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, azure coasts and a great nightlife.

Taste fresh fruit, the best olive oil in the world and healthy, delicious cheeses. Enjoy the delight of sipping a Greek coffee at the roadside “kafeneio” in a mountain village, the excitement of weddings and other occasions, the history, the traditional life style and Cretan hospitality.

Crete boasts developed tourist areas with resort hotels, but also quiet coves, hidden beaches and invig- orating mountain villages. The biggest cities are Chania, Rethymno, Iraklio, Agios Nikolaos in the north and Ierapetra in the south.

In a nutshell...

Heraklion was the center of Minoan civilization. Visit Knossos, the legendary palace of Minos.

Lasithi is a land of many faces, of beautiful beaches and picturesque villages.

Rethymno is one of the best preserved Renaissance cities in the Mediterranean.

Chania is at the western part of Crete. It’s a land of unique beauty, location of the famous Samaria gorge.

20 21 GALAXY HOTEL 5* ASTORIA CAPSIS 4* OLYMPIC HOTEL 3* KYDON HOTEL 4* ILIANTHOS VILLAGE 5* MINOA PALACE RESORT Heraklion City Heraklion City Heraklion City Chania City Agia Marina & SPA 5* - Platanias

High Aesthetics and Functionality. Situated in the heart of Heraklion Hotel Olympic with long-lasting A friendly and hospitable hotel is Luxury, combined with a pleasant The luxury and comfort, com- Chania Contemporary and Traditional. town. Being the most popular experience and tradition in hospi- waiting for you in Chania, at the and friendly atmosphere will bined with the attention to the Seemingly conflicting concepts, hotel in the city of Heraklion, the tality was completely renovated centre of the town, on the square make you feel like being at detail and the relaxed atmo- but ones that the Galaxy Hotel Capsis Astoria Hotel is dedicated in 2002. In its renewed form, of the old Municipal Market. home. Just a few meters off the sphere, provide a holiday to Iraklio has combined adeptly to in offering its guests an unforget- it provides services and conve- seashore. remember for a lifetime! create a world-class hotel. table stay. niences that meet the demands of our times.

CANDIA MARIS HOTEL 5* FODELE BEACH 5* IKAROS VILLAGE 5* PORTO PLATANIAS 5* HYDRAMIS PALACE 4 sup* MYTHOS PALACE 4 sup* Ammoudara Fodele Mallia Platanias Georgioupolis Kavros - Georgioupolis High Aesthetics and Functionality. Lies in a unique location with Privacy, Romance and Stress-free Aresort designed to offer The complex looks like a cos- Offers a wonderful family atmo- Contemporary and Traditional. a breathtaking view, on the Relaxation are complements ultimate pleasure and mopolitan village with pleasant sphere and combines the real walkways and gardens. The hotel Cretan Hospitality in an environ- Heraklion Seemingly conflicting concepts, exquisite sandy beach of Fodele of this family-friendly Resort. recreation. Located in one of but ones that the Galaxy Hotel area (birthplace of the world- Ikaros Beach Luxury Resort & Spa the most cosmopolitan regions of offers excellent hospitality in ment, based on modern but also Iraklio has combined adeptly to wide famous painter Dominikos is stoned-built on a small hill, Crete, Platanias, 10 kilometres pleasant surroundings and is good traditional Cretan architecture. create a world-class hotel. Theotokopoulos, well known as surrounded by the blue crystal west of the town of Chania. for any age group. EL GRECO). waters of Aegean Sea.

SANTA MARINA 4* Ammoudara

Lies on a long sandy beach in the region of Ammoudara almost in the center of the island of Crete, Just 6 klms west of Heraklion and 10 kms from the Famous Palace of Knossos. It is a modern hotel offering high standard services.

22 23 ELOUNDA BEACH HOTEL & VILLAS 5* Elounda

The ultimate hideaway with luxury guest rooms, villas and suites in Crete Greece. In a unique waterfront location, experience

Elounda the feeling of relaxing on your own heaven at sea level with outstanding personalized service. Ag Nikolaos

AQUILA RITHYMNA BEACH 5* Adelianos Kampos

The hotel is situated amidst an almost 20 acres, well-kept and colourful garden and consists of a main house in traditional style and a typical Cretan bungalow

Rethymno village. Rethmyno town is 7 km away.

24 25 Aegean islands argo-saronic islands •cyclades •dodecanese • sporades •northeastern aegean islands Pristine beaches, blue skies, bright sun, volcanoes, tiled roofs, cobblestone alleys, chapels, windmills, and monasteries.

Veritable jewels set in the blue waters, with picturesque villages and idyllic spots for swimming, fishing, and relaxing.

The landscape is marvellous! Each island has something unique to offer the visitor: ancient ruins and history alongside modern attractions. Some of the islands are major tourist resorts, while others retain the typical Greek island way of life.

In a nutshell... • The Argo-Saronic Islands: Agistri, Aegina, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra and the coastal area of Methana. • The Cyclades: A group of 56 islands, the most important ones being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Syros, Tinos and Folegandros, as well as the “Minor Cyclades” comprising Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia and Schinoussa. • The Dodecanese: Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos and Halki. • The Northeastern Aegean Islands: Agios Efstratios, Thassos, Ikaria, Lesvos, Limnos, Inousses, Samos, Samothraki, Chios, Psara. • The Sporades: Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros

26 27 IOS PALACE HOTEL 4* DIONYSOS SEASIDE LIOSTASI HOTEL MYCONIAN AMBASSADOR MYCONIAN IMPERIAL 5* ROYAL MYCONIAN 5*

Ios Mylopotas RESORT 4* - Mylopotas & SPA 3 sup * - Chora 5* - Platys Yialos Elia Beach Elia Beach An attractive Hotel – Bungalow The chic and simple Aegean Amongst the first boutique hotels Luxury complex situated only a Situated in the serene Elia Beach Offers exclusive privacy in a complex, built in Typical Cycladic architecture of this 4 star beach in Ios Greece, this luxury hotel, short walk from the beach of Plat- of Mykonos. An exclusive luxury glorious setting on Elia beach, architecture, overlooking the hotel in Mylopotas is merely creates a romantic atmosphere, ys Yialos and built in traditional hotel in a sacred, authentic, Cy- while its dιcor throughout magic of the Aegean. exceptional and the sea view, of magical island views and architecture. cladic environment blended with combines spaciousness, It is conveniently situated 3,5 km as the sun caresses the golden contemporary design. Just a the cosmopolitan aura of Mykonos. luxury and style. A blend of Greek from the main port. Mylopotas Beach, will capture breath away from the golden atmosphere with cosmopolitan your senses. beach and the picturesque Chora. elegance. Myconos

APHRODITE BEACH 4* HARMONY 4* PETASSOS BEACHE 4* Kalafatis Beach Mykonos Town Platys Yialos An all-in-one beach hotel in The first Luxury Boutique Hotel Stands majestically on a private Mykonos, Greece, located in in Mykonos by the sea, on the old peninsula offering transpire one of the island’s most famous port of Mykonos. Hotel is a typ- great class, impeccable taste in beaches, Kalafatis beach. ical example of local folk archi- seductive and stunning sea views tecture – whitewashed cube-like of the Aegean for unique privacy GOLDEN BEACH 4* SANTA MARIA VILLAGE 3* houses, pure lines and rambling and relaxation. Provatas Fodele alleys – which has inspired dozens The Golden Milos Beach 4-star Consists of seven buildings of of architects around the world.

Milos Hotel is the ultimate destination traditional architecture endowed for those seeking to enjoy an with modern facilities. The hotel SAN MARCO 4* unforgettable stay in Milos. It is offers bungalows, suites and mai- Choulakia situated on the marvelous sandy sonettes, each featuring a view beach at Provata of our plush garden, the pool, or The luxurious San Marco Hotel is situated in the exlusive the sea. Mykonian area of of Houlakia Bay 4,5 km north of the Town of Mykonos and 1,5 km from the new harbor of Tourlos. The San Marco Hotel’s style is in tune with the authentic Cycladic architecture.

28 29 ARESSANA SPA HOTEL & ASTRO PALACE 5* KASTELLI HOTEL 5* DAEDALUS HOTEL 4* KALLISTI THERA 4* MEDITERRANEAN BEACH Fira SUITES 5* - Fira Kamari Fira Constructed in 2010 Astro Palace Fira PALACE 4* - Monolithos provides guests with fairytale-like In a beautiful fusion of nature Daedalus Hotel is centrally Conveniently stands in the heart Suites & Spa is a synonym for a Constructed in a traditional vacations from the moment they and Cycladic architectural situated only 100m from the of Fira Town, the charming shining star combining the radi- Aegean style, covers an extent of step through the 5 star design splendor this small luxury hotel central square of Fira where all capital of Santorini Island, just ance of elegant design with the 14.000 square meters containing hotel’s entrance. Emulating the in Kamari Santorini exudes an restaurants, shops and bars are few minutes away from the traditional Cycladic architecture the establishment, gardens and a serenity of Cyclades life coupled air of casual luxury and relaxed located. stunning caldera rim, museums, using colors of the earth blending private beach. It is recommended with the exciting buzz of Fira, elegance. galleries, fine restaurants, the for unique and unforgettable hol- harmoniously with the surround- Santorini Santorini, guests are welcomed Member of Small Luxury Hotels. shopping center and nightlife. idays, since it is a real paradise. like old friends with heartfelt ing natural habitat. sincerity.

MAJESTIC 5* SPLENDOUR RESORT 5* AEGEAN PLAZA 4* SANTORINI PALACE 4* KAMARI BEACH HOTEL 3 * MAKARIOS HOTEL 3*

Santorini Fira Firostefani Kamari Fira Kamari Kamari Offers high quality accommoda- This unique Resort, with a clear Aegean Plaza Hotel located just Only a few meters away from A warm and hospitable 3-star Situated in a quiet area and tion and services. Modern spirited aim to MAINTAIN the local 30 meters from the black sandy the cliff of the Caldera and the shelter to harbor your precious following the traditional, simple and fashionable, it is bound to architectural traditional elements, beach, close to a marvelous coast panoramic view of the volcano. time in Santorini awaits you and lines of the architecture of the electrify its guest with a breeze yet combines the discrete minimal line full of restaurants, cafes, The hotel offers a combination of your family. Aegean islands, with arches and of luxury and comfort and the luxury. bars and all kind of shops. beautiful Cycladic architecture, bright colors, the Hotel Makari- breathtaking view of the glorious open spaces, resort facilities and os welcomes you to it’slavish sunset of Santorini. proximity to interesting sites. gardens, the shade of palm trees and the realxing swimming pool.

EL GRECO HOTEL 4* VILLA MATHIOS 3* Fira Akrotiri A place that combines simplicity Villa Mathios & Mathios Village is with beauty and make your stay in a tradiotionally Cycladic family a resort hotel a truly unforgetta- run hotel, in the historical Akrotiri ble experience. village situated at the famous for the red & white beaches and its famous archeological places.

30 31 Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Aegean, the Ionian and the Mediterranean Seas. Its population is approximately 11 million of which 3.7 million are located in Athens, the country’s capital. Greece is a country unique in beauty that has much to offer visitors: a rich historical, archaeological and mythological heritage, warm hospitality, beautiful landscapes, picturesque ports and villages, hundreds of charming and romantic islands, endless sandy beaches with crystal blue waters. With such abundance, Greece is one of the favourite and top holiday destinations.

LANGUAGE Currency climate The official language in The currency unit is the Euro Mediterranean with hot and Greece is modern Greek, (€). Euro may be obtained at dry summers and mild, wet but in tourist areas English, any Greek bank. The rate of winters. Most of the rain falls French, Italian, and German exchange fluctuates a little in autumn and winter. Spring are also spoken. from day to day. is hot and autumn long and warm. Electricity The lowest temperatures are TIME 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round recorded between December GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last two-pin plugs are used. North and February, and the highest Sunday in March to last Americans will need a trans- in July and August. In gener- Sunday in October). former and British an adaptor. al, Greece enjoys over 250 days of sunshine annually.

32 33 Katrea Holidays Call us (+30) 2810.255552 Visit us www.katreaholidays.gr Write us [email protected]