23 Oct Once In A Lifetime Things To Do When You Find Yourself In The Greek Islands
Ah, the blue ocean…the sun beating down…sandy beaches…these are all the things we think of when the Greek Islands come up in conversation. However, a visit here isn’t just about sunbathing on the beach, or enjoying the delicious local food at open-air restaurants (although it is worth mentioning that the Frappes and Baklava are reason enough to visit). There are certain out-of-the-ordinary things to do in Greece as well. In fact, the Greek Islands are a fantastic choice for wanderers looking for some genuine “once in a lifetime” experiences (we’ve spent a total of 5 weeks sailing, exploring, and cooking our way through this gem, and we’ve barely scraped the surface). Read on to find out about some of the more unusual Greek experiences…
Climb and Swim in a Volcano – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Not for the faint of heart, or the delicate of smell – climbing and swimming in a live volcano isn’t something that many of us get to do on a daily basis (unless of course you’re one of the guides, then hat off to you, we say!) Happily, though, it is an activity that you can do in Santorini, and it’s a reasonably easy walk to the top as well. Of course, you will need sensible shoes and clothes, but crampons and rope aren’t necessary here! Although we haven’t done it (yet), fellow traveler Morgan shares her experience below:
Visit Olympia – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Ever wanted to visit the original site of the very first Olympic games? Well, that is what you can do if you take a trip to the small village of Olympia on the Peloponnese peninsula. There are some great statues to see there, including one of Nike, the Goddess of Victory and Hermes, Messenger to the Gods. Whilst there, check out the museum for some in-depth info on the original sports involved in the games.
Do a Wine Cruise – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Next, a once in a lifetime experience that many of us can get away with – a wine cruise (all together now: “Yamas!”) Where better to do this, than the Greek islands? After all, by booking a spot on one of the Greek Island cruises that are available, you get to sail from one place to another, over crystal blue seas, soaking up the sun. Then when you arrive at your next stop, you will be greeted with a tour of a new winery, and get the chance to sample their wines too. Can you think of anything more fantastic?! We didn’t think so.
Helicopter Tour – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Of course, if a boat tour is a little too tame for you, you may wish to consider upping the adrenaline factor, and go for a helicopter ride instead. In fact, several places in the Greek Islands offer this service, and it is a fanatics way to see the beauty and majesty of the coast from a genuinely unique perspective.
Kitesurf – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Once again, if viewing Greece from the sky doesn’t blow your hair back, and you’re looking for something a little more active, then kitesurfing is a great experience to try out in the Greek islands. Incase your knowledge of watersports is limited, then just know that it involves riding on a surfboard, whilst holding a kite or sail, allowing the wind to pull you along (something that is particularly effective in parts of the Greek Islands, because of the extreme wind.) Something to take note of though – it takes a few days to learn the ins and outs of the sport, so don’t expect to be in the water on day one.
Snorkel an Abandoned Wreck – Experiences In The Greek Islands
Last of all, if you want a truly nautical experience, why not go for a snorkel or scuba dive in the clear blue sea? Visibility is fantastic at many sites in the Greek Islands, and some, such as Leros, even have abandoned ships that you can explore whilst under the water. Scuba is also a great way to have some alone time when travelling as a couple #justsaying.
If you have any unusual or extraordinary experiences in Greece, to add to the list, drop them in the comments below.
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