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We arrive in Cos in the evening, when the view across
the harbour to the lights of the Turkish coast is memorable. The next
day we discover some of the less-visited charms of the homeland of Hippocrates.
After exploring the important Hellenistic Asklepeion,
with its baths and great Doric temple, we drive up into the mountains
to find traditional villages of stone houses at Asfendiou
and Nea Pyli. We will be shown the Hellenistic tomb of
Harmylos and the deserted Byzantine capital of Palaio
Pyli, set on a crag. Later there will be an opportunity to swim
in the hot springs at Therma. On a walking tour of the
ancient city of Cos, with its streets, baths and decorated houses, special
access to some monuments is being arranged.
We cross, with overnight bags, to the small volcanic island of Nisyros
and our accommodation on the edge of the unspoilt village of Mandraki.
There will be time to explore the narrow lanes and tall brightly-coloured
houses before walking up to the magnificent ancient acropolis. On the
next day, we descend into the volcano and see the remarkable fumaroles,
continuing to the half-deserted village of Emboreios
on the rim of the crater. Next we visit Nikia, which
has wonderful panoramic views and a tiny church with 15th-century wall-paintings.
Returning to Cos, we plan to visit the evocative ruins of the 5th-century
Basilica of Aghios Stephanos.
Our chosen hotel in Rhodes is a 15th-century mansion
set in a delightful courtyard garden, at the heart of the walled City
of the Knights. An evening walk around the old town will introduce us
to some lesser-known corners, churches and mosques. By special arrangement,
we will have a private visit to the gardens of the Montalembert Foundation
and the adjacent monastery church of Aghios Giorgios. A tour of this extraordinarily
rich island will focus on some of the less crowded sights and on archaeological
and architectural curiosities. We will have a picnic lunch near the painted
church and spring at Fundoukli before visiting the tranquil
site of ancient Kameiros.
A day will be spent on the appealing island of Symi.
The hidden horseshoe harbour, lined with mansions, offers a photogenic
introduction to a landscape of great beauty. We cross the wild and mountainous
interior to reach the vast 18th-century Panormitis Monastery, visiting
several rural painted churches en route. We plan to arrange for a boat
to take us from the bay below the monastery back to Rhodes for our farewell
dinner.
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PRICE
l £2,350
The cost includes accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Cos (2 nights);
a simple hotel in Nisyros (1 night) and comfortable hotels in Cos (1 night)
and Rhodes (3 nights); economy class air travel London (Heathrow) / Athens
/ Cos / Rhodes / London (Heathrow) by scheduled services; surface transport
by private coach and by local ferry, boat or hydrofoil; all meals; guides;
taxes; entrance fees and the services of a lecturer and a tour organiser.
Please note: the itinerary is dependent on boat schedules
which change frequently: some changes in the order of visits are inevitable.
This tour is limited to 16 participants.
Price without flights on request l
Single room supplement £220
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