Greece’s island gems
Join us on a glittering tour of Crete and Santorini...
THIS exclusive tour will take you to two of Greece’s most treasured islands – Crete and Santorini. Your four-star base will be in charming Rethymnon, from where you will explore the most famous sites of the ancient Minoan civilisation, including the palaces of Phaistos and Knossos, in the company of the award- winning historian Dr Bettany Hughes. She will also give a private talk.
On this wonderful holiday you will take in the Byzantine and Venetian eras with visits to the charming seaside towns of Akrotiri and Chania, enjoy a boat trip to Santorini with its spectacular views, and even have time to get your fix of Vitamin D in the autumn sunshine. For this is the perfect time to visit: the crowds have gone and you can bask in temperatures that are still a balmy 75F.
SIX REASONS TO BOOK Meet Bettany Hughes
You will have the privilege of learning about Minoan civilisation in the company of the acclaimed presenter and historian. Bettany will give an exclusive talk, take part in a Q&A, join you for dinner, and accompany you to the Palace of Knossos.
Knossos and Heraklion
The most well-known of all Minoan sites on Crete, Knossos was discovered by British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans in 1894. No trip to the island is complete without a visit to this site, and there is also the chance to explore the world- famous Archaeological Museum at Heraklion.
Santorini boat trip
You will take a wonderful boat trip to this beautiful island. The volcanic eruption that formed d Santorini is t hought t o have e destroyed the Minoan civilisation 3,600 years ago. Here you will visit Akrotiri, Thira and Oia.
Phaistos and Armeni
One of the four great palaces of the Minoan Golden Age, Phaistos is a magnificent site, while archae-
Exclusively for MoS readers: Tour two fascinating isles and meet acclaimed presenter and historian Bettany Hughes THE FIRST TIME I WENT TO CRETE I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE MINOAN CULTURE AND THE BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES – AND SO WILL YOU DR BETTANY HUGHES
ologists have unearthed a wealth of artefacts at the vaulted tombs of Armeni.
Explore charming Chania
You will have time to explore this stunning Venetian harbour town.
Free time
There will be plenty of time to yourself to take in more highlights, wander through the charming old town of Rethymnon, or laze by the pool at your four- star base, the Bio Suites Hotel.