Month: February 2023

Samaria Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Greek island of Crete. This magnificent canyon is considered one of the top attractions in Greece and draws thousands of visitors every year. With its stunning scenery, fascinating wildlife, and unique history, Samaria Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Crete.

Location and Coasts

The Samaria Gorge is situated in the southwestern part of Crete, in the region of Chania. The canyon is a part of the White Mountains National Park and stretches over 16 kilometers, starting from Xyloskalo, which is located at an altitude of 1,230 meters, and ending at the village of Agia Roumeli, on the Libyan Sea coast. The gorge’s landscape is a mixture of rugged mountains, steep cliffs, and lush vegetation, making it one of the most stunning natural sites in Greece.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to the Samaria Gorge is by car or bus. If you’re staying in Chania, you can take the daily bus that departs from the central bus station, which will take you to Omalos Plateau, the entrance of the gorge. You can also rent a car or a motorbike and drive there yourself, which gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding area. There are several car rental agencies in Chania, and the drive to the gorge takes around one hour and a half.

The Hiking Experience

Hiking the Samaria Gorge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The trail takes you through the heart of the gorge, passing by towering cliffs, sparkling streams, and ancient forests. The hiking trail is well-marked and is mostly downhill, but there are a few steep and rocky sections that require some effort. The hike takes around 5-6 hours to complete, and you’ll need to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. There are also several resting points along the way, where you can take a break and admire the stunning views.

Wildlife and Nature

Samaria Gorge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered Cretan goat, known as kri-kri. The gorge is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it’s home to several species of raptors, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons. The vegetation in the gorge is also incredibly diverse, with over 450 species of plants, including the rare and endemic Samaria lily.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Crete, make sure to add Samaria Gorge to your itinerary. The hiking experience is unforgettable, and the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll be able to explore the unique nature of the gorge, encounter fascinating wildlife, and learn about its rich history. With easy access from Chania, the Samaria Gorge is a perfect day trip for anyone visiting Crete.

If you’re planning a trip to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, you’ll likely consider a visit to Chania or Heraklion. Both cities offer a variety of attractions, from beaches to restaurants to nightclubs. However, there are significant differences between the two destinations that may influence your decision. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences in beaches, restaurants, nightclubs, and prices in Chania and Heraklion.

Beaches

One of the main draws of Crete is its stunning beaches. Chania and Heraklion both offer a variety of options, but there are some differences. Chania’s beaches tend to be more secluded and scenic, with crystal-clear waters and rugged landscapes. Some of the most popular beaches in Chania include Elafonisi, Balos, and Falassarna. These beaches are often located away from the main tourist areas, so they offer a more tranquil experience.

On the other hand, Heraklion’s beaches are more developed and often located closer to the city. This means they can be more crowded and may have more amenities such as beach bars and restaurants. Popular beaches in Heraklion include Amoudara, Kokkini Hani, and Malia. These beaches offer a more vibrant atmosphere and are better suited for those who want to be in the thick of the action.

Restaurants

Both Chania and Heraklion have a variety of restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional tavernas to upscale dining options. However, the types of cuisine and atmosphere can be quite different.

Chania is known for its traditional Cretan cuisine, which emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and simple preparation. Many of the restaurants in Chania are family-owned and offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Some of the best places to try Cretan cuisine in Chania include Tamam, Kouzina e.p.e, and Ta Chalkina.

In contrast, Heraklion has a more diverse culinary scene, with a range of international options as well as traditional Cretan cuisine. Restaurants in Heraklion tend to be larger and more modern, with a focus on contemporary design and presentation. Some popular dining options in Heraklion include Peskesi, Avli, and Pringipas.

Nightclubs

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene, both Chania and Heraklion offer plenty of options. However, the types of venues and the overall atmosphere can be quite different.

Chania has a more laid-back nightlife scene, with a focus on small bars and tavernas where locals and visitors alike can relax and enjoy a drink. There are some clubs in Chania, but they tend to be smaller and more low-key. Some popular nightlife spots in Chania include Saloon D’or, Ta Saita, and Sinagogue.

Heraklion, on the other hand, has a more vibrant and energetic nightlife scene, with larger clubs and bars that cater to a younger crowd. Many of the clubs in Heraklion stay open until the early hours of the morning, making it a popular destination for party-goers. Some of the best clubs in Heraklion include Camelot, Status, and Venue Club.

Prices

Finally, the prices in Chania and Heraklion can vary significantly, depending on the time of year and the specific activities you’re interested in. As a general rule, Chania is considered slightly more expensive than Heraklion, particularly when it comes to accommodations and dining.

That said, both cities offer a range of options for travelers on a budget, including affordable hostels and guesthouses, as well as street food and local markets where you can find affordable meals.

In conclusion, Chania and Heraklion offer two distinct experiences for visitors to Crete

Crete, the largest and southernmost island of Greece, is home to some of the most beautiful and adventurous water parks. Heraklion, the capital of Crete, has a number of aqua parks that offer a wide range of water activities for people of all ages. Here’s a guide to the aqua parks in Heraklion, including their locations, prices, and everything else you need to know to make the most of your visit.

1. Aqua Plus Water Park

Aqua Plus Water Park is one of the most popular and largest water parks in Heraklion. It is located in the Anopolis area, just 5 kilometers east of Hersonissos. The park covers an area of 70,000 square meters and has a variety of water attractions, including slides, pools, and a lazy river. There are also restaurants, bars, and shops in the park.

The prices for Aqua Plus Water Park depend on the age of the visitor. Children under 4 years old enter for free. Children between 4 and 12 years old pay €19, and adults pay €28. The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May to September.

• Watercity Waterpark

Watercity Waterpark is another popular aqua park in Heraklion, located in the Anopolis area, just 8 kilometers east of Hersonissos. The park has a variety of water attractions, including slides, pools, and a wave pool. There are also restaurants, bars, and shops in the park.

The prices for Watercity Waterpark are slightly more expensive than Aqua Plus Water Park. Children under 4 years old enter for free. Children between 4 and 12 years old pay €22, and adults pay €30. The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May to October.

• Cretaquarium Water Park

Cretaquarium Water Park is located in Gournes, just 15 kilometers east of Heraklion. The park is smaller than Aqua Plus and Watercity, but it has a variety of water attractions, including slides, pools, and a lazy river. There are also restaurants, bars, and shops in the park.

The prices for Cretaquarium Water Park are more affordable than the other two parks. Children under 4 years old enter for free. Children between 4 and 12 years old pay €12, and adults pay €16. The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May to October.

• Star Beach Water Park

Star Beach Water Park is located in Hersonissos, just 27 kilometers east of Heraklion. The park has a variety of water attractions, including slides, pools, and a lazy river. There are also restaurants, bars, and shops in the park.

The prices for Star Beach Water Park are similar to Watercity Waterpark. Children under 4 years old enter for free. Children between 4 and 12 years old pay €22, and adults pay €30. The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May to October.

In conclusion, Heraklion offers a variety of aqua parks that cater to different age groups and budgets. From the larger and more expensive Aqua Plus and Watercity to the smaller and more affordable Cretaquarium and Star Beach, there is something for everyone in Heraklion’s aqua parks. Make sure to plan ahead, arrive early, and stay hydrated to make the most of your visit.

Rethymnon is a beautiful city located on the north coast of the island of Crete, Greece. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, one of the most popular attractions in Rethymnon is its aqua parks.

The city boasts several excellent water parks that offer fun-filled activities and attractions for people of all ages.

The Aqua Plus Water Park is one of the most popular water parks in Rethymnon. Located just outside the city, Aqua Plus offers a wide range of water-based activities, including wave pools, water slides, and lazy rivers. The park also has plenty of amenities, such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and snack bars. The park is open from May to October and the ticket price is around 28 euros for adults and 20 euros for children.

Another popular aqua park in Rethymnon is the Limnoupolis Water Park. Located just 10 km outside the city, Limnoupolis offers a wide range of water-based attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and water sports. The park also has several other facilities, such as a playground, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop. The ticket price is around 25 euros for adults and 17 euros for children, and the park is open from May to September.

The third water park in Rethymnon is Star Beach, Water Park. Located in the nearby town of Hersonissos, Star Beach is a large water park that offers a wide range of water-based activities, including water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. The park also has several other amenities, such as restaurants, snack bars, and souvenir shops. The ticket price is around 28 euros for adults and 19 euros for children, and the park is open from May to October.

In addition to these major water parks, Rethymnon also has several smaller water parks that offer a more relaxed and family-friendly experience. These parks are generally less crowded and offer a more intimate setting for families with young children.

The prices for these water parks are relatively reasonable, and most of them offer discounts for group bookings, students, and senior citizens. The tickets usually include access to all the attractions and facilities, including sun loungers and umbrellas. Visitors are advised to check the websites of the respective water parks for detailed information about ticket prices, opening hours, and special events.

In conclusion, Rethymnon is a great destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day at the water park. With several excellent aqua parks to choose from, visitors can enjoy a wide range of water-based activities and attractions. The ticket prices are reasonable, and the parks are equipped with all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

If you’re looking for some family fun in the sun, Lassithi in Crete, Greece, is home to some amazing aqua parks that will keep both kids and adults entertained for hours. Whether you’re a water slide enthusiast or prefer to relax in a lazy river, Lassithi’s aqua parks have something for everyone.

Watercity Waterpark is one of the most popular aqua parks in Lassithi. Located just outside of Heraklion, it offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and other attractions for visitors of all ages. Some of the most popular rides at Watercity Waterpark include the “Kamikaze,” “Black Hole,” and “Crazy River.” The park also features plenty of restaurants and snack bars where you can grab a bite to eat.

The prices for Watercity Waterpark vary depending on the time of year and the age of the visitor. During peak season (July and August), the entrance fee for adults is €32, while children (3-12 years old) and seniors (65 years and older) can enter for €22. Outside of peak season, the entrance fee drops to €26 for adults and €18 for children and seniors.

Another popular aqua park in Lassithi is Acqua Plus Waterpark. This park is located in Hersonissos and features a wide range of water slides, pools, and other water attractions. Some of the most popular rides at Acqua Plus Waterpark include the “Crazy River,” “Kamikaze,” and “Spacebowl.” The park also has several restaurants and snack bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

The prices for Acqua Plus Waterpark are slightly lower than those for Watercity Waterpark. During peak season, the entrance fee for adults is €28, while children (3-12 years old) and seniors (65 years and older) can enter for €20. Outside of peak season, the entrance fee drops to €22 for adults and €16 for children and seniors.

For visitors who prefer a more natural setting, there is the Waterfall Waterpark, located in Anopolis. This aqua park is built around a natural waterfall and features a variety of water slides, pools, and other water attractions. Visitors can also take a dip in the waterfall’s natural pool, which is surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere.

The prices for Waterfall Waterpark are quite reasonable. The entrance fee for adults is €20, while children (3-12 years old) can enter for €15. Seniors (65 years and older) can enter for €18. The park also offers a variety of special deals and packages, such as family discounts and group rates.

In conclusion, Lassithi in Crete, Greece, is home to some amazing aqua parks that offer a variety of water attractions for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling ride on a water slide or a relaxing dip in a lazy river, Lassithi’s aqua parks have something for everyone. Prices vary depending on the park and the time of year, but all of the parks offer a fun and affordable day out for the whole family.

Chania, located on the north coast of Crete in Greece, is a popular tourist destination with its charming Old Town, Venetian harbor, and stunning beaches. In addition to these attractions, Chania also boasts some exciting aqua parks, which are perfect for family fun and adventure.

One of the most popular aqua parks in Chania is Limnoupolis Water Park. Located just 8 km from the city center, it is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The park features a wide range of water slides, including the adrenaline-pumping Kamikaze and the Black Hole, as well as a lazy river and a wave pool. There are also separate play areas for children and toddlers, as well as cafes, restaurants, and a souvenir shop. The park is open from May to October, and the entrance fee is €25 for adults and €19 for children.

Another popular aqua park in Chania is the Aqua Creta Limnoupolis. Located about 10 km from Chania, it is set in a natural landscape surrounded by trees and mountains. The park offers a variety of water slides, including the Boomerango, the Space Bowl, and the Black Hole, as well as a children’s play area and a large pool. There are also several food and beverage options, as well as free parking. The entrance fee is €25 for adults and €19 for children, and the park is open from May to October.

For those looking for a more relaxing water experience, there is the Watercity Waterpark in Anopolis, just 15 km east of Chania. This aqua park is set in a beautifully landscaped area and has a variety of pools, including a lazy river, a wave pool, and a Jacuzzi. There are also several water slides, such as the Turbo Cyclone and the Free Fall, as well as a play area for children. The park is open from May to October, and the entrance fee is €25 for adults and €19 for children.

In addition to these three aqua parks, there are several other water parks and activities available in Chania, including boat tours, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Visitors can also find plenty of beach-side activities, including jet skiing, paddle boarding, and parasailing.

Overall, Chania offers a great variety of aqua parks and water activities that are perfect for a family day out or a fun-filled adventure with friends. The prices are reasonable, and the locations are easily accessible, making them a must-visit for anyone traveling to this beautiful region of Greece.

Crete is a beautiful island in Greece, renowned for its sunny beaches, rich history, and charming culture. However, Crete also has something else to offer – an exhilarating experience at its water parks. Water parks are a fantastic way to spend a day with family and friends, enjoy water-based activities, and take in the fun atmosphere. In this article, we will explore some of the best water parks in Crete, their locations, prices, and what makes them unique.

Aqua Plus Water Park

Aqua Plus Water Park is located in Hersonissos, on the north coast of Crete, and is the most popular water park in the region. The park features 50 different slides, pools, and games, including the famous Black Hole, Kamikaze, and Multi-Track slides. Visitors can enjoy the wave pool, lazy river, and many other fun activities that cater to all ages. Aqua Plus Water Park also features an array of restaurants and cafes for visitors to indulge in some delicious food and drink. The park is open from May to October and offers daily passes for adults for €30 and for children aged between 5 to 12 for €18.

Watercity Waterpark

Watercity Waterpark is located in Anopolis, in the heart of Crete, and is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The park features a variety of slides, including the Giant Slide, Black Hole, and Turbo Cyclone, as well as a lazy river, wave pool, and kids’ play area. Visitors can enjoy the park’s lush greenery and the impressive views of the Cretan landscape. Watercity Waterpark also has restaurants and cafes, which serve a variety of delicious food and drinks. The park is open from May to October and offers daily passes for adults for €29 and for children aged between 5 to 12 for €19.

Acqua Plus Water Park

Acqua Plus Water Park is located in the picturesque town of Heraklion, in the north of Crete, and is a haven for fun and relaxation. The park features more than 50 different slides, pools, and activities, including the exhilarating Spacebowl, Crazy River, and the Kamikaze slide. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beautiful surroundings, with palm trees, waterfalls, and a lagoon-style pool. Acqua Plus Water Park also has many restaurants and cafes that cater to all tastes. The park is open from May to October and offers daily passes for adults for €28 and for children aged between 5 to 12 for €18.

Limnoupolis Water Park

Limnoupolis Water Park is located in the beautiful town of Chania, in the west of Crete, and is the perfect destination for a day of fun and adventure. The park features a range of water slides, including the Twister, Black Hole, and Hydro-tube, as well as a wave pool, lazy river, and a kid’s area. Visitors can enjoy the park’s peaceful and serene environment, which is surrounded by trees and greenery. Limnoupolis Water Park also has restaurants and cafes that offer tasty meals and drinks. The park is open from May to October and offers daily passes for adults for €26 and for children aged between 5 to 12 for €18.

In conclusion, Crete is home to some of the most spectacular water parks in Greece. These parks offer visitors a chance to escape the heat and indulge in some fun activities, all while taking in beautiful surroundings. The four parks mentioned above are just some of the best water parks that Crete has to offer, and each one is unique in its way. So if you’re planning a trip to Crete, be sure

La Crète est l’une des destinations les plus populaires pour les vacanciers en Grèce, offrant une combinaison unique de plages de sable, de paysages pittoresques et d’histoire riche. Si vous prévoyez de visiter la Crète et que vous arrivez à l’aéroport d’Héraklion, la location d’une voiture peut être un excellent moyen de découvrir tout ce que l’île a à offrir.

L’aéroport d’Héraklion est le principal aéroport de Crète et l’un des plus fréquentés de Grèce. Il est situé à environ 5 km à l’est de la ville d’Héraklion, ce qui en fait un point de départ idéal pour explorer la Crète en voiture. De nombreuses entreprises de location de voitures sont présentes à l’aéroport d’Héraklion, ce qui signifie que les voyageurs ont l’embarras du choix lorsqu’il s’agit de choisir une voiture pour leur voyage.

La location d’une voiture à l’aéroport d’Héraklion peut offrir de nombreux avantages. Tout d’abord, cela vous permet de vous déplacer facilement et confortablement sur l’île, sans avoir à dépendre des transports en commun ou à payer des frais de taxi élevés. Vous pouvez également créer votre propre itinéraire de voyage, en visitant les lieux que vous souhaitez, à votre propre rythme.

Lorsque vous louez une voiture à l’aéroport d’Héraklion, il est important de prendre en compte quelques facteurs clés. Tout d’abord, il est important de rechercher différentes options de location de voitures et de comparer les tarifs et les services offerts. Assurez-vous également de vérifier les conditions de location, notamment les frais de dépôt, les restrictions d’âge et les exigences en matière de permis de conduire.

Il est également important de prendre en compte les conditions de conduite en Crète. Les routes de l’île peuvent être étroites et sinueuses, avec des pentes et des virages abrupts. Il est donc recommandé de louer une voiture qui convient à votre niveau de confort et de compétence en matière de conduite.

Enfin, lorsque vous récupérez votre voiture de location à l’aéroport d’Héraklion, il est important de faire une inspection complète du véhicule et de noter tout dommage ou rayure existant. Assurez-vous également de connaître les numéros d’urgence en cas d’incident sur la route.

En conclusion, la location d’une voiture à l’aéroport d’Héraklion est un excellent moyen de découvrir la Crète à votre propre rythme et à votre convenance. Il est important de faire une recherche approfondie des options de location de voitures, de prendre en compte les conditions de conduite sur l’île et de prendre les mesures de sécurité nécessaires lors de la récupération de votre voiture de location. Avec une voiture de location fiable et bien entretenue, vous pouvez être sûr de vivre une expérience inoubliable en Crète.

If you’re looking to fly from the United Kingdom to Crete, you’re in luck! There are several airlines that operate flights from various UK airports to Crete’s two major airports: Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. In this article, we’ll take a look at the airlines that operate flights between the UK and Crete, the airports they fly from, and the prices you can expect to pay.

Airlines that Fly from the UK to Crete

easyJet: easyJet is a popular budget airline that operates flights from several UK airports to Crete. The airline operates flights from London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted, Bristol, Manchester, and Edinburgh to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £40, but can go up to over £200 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

Ryanair: Ryanair is another budget airline that operates flights from the UK to Crete. The airline operates flights from London Stansted, Manchester, and Liverpool to Chania Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £30, but can go up to over £100 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

TUI: TUI is a holiday company that operates flights to Crete as part of its holiday packages. The company operates flights from several UK airports, including London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol to Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £70, but can go up to over £200 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

Jet2: Jet2 is another holiday company that operates flights to Crete as part of its holiday packages. The company operates flights from several UK airports, including Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds Bradford, Glasgow, and Newcastle to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £80, but can go up to over £200 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

British Airways: British Airways is a full-service airline that operates flights from London Heathrow to Heraklion Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £100, but can go up to over £300 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

Aegean Airlines: Aegean Airlines is a Greek airline that operates flights from London Heathrow to Heraklion Airport. Prices for a one-way ticket start at around £100, but can go up to over £300 depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

Airports in the UK that Fly to Crete

London Gatwick: easyJet and TUI operate flights from London Gatwick to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

London Luton: easyJet operates flights from London Luton to Heraklion Airport.

London Stansted: easyJet and Ryanair operate flights from London Stansted to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

Bristol: easyJet and TUI operate flights from Bristol to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

Manchester: easyJet, TUI, and Jet2 operate flights from Manchester to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

Edinburgh: easyJet operates flights from Edinburgh to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

Liverpool: Ryanair operates flights from Liverpool to Chania Airport.

Birmingham: TUI and Jet2 operate flights from Birmingham to both Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport.

Leeds Bradford: Jet2

Igoumenitsa is a small town located on the west coast of mainland Greece, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Despite being a relatively small town, it is an important transport hub for travelers, serving as a gateway to the beautiful island of Corfu and the Greek island chain of the Ionian Sea. In this article, we will explore the town of Igoumenitsa and highlight some of the things to do, beaches to visit, and hotels to stay at.

Location

Igoumenitsa is located in the region of Epirus, in the northwestern part of Greece. It is situated at the mouth of the Kalamas River, overlooking the Ionian Sea. The town is easily accessible by road, with the Egnatia Highway connecting it to the major cities of northern Greece, as well as to neighboring countries such as Albania and Italy. The town also has a ferry port, connecting it to the island of Corfu and the rest of the Ionian Islands.

Things to Do

Although Igoumenitsa is primarily a transport hub, there are several things to do in and around the town. One of the most popular attractions is the archaeological site of Gitana, located just a few kilometers outside of the town. This ancient site is home to the ruins of a Roman villa, a Roman bathhouse, and a small theater.

For nature lovers, the Acheron River is a must-visit destination. This beautiful river is located a short drive from Igoumenitsa and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can take a leisurely hike along the river, swim in the cool waters, or even try their hand at rafting or kayaking.

Beaches

Igoumenitsa is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Drepano Beach and Makrygialos Beach. Both of these beaches are located just a few kilometers outside of the town and offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Another popular beach destination in the area is the island of Corfu, which is easily accessible by ferry from Igoumenitsa. Corfu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, including Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, and Agios Gordios.

Hotels

For those looking to stay in Igoumenitsa, there are several hotels and guesthouses to choose from. The Sivota Diamond Spa Resort is a luxurious option, offering a wide range of amenities including a spa, a pool, and a restaurant serving delicious Greek cuisine. For those on a budget, the Hotel Esperia is a great option, offering clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

Conclusion

Igoumenitsa may be a small town, but it has plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone in and around Igoumenitsa. With its convenient location and range of accommodation options, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful region of Epirus and the stunning Ionian Islands.