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Katakolon (for Olympia) Cruises, Greece

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Sleepy Katakolon is little more than a tiny port with a handful of dinky shops and tavernas. But more importantly, it’s your gateway to one of the most famous landmarks in Greece - Olympia. It’s the birthplace of the Olympic Games and it all began in the days when the Greek God, Zeus, ruled the roost. Fast forward a few millennia though and people still flock here to see the ruined stadium and temples - and the sacred flame is lit here every Olympic year.

• Browse the archaeological museum’s collection of classical, Roman and Greek treasures. Among the most famous exhibits are the head of Hera and Hermes.
• Check out the remains of two Doric temples dedicated to Hera and Zeus. The Temple of Hera dates back to the 7th century BC and three of its columns are still standing. The Temple of Zeus on the other hand was once home to a giant gold statue of Zeus, considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Map of Katakolon (for Olympia)

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Ancient Olympia

Experience the famous site of Olympia, one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity, dedicated to the father of the Olympian Zeus and birth-place of the Olympic Games! The sanctuary of Olympia spreads around the green wooded feet of the Kronion Hill, where the rivers Alpheios and Cladeos meet. Here you will walk with your guide and learn interesting facts about Ancient Greece and the Games. Thereafter you will proceed on foot to the Archaeological Museum, which is one of the most important of its kind in Greece and hosts an impressive collection of artefacts. The new museum was constructed in 1975, and eventually opened in 1982, re-exhibiting its treasures. Following some time here you will join your coach for a drive back to your ship.

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Kourouta Beach

Sunscreen, sunglasses and your swimsuit are all you’ll need for this one because the whole trip revolves around the beach. We’ll pick you up from the port of Katakolon and drive for about 30 minutes until we reach the Blue Flag Kourouta beach. You’ll have three hours to spend on this beautiful stretch of golden sands. Take a dip in the turquoise seas or just lie back and take it easy before we pick you up and take you back to the ship.

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Domaine Mercouri Winery

This high-spirited trip will take you to the Mercouri Winery, near Pyrgos. This place has been producing wine for 150 years and the secrets of the grape have been handed down through 4 generations of the same family. This experience begins with a walk around the estate. The vineyards and olive groves radiate out for 45 acres. Peacocks strut through the gardens and ivy climbs the stone walls of the main buildings. Once you’ve seen the cellars and the vines, you’ll head into the old engine room to taste some of the winery’s produce for yourself. Fifteen different grape varieties are used to produce a portfolio of 13 different reds, whites and roses. You’ll get to swig a couple of them. To bring out the flavour in the wine, you’ll be able to tuck into a selection of Greek meze, too. Drinks are paired with canapés of local cheese, olive oil and oregano, and bowls of plump olives.

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