Europe — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Kythnos, Greece

Kythnos is a Greek island, approximately 100 kilometers from Piraeus, the harbor city of Athens. Until recently, Kythnos has had few foreign visitors as many travelers opt for the more famous and popular Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. However, with history going back to the Mesolithic Era, Kythnos has a wealth of rich culture.

The quaint village of Chora sits atop a hill as a stunning example of Greek architecture. With its white stone houses, modest churches, and narrow cobblestone streets, Chora is a gem to explore. Kythnos is well-known for its delicious capers, olive oil, and almond cookies in addition to the typical Greek seafood cuisine. Chora offers an abundance of restaurants to choose from, all serving fresh fish and seafood.

Outside of Chora is Loutra, a town famous for its hot springs, which some locals believe have healing water. Dryopida is another small town near Chora and is famous for the Kataphyki cave, one of the biggest caves in Greece. Dryopida is also home to the fascinating Folklore Museum of Kythnos.

Merichas, the island’s main port, bustles with activity. Hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops can be easily found along with luxury and entertainment. Despite being a port town, the surrounding waters are clear and blue, appropriate for both swimming and fishing. Merichas also has a vibrant nightlife with its bars and taverns. Vryokastro, the ancient capital of Kythnos, is very close by with ruins of Roman buildings, temples, and altars to explore. The church of Panagia Flambouriani is also worth a visit.

Kythnos has more than 50 beaches, though some are more difficult to reach than others. The best beaches to visit are Kolona, Apokrousi, Skylou, and Potamia. Each offers calm waves, white sand, and most of all, peace and quiet. Most beaches are accessible by scooter or foot. The most unconventional and adventurous way, however, is by parachute. Kolona, which is arguably Kythnos’ most beautiful beach, is popular because it is a narrow strip of land with waves lapping on both sides. Kolona is reasonably close to Merichas, and the pleasant hike along the coast should not be missed. During the months of June to September, Kythnos is at its peak of perfect weather. Days are warm and sunny, making great visits to the secluded beaches.

Kythnos being just a short 100 miles from Athens, makes getting to Greece’s largest city from several European destinations a easy way to find you enjoying that Greek vacation in no time.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, featured, Greece, Kythnos

Barcelona Cathedral, Barcelona Spain

The official name of the Barcelona Cathedral is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This Gothic style house of worship is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, Spain. Construction began during the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century. The building replaced another basilica that was destroyed during a Moorish Invasion. Architects adorned the original Catalan exterior with a neo-Gothic façade in the 19th century and a church spire in 1913. The roof has gargoyles in the shapes of indigenous animals and mythical creatures.

Within the edifice is the crypt of the Visigoth chapel that previously occupied the site. A raised altar provides an unobstructed view of the ancient tomb. One of the largest religious buildings in Barcelona, the church has a small museum and central nave with more than 20 side chapels. Each chapel is dedicated to a different saint or significant event in the history of the Catholic Church. One of the most famous chapels is the Capella del Sant Crist de Lepant, which has a statue of the crucifixion that was onboard a ship at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. According to oral tradition, the figure on the cross moved during the battle to avoid being struck by a cannonball. The crypt contains an ornate sarcophagus with the remains of Eulalia, one of the city’s patron saints. The Romans martyred the 13-year-old girl when she refused to renounce her beliefs. Choir stalls are adorned with the coats-of-arms of knights associated with the Order of the Golden Fleece.

A 14th century cloister is located adjacent to the cathedral. In addition to a lovely garden, it contains an equestrian statue of Saint George who is regarded as the city’s other patron saint. The garden pond is known as the Well of the Geese for the flock of birds that the church keeps in the courtyard. The gaggle consists of 13 white geese, which represents Eulalia’s age upon her death in 303 AD. During the feast of Corpus Christi, the church is the site of the tradition of the dancing egg. A clergy member removes the contents of an egg, replaces it with wax and decorates the shell. The egg is placed in the water jet of the cloister fountain, and it appears to dance in the stream of water.

An elevator located inside the cathedral takes visitors to the roof where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Filed Under: Barcelona, Barcelona Cathedral, Day Trips, featured, Spain

Sifnos, Greece

Guest Post By: Maria Papadopoulou

One of the most beautiful islands in Cyclades located between Serifos and Milos, about 130 km from Athens’ Port, Piraeus, is Sifnos, Greece. Sifnosis considered to be the island of God Apollo, as an ancient temple of Apollo is in the church of Virgin Mary Ouranofora. The main town of Sifnos, Apollonia, is also named after Apollo.

I visited Sifnos with friends last summer, for the first time. We took the ferry which run on the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos-Kimolos line and we arrived at Sifnos in about 4 hours. From the moment we landed on the island, we knew we had fallen in love with it.

White, cube-shaped houses, paved alleys with limy hinges, courts with traditional white stone benches , churches with white or blue domes and impressive bell towers, valleys with many olive trees and clean, crystal clear beaches compose the portrait of Sifnos. Such a breathtaking beauty can impress practically everyone; we were watching tourists taking countless photographs of the island.

There are so many things to see in Sifnos, that is why I recommend you stay for at least one week to be able to enjoy every little detail.

The Church of the Seven Martyrs is built on a rock, hanging over the sea, offering a spectacular, breathtaking view, especially during sunset and sunrise.

Located 5 km east of Apollonia, on the top of a cliff, there is Kastro Village, offering a panoramic view of the sea. Kastro is built in the ruins of the ancient capital of Sifnos and is basically the only village in the island of Sifnoswith medieval character.

While in the village, tourists can view old mansions, 16th and 17^th century churches, segments of the Venetian fortress, as well as a small archaeological museum.

Plati Gialos Beach is probably the most famous beach in Sifnos, as it offers plenty of water sports and has crystal clear blue waters. As this beach is crowded easily, it is important to arrive there early in the morning to have a seat.

Vathi Beach is another popular beach in Sifnos. Surrounded by tall rocks, this sandy beach with the amazing azure waters is a perfect destination for tourists who want to spend a more quiet time.

Established in 1650 and located on the top of a rocky peninsula is the beautiful Monastery of Chrissopigi. As it is considered to be the protector of the island, it is very special for the inhabitants of the island.

Sifnos is an island that all people should visit at least once in their lives.

Filed Under: Sifnos

Kos Island, Greece

Located in the south-eastern Aegean Sea between Kalymnos and Nisyros, the island of Kos, Greece is a beautiful and exciting place to visit. Full of history, culture, fun night life, shopping and dining opportunities, and relaxing beaches, Kos provides for a perfect island getaway.

Kos Island is the third largest island among the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. Since prehistoric times, Kos has provided an important channel of the sea from the Black Sea to North Africa and also happens to be the birthplace of the famous healer Hippocrates. There are numerous unique and beautiful villages in Kos in which to experience the culture and history of the island. Some of these villages include Zia, Kos Town, Antimachia, and Kardemena.

Kos Island enjoys a temperate, Mediterranean climate. Summers in Kos are normally hot and dry with very little rain. The winters are mild and there is plenty of sunshine and low humidity year-round.

There are over 20 spectacular and gorgeous beaches with crystal clear water and soft sand at which to enjoy some relaxing time in the warm sun. Many of the beaches have fine black sand, courtesy of the volcanic activity that has happened in and around the island over the years. Some beaches in the area of Kos include Mastichari, Thermes, Lambi, Marmari, and Paradise. Watersports, parasailing, snorkeling, and similar activities can be enjoyed at most of the beaches on Kos Island.

Opportunities to enjoy exciting night life on Kos Island are plentiful. Many types of music are featured at the various bars and clubs on the island and dancing is very popular, sometimes occurring all the way through the night and into the morning. The most popular spot to enjoy the night life is in the island’s capital of Kos Town.

When visiting Kos Island, Greece, be sure to check out the many interesting points of interest to further catch a glimpse of the history and culture of the area. Asklepieion is an archaeological site that was once a healing center in ancient times. Nerantzia Castle, or “Castle of the Knights”, is a castle that was built by the Knights of Saint John in the fourteenth century. Another great site to see is the amazingly well-preserved Roman Odeon, which is similar to the Colosseum from ancient Rome and was constructed in the second century BC.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Dodecanese Islands, Europe, featured, Greece, Kos Island

Kastelorizo Island, Greece

Situated in the azure waters of the southern Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Turkey, 72 miles east of Rhodes, beautiful Kastelorizo Island, Greece, is the smallest island in the Dodecanese chain. It offers the traveler delightful Anatolian architecture, panoramic views of the harbor, a rich culture, peaceful people and abundant relaxation.

The island was once called Megisti in times dating back to ancient inhabitants. The name means the largest, as it was the largest island among small rock-like formations surrounding it. Located just two miles off the coast of Lycia, now a village of Turkey, it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It was colonized by the Dorian Greeks and was ruled by Rhodes for many years, unill it broke away. The Egyptians, Italians and others all played a role in the history of the island. At the close of the 19th century, Kastelorizo had a flourishing trade, with ships trading goods from Anatolia with those of Egypt. Moreover, a population of 10,000 made their home in this safe harbor.

The Paris Peace Treaties in 1947 gave Kastelorizo to Greece; in recent years more and more tourists have come to explore the isolation, beauty and quiet ambiance. Kastelorizo was the setting for the movie Mediterraneo by Gabriele Salvatores, which won an Oscar and made it a more popular tourist destination.

With a rich history and tradition of the various cultures that have marked its civilizations, Kastelorizo Island offers the visitor an array of museums and sites. The Castle of the Knights is one place to see; it dates back to the 14th century; Palaiokastro is the oldest site on the island and the location of neolithic tools, ruins of ancient buildings and more; located under the Castle is the Lycean tomb, found at the port entrance; moreover, visitors should not miss the archaeological Museum.

As far as natural geoglogical formations, travelers can enjoy an amazing site; it is the famous Aqua-colored Cave. Known also as the Parastas hole or Fokiali (from the word seals), its calm blue green waters provide panoramic views and a magical presence. Stalactites and numerous pigeons, as well as seals, welcome the traveler to this palace of nature, known for a fairy tale setting.

Buses, taxis, motorcycles, rental cars are all found here as well as small boats. Kastelorizo, a Greek paradise, will make you feel welcome.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Europe, featured, Greece, Kastelorizo Island, Rhodes

Samos Island, Greece

The beautiful, green island of Samos is nestled among the Dodecanese Island group within the East Aegean Sea. This island paradise has long been known as a cultural center, home to some of the most well-known and respected philosophers and mathematicians. In mythology, Samos was the birthplace of Hera and a temple built in her honor stands proudly, serving as a place where visitors marvel at its size and stature. When traveling to Samos Island, be prepared to take in all of the finer aspects of life on one amazing and unforgettable journey.

Samos Island is home to many vineyards offering the finest locally made wines. Fragrant and sweet wine is one of the specialties of winemakers in the region, with some choices being Samos Nectar, Samos Vin Doux, even communion wine is made on the island of Samos. For wine lovers who prefer dry wine to its sweet counterparts, consider trying a Chrisi Samaina, or the dry rose Selana.

There are many fine bars and restaurants located along the seaside, waiting for hungry visitors to partake in their many specialties. For those seeking something casual and relaxed, traditional cafes and ouzeri are plentiful.

No matter the type of accommodations a traveler seeks, Samos Island has exactly what is desired. Samos is home to some breathtaking five star hotels, including the Proteas Blu Resort and the Doryssa Seaside Resort. Both of these hotels and many others on the island are modern and contemporary in design with the classic comforts Samos Island accommodations hold a fabulous reputation for.

From touring museums to wading in pristine waters on Mediterranean beaches, there are attractions to suit the interests of any Samos visitor. Hike through a cavern to see an historic monastery, take photographs of the temple of Hera, tour ancient ruins, and relax on the beautiful Tsamadu Beach.

The island of Samos is a very temperate and enjoyable vacation spot. Temperatures reach an average high of 89 degrees F in the heart of summer, and an average low of 43 degrees F in the cold month of February. For those traveling to Greece in the spring or fall, it is best to bring clothing for warm and cool weather, as the temperatures can be variable.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, Dodecanese Islands, featured, Greece, Patmos, Samos Island

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

The Dodecanese Islands in Greece are a traveler’s paradise. There is a little of everything to be found there. History and archaeology go hand in hand in some of the marvelous digs. Stunning, out of the way places are yet to be discovered, and the sunniest beaches in the world are waiting.

Rhodes

Located in the crossroads of numerous cultures, many different peoples have populated this island down through history. From the Phoenicians to the Ottoman Turks, and other nations in between, Rhodes has been involved in the history of Greece.

Visit the military hospital of the Medieval City of Rhodes. It was founded during the Crusades. Note the strong fortifications that were constructed during that time. Then, the Ottoman Turks took over, and the city became a mix of architectural styles including the Jewish Museum.

Patmos

The Island of Patmos is best known for the cave where St. John the Apostle lived while he wrote the book of Revelation. Patmos is covered with monasteries and churches that all have histories to discover.

Patmos boasts a host of lovely beaches. Kambos Beach is a favorite place for families. The warm shallow water is perfect for the little ones, and there are restaurants, accommodations and water sports.

Kastelorizo

This is the island where people go for a non-crowded, laid back vacation. Access is limited; visitors arrive by boat or plane. World War II and earthquakes destroyed a number of ancient houses, but residents are motivated to rebuild them due to the growing number of visitors to the Island. There are not many great beaches, but the ones they do have boast almost perfectly clear water and good swimming.

The ruins of the ancient capital of Kastelorizo, Palaiokastro, are worth seeing. An early Doric fortress there has a third century inscription on a gate and an acropolis.

Kastelorizo also has some outstanding eateries where visitors can sample the local cuisine. You can find meat, fish and national meals.

Kos

Kos is second only to Rhodes for visitors and tourists. The third largest island of the Dodecanese, Kos is also one of the most fertile islands. From beaches to accommodations, and from restaurants to history, there are such a variety of things for visitors to see and do in Kos. Shopping is another attraction including many local crafts, honey and wine. Don’t leave the island without tasting their specialty, cheese baked with red wine.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, Dodecanese Islands, Europe, featured, Greece, Patmos, Rhodes

Agathonisi Island, Greece

Located in the Dodecanese Island group in the Aegean Sea, the Agathonisi Island, Greece is a tiny precious gem that not many tourists know, but those who do, prefer it, as it offers them the opportunity to forget about their worries, relax and enjoy themselves.

Agathonisi was occupied by Italian troops and become liberated after the Second World War. It gets its name from the Greek word ‘’Agathos’’ which means gullible and is often called ‘’The Island Of Fools’’ or ‘’The Island Of The Good-Hearted’’.

To get to Agathonisi, you can take the ferry either from Samos (it will take approximately an hour) or alternatively from Patmos (it will take approximately two hours). Ferries are available four times a week, making it easy for tourists to travel to and from the island. As there is no local transport in Agathonisi, in order to get to the Megalo Horio, (the main town), you will have to walk a 1.5km distance from the small, cute village of Agios Georgios.

The biggest as well as the oldest settlement in Agathonisi is Megalo Horio, with 100 inhabitants. While quiet most of the time, during various religious festivals in the island, the village seems to wake up. If you want to enjoy that, you should visit the island in July and August and specifically during the festivals of Agiou Panteleimonos (26th July), Sotiros (6th August) and Panagias (22nd August).

On the other hand, if what you are looking for is some quiet time alone, then you can visit the small harbour of Katholiko, in order to see the inhabited and unapproachable islet of Neronisi. There are also some lovely, quiet beaches on the east of the island; some of the best are Poros Beach, Tholos Beach and Tsangari Beach.

As far as nightlife is concerned, there are only a few cute taverns and cafes at the island that you can go to. Considering the few inhabitants as well as the estimated 800 tourists that visit the island every year, this is not bad at all. If what you are looking for is to spend some quiet, quality time with your partner, a few close friends, or even yourself, you will certainly have a good time.

If you are in the mood for shopping, in Megalo Chorio you will find several souvenirs like handmade ceramics, postcards and wine at reasonable prices.

Since Agathonisi is recommended for relaxation, bring over some good books, CDs, a fishing rod (the inhabitants live mainly off fishing) and some good athletic shoes (the roads are ideal for walking). It is for certain that you will not be disappointed.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, featured, Greece, Patmos

Deauville, France

Deauville is perhaps the most famed among all the towns of France for its beauty and luxury. This seaside city in Lower Normandy is known throughout the world for its five-star hotels, beaches, cultural festivals, casinos and horse races.

The town of Deauville was formally established in 1060 on the coast of Normandy. For eight centuries, Deauville remained a sleepy village on the English Channel known only for the excellence of its horse breeding. In the 1860s, however, fate decided to visit the small Norman town. Duke Charles de Morny, half-brother to Emperor Napoleon III, visited Deauville and was taken by its peacefulness and the beauty of its gardens.

In 1862, the Duke bought 2.4 square kilometers of land in the vicinity of Deauville and began to turn the town into what it is today. De Morny funded the construction of the Deauville-La Touques Racecourse and the opening of a railroad line from Paris to Deauville. The elite of Paris soon heard about the beauty of Deauville and began to buy old Norman estates and build second homes in and around the seaside town. By 1870, Deauville’s fame as a center of luxury and recreation had been firmly established.

Deauville is still a prime vacation spot for the rich and famous. The town itself has a population of around 3,500 but contains dozens of hotels that range from the affordable to the extravagant with many deals being found on citybreaks.org. Among Deauville’s most famous accommodations are the 19th century luxury hotel Normandy Barriere and the castle-like Augeval Hotel.

If you have a taste for gambling, be sure to check out one of Deauville’s historic casinos. Casino Barriere de Deauville is the most famous of Deauville’s gambling houses and features all of the classic European casino games.

Deauville isn’t just for the high roller, though. This town is full of attractions that anyone can enjoy. The April Easter Festival of Classical Music is a must-see for the music lover, and the December Noël au Balcon street theater event is a Christmas festival like no other. If you’re a film expert, be sure to visit Deauville during its famous Deauville American Film Festival. This annual event attracts some of the world’s greatest actors, awards prizes to American movies and offers film viewings to the general public. Visitors who would rather enjoy the sea will love the beaches and resorts of the nearby Côte Fleurie.

No trip to Deauville is complete without a visit to the 19th century Deauville-La Touques Racecourse. Horse breeding and racing is at the heart of Deauville’s history. Whether you’re a gambler or you simply enjoy the thrill of the race, you shouldn’t miss Deauville’s unparalleled horse racing.

Filed Under: Deauville, Europe, featured, France, Normandy

Musee du Louvre, Paris, France

The Musee du Louvre in Paris, France is one of the most historic and fascinating museums in the entire world. More than eight million visitors experience the wonders of The Louvre each and every year. Without a detailed look at the actual exhibits, you could still enjoy the unmatched views of Parisian architecture at its finest. For your educational and viewing pleasure, there are over 400,000 different items and exhibits within the massive Louvre museum. You could spend two whole days wandering around, and you may still not have enough time to appreciate all the amazing arts of human creation houses within the massive museum.

You absolutely can’t miss the Mona Lisa when you visit the Musee du Louvre. No other work of art in any medium and in any country has been studied as much as the Mona Lisa. This is the painting that put Leonardo da Vinci on the map, and it cemented his legacy as one of the greatest artistic minds in the history of civilization. The Mona Lisa exhibit gets crowded during the evening hours, so the best time to see it is definitely as early in the day as you possible can go to that part of The Louvre.

Another attraction not to be missed at The Louvre is the Venus de Milo. This ancient Greek sculpture depicts the goddess of love, Venus, in human form. It’s been said that this work of art was crafted around 100 BCE. Nobody knows exactly who sculpted it, but it’s supposed to be attributed to Alexandros of Antioch. The statue stands nearly seven feet tall, and it is made out of marble. You’ll want to take plenty of pictures of it to share with your friends and family back home. The statue is simply one of the greatest art masterpieces ever seen in the entire world.

The Musee du Louvre in Paris is one of the attractions that all world travelers should see at least once. The atmosphere created by the unmatched art found here invites you to get in touch with a higher plane of visual perception. Humans benefit greatly from viewing art and pondering its meaning. This is one way in which people keep their minds healthy and active. You can stop at The Louvre today and add this incredible museum to the list of places you’ve visited. This is an experience that you’ll never forget as long as you live.

Filed Under: Europe, France, Musee du Louvre, Paris