In September our colleague Dawn accompanied a group of travel agents on a ‘familiarisation’ trip to the beautiful Greek islands of Samos, Ikaria and Leros. There is no better way for our travel agency partners to discover the ‘real’ Greece than exploring each island for themselves along with the expert guidance and knowledge of our Sunvil representatives.
In our latest ‘Notes from the field’ blog series, Dawn details her highlights and experiences from her trip.
The group, with Dawn on the far right
Where did you go?
I went to Samos, Ikaria and Leros. The islands are full of variety with different things to do and experience, so everyone should be able to find what they’re looking for in a holiday here. One of my favourite things about the islands were the huge stretches of coastline; those who love the beach will find happiness on these islands.
What was your favourite property and why?
I actually have two favourite properties. The first is Villa Penny on Samos, which I found to be modern yet charming. The host Dimitri is wonderful, as is his wife who did all the cooking and his daughter whom the villa was named after. This is the perfect property for guests who like a personal touch to their stay.
The group enjoying a meal at Villa Penny
I also really liked the Anastasia Apartments in Votsalakia, Samos. The apartments occupy a great location as they are only 3 minutes away from the beach and main street, and have stunning Bougainvillea growing all around, creating a really beautiful setting.
Beautiful bougainvillea surrounding Anastasia Apartments
What was your favourite viewpoint?
My favourite viewpoint was from Leros Castle, as you can see across the whole island. This viewpoint provides a great panoramic view of Leros.
Stunning view of Leros from Leros Castle
Another viewpoint that I really liked was the one at Ormos Harbour on Samos. It is as beautiful as it is in the day as it is at night, and you really lose yourself in your surroundings as you sit back watching the sunset.
Admiring the calm sea at Ormos Harbour
A beautiful end to the day at Ormos Harbour
What was your favourite meal?
I really enjoyed the meal I had at Mylos Restaurant on Leros. The location is wonderful as you are set right on the seafront.
The group tucking in at Mylos Restaurant
The lovely view from Mylos Restaurant
I also really enjoyed the meal I had at the Garden Taverna in Samos Town on our first evening. The freshness of the meal given was amazing.
What was your favourite activity?
One of my favourite activities was visiting the Monastery of Theoktisis on Ikaria. It really gives an insight into how living simply isn’t necessarily a bad thing! The peace surrounding the monastery and chapel were almost tangible. The tiny chapel was also covered in fresco’s which depicted every story from the bible. The painting shows three sinful women who were surrounded with snakes for their misdemeanors
The peaceful Monastery of Theoktisis
Three sinful women surrounded with snakes
Secondly, I enjoyed the trip to the Temple of Hera on Samos (second wife of Zeus). Hera was much loved by Zeus until he found more and more wives and was said to have fathered 68 children!
The remaining column at the temple stands 9m high. Originally the multiple columns would have been 19m high and thereby visible to travellers from either sea or inland. The marble sections were transported by nets slung under the boat from Fourni. No mean feat!
Temple of Hera
The last remaining column at 9m high
What was your favourite beach?
My favourite beach was Limnionas Beach on Samos. This is a beautiful beach full of golden sand, and we even had a chance to test out the water.
The group having a swim at Limnionas Beach
What was the highlight of your trip?
The overall highlight of my trip has to be making friends and getting the opportunity to share the Sunvil experience that our clients have.
The group I had the pleasure of travelling with
The group I had the pleasure of travelling with