TOUR C - METEORA
Excursions
- £95 - £105
- 8.75 hours
- Limited capacity
- Please read the tour notes
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, the monasteries of Meteora (meaning ‘suspended in the air’) are situated in a fantastic and unique landscape on top of giant pillars rising at least 600 metres above sea level.
Departing the quayside, we drive from Volos through the rich agricultural basin of Thessaly to Meteora to see the largest and most important group of monasteries in Greece after those in Mount Athos. The history of Meteora dates back to the 11th century when the first hermits sought peace and solitude in the rifts and caves of the rocks. The first monasteries were not built until the 14th century AD, and their development led to an illustrious period of monastic life, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries. They were created to serve monks and nuns following the teachings of the Greek Orthodox Church. Of the six intact monasteries, it is only the Holy Monastery of St Stephen that is inhabited by nuns.
Originally, the only access to the monasteries was by means of very long retractable ladders, or in a basket or net suspended on ropes from a winch, which was mounted in a tower overhanging the void. Steps have now been cut into the rock face, and there is a modern road servicing the main monasteries.
During our tour to Meteora, we shall explore two of the monasteries, learning about the everyday lives of the monks, and viewing icons and tools that they use. We can also enjoy impressive views of the scenery. Following our visits, we drive to a local restaurant to enjoy lunch before making the return journey to Volos and our awaiting ship.
TOUR NOTES: This is a strenuous tour, which is not considered suitable for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users. It involves a total of around two and a half hours of standing and walking, some of which will be over hilly ground, and there are approximately 100 to 150 steps to negotiate. Please note that there is a strict dress code at the monasteries – all passengers are required to wear sleeved tops, while women are NOT permitted to wear trousers. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are advisable. For reference, the drive from Volos to Meteora takes approximately two and a quarter hours – a comfort stop will be made on the outbound journey. Please note that depending on the berth of our ship, there may be a walk of approximately 150 metres from the ship to our tour coach.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2011 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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