Olympia & Beach Getaway
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Puerto
Katákolon (Olimpia), Grecia
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Nivel de actividad
Moderate
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Tipo de excursión
All
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Accesible para personas en silla de ruedas
No
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A partir de
$129
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Edad mínima
Information Not Currently Available
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Duración
Approximately 7 Hours
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Comidas incluidas
Meals not included
Set out from the harbor, bustling with brightly painted fishing boats, and drive 30 minutes towards the gateway to Olympia. Along the way, you'll pass the modern region of Pyrgos and travel through the countryside between the Alfios and Klados Rivers.
Your destination is the ancient Olympia Archaeological Site. With your guide by your side, you'll set off on a walking tour of the ruins. You'll view the ruined Temple of Zeus, where a gold and ivory statue of the god once stood. Although just a chaotic heap of rubble today, the dimensions of the temple are truly impressive. Only slightly smaller than the Parthenon in Athens, it was a classic Doric temple, first built in the 5th century BC. The now-destroyed statue within, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was crafted by the great sculptor Pheidias — 44 feet tall and lavishly decorated with Zeus on a throne of ivory and gold, holding a statue of Nike in his right hand, and a scepter with an eagle in his left.
You'll also see the Heraion or Temple of Hera, dedicated to the wife of Zeus, and the ruins of the great Stadium, with its marble starting blocks still in position. More than 40,000 spectators would fill the stadium to witness contests ranging from foot races to pentathlon and the 2004 Olympics shot put contest.
The sands of Kourouta Beach stretch for ten miles, washed by the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea. Seafront cafeterias and tavernas serve ouzo and traditional dishes. Swim, stroll or simply relax for nearly three hours.
Your tour concludes with a walk back to your motorcoach and a scenic drive back to the pier.
Notes:
Lunch is not included. You will have time to purchase lunch at your own expense during the tour. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Tour operates June-September.