Swim with the Gods Private Tour from Athens

Explore Greece’s Ancient & Natural Wonders on a Private Tour

The “Swim with the Gods” Private Tour from Athens offers a unique combination of ancient ruins, breathtaking natural scenery, and relaxing swimming spots, all in one 8-hour package. Priced at $228.73 per person, this tour is ideal for those interested in Greece’s mythology, history, and scenic beauty. It departs from Athens with hotel, Airbnb, or port pickup and includes private transportation and bottled water, ensuring comfort and convenience.

The tour features six carefully selected stops, including the Heraion sanctuary, the limestone lagoon of Limni Vouliagmeni, and the famous Corinth Canal. The experience is paced to give you ample time at each site, with a knowledgeable driver guiding you through Greece’s historic and natural highlights. While it’s a private activity perfect for groups, note that an optional licensed guide is available at an extra cost.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with hotel or port pickup and drop-off in Athens
• Six stops including ancient sites, lagoons, thermal springs, and iconic waterways
• Total duration of approximately 8 hours offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing
• Cost is $228.73 per person, with group discounts available
• Tour has a 5-star rating based on one highly positive review praising the guide’s expertise and friendliness

The Starting Point: Pickup and Private Transport in Athens

The tour begins with convenient pickup from your Athens accommodation or port, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free. The private transportation ensures a comfortable ride across the scenic Greek landscape, with a driver who has deep knowledge of the area’s history and geography. This setup allows for a flexible schedule and a personalized experience, unlike crowded group tours.

Traveling in a private vehicle means you can enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized attention from your driver, who shares insights about each location you’ll visit. The company complies with all health regulations for COVID-19, adding an extra layer of confidence and safety.

Visiting the Heraion Sanctuary in Perachora

The first stop, Heraion in Perachora, is a standout for its ancient construction and mythological significance. This sanctuary of goddess Hera sits in a small cove of the Corinthian gulf, offering both historical intrigue and scenic views. The site contains remains of a temple of Hera with unusual architecture, alongside other ancient relics.

Spending about an hour here, visitors get a chance to walk among the ruins and appreciate the antiquity of the site. Since admission is free, the focus remains on exploring the historic structures and enjoying the peaceful seaside landscape. The site’s unique construction makes it a captivating stop for history buffs and those interested in Greek mythology.

Swimming and Relaxation at Limni Vouliagmeni Lagoon

Next, the tour takes you to Limni Vouliagmeni, a lagoon famed for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by dense pine forest, this lagoon boasts salty and warm waters that are much more saline than the open sea, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Spending about an hour here, you can enjoy the tranquil environment and the inviting waters. Since all the entrance fees are included, your focus remains on soaking up the scenery and unwinding in this picturesque setting. This lagoon is considered one of the most beautiful in Greece, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim amidst nature.

Therapeutic Waters at Loutraki’s Thermal Springs

The third stop, Loutraki, has a history dating back to antiquity when it was called Thermai Artemis. The area is renowned for its natural thermal springs that were believed to have therapeutic properties. Mythology links the springs to Artemis, goddess of forests and hills, who was said to travel through these waters for healing.

Spending about two hours, visitors have time to explore the springs or simply relax and enjoy the natural environment. Since admission is free, it’s an accessible way to experience Greece’s legendary thermal waters. Loutraki’s combination of myth and natural beauty makes it a unique stop on this tour.

The Ancient Diolkos Trackway in Corinth

A quick 15-minute stop at The Diolkos provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient engineering. This paved trackway, built in the 6th century BC, enabled boats to be moved overland across the Isthmus of Corinth, saving ships from circumnavigating the Peloponnese.

You can walk along this historic pathway and imagine the logistical marvel it represented in ancient Greece. The free admission allows visitors to appreciate the ingenuity of early Greek transportation methods without rushing their experience.

Crossing the Corinth Canal: A Marvel of Modern Engineering

The Corinth Canal is the final highlight of the tour, connecting the Saronic Gulf with the Corinthian Sea. Opened in 1892, this narrow waterway cuts through the isthmus, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.

The 15-minute stop provides time to walk along the canal or take pictures of its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. It’s a must-see for those fascinated by engineering feats and Greece’s strategic waterways. The free viewing area makes this a memorable and accessible finale to the sightseeing portion.

Return to Athens and Final Remarks

After visiting the Corinth Canal, the driver takes you back to Athens, ending your 8-hour private experience. The tour ensures you see some of Greece’s most iconic sites, blending ancient ruins, natural lagoons, and historic waterways into a single day.

The private nature of the tour, combined with the deep knowledge of the driver, creates an intimate and informative experience. The cost of $228.73 per person includes all transportation and entry, with the option to add a licensed guide for an extra fee if desired.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits travelers interested in history, mythology, and natural beauty. It is especially ideal for those who prefer private, flexible itineraries over crowded group tours. The stops are varied, appealing to both outdoor lovers and history enthusiasts, though some may find the pace relaxed and suitable for all fitness levels.

The highlight is the blend of ancient and natural sites, which offers a comprehensive snapshot of Greece’s diverse attractions. If you want a well-rounded day that combines cultural heritage with scenic relaxation, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts on “Swim with the Gods”

“Swim with the Gods” from Athens provides a thoughtfully curated experience, emphasizing notable archaeological sites and stunning landscapes. The high rating of 5.0 and positive review underscore the quality of the guide and the memorable nature of the stops. The flexibility and personal touch make it a good choice for small groups or private outings.

However, the tour does not include a licensed guide at the stops unless paid extra, so those wanting detailed historical narration should plan accordingly. Overall, it offers a balanced day of sightseeing and leisure for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s pace and outdoor stops make it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with walking and swimming.

Can I request a licensed guide?
Yes, for an additional $380, you can request a licensed guide to accompany you at the stops, enhancing the historical narration.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and towels for the lagoon, comfortable shoes for walking, and sun protection, as many stops are outdoors.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Specific accessibility details are not provided, but the sites mainly involve walking on uneven surfaces; it’s best to inquire further if mobility is a concern.