From Lavrion to Dubrovnik · Mediterranean · 7 nights
Le Ponant is a beautiful three-masted sailing yacht carrying just 32 guests, small enough to visit some of the world’s most secluded harbours.
Ponant’s most intimate ship came into service over 20 years ago,
but is still much loved today. The yacht is ultra sleek in its
design, and the modern staterooms all have porthole windows. The
mostly francophone guests love the al fresco nature of the public
spaces, with a large sundeck, outdoor restaurant and swimming
marina, and you’ll always feel connected to the sea.
The island of Spetses lies just off the coast of the Peloponnese, and is popular as a second home for well-to-do Athenians. Wander the streets of charming Spetses Town and you’ll find some excellent restaurants, while the surrounding countryside is a verdant landscape of pine forest and gently rolling hills.
The Peloponnesian town of Pylos has a rich history, mentioned in antiquity by Homer and home to the ruins of the Mycenaean Palace of Nestor. In 1827 the Ottomans were defeated here at the Battle of Navarino, a pivotal moment in the Greek War of Independence, and you can still see shipwrecks in the bay.
Rugged Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands, and remains unspoilt by tourism despite earning fame as the setting for ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’. The island rewards exploration, with some splendid beaches and lovely little villages, and the vineyards here produce some excellent wines.
Paxos (also known as Paxi) is a little island with a lot to offer, from beautiful turquoise bays to hiking trails over rugged cliffs. The island is popular with the yachting crowd, and there are some lovely seafront tavernas and bars in the three harbour villages of Gaios, Loggos and Lakka.
We never fail to be moved when we see the terracotta roofs and honey-golden walls of Dubrovnik, and a stroll around the perfectly preserved old town is a highlight of any visit to the Dalmatian coast. Make sure you take the time to walk around the walls and soak up the marvellous sea views.
