The Mediterranean is heralded for its historic architecture, delectable regional cuisine, quaint seaside villages, and UNESCO-awarded Old Towns. But did you know these aren’t the only natural attractions the enclaves of France, Italy, Greece, and Montenegro have to offer? Hiking is one of the most underrated yet rewarding activities in these destinations. Join your Club Director for a morning jaunt to stretch your legs and get your day started or consider afternoon independent exploration.
Kotor, Montenegro
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most distinctive landscapes anywhere in the Mediterranean, with its spectacular views and sheer mountains plunging into the Adriatic. The port of Kotor is surrounded by grandiose grey mountains and an impressive city wall built by the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence remains dominant among the architectural influences. In 1979 the Bay of Kotor, City of Kotor and the surrounding territory were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural site. SeaDream usually navigates close by the small islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Reef, with easy access to hiking trails both directly in, or just outside, Kotor. Our Club Directors also typically offer a hike to San Giovanni Castle, just above the Walled City, providing spectacular views.
Capri, Italy
Sitting pretty in the Gulf of Naples, the island of Capri is well known today for its breathtaking landscapes and upscale beach resorts. While human presence on the island can be dated back to the Neolithic and the Bronze Age, it was Emperor Augustus who most famously developed Capri by building villas, temples, and planted gardens. Popular to both visitors and native Italians alike, Capri is popular for its boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and annual international film festival, and is a favorite yachting destination. Mount Solaro marks the highest point of Capri, at 589 meters (about 1932 ft) at its peak. There is also a statue of Emperor Augustus on the mount, who first landed on Capri, over 900 species of vegetation, and of course, incredible views. Two different hiking routes lead up the mountain and are worthy of exploration.
Lipari, Italy
The island of Lipari is perhaps the most interesting of the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Sicily. Historically, Lipari’s strategic location made it important for maritime trade and the island has a rare and valuable resource, black volcanic obsidian. Today the town is notable for its pretty streets and lanes perfect for wandering around between the elegant historic townhouses. Don’t miss a hike to Lipari Castle, the citadel that lords over Marina Lunga and Marina Corta, where boats to and from the mainland and other islands dock. The castle’s walls were fortified during the Spanish Age, but among them you still can recognize stone blocks from the Greek Age.
Hydra, Greece
The rocky island of Hydra is located in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, neighboring the islands of Spetses and Poros. This island town with no vegetation and no cars (all goods being transported by donkey) fascinates visitors from all over the world for its perfectly well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Hydra has remained unspoiled over the years, unlike several of its neighboring islands that have expanded to accommodate a growing population. Join your Club Director for a hike to the Monastery of Prophet Elias, located approximately 500 meters (about 164 feet) above sea level, just 100 meters (about 328 feet) below the highest mountain peak of the island, Mt. Eros.
Bonifacio, Corsica, France
Bonifacio, also named Bunifaziu in Corsican, is a commune at the southern tip of the island of Corsica, with strong ties to both the Italian peninsula and France. (The native Corsican language, whose northern variant is closely related with Tuscan, is recognized as a regional language by the French government.) Dubbed “the island of beauty” by locals, Corsica boasts an authentic, undeveloped habitat. Built atop towering limestone cliffs and surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on three sides, Bonifacio offers spectacular panoramas, hikes along the coast (including a don’t miss to the La Modonetta Lighthouse), a cobblestone-streeted Old Town, and just the right mix of historical monuments, including the Bonifacio Citadel--all within walking distance of this charming medieval village.
Are you ready to experience the colorful destinations and playful yachting harbors of the Mediterranean? SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. Click here to check availability and reserve your next voyage.