is being treated for severe burns following a house fire early Sunday in a village near Preveza The fire broke out in a residence in the village of Ano Rachi approximately 20 kilometers north of Preveza Firefighters responding to the scene discovered the body of the 94-year-old inside the home while battling the blaze The second woman was rushed to hospital for urgent treatment Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox The Holy Metropolis of Nicopolis and Preveza have announced that they will host Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for the second time in almost three decades The Ecumenical Patriarch graciously accepted the invitation extended jointly during their visit to Constantinople last December by Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Nicopolis and Preveza and the Mayor of Preveza and devotion of both themselves and the people of Preveza to the Patriarch and the Ecumenical Throne 10:30: Arrival of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Preveza Musical event in honor of the Ecumenical Patriarch by the choirs of the city of Preveza Address by Mayor Nikolaos Georgakos of Preveza and presentation of a gift to the Ecumenical Patriarch 11:30: Patriarchal visit to the Holy Monastery of Prophet Elijah in Iliovounia (Flamboura) On the eve of the conclave that will begin on Wednesday to elect a new Pope The annual graduation ceremony of the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy (PTOTA) was held at the Cultural Centre of.. Archbishop Makarios of Australia will be conferred the title of Honorary Doctor by both the Department of Theology and.. The Vatican announced on Monday that all telephone communication within its territory will be suspended during the upcoming conclave.. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew delivered the keynote address at the International Scientific Conference “Restarting from Nicaea:.. (function() { window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { listeners: [] cb) { window.mc4wp.listeners.push( { event : evt callback: cb } ); } } }})(); © 2023 OrthodoxTimes.com - All rights reserved Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website These cookies do not store any personal information Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website Home - News - MXI Design Release Preveza Aktion Airport for MSFS Small coastal Greek airport is home to both civil and military operations Greece’s Preveza Aktion National Airport (ICAO: LGPZ) is a joint military and civilian airfield on the western coast of the Mediterranean nation and MXI Design now bring it to life in Microsoft Flight Simulator With summer services from across Europe and a whole host of military activity Preveza offers a wide variety of flying opportunities for sim pilots Despite having two marked runways only 07L/25R is operational as well as TACAN approaches for those equipped to fly them You can purchase a copy of MXI Design’s Preveza Aktion for MSFS at SimMarket.com for €11.99. ' + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.webview_notification_text + ' " + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_title + " " + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_text + " This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Preveza has become a tourist attraction for Serbians during a recent visit by Serbian journalists organized by CK Strategies tourist flows from Serbia to Greece increased by 15% in 2023 culture and Greek hospitality are key factors attracting Serbian tourists to Preveza TOUR operator Jet2 is set to launch six new routes to affordable destinations in Greece for summer 2026 Four regional airports in the UK will get the new Greek routes with more than 100,000 seats already on sale East Midlands Airport will see two new routes one to Thessaloniki (Halkidiki) in northern Greece and another to Preveza in northwestern Greece Flights to Thessaloniki (Halkidiki) are set to operate from May 23, 2026, with one-way tickets to Greece starting from £95 per person The weekly service will depart from East Midlands Airport at 4.45pm before touching down in Greece at 10.15pm local time Services to Preveza will begin operating slightly earlier on May 6 with one-way fares again starting from £95 per person A new service will also operate from Newcastle Airport - dubbed the best airport in the UK - to Preveza on May 26 One-way fares from Newcastle Airport to Preveza will also start from £95 per person, with fares shooting up in the school summer holidays Located south of Corfu, Preveza is home to Monolithi Beach, the longest beach in Europe. with many visiting for boat trips to explore the nearby coves Jet2 will also add a new route from Bournemouth Airport to Kos with the route launching right on time for the school summer holidays on July 29 The cheapest one-way fares start from £146 during the school summer holidays with the best deals to be had in October on this route Tourism is the main industry for Kos with the resort of Kardamena popular with British holidaymakers Edinburgh Airport will also see two new routes in summer 2026, one to Kefalonia and another to Kalamata The Kefalonia service will start operating from May 3 Flights will leave the Scottish airport at 3.50pm, arriving on the Greek island at 9.50pm local time Kefalonia is one of the six largest islands in Greece The island also has some of the best secret beaches where you won't bump into many other tourists flights to Kalamata in southern Greece are slated to start operating just three days later on May 6 One-way fares from the UK start from £106, with flights departing Edinburgh at 2.15pm and landing in Greece at 8.30pm Jet2 boss Steve Heapy said: "Customers are telling us they want to book ahead and secure that all-important holiday to Greece so we have responded to that demand by putting our biggest ever Greek Summer programme on sale for 2026 earlier than anyone else and earlier than ever before "This Summer 26 programme represents a huge expansion with more seats and routes on sale to Greece including 110 routes and six new routes." In total, 22 brand-new summer routes are scattered throughout the summer 2026 schedule, with Newcastle Airport seeing five new flights Dubbed the "best airport" in the UK Newcastle Airport will now serve 57 destinations thanks to the new Jet2 routes Travellers heading to Newcastle Airport will now be able to head off to Agadir and Marrakech in Morocco, Preveza in Greece and the twin Iberian hotspots of Barcelona and Porto Halkidiki & SplitEdinburgh - Kefalonia Girona & KalamataGlasgow - Dubrovnik & MarrakechLondon Stansted - Jerez Newcastle - Agadir passengers will be able to take advantage of new routes from Bournemouth over 1,700 flights will depart weekly across the network during peak periods Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ Preveza has become a tourist attraction for visitors from Serbia during a recent trip of Serbian journalists organized by CK Strategies and Greek hospitality are key factors attracting Serbian tourists to Preveza Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Nafplio at the epicenter of world yachting with the 10th Mediterranean Yacht Show Samaria Gorge “War Zone” – “Others Decide, We Pay the Price” Argosaronic Islands: Need for a long-term strategy and modern infrastructure FedHATTA | Tourism Bridges between Greece and the Chinese province of Guizhou Top distinctions for Greece and Santorini at the American Leisure Lifestyle Awards 2025 HOTREC | Supporting SMEs in European Hospitality Tourism | Promoting Crete in the Arabian Gulf Aegean and Emirates expand their partnership Delta | Athens is in 5th place in American searches for 2025 Promotion of Preveza on the metro and tram in Athens TripAdvisor Awards 2025 | Elafonisi Beach World's Best Beach - 9th in Crete, Sani Beach Award 12th BAJAGREECE: Motorsports Competition in Western Macedonia Crete also invests in cycling tourism - 13th Pediadas Tour Competitions with a summer and autumn backdrop: Attica runs at the pace of sports ATM'25 - Tourism | The fight against food waste at the forefront of sustainable development easyJet holidays | Fam trips to Santorini, Skiathos and Rhodes Chania: The next actions of the “Tourism Partnership” Navarino Challenge returns on May 9-11, 2025 Cruise Takeoff in Chania – Record Arrivals in the First Quarter of 2025 Three Greek beaches among the world’s 50 best – Triumph for the Ionian The “Typhoon” that saves the Greek coasts from garbage EOT at the “Arabian Travel Market” | Interest from Gulf countries, India, and Australia CERT to manage Vasilitsa Ski Resort – Investment of over 20 million euros Is American tourism in Europe “slowing down”? What do professionals see for 2025 and 2026 This is Athens & Partners | The 7 partners renew their collaboration - the joint actions FedHATTA: Dynamic presence of Greek travel agencies at the international Dubai exhibition ATM 2025 Ryanair announces new offer for Prime members on June flights Thomas Ellerbeck | “Rhodes can become a model of sustainable tourism internationally” The Times | The perfect time to experience the authentic side of Santorini Chania: The Alternative Tourism Festival returns to the Venetian Port Angela Gerekou: "Tourism is a force for good and Greece can play a leading role" New flights to Greece in 2025 from 4 airlines Crete welcomes Reveil 12 – Festival of Sounds and Ecology Greek tourism - 3rd quarter | 97% of arrivals in Athens and Thessaloniki Modernization aid for the marinas of Symi and Messolonghi HOTREC Assembly: Focus on challenges and reforms in European tourism AEGEAN 2025: Passenger growth and fleet expansion with an eye on the international market FedHATTA Cooperation with Shaanxi Province, China Greek academic in finalists of European Sustainable Energy Awards 2025 Thessaloniki museums join forces to promote the city GNTO introduces “Sustainable Greece” to British Agents Strategic meeting for cruises in Santorini A message of friendship and cooperation at the friendly Greek-Turkish football match in Chios Municipality of Xiromero | Diving tourism: Request for sinking of a decommissioned warship The first La Quinta by Wyndham in Batumi, Georgia Double racing event in Megalopolis on May 11: Festival Enduro and Theater Run 2025 Explora Journeys: Start of the summer season with the luxurious EXPLORA I from Piraeus Strong start in 2025 for Aegean and SKY Express Xanthi Tastes: A Gastronomy Festival with a Cultural Flavor Rhodes: These are the five-star hotels with the highest revenue – Which ones “fill up” first Greek Tourism/Webhotelier: The Winners and Losers in Online Bookings for 2025 GNTO | Promotion of Santorini in target markets Unprecedented blackout in Spain, Portugal, France Greece can play a leading role in the global sports tourism scene Rhodes | Event for the protection of biodiversity Attica, the …Caribbean of the Germans Agios Nikolaos | Cruise season kicks off with arrival of luxury Silver Spirit Operational Plan: “Cretan Food Culture 2026-2030” Destination Management and Promotion Organization in Thessaloniki Kefalonia: The authentic character of the island through the “Travel Reimagined” project Hoteliers vs. Booking.com: The European uprising has begun Tourism | Greece 4th choice for Europeans' holidays in 2025 - what the ETC survey shows New high-standard heated swimming pool in Chania, aimed at sports tourism Greeks Traveled (A Lot!) in 2024 – Where They Went, How Much They Spent Greek-American Dean Spanos brings the NFL to Greece – Opportunities for promotion in the USA Lesvos: The season begins with birdwatching tourists MSC Cruises: Strengthens its presence in Greece with 6 cruise ships New Luxury Arrival in Crete | JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa Opens on June 2 "Peloponnese Trails" inaugurated today: New network of trails for sustainable tourism Knossos: 125 years since the excavations of Arthur Evans The Spanish TV show “Viajeros Cuatro” in Corfu Wyndham - Soliteight | 40 Super 8 hotels in Spain and Portugal Airbnb: Final price now displayed in accommodation searches Investments in the beaches of the Attica Riviera The Municipality of Chania at the “From Crete to Side” Festival in Turkey Region of Central Macedonia: Tourism Promotion Activities in Poland and the Middle East Region of Crete | Connecting Minoan Palatial Centers with Archaeological Sites Biodiversity protection plan is in full swing in Elafonisi Record participation in the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition | Chania 8 - 10 May Communities at the heart of tourism development Booking.com | No to limiting tourists, yes to infrastructure investments Thessaloniki’s dynamic presence at the World Tourism Summit in Hong Kong easyJet | Summer 2026 sales open Cruise | Turkey doubles its share, new opportunities for Greek ports Aid for the upgrade of the tourist shelter of Astakos and the Marina of Alimos Preparing the settlement of Kionia for the tourist season: An example to follow The action of the region of Crete "Let's go for... Greens" concludes this weekend “Art is our Language”: Campaign for the 70th Anniversary of the Athens Epidaurus Festival Tourism | Nostalgia drives Brits’ travel choices ΕΟΤ China | B2B meetings with Chengdu's t.os - Flights to Athens in June State-of-the-art conference center at Theartemis Palace Hotel in Rethymno Zagori: Collaboration with Impact Hub Athens for sustainable tourism and innovation Cooperation Memorandum between Development Athens and Piraeus University on Tourism Kos: New advertising campaigns with Jet2 and National Geographic Traveller UK Five cruise ships in Souda by Saturday Imbros Trail Run & Hike 2025: A sporting tribute to the History of Sfakia Cultural Days and Sea Routes in Piraeus Religious Tourism | The University of Palermo comes to Panagia Nafpaktiotissa Audio Walk in the Sitia Geopark: A Different Exploration Experience in Crete AEGEAN “takes off” Larnaca with a new direct flight to Rome FedHATTA | Tourism Bridges between Greece and the Chinese province of Guizhou Tourism | Promoting Crete in the Arabian Gulf Top distinctions for Greece and Santorini at the American Leisure Lifestyle Awards 2025 Nafplio at the epicenter of world yachting with the 10th Mediterranean Yacht Show Aegean and Emirates expand their partnership HOTREC | Supporting SMEs in European Hospitality Samaria Gorge “War Zone” – “Others Decide, We Pay the Price” Delta | Athens is in 5th place in American searches for 2025 Argosaronic Islands: Need for a long-term strategy and modern infrastructure TripAdvisor Awards 2025 | Elafonisi Beach World's Best Beach - 9th in Crete, Sani Beach Award ATM'25 - Tourism | The fight against food waste at the forefront of sustainable development Promotion of Preveza on the metro and tram in Athens Crete also invests in cycling tourism - 13th Pediadas Tour Competitions with a summer and autumn backdrop: Attica runs at the pace of sports 12th BAJAGREECE: Motorsports Competition in Western Macedonia Cruise Takeoff in Chania – Record Arrivals in the First Quarter of 2025 The 20 "loudest" luxury hotel arrivals in Greece in 2025 Athens Municipality Festival 2025 | The city's biggest celebration, with more than 200 events New flights to Greece in 2025 from 4 airlines What to expect at this year’s ITB Berlin Exhibition from March 4-6 easyJet holidays | Fam trips to Santorini, Skiathos and Rhodes PM at 1st Greece-Saudi Arabia High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council on Monday Greece's Permanent Delegation to UNESCO organizing concert on January 16 North Macedonia: Increase in foreign tourists in 2024 Athens to host the European Film Awards in 2027 Approval of a traffic regulation to restrict the traffic of heavy vehicles over 4 tons from June 10 from Friday at 15.00 pm to Sunday at 21.00 pm in the following sections of the National Road Network of the Preveza Regional Unit National Road Preveza-Igoumenitsa (coastal) from km 0+000 Akti Tunnel to km 87+000 -Igoumenitsa From km 5+000 (Ancient Nicopolis) to km 39+000 of E.O National Road  Fraxila Junction - Limbochovitis Junction and (from Archangelos intersection to Glykis settlement Vehicles for perishable and fresh products and vehicles for feeding livestock and poultry units are excluded Tourists take pictures during a dolphin watching tour from a boat in the Ambracian Gulf Tourists dive from a boat and swim during a dolphin watching tour in the Ambracian Gulf on August 6 Direct flights from Britain and Sweden to Greece will not be allowed until July 15 IslaLink’s Ionian cable system has landed in Greece and Italy and is set to launch later this year 24-fiber pair Ionian system will connect Crotone on the east coast of Italy with Preveza on the west coast of Greece The unrepeated cable will offer 360Tbps of capacity After several days of delays due to bad weather and rough seas the cable was landed in Crotone earlier this month and landed in Preveza last week Ionian will be the first cable connecting mainland Greece with Italy since the Italy-Greece 1 system in 1995 While Greece has a number of subsea cable systems most land on islands such as Corfu or Crete while the Minoas East & West and MedNautilus systems land on the south coast most of Italy’s subsea cables land on the island of Sicily or the likes of Genoa and Bari Neither Crotone nor Preveza has previously been landing points for fiber cables Fiera Capital/Fiera Infrastructure-owned IslaLink currently operates cable systems connecting the Balearic Islands It also offers colocation out of its Mallorca and Valencia cable landing stations The company previously said the cable system was due live by the end of 2022 but an update to the company’s site says it has been laid and will be live by April 2023 The cable is being installed by Orange Marine subsidiary Elettra via the CS Teliri I Squared Capital-owned Exa Infrastructure is the key landing and terrestrial services partner in Italy and anchor tenant for the system while Grid Telecom is to offer terrestrial optic fiber network from the landing point in Preveza to Athens and Thessaloniki Data Centre Dynamics Ltd (DCD), 32-38 Saffron Hill, London, EC1N 8FH Email. [email protected]DCD is a subsidiary of InfraXmedia The Romans managed to build an impressive and unique aqueduct that supplied water to an ancient megalopolis Thanks to its excellent preservation over the centuries ancient Nikopolis gives modern visitors the opportunity to admire the architecture and urban planning of the Romans is its aqueduct: a unique project for its time which allowed the exploitation of the headwaters of the Louros river Nikopolis is the child of a transitional but pivotal period in which Rome was transformed from a republic to an empire as a symbol of Octavian Augustus‘ great victory at Actium against Marc Antony and Cleopatra – in a naval battle that always had a Greek colour since Cleopatra was the last queen of Egypt descended from the Macedonians who arrived there with Alexander the Great Nikopolis also became a lever of Romanization and control over the whole of western Greece as many inhabitants of other cities in Epirus and Acarnania were forced to leave and the fact that no later settlement was founded in its place helped to keep it in good condition given its age The monumental aqueduct may well have been constructed as early as the time of Octavian although the views of more recent scholars converge towards the 2nd century AD during the period when Hadrian was emperor the Nikopolitans kept their water in barrels which they filled either at wells or from small springs The Romans were renowned for their engineering and topographic skills thanks to which they had already equipped their country with an exemplary water supply system in Nikopolis they achieved a technological wonder for their time creating an extensive 50-kilometre-long network using Louros’ headwaters ensuring an adequate water supply for Nikopolis Today it is believed that it was not a medium-sized city but a megalopolis of about 150,000 inhabitants the project consists of alternating overhead aqueduct systems with arches necessary to bypass the Louros valley combined with above-ground trench pipelines as well as a tunnel dug into the hills of Kokkinopilos water was transferred from Louros’ headwaters to two reservoirs in the Nymphaeum of Nikopolis from where it was then piped through smaller pipelines to the rest of the city Remains of the aqueduct can still be seen at various points in the wider area giving the visitor the opportunity to admire the mastery with which the Romans made use of the difference in altitude between Louros’ headwaters and Nikopolis – which amounts to about 80 metres – ensuring that the aqueduct sloped slightly as it approached the sea They even ensured that there were ventilation openings on the slopes and piers in the lowlands Around 350 the Emperor Julian financed extensive maintenance work so it can be assumed that the aqueduct was still in operation in the early Byzantine years It seems to have been abandoned when the area entered irreversible decline after the chaos caused by the disastrous Ostrogothic invasion in 551 Built on the peninsula that separates the Amvrakikos Gulf from the Ionian Sea ancient Nikopolis is located 8 km north of the town of Preveza The access by road is very easy via the Preveza-Ioannina highway The remains of the aqueduct at various points along its route to Nikopolis can also be visited; the sites of Archangelos as well as the section that survives at Louros’ headwaters – in the village of Agios Georgios a few kilometres north of the small town of Filippiada Greece’s Lake Ziros: A Hidden Gem ideal for Canoeing and Hiking Nemuta: The unknown waterfalls of mountainous Ilia are quite a spectacle Smolikas Drakolimni: Sub-alpine lake with wild orchids on Greece’s second-tallest mountain The information on this page is intended for journalists If you click NO you will come back to Mynewsdesk.com Airline adds capacity to key European routes for summer 2020 Norwegian is launching a new non-stop service from London Gatwick to Aktion Airport, which serves Preveza and Lefkada, Greece with fares from £60.50 one-way available to book now at www.norwegian.com/uk Launching just in time for a summer holiday in the Greek sunshine Norwegians’ first flight to Aktion Airport will depart on the 3rd May 2020 with a twice weekly service* on a Thursday and Sunday for the summer season The new service will be Norwegians’ first flight to mainland Greece from the UK and will complement the airlines’ existing Greek services to Rhodes Passengers will be able to enjoy direct access to the lesser-known regions of Preveza and Leftkada Offering stunning beaches with turquoise waters and an idyllic relaxing atmosphere these traditional Greek towns are often regarded as a hidden gem Norwegian is also adding capacity to key European routes for this summer with extra weekly flights to Greece and Norway The airline has added a second weekly flight to Crete a new morning departure five days a week to Stavanger and extended the seasonal winter service to Tromso with two weekly flights in April SVP commercial Short Haul at Norwegian said; “We are pleased to offer Brits more choice and flexibility when flying with Norwegian across Europe this summer by adding capacity to key services and a new route to Aktion Airport Passengers travelling with us can enjoy our complimentary gate-to-gate Wi-Fi while flying in a high-quality and comfortable cabin onboard our modern Norwegian is Europe’s third-largest low-cost airline carrying more than 5.8 million UK passengers each year to over 30 global destinations The airline was ranked the most fuel-efficient airline on transatlantic routes by The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) for two consecutive years and has one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world with an average age of 3.8 years To book visit www.norwegian.com/uk or call 0330 8280854 per one-way flight and include all mandatory taxes and charges *Twice weekly service will commence 21st May until 1st October Sunday – D82420 departs London Gatwick 06.45 arrives Lefkada Preveza 12.00 Sunday – D82421 departs Lefkada Preveza 13.20 arrives London Gatwick 14.30 Thursday – D82420 departs London Gatwick 06.20 arrives Lefkada Preveza 11.35 Thursday – D82421 departs Lefkada Preveza 14.55 arrives London Gatwick 16.05 The Norwegian group is a leading Nordic aviation company The company has over 8,200 employees and owns two of the prominent airlines in the Nordics: Norwegian Air Shuttle and Widerøe’s Flyveselskap aiming to facilitate seamless air travel across the two airline’s networks the largest Norwegian airline with around 4,700 employees operates an extensive route network connecting Nordic countries to key European destinations Norwegian carried over 22,6 million passengers and maintained a fleet of 86 Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft Mainly operating the short-runway airports in rural Norway Widerøe operates several state contract routes (PSO routes) in addition to its own commercial network the airline had 3.8 million passengers and a fleet of 49 aircraft including 46 Bombardier Dash 8’s and three Embraer E190-E2's Widerøe Ground Handling provides ground handling services at 41 Norwegian airports The Norwegian group has sustainability as a key priority and has committed to significantly reducing carbon emissions from its operations the most noteworthy is the investment in production and use of fossil-free aviation fuel (SAF) Norwegian strives to become the sustainable choice for its passengers actively contributing to the transformation of the aviation industry When you choose to create a user account and follow a newsroom your personal data will be used by us and the owner of the newsroom for you to receive news and updates according to your subscription settings To learn more about this, please read our Privacy Policy, which applies to our use of your personal data, and our Privacy Policy for Contacts which applies to the use of your personal data by the owner of the newsroom you follow Please note that our Terms of Use apply to all use of our services You can withdraw your consent at any time by unsubscribing or deleting your account with a geological phenomenon that’s hundreds of thousand years old You’re on the crimson hills of Kokkinopilos A product of time and geological processes a spot of crimson hills pops out of the surrounding green Apart from their unique beauty the hills are also of scientific and archaeological value It’s hard to believe that such a place is only 100 m and among them winding canyons have been formed by the rain This landscape makes the place an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers but also the perfect setting for film and photo shoots The sun affects the landscape in a special way The hills cover an area of 600.000 m² and their small slopes take every shade of red depending on the time and the light a very old phenomenon; it’s estimated that the formation dates back to the Prehistoric Period Its vivid colour is due to the red clay and the iron oxides while the unique formations are due to corrosion phenomena Η δημοσίευση κοινοποιήθηκε από @my.camera.view.gr and a geotope of great geological value by the Institute of Geology and Mineral Exploration (IGME) after geological studies carried out in the area by IGME and other independent researchers The British archaeologist Eric Higgs discovered the area in 1962 that took place at the Asprochaliko location there was a Greek professor among the British archaeologists Many of the findings date back to the Palaeolithic Period but tools of the Bronze Era were also discovered A typical example is a double-edged axe made of stone aged 250.000 years that prove the existence of primitive people in Kokkinopilos are on display at the Archaeological Museum of Ioannina a remarkable example of ancient technology It’s a huge construction more than 50 km long that provided water to Nikopolis that was built around 30 BC and was around for at least 50 years and had a population of around 150.000 according to the archaeologists’ estimations Today Kokkinopilos is also a travel destination The ideal seasons to visit are spring and summer when the sun gives the hills a bright colour You can get there from two places: either from the village Agios Georgios or from Lake Ziros towards Rizovouni and Stefani as the asphalt road turns into a forest road and then you need to walk for about one kilometre From exploring the town's narrow streets to lounging on sandy beaches Preveza is a charming port town with a rich history and a laid-back atmosphere Surrounded by lush green hills and overlooked by ancient castles Preveza offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience From exploring the town’s narrow streets and markets Preveza is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a taste of traditional Greek life a stop at the Archaeological Museum of Nikopolis on the 5th km of the Preveza – Ioannina national road will convince you that history always has much to teach us This is partly thanks to the great work by deputy mayor of Preveza mainly thanks to the actual exhibits that make this the largest Roman history museum outside Italy 31BC) which took place right outside Preveza played a major role in determining the future of the Roman Empire The battle was a result of the growing distrust between Octavian and Mark Anthony and their fight for power over Rome after Julius Caesar’s death It ended with Antony and Cleopatra being defeated and having to escape A person who played an important part in Octavian’s victory is Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa who was a military genius – it is said that he invented the grappling hook he was responsible for the construction of some of the most notable buildings in the Roman Empire Nikopolis was built to commemorate Octavian’s victory and to honour the gods that helped him win Nikopolis had its own currency for a period of 4 centuries the population grew so much that it became the second largest city of the empire it was attacked many times and it fell into decline and Thessaloniki took its place the infrastructure remained intact and to this day the Metropolis of Nikopolis remains preserved in good condition The ouzo produced by the third generation of the Roumpou family is like a matryoshka doll The reason being that the ouzo is legendary in Preveza while the shop is the oldest existing shop within the city plan Their original distillation alembic dates back to 1905 seven years before the liberation of Preveza in 1912 they started making ouzo following an exclusive recipe and according to two important rules: 1) they never change the recipe even if it comes at a financial cost and 2) they use the same ingredients while they also export a small number of crates to Europe “The secret of making ouzo is that it always has to be distilled We have never made any compromises due to the market The steel alembic is of much better quality than the steel available today that our father used,” the Roumpou family tells us With the help of “Amvrakikos Cruises” it is possible to go both bird and dolphin watching the dolphins appear when they hear opera and they often play the tenor Mario Frangoulis like the tourists who clap at the Oia sunsets because the dolphins in contrast to the sunset can feel the encouragement The Amvrakikos Gulf is a 400 mile² ecosystem with special features that make it a significant natural habitat The shallow gulf closes in the summer and fish migrate to reproduce in the bay The semi-brackish waters are beneficial for plankton which in turn is beneficial to the fish who feed on them but there are also permanent populations of sardines and their well-being is the best indicator for the state of the Amvrakikos ecosystem “The area belongs to the Amvrakikos national park and has the largest reed wetland in the Balkans and many lagoons are part of the ecosystem More than twenty,” says Stratos Floudas member of the Management Unit of Acheloos Valley and Amvrakikos Gulf Protected Area At Bogonitsa local fishermen manage the lagoon The area is a significant wetland for the European Union and belongs to the Natura 2000 network “There are 300 different bird species in the area while in the whole of Greece the number is only 400 different species the birds were the reason all of these areas have been protected by law the birds too are an indicator of the state of the ecosystem We monitor them and try to manage them to keep the population numbers stable When the population is stable it means that the environment is in a satisfactory condition for people 6 of the 300 bird species are globally endangered and protected It weighs around 13 kg and has a wingspan of over 3m and we can be sure of their number due to their size.” There are also great white pelicans from central and northern Greece while the area is also home to some rare eagle species like the greater spotted eagle that stays in the area between October and April “They come here to make a nest and spend the winter They leave around April-May and then the lesser spotted eagle arrives These birds start their long journey from northern Europe to sub-Saharan Africa and need to stop at a safe place where they’ll find food which is here.” Stratos Floudas explained painting the picture of a remarkable wetland Arvi: Imposing gorge with natural spring irrigating valley filled with banana plants Gilt-head bream with celery in a white lemony sauce – a delicious, traditional recipe of Preveza The best hotels in Preveza This being their first home together, the homeowners brought their own distinct styles to the table. He liked masculine furniture and hard, contemporary lines while her tastes ran more on the bohemian side with her favoring eclectic accessories and curvaceous furniture But the job wasn’t as cookie-cutter as Prevezanos had thought “I tried to keep the design process loose and casual in order to let their separate styles mix freely,” he says of the elegant yet edgy feeling that prevailed in the newly rehabbed 1926 Mediterranean Revival house “It’s all about having an open mind.” It’s also about conveying a sense of place Describing the surrounding Hancock Park neighborhood as “charming and magical,” Prevezanos wasted no time wading through the homeowners’ blend of furnishings and art to create a cohesive look that had the same qualities as their new Los Angeles hideaway was another deliberate act to counteract the hard lines and appeal to the feminine qualities of the home some spaces came together easier than others the designer left the terra-cotta floor tiles in the grand foyer intact but since the foyer opens up to nearly every room we kept it spare to really reference the revival Mediterranean architecture,” he says it’s the history of the home that really draws you in.” he will taste anything and stirs his smoked pots in the family cookshop that first opened in 1933 “Cooking is the greatest thing in the world and Greek cuisine is the best,” he tells us behind the cookshop’s window that is his kingdom His grandfather opened “Dimitrios Raptis Restaurant” He learned the art of cooking in the kitchen “I’ve been cooking since I was 20 years old I cook almost every traditional Greek dish that people eat at home soutzoukakia (traditional type of meat balls with origins in Asia Minor) and for stews in general: from patsas (Greek tripe soup) and white lamb kapama (lamb stew with tomato and herbs sauce) first boiling the meat with one onion and then just adding a sauce prepared with egg and broth from the meat beef tongue soup with avgolemono sauce (traditional sauce prepared with egg and lemon) “It’s my specialty,” he tells us I also make fish soup with flathead grey mullet I place the fish and seafood in the display I also prepare baked sardines and anchovies baked flathead grey mullet with potatoes and onions cod with skordalia (traditional garlic potato mash) But there are so many fish taverns by the sea for anyone who wants to eat fish includes luxuries like bottarga that was made (and still is) all over Preveza since there are many flathead grey mullets as well as unique dishes like pinna omelette that today no one makes “Sinfully delicious,” he tells us Other dishes he remembers fondly from his childhood is the baked octopus with potatoes and red sauce a pie made with various greens and corn flour and the wild boar stew that he also makes at the restaurant What do you like doing when you’re not working I own a 1600 motorcycle and we’ve travelled all over Europe with my wife I tried tripa spaghetti in Sicily and it was amazing I like the fish that I don’t really cook at the restaurant I go to the seafront and eat fish and seafood at fellow businesses and I really like cuisines from all over the world by 5.30 he is at the restaurant and he closes at 4 in the afternoon or there’s more of something or less of something else Cook Dimitris Raptis’ plans for the distant future are very clear: “I plan to eat every last spoonful of my life at the restaurant and that spoonful will be of my cow head and feet soup that I’ll have prepared myself.” 3 large celery stalks or 5 bunches of celery leaves 8 large garlic cloves + 2 finely chopped garlic cloves Wash and peel the vegetables and chop them into large chunks Boil the vegetables with 500 ml of water for 25 minutes remove the vegetables and let the broth cool Heat the olive oil (without overheating) and lightly fry the fish on both sides with the medium chopped onion and the two thinly chopped garlic cloves Add about half a cup of the broth to the pan with the fish Depending on how thick you want the sauce to be add 1-1 ½ full tbsp of corn flour to the broth and stir really well until it dissolves Put the pan on the stove again and add the broth and corn flour mix Let the food simmer for 2-3 minutes while the sauce thickens Preveza’s finest delicatessen products The best restaurants in Preveza The best hotels in Preveza The TimesAs a boy Aristides Safarikas would travel by bus from his home in Athens to his grandparents’ in Ioannina From the window he could see white villas along the coast and he vowed that one day he would own a home from which he could throw a stone directly into the sea Several decades later he and his father searched this northwest mainland coast from Lefkada to the Albanian border and found just the plot: a hillside olive grove overlooking Arila Bayin the region of Epirus close to the village of Perdika and not far from Sivota There they built Ionian Green as a holiday retreat from Safarikas’s busy tech career in Brussels tired of city life and craving a connection with people he returned there to live and renovated his property into a luxury rental The result is indeed the stuff of dreams — those not only of a young boy but the most demanding of future guests The offering may be luxury but our stay was also infused with his thoughtful brand of hospitality matched with that of the experienced tour operator the villa is listed with two teenage girls and two preteen boys — arrived after an early flight to Preveza to find a mouthwatering lunch of mum-made pastitsio (Safarikas’s 93-year-old mother will cook dishes including a world-beating moussaka for £8-12pp) Travelling with a nephew who had a newly broken arm I’d worried about the realistic lifespan of his plaster cast when surrounded by water but we arrived to find all our manageable worries assuaged thanks to an array of keep-him-dry pool inflatables provided by Simpson Travel and Safarikas (Bloccs waterproof sleeves are also highly recommended for anyone else in this predicament) Ionian Green is built on a hillside olive grove overlooking Arila BaySTEPHEN HUGHESSet into the clifftop overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the bay is a simple construction of three block “houses” All but one bedroom sit on the first floor wafty-white reception rooms: a spacious living room a kitchen/diner with generous dining table The living room is stylishly minimalist with sculptural standing lamps ceramics and artwork and corner sofas — simple decor to offset the spectacular scenery outside bar sleeping (although there was a fair bit of that on the sunbeds too) From bleary-eyed morning coffees with Alexandra’s moreish “breakfast cake” and orange jam on the shady patio to lazy lunches of rosé and Greek salad made in the immaculately equipped outdoor kitchen (so high-tech you needed a degree to work the microwave) to afternoon games of volleyball and midnight dips in the 17.5m pool we were surrounded by the panoramic sea views: balayage blues with the occasional bright white sailboat cutting across the millpond-still water The hills and the mountains of the Epirus beyond with alternating olive groves and cypress trees We saw rain during daylight just once — a spectacular thunderstorm over Lefkada in the westernmost corner of our villa view — but the still damp sunrises hinted at overnight showers To the east sat the little village of Arila whose presence made our privileged location feel private rather than isolated The scent from the citrus trees that surrounded the pool deck hung heavy on the air and picking plump fruit bigger than our fists with peachlike skins and warm as if direct from the oven So too was the vertiginous walk down to the bay and a tiny This proved the perfect place for the teenagers to retreat to for the boys to splash about in and climb the rocks (broken wrist notwithstanding — and not necessarily advised) and for the grown-ups to swim and paddleboard from On day one my intrepid friend (an experienced wild swimmer) swam the kilometre across to the bay’s long strip of sand and back and a paddleboard flotilla (consisting of my sister and the teens) alongside Other than a hardy local swimmer who looked old enough to be a centenarian Citrus trees surround the pool deckSTEPHEN HUGHESSome 15 minutes’ drive further up the hillside is the charming village of Perdika It’s accessed by surprisingly intact roads through some bewitchingly gnarly olive groves that date back to Venetian times each tree trunk so wide that the combined arm span of three or four people would struggle to encircle them The effect is seemingly straight out of the 1980s movie Labyrinth Perdika’s quaint village square is bordered by a few Greek restaurants with photo menus and some surprisingly hip cocktail bars We ordered takeaway from O Mystirios (mains from £5) which came with obligatory Metaxa shots for all but the driver in our party then waited in the East Cocktail Bar (cocktails from £7) sipping negronis as we watched the cobbled streets turn sunset orange The villa can arrange complimentary delivery of any local food orders for guests who but we also enjoyed popping out in time to see one of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve witnessed Those who don’t want to venture out under their own steam can book Safarikas’s ready-made activities Our favourite day by far featured a boat trip with Blue Stories’ pristine new boat Athina I (named for the owner’s wife) and the smiley affable crew of Kostas and George (£1,850 for 10 people with her family and friendsStarting at Sivota we sailed south to the picturesque harbour town of Parga which is dominated by its elevated Venetian castle and sated our appetite for souvenir shopping from football strips for the obsessive fans to teenage trinkets and chichi boutiques Having peeled the fledgling shopaholics away we headed for the estuary of the River Acheron the brackish water that supposedly leads to Hades An about-turn took us north for lunch and swimming in Ayios Yiannakis bay inaccessible by car and home to a cave containing the gigantic chopped trunk of an olive tree Bay followed beach followed bay as we voyaged across translucent waters caves and villas perched on the clifftop (very few with the direct sea access we were so enjoying at Ionian Green) • 31 of the best holiday villas in Greece Our final stop was at the idyllic Pisina (“swimming pool” in Greek) — aptly named for its clear water but deep enough to dive and flip off the boat into We fed leftover lunchtime pastries to the shoals of saddled sea bream that suddenly surrounded us and watched a mountain fox trot across the beach checking for leftover titbits Maybe in high season he’ll be luckier but there was nothing for him this time tucked a piece of salami in his swimming trunks and swam across to leave it for him We drank rosé champagne to match the sunset and reluctantly made our way inland again to Megali Ammos beach and ate black fish fresh from the sea among the olive trees while the preteens explored the strip of white sand beach (+30 2665 093506) A Greek night at the villa introduced us to more local culture — and locals — through a five-course meal with wine pairing cooked and curated by the wine producer and chef Aris Gorgolis traditional Greek dance moves) from the beautiful singer Marina Handri these wines won’t change any preconceptions you might be harbouring about Greek wine (for that you’ll need to delve into Safarikas’s personal collection of excellent vintages but the food is excellent (“proper cheffy stuff” Standout dishes included a mesclun salad in a light sauce with garlic Greek gruyère with curry and Greek prosciutto paired with “le blanc” (sauvignon and assyrtiko) an oven-baked lemon potato purée with feta cheese cubes and osso buco veal meat in red sauce that even the pernickety boys hoovered up with relish This was paired with “le rouge” (merlot barrique) Apparently if you drink this red two or three times you’ll never drink anything else I’ll take their word for it (£1,250 for ten people wine and entertainment; gorgolis-vineyard.gr) Claire’s favourite day in Greece was a boat tripThe following night on Sivota’s marina after sundowners at Acanthus (@acanthus_cocktail_bar_sivota) and wood-fired pizzas at Parasol (+33 2665 093188) our dance lesson came in handy: the live music kicked in and allowed us to demonstrate our new skills We canned our planned tour to the Zagoria mountains — and which is the second deepest gorge in the world (up to 1,350m in parts) after the Grand Canyon — when we realised it required a four-hour round trip in a minibus and without fidgety children we’d have gone — it certainly looks spectacular enhanced by the availability of a multitude of outdoor activities from rafting to mountain biking (activities from £1,350 for 10 people including lunch at a local restaurant; compassoutdooradventures.gr) Because even Europe’s second biggest canyon would have its work cut out to compete with Ionian Green’s views It may seem a little too elevated a villa location from which to throw a stone into the sea directly but I can’t think of a better location at which to keep trying Claire Irvin was a guest of the specialist villa operator Simpson Travel. Seven nights’ self–catering for ten from £950pp including return flights and car hire (simpsontravel.com) Olive Grove Estate can sleep up to 18 peopleA stay here is a Greek fantasy lifestyle made real The secluded villa in Sparto on the Ambracian Gulf sits within its own estate of olive with a private jetty and access to the clear waters of the Ionian just steps away You can spend your time exploring the area’s beaches and inland areas though you’ll most likely spend all your time outdoors Within the grounds are a shady dining terrace infinity pool and even a little outdoor spa with tub plus stone platforms over the water for sunbathing The best bit is that the villa is serviced so you needn’t think about cooking or cleaning (you pay for the ingredients and a local chef prepares meals).Details Seven nights’ self-catering for 18 from £5,900 Infinity Villa has a built-in barbecueWhite curtains flutter at the edges of the outdoor seating area of this villa for six where plush rattan furniture is laid out for lounging in the shade It’s next to a large aquamarine swimming pool while a built-in barbecue is on hand for evening feasts Squidgy cream loungers line the pool area while light-filled bedrooms are done up in white and gold to contrast with the azure Ionian and big skies outside Indoor and outdoor dining areas give you plenty of options in shoulder season but Parga has some great low-key fish restaurants perfect after a visit to its hilltop castle.Details Seven nights’ self-catering for six from £2,702 Villa Brosia has smart and modern interiorsKIM POWELLTucked away in under-the-radar Elia Nikitis on the Sithonia peninsula in the Halkidiki region of northern Greece this four-bedroom villa is set within aromatic gardens of rosemary and lavender with access to a small private beach used only by guests of the trio of rental properties here The peninsula is one of three in the region offering beaches and steep pine forests to explore Mount Athos is also nearby and is an option for trekking if you come in cool enough weather each with its own shower roomAbove an olive grove on the hushed west coast of the sprawling Peloponnese peninsula with concrete pillars suggesting a modern reimagining of a Greek temple from food hampers to boat hire and guided yoga sessions glossy wood panelling and raw concrete lend it the feel of an architect’s home Set back from the coastline in a bucolic patchwork of groves and meadows with the beaches of Navarino Bay a 10-minute drive away.Details Seven nights’ self-catering for eight from £5,315 (villacollective.com) Become a subscriber and along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners Sign up for our Times Travel newsletter and follow us on Instagram and X today (17 Apr) announced a new Budapest route to Preveza Aktion airport in Greece with a weekly service commencing in July 2019 as part of Ryanair’s extended Budapest summer 2019 schedule Budapest consumers and visitors can now book their holidays to Aktion Prevesa as far out as 30 September 2019 enjoying even lower fares and Ryanair’s customer care improvements Ryanair has launched a seat sale on its European network with fares from just 4619 HUF for travel until the end of May which must be booked by midnight Friday (19 Apr) “Ryanair is pleased to announce a new Budapest route to Preveza Aktion airport in Greece as part of our extended Budapest summer 2019 schedule Customers in Budapest can now book flights to Preveza Aktion as far out as 30 September 2019 we are releasing seats for sale on our network from just 4619 HUF for travel until the end of May Since these amazing low fares will be snapped up quickly customers should log onto www.ryanair.com and avoid missing out.” today (1st August) celebrated the first flight from Prague to Paphos while on Monday (3rd August) it will launch a twice weekly service to Kosice both as part of its extended Summer 2020 schedule Ryanair has launched a seat sale with fares from 729 Kc for travel to Kosice and from 759 Kc to Paphos which must be booked by Wednesday (5th August) Cyprus Airways on Tuesday announced its ambitious plans for summer 2023 when it will fly to 11 confirmed destinations with a schedule of at least 43 weekly flights while new destinations will be announced soon The airline confirmed that seats for the airline’s key destinations of Athens Santorini and Preveza expected to become available as soon as airport slots are confirmed Cyprus Airways will continue to serve Athens with a double daily return flight whilst flights to Tel Aviv will depart daily Beirut will be served with five weekly services whilst flights to Cairo and Yerevan will operate twice a week The airline is also planning twice-weekly flights to Rhodes Santorini and Preveza and a three-time weekly service to Iraklio Chief Commercial Officer Madonna Hoyek said after a busy summer and positive demand for this winter the carrier is planning well in advance to meet the expected high demand for next summer entertainment options and fair-priced quality food make this location one of Greece’s top destinations where the Ionian Sea meets the Ambracian Gulf swimming in crystal-clear waters and good food The location is renowned for its fish and seafood while significant monuments highlight its rich history featuring narrow alleys and listed buildings while evening walks along the port esplanade are a true pleasure Preveza’s stretched out beaches make for ideal swimming early in the day With so much to see and do in the area, having a car rental is a must. The ancient Roman city Nicopolis, located approximately 5 km north of Preveza and dating back to 31 BC, is open every day (except for Tuesdays) between 8am and 8pm (entrance fee €8). The best-preserved Roman city to be found in Greece, it features impressive ruins of Roman walls, houses, an odeon, or music theatre, stadium and theatre. An archaeological museum is also maintained. Preveza’s Monolithi beach went viral last summer after the European Commission’s European Best Destinations organisation named it the continent’s safest beach while its width reaches as much as 80 metres Its waters are clean and the sand is slightly coarse with pebbles this big beach offers perfect spots for all is preferred by locals on windy days as choppy waters and waves are rare here The sand is fine and the waters are shallow while a lovely park is situated directly behind the beach Locals may be seen playing the French ball game Pétanque located at the historic centre’s market area is neoclassical-styled and run based on eco-friendly principles is housed at an impressive building form 1896 Info: Treli Garida, 7 Adrianoupoleos, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 25691; Skaloma, Lygia port, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 56240 Tzitzikas is typically referred to by locals as “Turk’s taverna”, as, besides fish, seafood and prawn spaghetti dishes, the spot’s proprietor Hasan also offers many Anatolian dishes, including pastourma pie, kebab giaourtlou and hunkar begendi (diced lamb with eggplant puree). Info: Tzitzikas, Margarona, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 25080 Taking its name from work by Greek Nobel Prize-Winning poet George Seferis, the art café Botilia sto Pelago is open from early in the day for coffee and beverages and continues at night with carefully selected alternative music and frequent live performances. Info: Botilia sto Pelago, 9 Theofanous & Ionias, Preveza, tel. +30 26824 00432 Seitan Pazar, the devil’s bazaar, as one of the town’s most picturesque areas is known, features alleys and little shops. A café named after the neighbourhood is a central meeting point, especially for people under 30. Tables are set on the pedestrian alley. The atmosphere is intimate and sociable. Assorted meze dishes, tsipouro spirit and beer varieties are served. Info: Seitan Pazar, 18 Chr. Kontou, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 60863 Memories Cocktail Bar is a nightlife focal point that attracts locals and tourists for imaginative cocktails to the sounds of jazz, soul, latin and funk. Info: Memories Cocktail Bar, 10 Dardanellion, Preveza, tel. +30 6936 937374 Heading up Mount Zalongo’s winding road, a superb monumental sculpture by George Zongolopoulos, titled “Dance of Zalongo”, may be seen from a distance. It was installed on the top of the cliff in 1961 to commemorate a mass suicide of women and children from Souli in 1803. Pursued by Ottomans, the mothers, holding their children’s hands, stepped off the cliff. An uphill path leading to the monument requires about 20 minutes to cover. Prime positioned right next to the sea at Preveza port, Alati, a seafood restaurant, serves fresh fish and seafood, straight off the boats of regional fishermen. Try the orzo with prawns, grilled calamari, taramosalata (fish roe dip), and the traditional petali (barbecue fish). Info: Alati, 31 Eleftheriou Venizelou, Preveza port, tel. +30 6974 895519 Many beach bars and restaurants are situated along the stretched Monolithi beach. Nikopolis Club, a place of unique architectural design, offers splendid service as well as pools with waterslides. You will appreciate the good music and well-prepared cocktails at Burano Beach Bar. Info: Nikopolis Club, Monolithi, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 41278; Burano Beach Bar, Monolithi, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 51390 Mezen, at the heart of Preveza’s old town, serves delightful meze dishes at tables set out on the pedestrian street, including grilled cuttlefish, irresistible zucchini fritters, bekri meze (meat pieces and peppers in a spicy tomato-based sauce) and steaks. The service is friendly and fast. Good value for money here. Info: Mezen, 16 Dardanellion, Preveza, tel. +30 26823 06917 Should you crave for a meat-based meal, a 14-km drive to the village Kanali’s Kalyvas taverna is worth talking. This place specialises in kokoretsi (intestine-wrapped seasoned lamb offal, grilled) and exquisite lamb and pork chops, all grilled to perfection. Info: Kalyvas, Kanali, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 51267 The heart of Preveza town’s nightlife beats at a seaside area where the Ambracian Gulf meets the Ionian Sea, by the Aktio-Preveza undersea road tunnel. Well-prepared cocktails may be enjoyed at Alila Tales & Spirits, while Kourdisto Portokali plays fine music. Info: Alila Tales & Spirits, 42 Eleftheriou Venizelou, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 51764; Kourdisto Portokali, 39 Eleftheriou Venizelou, Preveza, tel. +30 26820 22207 Preveza’s cathedral, Agios Haralambos, built between 1715 and 1717, is situated on Ethnikis Antistaseos, the town’s main street. A single-aisled basilica, it is adorned with impressive works of art. Its ceiling, walls and façade feature paintings by religion icon artist Spyridon Gazis, while the wood-sculpted altarpiece was created by a craftsman from the Epirus area. Preveza is filled with fortification works as this port town needed to be protected from enemies and raids Many of the fortifications were built by the Ottomans and later greatly improved by the Venetians The Agios Andreas and Agios Georgios castles Meet the organic architecture environment of Block 722 on the coast of Preveza and experience a notable lifestyle “Marvel”; that is what Meraviglia means in Italian This was the vision of the owner and creator Aris Tzimas: “I wanted to create a special hospitality space that makes you feel spontaneous and sincere admiration something like the genuine surprise that the apt Italian word meraviglia embodies,” he adds And he continues: “Meraviglia Slow Living is the collaborative effort of a diverse group of local artisans have all worked together under a single vision with the common goal of creating a bioclimatic as well as welcoming space.” Plans were laid in 2018 and construction was completed this year 15,000 plants were planted on the 8 acres surrounding the complex and in the rooftop garden The landscape architecture was overseen by Zoe Karakinari of Z-TOPOS – LANDSCAPE in collaboration with gardener George Matsiras “Slow Living is all about simplicity It is about a calmer and more balanced approach to everyday life that gives us time to reassess what is really important in our lives It is simply about reconnecting with ourselves By subtly offering our guests the luxury of refined simplicity we encourage them to adopt a tranquil lifestyle memorable and rejuvenating experience here.” close to every notable site in western Greece invites the visitor to a relaxed way of thinking How long can you spend in your private pool gazing at the sea there is an area planted with Mexican feather grass and rosemary.  The blonde branches of the hardy Latin American plant sway in the mistral signalling a smooth transition from the waves of the sea to the gentle motion of the infinity pool The orchestration of the sounds was a priority for Aris Tzimas The soundscape of the sea had to be heard unobstructed Therefore they created an original construction design for swimming pools in which the curvature of the overflow blocks the sound of the recirculating water suar and iroko wood dominates the pergolas and all the outdoor furniture and also covers the roof and floor of the adjacent living room The floors in the bedroom and bathrooms are covered with handmade mosaic of absolute symmetry while the ratio of colours is such as to add warmth to the dominant shades of grey harmonizing it with the fertile red soil of the earth each architectural structure is lightweight and almost floats so that it stands out from the other surfaces there are the “invisible” construction elements which nevertheless contribute to the quality of your stay at Meraviglia Slow Living The room spaces are arranged on two levels facing a window that functions as a theatrical scene with nature and a lush inner courtyard with a private Jacuzzi taking central stage These windows are further bordered by a huge frame covered with handmade mosaic details make all the difference to the experience,” he says as we enter the inner courtyard where a hidden entrance into the masonry opens We ascend to Meraviglia’s planted roof but is there to achieve a passive energy-saving technique The rooms feature a mix of Scandinavian design Greek handmade furniture and Italian artwork The concept of slow living was developed in collaboration with Vasilis Bartzokas and the Design Ambassador following an invitation from the architect “The branding and positioning of the hotel was based on design principles that are none other than total relaxation which is what the potential visitor of such a hotel desires” content and communication strategy reflect the concept while the new services are also developed according to it These include al fresco private dinners with ingredients from the hotel’s organic garden and floating breakfasts on the waters of each private pool “The original brand image and the corresponding value proposition are crucial to the success of a project based on the owner’s vision and the work of the architect It is the right narrative that can convey the message to the right audience,” adds Vasilis Bartzokas The days at Meraviglia go by … quickly organic breakfast is delivered to your room on request This is followed by a massage from the hotel’s menu The rest of the day is divided between relaxing Alati restaurant serves fresh locally sourced shrimps in various delicious versions The city’s gastronomic wealth is intertwined with the cultural history and the unique wetland of Amvrakikos local ouzo (anise-flavoured aperitif) and tsipouro (traditional strong distilled spirit) are just some of the local products that can be enjoyed in the traditional taverns in the area I hope our guests will get to know Preveza a unique place that will literally fascinate them!” His vision is in line with the dominant view of the people of Preveza the low profile town that is located at the crossroads of upscale destinations in Western Greece “Preveza is the city with the largest marina in Greece capable of accommodating a large number of sailing boats next to the international airport of Aktion The brand new marina in the port is the city’s new jewel with a length of 28 kilometres and a width of 80 metres The night ends with a drink at Seitan Pazar and a swim in the private pool under the full moon Meraviglia Slow Living Photos: spyroshoundphotography.com curated by the Design Ambassador Discover destinations that are perfect rain or shine lush natural landscapes and cultural sights Let’s start with a given: we are extremely fond of early autumn escapades with their milder temperatures and the less crowded more attentive locales that the end of summer brings we introduce four excellent destinations that we have experienced first-hand at this time of the year We suggest you explore them and enjoy their delights as soon as possible wonderful restaurants and tavernas boasting the freshest ingredients and a scenic marina coupled with remarkably affordable and splendid accommodation choices These traits alone would suffice to label Preveza as an ideal summer destination but this coastal town of Epirus is distinctly charming during the autumn period too The heartbeat of the city is most felt in its historic centre The air is rich with the aromas of fresh fish and the famed Ambracian Gulf shrimp being grilled all around.Strolling through the city encompasses wanders amidst grand neoclassical buildings and quaint cottages of vernacular architecture all under the shadow of the Venetian Clock Tower (known as “the Roloi” by locals) its distinctive ‘hat’ at the pinnacle and the bell tower of the Church of Agios Charalambos were added later on During your jaunt through the historic centre you’re likely to find yourself face to face with the bust of the poet Kostas Karyotakis in the diminutive Dardanelia Square Karyotakis lived and tragically ended his life in Preveza not living to see his works translated into over 30 languages Located along a picturesque alley in the historic centre On the peninsula that separates the Ambracian Gulf from the Ionian Sea is ancient Nikopolis a mere eight kilometres north of contemporary Preveza Founded by Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus in memory of his victory over Antony and Cleopatra in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC with the grand theatre currently under restoration and the early Christian churches.While Preveza’s allure isn’t solely found in the coastal charm of the Ionian Sea and the Ambracian Gulf it’s the water element that defines the region’s hinterland in a remarkably pronounced manner The Acheron River stands out as a natural feature carrying with it tales from the renowned ancient necromancy site our top pick in the area is the stunning Ziros Lake complemented by the distinct riverside forest of Agios Varnavas Our recent visit to Delphi spurred this feature as this corner of Greece truly encapsulates it all Delphi was revered as the centre of the world Mythology tells us that Zeus released two eagles in opposite directions – east and west – to pinpoint the navel of the earth This place thus became home to the most significant oracle of ancient Greece a sanctuary of wisdom and foresight whose fame transcended borders reaching lands as distant as Syria and Armenia a fact substantiated by archaeological discoveries At the heart of your sojourn lies the picturesque village of Chrisso, ideally positioned to explore the slopes of Mount Parnassus and beyond. Chrisso serves as a superb base for your stay, allowing you to easily reach Delphi in 10 minutes, Arachova in 25 minutes and various other locales within an hour’s drive For those who find delight in the journey itself, the drive promises scenic routes that are nothing short of enchanting. A standout journey winds from Delphi to Galaxidi passing through the ancient olive grove of Amfissa The coastal stretch from Itea to Galaxidi is equally captivating and a recognised part of the Acropolis Rally special stages The gastronomic journey here is equally compelling with options ranging from hearty meats to fresh seafood and traditional pies of Roumeli you might find yourself savouring contemporary cuisine at the Archontiko in Arachova or experiencing innovative takes on seafood at Skeletovrachos in Galaxidi where the delicious produce of the Corinthian Gulf gets a modern twist Chania is a city that embodies grace throughout the seasons where a seamless blend of its vibrant history into modern times is palpable September greeted us with perfect weather as we explored—from the western Firkas Fortress past the Yiali Mosque and the Grand Arsenal home to the Mediterranean Architecture Centre to the far reaches of Akti Enoseos and the iconic Egyptian Lighthouse This walk through Chania is a testimony to the city’s resilience marrying its vibrant past with the present in a lively and respectful manner.A wander through the alleys of the Old Town unveils an inescapable narrative woven with hints of Venetian legacy vividly etched into its architectural fabric One is most profoundly acquainted with Chania’s multicultural tapestry at the 1821 Square a beacon of unity with its bell tower on one side and minaret on the other where pristine beaches seemingly relish in an everlasting summer no visit would be complete without stepping foot on the famed Elafonissi or meandering through the undulating landscapes of the White Mountains one could hardly resist a detour to the hill where the noble Prime Minister of Greece Eleftherios Venizelos and his son Sophocles are laid to rest ensconced in a pine forest offering a sweeping panorama of Chania from its vantage point the city and sea don an arresting palette that captivates every sense leaving an indelible imprint on the visitor a sojourn to Falasarna when the skies are clear is essential Less than an hour’s drive from the city golden sands and the dazzling hues of its crystalline waters the sun casts a mesmerising glow on the horizon crafting sunsets that are nothing short of magical To delve into the culinary wealth of this region would necessitate a symphony of words, such is the grandeur of its gastronomic offerings.Read more about Chania here one might not earmark Halkidiki as a prominent feature in this autumn-centric travel piece as its reputation is largely centred around its coastal summer attractions dominating the central and northern parts of the peninsula stands as a sanctuary of cool respite during the sizzling summer days offering a panorama from its slopes that is both awe-inspiring and elevating But the true signature of this mountain lies in its abundant forest that once bestowed the ancient world with renowned timber interspersed with bubbling brooks and glades sprinkled with wildflowers encapsulating the untouched beauty of Halkidiki in its embrace.Furthermore which one might forage along with wild herbs you might have encountered a tree from the Holomontas forests right in your living room without realizing it On the southern flank of the mountain is the village of Taxiarchis their sacredness resonating through the centuries Beautiful homes and guesthouses offer warm welcomes while tradition permeates through the village streets yet vibrant with the breath of the present the village’s true pride lies in the trees that seem to envelop it in a comforting embrace amidst temperatures that plunge significantly during the winter It led to the initiation of systematic cultivation of fir trees in the 1970s a venture that envisioned decking the halls of homes across Greece during the festive season of Christmas These trees are not harvested from the natural forest where they are nurtured for a period of 5 to 10 years before finding their way to markets during the festive season over two-thirds of the Christmas trees in Greece connecting the joyous festivities in households across the nation to this humble yet vibrant village nestled in the arms of Holomontas many pockets of beauty lie waiting to be discovered but Arnaia in the north distinguishes itself with a striking blend of natural landscapes and the charm emanating from its restored mansions not to mention its reputable local produce Arnaiá’s captivating scenery and the vintage architecture of its old homes would suffice to place it as a prime destination in the highlands of Halkidiki it’s the town’s flourishing era in the first half of the 20th century and its ongoing fame for products such as honey and cheese that enrich what visitors can enjoy while visiting whether ambling along its main streets or wandering through its cobblestone alleys It’s an opportunity to absorb the details of its renovated mansions and ancient homes which mirror traditional Macedonian architecture Our focus remained primarily on the verdant and mountainous aspects of Halkidiki. However, this doesn’t imply you should forego the coastal pleasures if weather permits. For further details on the region’s beaches and dining options, feel free to explore more here and here. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. Incredible boat experience a must in Preveza If in Preveza, northwestern Greece, for a holiday or relaxed weekend, and you have seen all the coastal town’s attractions to be left feeling idle, do not worry. Slip into your bathers, put a towel and sunscreen into your bag and hop onto a boat departing from the harbour for a ride in the Ambracian Gulf, an experience offering dolphin watching, birdwatching and swimming. The boat excursion comes with a tour guide offering information on the Ambracian Gulf’s ecosystem, history and local fishing methods. Birdwatching is also a part of the experience, species to be seen including Dalmatian pelicans, herons and flamingoes, while the dolphins (common bottlenose) are the excursion’s biggest attraction. The Ambracian Gulf hosts approximately 150 dolphins, some of which you can expect to see. If lucky, you may also get to spot Caretta caretta sea turtles. Seeing dolphins requires some effort. Firstly, they need to be lured by music, which they like a lot. So expect to hear all sorts of tunes, from songs featuring tenor Mario Frangoulis to Greek pop, pumped out of the boat’s speakers. Secondly, dolphins appreciate applause, which gives passengers a role. Be sure to clap and cheer. The spectacle is incredible when the dolphins emerge from the water to perform their tricks or glide by the boat, seemingly close enough to touch. The next part of the experience involves swimming The beach at which the boat will moor depends on the direction to be taken by the dolphins The waters in the wider area are marvellous and not too cold You may even get to see a dolphin whilst enjoying your swim Samos: A noble island with mountains and lovely seas Agistri: Sea that resembles that of the Ionian, pine trees and idyllic shops just an hour away from Athens Meganisi: Idyllic Ionian Sea island with sea caves, gorgeous fjords