An Unforgettable Experience Awaits
From the charming beach resort of Tolon, school classics groups can explore legendary sites that have spawned civilisations. Get up close to ancient Greek history!
Trip Highlights
Fun acoustics at Epidavros arena
The monumental Lion Gate at Mycenae
3 ancient castles at Naúplion
A boat trip and beach barbecue at Tolon
Recommended excursions
Tolon
This idyllic resort, not far from Nafplio and Epidavros, can provide a welcome bit of rest and recreation in between touring the historical sites of the area. The long sandy beach faces a wide bay dotted with islets and fringed with the mountains of the peninsula to the east, with boat trips available. Photo © Moriya Halon.
Nafplio (Naúplion)
The original capital of Greece, nestling on the coast of the Argolic Gulf, Nafplio boasts three castles for students of ancient civilisation to explore. They can learn the story of the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, set out in the harbour to protect the city from invaders. Enjoy the pretty town’s ancient walls and Ottoman fountains.
Mycenae
As Greece’s dominant city for 500 years, there’s a wealth of opportunity for educational tours in Mycenae. Witness the monumental Lions Gate and the Necropolis and discover the amazing findings of the archaeological digs that have taken place here.
Epidavros
When your students hear the quality of the acoustics at Epidavros, they’ll be blown away. Drop a coin in the centre of this astounding theatre to demonstrate just how good they are. Then discuss the architectural skills and importance of theatre in Greek society. Photo © Andrew Baldwin.
Olympia
An educational tour to the ancient ruins of Olympia will help your students understand the importance of the first Olympic Games, held in honour of Zeus. Marvel at colossal statues, ruined temples and resplendent villas, bringing to life the words and pictures from textbooks. A tour of the site sparks enquiries into architectural styles and classical history.
Mystras
Visit heavily fortified Mystras on your educational tour to the Peloponnese, and discover the importance of defence in the construction of ancient settlements. The town was a prosperous Byzantine capital in the 14th and 15th centuries, but remained inhabited throughout the Ottoman period, when it was mistaken by Western travellers for ancient Sparta.
Sparta
The town of Sparta lies at the heart of the Evrotas Valley, surrounded by olive and citrus groves. Steeped in myths and legends, it is a must-visit stop on your classical studies trip to the Peloponnese. Discover thousands of Spartan relics, dating from the Neolithic age to the late Roman period, at the town’s fascinating archaeological museum.
Tiryns
Visit the ruins of the hill fort that was one of the most important centres of the Mycenaean world. The Ancient Greeks believed that the walls were built by the cyclops – because only giants of superhuman strength could have lifted the enormous stones. Students can view the remains of the palace complex and hear the legends of Hercules linked to the site. Photo © Alun Salt.
Ancient Corinth and Corinth Canal
Boasting ancient baths, the Temple of Hephaestus and a collection of Roman remains, a visit to ancient Corinth is a chance for students to expand their appreciation of the classical world. Visit the deep and narrow Corinth canal, which so many ancient rulers attempted – and failed – to build. Neolithic pottery suggests that the site of Corinth was occupied from at least as early as 6500 BC.
Typical accommodation
Greece hotels – Tolon
In the resort of Tolon, we work with the family-owned Minoan Hotel Group. Hotels are 2 or 3-star standard and all rooms have private facilities. Students are usually accommodated in three or four-bedded rooms.
Adults in twin share. Single rooms at a supplement.
The hotel name in Tolon will be allocated to the group a few weeks before departure.
Itinerary suggestion
1 Flight to Athens – about 4 hours
2 Coach transfer to Tolon
3 Evening meal
1 Breakfast and packed lunch
2 Visit Nauplion, Tiryns and Mycenae
3 Evening meal
1 Breakfast and packed lunch
2 Visit theatre at Epidavros and Sanctuary of Asklepios
3 Visit ancient Corinth, ancient port, baths of Helen and Acropolis
4 Evening meal
1 Breakfast and packed lunch
2 Free day at beach resort of Tolon
3 Evening meal
1 Breakfast – check out
2 Coach transfer to Athens for sightseeing (flight time permitting)
3 Flight to UK
Learning outcomes
Subject focus
Students can:
- Study the remains of classical Greek and Mycenaean civilisations, to see what can be reconstructed and understood from these buildings and artifacts
- See places that inspired Greek poets and playwrights, and the theatres where their works were performed
- View archaeological sites and sculptures specified in OCR/AQA syllabuses, particularly in relation to Mycenaean civilisation and theatre
- Discover the influence of classical civilisations on today’s cultures
Student outcomes
Students will have had an opportunity to:
- Observe the development and continuity of Greek architecture throughout the height of Greek civilisation
- Put the buildings into context and account for differences in style and grandeur
- Reflect on the roles of institutions, the theatre and individuals in Greek history
- Recognise the enduring influence of Greek civilisation
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We were exceptionally well looked after. During the booking process, the sales staff were very helpful, very patient, always in listening mode and ever willing to find out crucial details and get back promptly. The operational staff put together a tour that worked seamlessly.
Pangbourne College
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