Our tour took place at an historic moment for this area of Greece, as the announcement came that the dispute over the name of the territory to the north had ended with mutual agreement on the new name of North Macedonia. History was also the general theme of the holiday, ancient rather than modern. In the course of a week split between Greece's second city, Thessaloniki, and the pretty port of Kavala on the Halkidiki peninsular, we were guided round the archaeology and sites of Thessaloniki, visited Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, stopping off at the atmospheric little site of Aristotle's school, and several scenic villages. I opted for all three optional tours, to the astonishing royal tombs at Vergina, the extensive ruins of Philippi, and the unexpected highlight of the Kerkini lake, situated very near the border with Bulgaria. Here our enthusiastic local guide navigated his way close to thousands of perching cormorants, stately pelicans and nesting spoonbills. Fantastic!
I found both hotels comfortable and enjoyed the company and the lovely Greek food. Our tour manager, Sue McCullough, was indefatigable on our behalf and ultra organised. Local guides were very well informed and clear. The only criticism I have of the tour was the lamentable farewell meal on the last night, mediocre food, incompetent service and rude waiters. JY should cross that one off the list!
This is a full on tour if you choose the optional excursions, but can be more relaxed if you prefer. It is suitable for anyone with an interest in history and in seeing a Greece whose landscapes are very different from the more familiar Peloponnese and islands.
