Greece Archives - Shared Adventures

5 New European Spas Worth Visiting

January 14, 2026 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

If you’re seeking a rejuvenating retreat with a twist, these newly opened European spas offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re looking to relax in a historic building or embrace the latest in longevity science, these five destinations are redefining what it means to unwind. Here’s a look at the latest European Spa Gems:

Corinthia Bucharest – Old World Charm on a City Break

Location: Bucharest, Romania Opened: March 2025

Nestled in a national monument building in Romania’s capital, the Corinthia Bucharest offers an intimate, boutique hotel experience with just 30 suites. The spa, housed in this Belle Epoque masterpiece, combines classic luxury with modern relaxation. Guests can enjoy a full thermal experience, including a sauna, steam baths, and an ice fountain, or indulge in a private treatment in one of the two exclusive rooms.

The spa also features a multi-sensory experience shower, enhancing your time in the relaxation lounge. With sweeping city views, a salon for hair and scalp treatments, and two on-site restaurants, the Corinthia combines old-world elegance with cutting-edge wellness. This is the spa to try if you want to add wellness into your city exploration. Experience a new culture, new site and add in a touch of relaxation.

[Photo Credit: Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard Bucharest]

Nao at Minos Palace – Longevity and Personalization with a Tech Twist

Location: Crete, Greece Opened: May 2025

Located on a private peninsula with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, Nao at Minos is not just a spa—it’s a sanctuary for longevity. This adults-only retreat blends ancient healing practices with advanced technology to deliver a holistic, evidence-based approach to wellness.

[Photo Credit: Evangelos Mpikakis via Unsplash]

Offering personalized retreats ranging from one day to two weeks, guests can indulge in a variety of treatments. Here you’ll find cryo chambers and vibroacoustic lounger rooms. Infrared saunas and vitality pools. The resort’s brain gym and water sports activities are designed to invigorate both mind and body, while its full-service wellness team ensures a tailored experience based on your unique health needs. This new spa offers a full retreat from the world where you can focus on making lasting lifestyle changes.

ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea – Mediterranean Longevity Meets Cutting-Edge Wellness

Location: Alicante, Spain Opened: January 2025

Located on Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca, ZEM is the largest wellness center in the country, offering 42 treatment rooms equipped with the latest health technology. This immersive wellness destination combines medical science, nutrition, and holistic therapies to craft personalized health programs. ZEM’s longevity focus is backed by research, providing treatments like cryotherapy and ancient techniques such as Ayurvedic massage. The spa also boasts a snow room—yes, with real snow.

Surrounded by mountains on one side and the Mediterranean on the other, guests can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and swimming between spa sessions. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or longer, ZEM provides a comprehensive, customized experience designed to rejuvenate both the body and the mind.

[Photo Credit: Svyatoslav Teslyak via Unsplash]

Skýra Retreat – A Traditional Finnish Spa Retreat in Lapland

Location: Rovaniemi, Finland Opened: December 2025

For a truly serene wellness experience, head to Finland’s luxurious new spa on the shores of Lake Norvajärvi. Built around a restored 1950s village school, Skýra Retreat brings you back to nature, offering the ultimate in relaxation and tranquility. The open-air Nordic Spa introduces guests to the Finnish tradition of “löyly” — the thermal cycle of heat, cold, and rest that resets the body’s stress response.

With just 40 guests, this exclusive retreat offers a sense of peace and connection to nature, surrounded by the breathtaking Arctic landscape. In summer, the beauty of the nearby Norvajärvi lake glistens. While in winter, the forest exudes a snowglobe magic. All year round, you can enjoy forest walks, saunas, cold plunges, meditation, and yoga. If you’re seeking ultimate quiet and deep rejuvenation, this spa promises the luxury of space and stillness.

[Photo Credit: 66 North via Unsplash]

OKU Andalusia – A Beachfront Resort with Wellness Additions

Location: Alcaidesa, Spain Opened: October 2025

OKU Andalusia brings a refreshing, barefoot luxury vibe to Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Set on a pristine beachfront, this expansive spa spans 2,000 square meters and features everything from an indoor pool and hammam to a yoga space and wellness garden. The design emphasizes relaxation, with stunning swimming pools and Balinese-inspired areas offering the perfect place to unwind.

[Photo Credit: Jorge Fernandez Salas via Unsplash]

With both adult-only and family-friendly zones, OKU is one of the few resorts that allows everyone to enjoy the spa experience. In addition to the wellness offerings, guests can take advantage of nearby golf courses, tennis courts, and sports camps. The focus here is on full-body wellness, with bespoke treatments tailored to your needs, from stress relief to fitness rejuvenation.

Whether you’re looking for personalized longevity treatments or a more traditional resort experience, these new spas offer something truly special. Ready to take your wellness journey to the next level? Let us help you plan your next escape to one of these extraordinary new European spas.

2026 Itineraries Worth Planning Right Now

December 18, 2025 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

We believe every adventure should feel like a dream — effortless, immersive, and beautifully tailored to you. And the secret to crafting these unforgettable experiences is booking early. When you secure your trip months ahead, you unlock the very best destinations, the most charming boutique hotels, and the rare experiences that turn a vacation into a lifelong memory.

Why Booking Early Matters

Planning ahead means you can design your trip around the exact experience you’re hoping for rather than scrambling for what’s left. Early booking:

Guarantees availability in the most sought-after destinations.
Locks in the best prices.
Ensures you can stay in authentic, lovely accommodations and boutique hotels.
Gives you the luxury of time to get excited, research hidden gems, discover tiny restaurants, and savor the anticipation.

Most importantly, early planning delivers the greatest luxury of all: a perfectly crafted adventure, where every detail suits your style and every moment feels effortless.

Which Trips Most Warrant Early Planning:

Sun-Soaked Summers in the Greek Islands

June through August brings the Greek Islands to life in full technicolor. July and August are traditionally considered “peak season”, but in recent years, June and September also have crowds soaking up the good weather, swimmable seas, and buzzing energy. If you’re dreaming of that sun-soaked classic Mamma Mia vacation, summer is the time to go, and booking now is essential.

A family at a wine tasting table with views overlooking the sea in Santorini Greece

Summer is ideal for long beach days, island hopping under sapphire skies, and vibrant nightlife in the warm evenings. But ferries, hotels, and car rentals book up fast. We recommend securing your trip 4–6 months in advance (or more) for the best options and rates. With many islands offering mostly small-scale, charming accommodations, early planning is even more important for families or groups needing multiple rooms.

[Photo Credit: Alyssa & Jay via Shared Adventures —read about their Greece family Adventure here!]

Fall in the World’s Great Wine Regions

Autumn sweeps across Tuscany, Bordeaux, and Mendoza like a painting come to life. Featuring golden vineyards, crisp air, and beautiful boutique wineries that offer intimate tastings. But their charm comes with limited space, and they fill up fast.

If you want a fall wine getaway, the time to book is now so you can sip, savor, and stroll through the vines of your dreams and not just the ones that remain available.

[Photo Credit: Bucelleti Casali and Catina via Shared Adventures — read about Ann’s Tuscany adventure here!]

A Fairytale River Cruise Christmas Escape

There’s nothing quite like Europe’s Christmas Markets in November and December. And to experience these on a river cruise delivers pure serenity. Picture yourself gliding past glowing cities while enjoying seasonal events and crisp, cool weather. These unforgettable moments are in high demand, and booking early ensures you get the best cabin, the ideal route, and every activity you’ve been dreaming of.

Christmas Markets cruises are limited to just a few short weeks of the calendar. And, but their nature, space is also limited. These aren’t the giant cruises of the high seas. The best cabins on prime sailings book up more than a year in advance, so you do need to plan ahead.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read our guide to River Cruises here!]

Are you ready to plan a year of extraordinary travel? Let us know! We’re always ready to begin planning your next great adventure – the earlier the better!

Why You Should Visit Mainland Greece Instead

July 18, 2025 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

Thanks to movies and social media, the Greek Islands are usually the star of the show when planning a trip to this fabulous country. But there’s much more to Greece than just Santorini and Mykonos. The Greek mainland offers incredible sites, beautiful photos, and ancient history just as much as the islands. But without the throngs of tourists.

Mainland Greece is a perfect option if you want to enjoy all the typical experiences of a Greek adventure without the crowds and higher price tag. A classic week-long Greek adventure includes Athens for history and a few islands for stunning beaches and unique towns. Here are three regions of mainland Greece that include all of that and more.

If you’re excited about the idea of the Greek Islands with their stunning blue water, consider a trip to….

The Peloponnese

This peninsula, located in southern Greece, has a little bit of everything. From beaches to history, this region is the perfect spot to while away a week or two. You can go sailing and wine tasting, enjoy pristine beaches, and hike dramatic gorges. It’s ideal to explore by car, with short drives and good quality roads.

Home Base: Nafplio

Nafplio is one of the most photogenic towns on the mainland. Tucked into a bay, Karathona Beach is a beautiful stretch of soft white sand and blue water. The city itself offers tranquil views, interesting architecture, and food. You’ll see a variety of architectural styles from Ottoman to Venetian. It’s a good home base as you explore the rest of the Peloponnese peninsula.

[Photo Credit: Despina Galani via Unsplash]

Explore: Marathopoli, Navarino Bay & Areopoli

Marathopoli

This quaint fishing village is about three and a half hours from Athens. It’s a small, laid-back town with stunning coastal scenery. The perfect place to relax.

Navarino Bay

A bay with a unique shape, surrounding cliffs, and amazing blue waters. It’s an incredibly scenic beach with calm, shallow waters close to a nature reserve. You can hike to the Neda waterfalls through a lush gorge with a series of waterfalls.

Areopoli

Historic stone villages with crystal-clear waters and seaside tavernas. The Mani Coast is wild and perfect with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and clear waters. This region is good for slow travel, peaceful coasts, postcard-perfect villages, and excellent snorkeling.

[Photo Credit: greece-newstart via Unsplash]

If you’re most interested in unique experiences, a bit of history, and lots of natural beauty, consider heading to:

Thessaly

Between Macedonia and central Greece, this natural scenery inspired the ancient Greeks. There are archaeological sites including amphitheaters, bridges, castles, Byzantine churches, Orthodox monasteries, and stone-age ruins. You can visit one of the best preserved monuments in archaeological history – the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. On top of that, you can enjoy lush forests, natural beauty and plenty of hiking.

*[Photo Credit: Nestoras Argiris via Unsplash*]

Home Base: Volos

From beaches to shopping to history, this vibrant town is a great stop on your Thessaly road trip. It’s also a gateway to some of the lesser-known islands (and filming locations for Mamma Mia!) – Skopelos, Skiros, and Alonissos. Volos is home to an advanced Neolithic history, which shows in the city’s Archaeological Museum. In this museum, you’ll find artifacts from the time associated with the legends of the Trojan War and Jason and the Argonauts. The surrounding area boasts several archaeological sites and plenty of hiking in leafy green forests.

Explore: Pelion, Mount Olympus & Meteora

Pelion

A stunning blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture. Known for its captivating landscapes, this is a hidden gem of an authentic traditional village. Surrounded by lush forests and the Aegean Sea, Pelion is often referred to as the mythical home of the Centaurs. With cobblestone streets and centuries-old stone houses, this is the perfect place to slow down and relax.

Meteora

The destination offers striking rock formations and sprawling Eastern Orthodox Monasteries perched on top. You can drive or hike up to the monasteries. At the top of these rock formations, you’ll experience a serene, magical, and mystical view that you won’t soon forget.

[Photo Credit: Luna Zhang via Unsplash]

Mount Olympus

Yes, that Mount Olympus. The legendary home of the gods has hiking trails, scenic walks, and serious climbs. You’ll be struck by the dramatic views as you zig zag across this famous mountain.

If you’re most excited about the contrasts, the dramatic scenery, and enjoying a little bit of everything all in one place, you should visit…

Central Macedonia

Central Macedonia is full of contrasts – ancient ruins, bustling cities, towering mountains, and sunny beaches. With history, nature, and charm, this region has something for everyone. This is the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the home of incredible mosaics and artifacts from that era. Additionally, it hosts some of the best blue flag beaches in Greece.

Home Base: Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city with a major airport and seaport. A UNESCO city for gastronomy – this is a perfect place for foodies. There’s a vibrant coffee culture, and a variety of modern to historic cooking techniques to enjoy. Plus historical sites, quality restaurants, bustling nightlife, and plenty of shopping. This is a lively, fun, and extremely walkable city. Possibly even more accessible than Athens. Here you’ll find a bustling waterfront with hundreds of traditional Greek and international restaurants.

[Photo Credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis via Unsplash]

Explore: Sithonia Peninsula, Pella & Halkidiki

*[Photo Credit: Alexandros Mouratidis* *via Unsplash]*

Sithonia Peninsula

East of Thessaloniki, this peninsula resembles the Greek Isles without the whitewash. Instead, you have red terracotta rooftops, mild climates, pristine beaches, and quiet hamlets. The Aegean beaches are also blue flag beaches.

Pella

Once the capital of ancient Macedonia, this town is steeped in history and culture, with the ruins of ancient structures, including the palace of Alexander the Great. The old town has charming cafes, traditional tavernas, and will transport you back in time.

Halkidiki

A region just south of Thessaloniki, with 1,000 beaches and most of them with shallow waters, this is the best destination to enjoy a beach holiday. It is the number 1 blue flag destination in Greece, and it’s worth taking time to explore them all. Traditional villages are dotted around the area and offer a beautiful stop between beaches.

Which region in mainland Greece appeals to you most? Are you ready to plan an adventure full of hidden gems and incredible experiences? Let us know! We are always excited to help our clients discover and plan unique, one-of-a-kind trips!

Greece Beyond the “Big Two”

November 27, 2024 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

We get it — pretty much everyone has Mykonos and Santorini on their mind, and on their bucket list, when they think about Greece.

These two popular islands have done a fabulous job of capturing the hearts and minds of American travelers. But it’s starting to have some unintended repercussions in terms of crowds, prices, and overall experience.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

When we were in Santorini last April (before the tourist season had even really kicked off) the crowds in Oia, and the lines for the cable car, were already unpleasant. Flash forward to July/August, and add in a couple of giant cruise ships making a port call for the day, and it would have been a madhouse.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

With that in mind, we have some suggestions for ways to experience Greece in a more low-key, less-stressful way:

Focus on the Peloponnese Peninsula

Athens itself merits more than the quick one- or two-night stay that most Americans give it. With a longer stay, you can use Athens as a home base for day trips to places like Meteora, Delphi, and the Corinth Canal.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

And then you can discover some of the other hidden gems of the Peloponnese, and spend a few nights in a romantic seaside town like Nafplio or Monemvasia.

[Photo Credit: Mike, view from Nafplio via Shared Adventures]

Choose More Under-the Radar Islands

Mother with her two daughters overlooking a green mountain in Greece

If you want to stick to a traditional “Athens and the Islands” itinerary, you don’t have to use Mykonos and Santorini. Choose smaller, quieter islands like Naxos, Paros, or Milos for a taste of authentic Greek culture and natural beauty. Or combine Athens with a longer stay on just one island – perhaps a larger island like Crete, which offers a wide variety of experiences in one place.

[Photo Credit: Alicia & Jay via Shared Adventures – read about their family vacation to Greece Here]

Set Sail in a Smaller Yacht

Cruising the Greek islands is a magical experience, but it can be even more magical if you stay away from the big cruise ships that can only visit the bigger/busier islands.

Join a small-group sailing adventure hosted by a tour company, if you want to make some new friends along the way. Or charter a private yacht for just you and your travel companions, and you can explore (at your own pace) smaller islands with secluded beaches and laid-back beachfront restaurants.

[Photo Credit: Mary via Shared Adventures]

Rent a Private Villa

For the ultimate avoid-the-crowds hack, why not rent a private villa with its own pool, a chef to prepare local cuisine, and onsite contacts who can arrange drivers, tours/experiences, restaurant reservations, and more. Depending on the specific location, and the number of people you’re traveling with, this option might not be as pricey as you think. And you can’t beat the experience!

[Photo Credit: Rafael via Unsplash]

Regardless of how you structure your Greek adventure, it is still a place that should be on everyone’s list. Let us help you make the smartest choices and design the most customized itinerary so that you get the most out of the experience!

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