Audley’s Inspired by The Odyssey: an epic journey across Italy & Greece combines ancient history, mythology, local culture and immersive experiences and Audley’s Italy and Greece specialists will use it as a base to work with agents to design clients’ trips to the landscapes that inspired one of the world's greatest stories, tailored to each individual’s tastes, budget and wishlist.
The itinerary begins in Sicily, where clients explore Palermo, Segesta, Trapani, Erice, Taormina and active volcano Mount Etna. In Homer's Odyssey, Sicily is associated with the Cyclops Polyphemus, whom Odysseus blinded before escaping. Mount Etna was later linked to both the Cyclops and the forge of the Roman god Vulcan. The itinerary then moves to the volcanic Aeolian Islands.
In Athens, Greece, clients learn about the mythology, gods and heroes that underpin Homer's epic poem, including the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, Odysseus's divine protector. They then drive to towards the Peloponnese and Nafplio and, enroute, explore the archaeological site of Mycenae, home of King Agamemnon (commander of the Greek forces at Troy).
Highlights include:
• Exploring the ancient ruins of Segesta, one of Sicily's most important archaeological sites and the main stronghold of the ancient Elymian people
• Visiting Mount Etna, reaching the upper slopes via cable car for views of dramatic craters and lunar-like scenery, then tasting wines produced on its fertile volcanic slopes
• Discovering Lipari in the Aeolian Islands, learning about the history and culture of the island while sampling some of the best local wines
• Touring Epidavros, a remarkably well-preserved ancient Greek theatre
• Kayaking from Nafplio to hidden coves and the submerged remains of a Roman villa
• Joining a guided exploration of the historic Corfu village of Chlomos, with ruins dating back to pre-Christian times
• Exploring Corfu’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and Paleokastritsa, the picturesque coastal village on the northwest coast where Odysseus is believed to have come ashore.
