Nestled in the lush hills of Steni Evia, the Chestnut Forest beckons travelers seeking an immersive experience. This private tour promises an enchanting journey, blending breathtaking natural scenery with the rich cultural heritage of the region. From charming village visits to a sacred site steeped in history, the itinerary offers a well-curated glimpse into the heart of this captivating destination. And with a traditional lunch featuring local delicacies, the tour’s culinary delights promise to tantalize the senses. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this intimate excursion tempts the curious mind to uncover the hidden treasures of Steni Evia.
Key Points
- This private tour offers an 8-hour immersive experience exploring the picturesque Chestnut Forest of Steni Evia, including visits to charming villages and a sacred Byzantine church.
- Guests can enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with Meze platters, along with complimentary beverages and the stunning natural scenery of the region.
- The tour is customizable to accommodate different dietary preferences, group sizes, and personal interests, ensuring a memorable and personalized experience.
- Scenic drive from Athens to the Chestnut Forest, with photo stops along the way, provides an opportunity to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Evia.
- The tour is catered to guest safety and comfort, with restrictions on certain items and activities not recommended for specific participants.
Tour Overview and Details
This private tour in the Chestnut Forest of Steni Evia spans 8 hours, with prices ranging from Kč5,837 to Kč5,253 per person – a savings of up to 10%.
Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes pickup from Athens, so guests need only step outside their hotel 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
An English-speaking live guide will lead this private group experience. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront fees.
This is a unique opportunity to explore the scenic Chalkida region, Evia, Dirfy Mountain, and the stunning chestnut and black fir forests.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour commences with pickup from Athens, followed by a scenic drive from Chalkis to Stropones, complete with captivating photo stops along the way.
Visitors will then explore the sacred site of Panagia Aboudiotisa. Next, they’ll discover the charming villages of Kambia and Steni, soaking in the traditional Greek atmosphere.
The highlight of the day is a delightful lunch featuring an array of Meze, savored amidst the scenic surroundings.
The return journey to Athens offers more breathtaking views of the Dirfy Mountain, the chestnut and black fir forest, and the picturesque countryside.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, providing hassle-free transportation.
It features premium 7-seater off-road vehicles driven by multilingual escort-drivers, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.
Coffee, tea, or juice are complimentary throughout the experience, while a traditional Greek lunch with Meze platters satisfies guests’ culinary cravings.
Liability insurance and local taxes are covered, and gratuities are included, allowing visitors to relax and fully enjoy the tour.
Refreshments are also available at the tavern, catering to guests’ needs.
Participant Guidelines
Certain individuals may not be suited for this private tour in the Chestnut Forest due to specific restrictions and guidelines.
Children under 7 years, pregnant women, and those with back/mobility issues, heart problems, epilepsy, or recent surgeries aren’t recommended to participate.
Wheelchair users, people over 6’6" or 287 lbs, and those with visual impairments, kidney problems, high blood pressure, or motion sickness are also ineligible.
To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, the tour isn’t open to these groups.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear are advised.
Bringing large bags, outside food/drinks, alcohol, or drugs is prohibited.
Following these guidelines will help create an optimal experience in the stunning Chestnut Forest.
Tour Customization
This private tour in the Chestnut Forest offers customized culinary options to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. Travelers can inform the tour organizers in advance about vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary restrictions to ensure tailored meal preparations during the traditional Greek lunch.
The tour is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to a wide range of audiences, from youth groups and solo travelers to couples, families with older children, and corporate teams.
The guided stops every 30-40 minutes allow for comfort and immersion, ensuring a well-paced and enriching experience for all participants. With thoughtful attention to detail, this tour provides a personalized and memorable exploration of the stunning Chestnut Forest of Steni Evia.
Getting to the Chestnut Forest
From Athens, travelers embark on a scenic drive to the Chestnut Forest in Steni Evia, a journey that takes approximately 1.5 hours. Along the way, they’ll enjoy captivating photo stops with views of Chalkida, the Dirfy Mountain, and the stunning landscapes of Evia. The drive itself is a highlight, offering a chance to immerse in the region’s natural beauty.
| Highlights | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Chalkida | 30 mins | 50 km |
| Dirfy Mountain | 20 mins | 35 km |
| Steni Village | 20 mins | 25 km |
| Chestnut Forest | 40 mins | 20 km |
Upon arrival at the Chestnut Forest, travelers will have the opportunity to explore this unique natural wonder and learn about the local ecosystem from their knowledgeable guide.
Exploring the Sacred Site
After the scenic drive, the tour guides lead visitors to the sacred site of Panagia Aboudiotisa, a revered Byzantine church nestled among the chestnut trees.
They explain the historical and cultural significance of this sacred space, inviting guests to take in its tranquil atmosphere and admire the intricate frescoes adorning the interior walls.
The group is encouraged to wander the grounds, appreciating the serene setting and the centuries-old olive trees that surround the church.
The tour guide highlights the importance of this place of worship to the local community, emphasizing its role as a hub for religious and cultural traditions.
Visitors are captivated by the history and spirituality of Panagia Aboudiotisa.
Enjoying the Traditional Lunch
Following the visit to the sacred site, the group gathers at a traditional tavern in Kambia Village to enjoy a hearty Greek lunch of Meze platters.
Servers quickly bring out an array of small dishes featuring local specialties – tangy tzatziki, zesty dolmades, crisp village salad, and savory grilled meats and cheeses.
Everyone digs in eagerly, relishing the fresh flavors and homestyle preparation.
The casual atmosphere allows the group to mingle and share stories from the day’s adventures so far.
As they savor the final bites, they’re fortified and ready to continue exploring the picturesque Chestnut Forest and charming Steni Village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The guidelines clearly state that only the listed participants are permitted, and bringing any additional companions, including pets, is not permitted for safety and logistical reasons.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?
There’s no minimum group size required for this private tour. Guests can book this experience for themselves or with their own party. The tour is designed to accommodate individual travelers as well as small groups.
Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?
Photos and videos are allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and cultural experiences to create lasting memories of their private group excursion.
Can the Tour Be Extended Beyond 8 Hours?
The tour duration can be extended beyond 8 hours, but this must be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Additional fees may apply for the extended time. The operator can customize the tour to meet the traveler’s needs.
Is There Any Additional Charge for Dietary Requirements?
There’s no additional charge for dietary requirements. The tour operator accommodates vegetarian preferences and other dietary restrictions by providing tailored meal preparations upon request before the tour starts.
Recap
This private tour offers an enchanting blend of natural wonders and culture.
Visitors can marvel at the stunning Chestnut Forest, discover charming villages, and savor a delightful traditional lunch.
With an expert guide and comfortable transportation, this experience provides an in-depth exploration of Steni Evia’s captivating landscapes and vibrant heritage.
It’s an ideal way to escape the city and take in the region’s beauty and culinary delights.
