Audley Travel’s new tour, Inspired by the new blockbuster movie, The Odyssey, offers clients “an epic journey across Italy and Greece”, by combinings ancient history, mythology, local culture and immersive experiences.
The operator’s Italy and Greece specialists will use the new The Odyssey: an epic journey across Italy and Greece tour as a base to work with agents to design clients’ trips to the landscapes that inspired Homer’s epic poem.
The itinerary begins in Sicily, where clients explore Palermo, Segesta, Trapani, Erice, Taormina and Mount Etna. In The Odyssey, Sicily is associated with Polyphemus, the Cyclops whom Odysseus blinds before escaping. Mount Etna was also linked to Cyclopes. Segesta is one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites and the main stronghold of the ancient Elymian people.
The itinerary then moves to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, which according to Homer were home to Aeolus, keeper of the winds. Odysseus visited during his journey home from Troy after fighting in the Trojan War.
Guests can explore Lipari while learning about the history and culture of the island and sampling some of the best local wines.
In Athens, they discover the mythology, gods and heroes that underpin Homer’s epic poem. That includes the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, Odysseus’s divine protector and the Acropolis Museum.
They then drive towards the Peloponnese and Nafplio. On the way they explore the archaeological site of Mycenae, the home of King Agamemnon, who commanded the Greek forces at Troy. Kayaking from Nafplio explores hidden coves and the submerged remains of a Roman villa.
The journey concludes on Corfu, which many believe to be Homer’s Scheria; the island of the Phaeacians where Odysseus washed ashore after Poseidon destroyed his raft. He may have reached land at Paleokastritsa, the picturesque coastal village. At Chlomos, the ruins date back to pre-Christian times.
Anna Scrivens, Regional Product Manager for EMEA at Audley Travel, said: “The enduring appeal of The Odyssey lies in its sense of adventure and discovery. This itinerary allows travellers to experience destinations that have long been linked with the epic poem, combining ancient sites, mythology and local culture in a way that brings the story vividly to life.
“Whether travellers are inspired by Homer’s original text or the new film adaptation, we want to give them a fascinating way to explore the Mediterranean with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local food and traditions.”
Audley Travel’s 13-day tailor-made Inspired by The Odyssey: an epic journey across Italy and Greece starts from £8,695pp based on two travelling and includes international and domestic flights, accommodation, private tours and experiences, transfers and fully insured hire car.
