4 x 4 Adventure In Greece

Off road safaris are being launched across a Greek island by the Elivi Skiathos Hotel.

Their start is planned to coincide with the hotel’s seasonal opening this summer, hopefully when the Covid-19 scare has burnt itself out.

Guests will then be able to explore the pine-covered island of Skiathos in a 4x4 and visit hidden gems that would be otherwise inaccessible.

Encompassing 60km of the island, the safari showcases the spectacular scenery and nature Skiathos is famous for, including lush greenery, secluded beaches and many rare bird species such as the black swan found in the waters surrounding the hotel.

The tour starts with a visit to the enchanting Evangelistria Monastery, the historical birthplace of the Greek flag. In this peaceful haven guests can visit a functioning distillery that produces wine and Tsipouro, an un-aged brandy from Greece, and visit a museum exhibiting historical items that reveal insights into the island’s past and the Greek revolution.

Other highlights include: a medieval fortified site at Kastro, Kechria Beach, the Monastery of Kounistra, Elias Bay, Mandraki beach, only accessible by dirt roads and Mandraki pine forest en route back to the hotel Elivi Skiathos.

The property, perched on a hilltop on the Pounta Peninsula, overlooking the Aegean Sea, opened in June 2018. It was developed by father and daughter Elias and Vivi Nathanailidi and is located in an area of natural beauty beside a wildlife refuge, forest and lagoon with direct access to four of the island’s best beaches.

The off-road safari costs €69 (£62 approx.) per person with six guests per tour. Private tours for two people cost €400 (£359 approx.)

Hotel rates for the 2020 season at Elivi Skiathos start from €197 (£169 approx.) per night based on two people sharing a room. (www.elivihotels.com, +30 24274 40900)