Cultural Retreat 2026

7-day Cultural Retreat 

June 24 – July 1, 2026

Hosted by Sandy & John Papas 

Ideal for: People looking to join a small group interested in Greek Culture, history, exploring, the outdoors, lots of laughs, good food and wine, and making magical memories.

Payment: 30% deposit on confirmation, balance 90 days before arrival.

Need to know:

This incredible retreat is one of a kind and will book out very fast. Numbers are capped at just 14 people!

This is a relaxed retreat with some spare time scheduled for everyone. You need a low to moderate level of fitness as there will be lots of walking some days, while others there may be very little.

About Sandy and John

Sandy is an award-winning Australian blogger, podcaster, writer, and Social Media sensation who is an expert on Greece. Over 2 million unique users have read her content, and her tips and advice on how to plan a trip to Greece have helped hundreds of thousands of people on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

She’s been married to John for 30 years, and they have been visiting Greece for 20 years together, alone, and with family and friends. They are passionate about the people and the places, but they also have a deep interest in mythology, history, and archaeology, as well as food, dance, wine, and language.

Sandy is an avid reader, cook, and shopper and will share her many insights and favourites on the trip. John also loves cooking Greek dishes and will be whipping up some of his specialties. He speaks fluent Greek and used to be a professional Greek Dancer, so expect some music and dancing!

Syros

Syros is the cultural heartbeat of the Cyclades, a graceful blend of Greek tradition and European elegance. At its centre is Ermoupoli, a neoclassical marvel built on twin hills, where Venetian mansions, marble piazzas, and pastel-toned balconies overlook the Aegean. Far from the tourist throngs, Syros offers a more authentic rhythm, where old-world charm meets intellectual spirit.

This island has long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and philosophers. From its storied opera house—modelled on La Scala—to its vibrant festivals and galleries, Syros hums with creativity year-round, and even more so in summer. Its Orthodox and Catholic communities coexist with striking harmony, shaping a cultural identity unlike any other in Greece.

Whether wandering through the medieval alleys of Ano Syros, joining a rebetiko jam session, or soaking in golden light by a quiet beach, Syros offers retreat, reflection, and inspiration. It’s not just a destination—it’s a state of mind.

After much research and deliberation, we have chosen Syros for the retreat due to its deep cultural roots, proximity to Athens and other islands, affordability and authenticity, and because it’s one of the islands that we just can’t stop returning to. We did a dry run with a group of friends in 2023, and it convinced us this was the island.

Now we want to share it with you!

Inclusions:

We have worked hard to ensure that our Syros Retreat has many inclusions and no hidden surprises

Included in the price

• 7 nights Accommodation
• Meals : 7 breakfasts with local, seasonal ingredients, two long-table outdoor lunches, one taverna lunch, Welcome Dinner and Greek Night Farewell Celebration, three dinners at handpicked tavernas 
• Beer, Wine, soft drinks, water and some spirits at the Villa
• a night at Hermoupolis Heritage Factory Museum
• Cultural walking tour of Ermoupoli and Ano Syros
• Beach club afternoon with reserved sunbeds
• transport on the island for scheduled events and activities
• Day trip to Tinos for art, faith, and food (including ferry tickets)
• Day trip to Mykonos, including a guided visit to ancient Delos (including ferry tickets)
• Traditional Greek cooking class
• Reading circle (reading list can be provided prior to arrival)

Not Included

• Travel insurance (required)
• Flights or ferries to and from Syros
• transport on the island for non-scheduled events and activities
• Incidentals such as laundry, individual transfers, snacks and drinks, tips
• 4 lunches and 2 dinners

*all activities are optional of course

Delos

Tinos

The Villa

The Villa is located in Poseidonia in Syros, a quiet area on the west coast where many stunning neo-classical mansions are located. These mansions were once holiday homes for wealthy shipping families, and the area has a rich and interesting history.

The aristocratic 19th-century neo-classical villa is nestled among 3 acres of private gardens, orchards and olive groves and has 4 bedrooms in the main house, while there are 3 more in bungalows in the garden. All have their own bathrooms and are air-conditioned.

The house has been lovingly restored by its owners, with antique furniture and vintage carpets. It is stylish, bohemian and quite charming. The full-size private pool is private and tranquil and is surrounded by an orchard full of oranges, lemons, vines, pomegranates, dates and bay trees. 

The beach is an easy 10-minute stroll, and there are seven tavernas within walking distance; in fact, one is right next door. Also, a short walk away is a great bakery, several cafes and coffee shops and even a couple of small beach clubs.

We will ensure the farmhouse kitchen is fully stocked with fresh water, wine, beer and other refreshments, as well as olives, cheese, dips, fruit and snacks. If you have any special requests, just ask.

Cost

Early birds! – until July 31:

€2390 per person

+ €600 single supplement

After July 31 :

€ 2990

+ €600 single supplement

terms: 30% deposit upon confirmation, the balance 90 days prior.

Or perhaps you have some questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the trip?

All inclusions and exclusions are detailed in the itinerary above and even more detail via the enquiry button. All transfers, accommodation and breakfasts are included and some lunches and dinners where specified.

What is not included?

Meals as specified, spending money, insurance, international airfares, tips. Optional activities.

How many people will be at the Villa?

The retreat is limited to twelve guests as well as John and I, and a daily housekeeper.

Will I have my own room?

If you wish to have your own room, you can book ‘single’ occupancy which will have a double (usually Queen) bed and will only be occupied by one guest. You will have to pay the additional single supplement.

Can I bring my child or partner?

Couples and singles are more than welcome, or even groups of friends. Children must be over 16.

What if I have to cancel?

Payments are not refundable if the trip goes ahead. This is why we require all guests to purchase travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances that would prevent them from traveling. We recommend checking with a site such as Travel Insurance Master to compare quotes and coverage.

Why is travel insurance mandatory?

Travel insurance is critical when visiting a foreign country, as your health insurance will likely not apply locally. It is not uncommon for people to trip and fall on stairs and uneven surfaces or have accidents with adventure sports and ATVs. Health care in Greece is very good, but things like surgery and repatriation can be extremely expensive. Further to that, insurance will cover you for lost bags, delays, theft, and more.

What should I pack ?

June is a wonderful time of year for sightseeing with mild, sunny days and cooler nights. Temperatures should range between 84F/26C maximum and 70/20 minimum. You will need comfortable, casual summer clothes including swimwear, and appropriate footwear is essential (i.e., no heels!) A hat and sunscreen are a good idea, although there is plenty for sale there and very good quality too. Leave plenty of room for shopping.

We will share a recommended packing list before the trip.

Are vegans and vegetarians catered for in this trip?

Vegetarian options are available at every meal and there will be many vegan options, but it is not possible for us to adapt the tour completely to suit veganism. For other dietary needs, please reach out to us BEFORE booking so we can ensure that your needs can be accommodated.

Do I need a visa for this trip?

This retreat takes place in Greece. Many countries are eligible for an automatic 90 day Visa for the Schenghen Zone – you can check here for more information.

What is the fitness level for this trip?

Our itinerary will involve a fair bit of walking, so it is best if you are mobile, have a moderate level of fitness, and are able to handle some stairs. There are a lot of cobblestone streets, and hilly terrain, as well as uneven and slippery surfaces, hence the need for good footwear. That said, we will move at a leisurely pace, and there will be lots of rest and hydration breaks.

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