Cruising to the Ancient Wonders of Ephesus

Archaeological tour specialist Peter Sommer Travels will explore one of the greatest sites of the ancient world this year on a series of idyllic yacht expeditions to Turkey’s famed city of Ephesus.

Combining beautiful coastal scenery with superb food and wine and some of the most fascinating ancient sites in the Mediterranean, each expedition is hosted by a leading archaeologist, travelling by sea aboard a traditional timber Turkish gulet.

The one-time capital of Roman Asia, Ephesus is renowned for its Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and is one of the best preserved archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. After a century of excavations, visitors can explore its vast theatre, a spectacularly ornate library and private houses with some of the very finest Roman mosaics and wall paintings.

Ephesus is just one of the many highlights. Guests also explore the mountain-top sanctuary of Zeus at Labraunda, the monumental Temple of Apollo at Didyma, and Priene, idyllic in its hillside wooded setting. Archaeology apart, these expert-led gulet cruises also include time for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, sunbathing, admiring the scenery or pure relaxation.

Two different itineraries are available, with a choice of three departures and a maximum of 14 people per tour:

• Cruising to Ephesus – Beginning in Bodrum, this cruise follows the shores of the ancient regions of Caria and Ionia for an ideal introduction to the glories of Turkey’s archaeological heritage. It takes in some of the most impressive and best-understood sites in the country as well as a number of more intimate “off the beaten track” remains, culminating in a visit to the monumental ruins of Ephesus.  Eight days from £2175* per person (approx NZ$4220).  Departs Saturday June 6 and Saturday September 5, 2015.  

• From Halicarnassus to Ephesus – A chance to visit some of the biggest and best-preserved classical cities, setting out from Bodrum to explore sites where prehistoric, Greek and Roman remains rub shoulders with Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman legacies. Highlights include the harbour of Myndos where Cassius anchored after murdering Caesar, the beautifully preserved Hellenistic city of Priene and the great city of Ephesus itself.  Fifteen days from £3695* per person (approx NZ$7175).  Departs Saturday September 19, 2015.

Specialising in small-group expeditions, Peter Sommer Travels offers more than 20 different expert-led land tours and gulet cruises among the ancient sites of Turkey, Greece and Italy.   

The company is headed by archaeologist and documentary maker Peter Sommer, who in 1994 walked 3200km across Turkey retracing the route of Alexander the Great. He later worked on a BBC documentary, In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great, and created a 19-day tour of the same name, cited as one of the world’s ten best educational holidays by National Geographic Traveller.

For full details and bookings contact Peter Sommer Travels in the UK on 00 44 1600 888 220, email info@petersommer.com or visit www.petersommer.com. 

*Tour prices include transport, accommodation, most meals, crew and guide services, and all entrance fees and tips on excursions. Excludes airfares.