You’ve only got to step outside your villa in the Olympic Riviera to start soaking up the past. A unique blend of mythical tales and rich history run deep, with reminders around every corner. Castles, monasteries, and traditional towns bring the Olympus Riviera’s past to life. Each mountain side village holds as much history as the next, retaining all the charm of years past. Perched high on Mount Olympus is Platamon Castle, in prime position to keep a watchful eye over the Temple Valley pass and the seascapes below. Dating back to 1204, the view alone make a day trip here worthwhile. Today it’s easy to immerse yourself in Greek Orthodox culture too by paying a visit to St. Dionysius Monastery, nestled in the mountains, monks and priests still call this place home.

With no less than 16 beaches along the Olympus Riviera, stretches of sand and sea are not in short supply. So when you do want a change from your villa’s private pool, the beaches offer up an equally tranquil setting for a dip. Your only challenge will be choosing a favourite! At the foot of Mount Olympus you’ll find Panteleimonas beach. Gently curving, clean and quiet, this stunning stretch of emerald sea is a perfect choice for families. Plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes can be found here too. For true escapism, few are more striking that the serene sands of Methoni. Surrounded by green forestry, this natural golden bay glisten in the Greek sunshine. You’ll feel like you’re sunbathing at an exclusive and remote location, with the Methoni Castle and one of the biggest wetlands in Europe located nearby.

There’s no shortage of treats for the taste buds on the Olympus Riviera. Classic flavour combinations make up everyone’s favourite Greek dishes, and these traditional offerings can be sampled in many restaurants and seafront tavernas. We might have to show some self-control at home, but holidays are all about enjoying ourselves – especially if that means indulging our cravings with mouth-watering delights. Tasty taramasalata, juicy olives, grilled meats, locally grown vegetables and freshly caught fish are on the menu at many eateries, so go Greek and tuck in!

Strolls along the beach and pool days are a must, but how about going on an adventure? Lace up your hiking boots and head for the lower trails of Mount Olympus. Keen hikers can trek through forests, rivers and over rocks to explore the home of the Greek gods. And what’s more rewarding after a hike than being met with a spectacular view across the Riviera? If you’re setting off from the village of Litochoro, see if you can find the beautiful natural waterfalls for a cooling dip and a great photo opportunity.

• Fly into Thessaloniki Airport and transfer to the tranquil and strikingly beautiful Olympus Riviera in around 1 hour 15 minutes.

• Set the pace of your holiday as you pick from numerous outdoor activities the landscape lends itself to, or simply pull up a chair at one of the many taverns and watch the locals go about their day.

• Explore Platamon Castle, a historical treasure perched high on the mountain with seascape views over the Aegean.

• Wander the cobbled streets of Litochoro, a cosy town with spectacular views.

• Visit St. Dionysius Monastery - the beautiful 16th century place of worship tucked in the mountains. The monks and priests who still live call this place home extend a warm welcome to all.

• The highest mountain in Greece and the backdrop to your Olympus Riviera villa holiday. The peak of Mount Olympus rises to 2,918 metres and took centre stage in mythology as the home to the 12 Greek gods.

• Throughout July, August and September the Olympus Festival brings music and theatre to the Riviera. Take it all in at the Platamonas Castle and the ancient theatre of Dion.