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3 nights accommodation
A 4-Day Culinary Escape at Maria’s Residence, Syros
Duration
4 d
Availability
Up to 12 persons
Guided Tour
Not provided
Overnight Stay
Not provided
Active Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Bio Products
Bio Products
Toilets
Toilets
Accessibility
Accessibility
Tasting
Tasting
Dining Services
Dining Services
Retail Shop
Retail Shop
Pet Friendly
Pet Friendly
Transfer Service
Transfer Service
Description
Step back in time at Maria Residence, a beautifully restored 19th-century neoclassical mansion built in 1873 by a prominent local factory owner, during the golden age of Ermoupolis. This listed heritage property is a rare gem — a striking example of period architecture, thoughtfully preserved and tastefully updated for modern comfort.
Every detail of Maria Residence reflects its rich history. Original features such as handcrafted wooden floors and ceilings, elegant marble bathrooms, and intricate decorative mouldings have been carefully maintained. Antique furnishings complement the architecture, creating an atmosphere of refined authenticity and quiet luxury.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the second-floor balconies and the rooftop terrace, overlooking the rooftops of Ermoupolis, the bustling port, and the Aegean Sea stretching out to the nearby islands. At the rear of the villa, a peaceful courtyard garden with lush greenery, built-in seating, and a shaded outdoor dining area offers a tranquil space for relaxation.
Despite its central location on a quiet pedestrian street, Maria Residence offers serenity just steps from the action. The main square, vibrant market, and shops are just a 2-minute walk away. In 5 minutes, you’ll reach Vaporia, the town’s famed “Little Venice” — a picturesque seaside enclave with charming cafés and crystal-clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim.
The property features 8 elegant rooms and a separate 2-bedroom, single-storey house that can be rented individually or in any combination to suit your group size. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a group retreat, Villa Maria offers a unique and memorable experience in the cultural heart of the Cyclades.
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
Get ready for a journey where food, history, and Greek island charm come together in an unforgettable holiday. Based in an elegant 19th-century mansion in the heart of Ermoupolis—the stunning neoclassical capital of the Cyclades—you’ll dive deep into the rich flavors of Greek cuisine, explore rare local recipes, and experience the warm hospitality of island life.
Included
Not Included
Optional Services
Once you complete your checkout with Gastronomy Tours, you can book your Car Rental or Transfer Services through our partners. Information you will find on the confirmation email.
Itinerary
- Day 1
Arrive by morning or evening ferry to the dazzling port of Ermoupolis, where pastel mansions and marble streets await. If arriving early, take a dip at Vaporia, a scenic and tranquil swimming spot just a short walk from the villa, or wander through the town’s graceful alleys and café-lined squares.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxed welcome buffet dinner in the courtyard, where you’ll be introduced to Syros’ culinary treasures with a spread of local specialties and refreshing cocktails made with Greek spirits and herbs.
- Day 2
Breakfast in the courtyard features homemade and organic delicacies: warm wholemeal bread, fragrant cakes infused with carob, orange and cinnamon, jams made from garden fruit (fig and rose geranium, lemon and lavender), local honey, rich yogurt, and our signature seed, fig, and nut granola.
At 10 a.m., join your first cooking class—a hands-on introduction to the secrets of the Mediterranean diet. Learn why Greek cuisine is considered among the healthiest in the world and master traditional techniques passed down through generations.
You’ll prepare and enjoy a feast of flavors:
- Handmade olive bread
- Parsley-garlic dip
- Beetroot and walnut yogurt salad
- “Ladenia” – a Cycladic-style focaccia
- Zucchini pie with goat cheese and mint
- Fava purée with caramelized onions and capers
- Stuffed tomatoes and peppers with bulgur, pine nuts, and currants
- Anchovies in vine leaves with lemon-fennel sauce
- Sweet milk pie and semolina halva for dessert
The afternoon is yours to enjoy. Explore the marble-paved streets of Ermoupolis, admire the Apollo Theater and grand Town Hall, or head uphill to the medieval village of Ano Syros for sunset views and bouzouki music in its timeless alleyways.
- Day 3
Begin with another lush courtyard breakfast, then set off on a guided market tour through Ermoupolis. Sample and shop for the island’s most iconic delights:
- Fresh local fish and produce
- Loukoumia and halvadopites (Syros’ famous sweets)
- Artisan cheeses, wild capers, samphire, liqueurs, thyme honey, and hand-made pasta
Pause for a leisurely lunch at a local taverna, where you’ll savor traditional dishes prepared with love and local ingredients.
At 5 p.m., your second cooking session begins—this time with a focus on mezedes, the small, flavorful plates that are the soul of Greek social dining. As the dishes come together, enjoy a curated wine and cheese tasting featuring boutique wines and rare regional cheeses.
Sample creations like:
- Feta and egg “flour pie”
- Fig and goat cheese bites
- Aubergine rolls with herbed ricotta
- Smoked aubergine dip
- Zucchini herb salad
- Stuffed vine leaves with tahini sauce
- Black lentil and barley salad
- Almond figs poached in sweet wine
Enjoy your meal under the stars with wine in hand and laughter in the air—a true Greek celebration.
- Day 4
After a final morning breakfast, you’ll have time to revisit your favorite spots in Ermoupolis, swim again at Vaporia, or browse local boutiques for edible souvenirs and artisan crafts.
At 4:00 p.m., bid farewell to Syros as you depart on the afternoon ferry—heart and suitcase full of new tastes, stories, and memories.
