A tale of two Peloponnesian brothers, award-winning Papa’s Grove produces some of the world’s finest olive oil on their family farm in southern Greece. Striving for uncompromised quality and purity, a resulting chemical-free process produces an “exceptionally extra virgin” product that is full of flavour and nutrition.
One half of the Papa Brothers now lives in Singapore with his wife and 2 daughters (ages 2 and 5). Returning to Greece annually, and sometimes bi-annually, Andreas shares his insights and tips on travelling as a family back to Papa’s homeland.
1.What are the islands and mainland destinations you frequent as a family?
When we go back we always spend a few days in our country house up in the hills in the Peloponnese in the lands of my family where we have our olive trees. This is my sanctuary and where our kids can be real kids! They play out in nature, interact with animals, and get down and dirty! And then a week on some of the numerous Greek islands is a must! As a family, some islands we have been to include Zakynthos, Crete, Naxos and Santorini.
2.What are your top 3 destinations for family travel in Greece?
Well, our first is already stated! Admittedly a somewhat biased preference.
Then, the Paxoi islands. Maybe not that “kid friendly”, but a little known gem on the Ionian sea with some shallow beaches for children. An absolute beauty with the cleanest waters we have ever seen. You can rent rubber rib boats to go around the islands – it’s a great way to explore the coastline with its many small coves and bays.
Naxos is also a very good island recommendation. Food is awesome (everything grows on the island), the island is mountainous with some beautiful villages to visit, and the west coast beaches are gorgeous if the wind cooperates! It’s a kite surfer’s paradise too.
3. What are the best things to do with kids in Greece?
Swim, swim, swim and build castles in the sand! In winter, take numerous hikes through deep forests, gorges and lakes which are in abundance all over mainland Greece.
4. Your top tip on travelling to Greece with children?
Drop the stroller! It doesn’t have the most stroller-friendly pavements in the world!
5.What are their favourite dishes on a tavern menu?
Patates Tiganites! This is French fries the Greek way: hand cut and fried in good olive oil. And Pastitsio – this is also my favourite Greek dish. Think of it as an elevated version of Lasagna.
6. And their favourite local snacks?
Koulouri & bougatsa for breakfast. Greek yogurt with honey as well.
7. What do the kids love about Greece, in their own words?
“I like the nice weather and the snow (in the winter)! That is my favourite!”
