Most Inspirational Moment
1 Reaching the top of the path to the Roman quarry on Ohi mountain - I have always been very cautious going down and the slope up was so steep I seriously wondered if I should stop, but encouraged by the guide I kept on, and to my surprise coming down was not as bad as I had feared.2 Standing in the cave used as a church since 300AD just below the Acropolis of Styra while the guide told us the history of the area - the battles between Greeks and Persians leading to the run from Marathon just across the gulf, the problems of the early Christians and the difficulties of the villagers up to the 19th Century with pirates.3 Seeing live wild tortoises ( reminded me of Gerald Durrell) and a huge slow worm which should be called a fast worm!4 Watching the pasteli maker
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had three leaders in the course of the week1 Thanos - brilliant. Very very knowledgable about the island and full of pride in it. Infectious enthusiasm and keen to help at all times. Thanos only did one walk with us due to having to go to London, but supervised arrival and departure. Gave the impression that when he was in charge nothing would go wrong and indeed nothing did!2 Cecile - good. Took over from Thanos and was also knowledgable about the island but possibly less good at the history, although she was excellent on present day Evia. Cecile arranged for a taverna to open up especially for us to have a drink towards the end of a walk and she organised a visit to a pasteli maker which was one of my trip highlights. Cecile has a lovely personality and is obviously very well liked by the locals, she also coped well with coming into the group after the holiday had started.3 Costas- OK. I believe Costas is training as a guide. He showed us the way on a walk where Cecile was not familiar with the start of the route, and throughout the day acted as backstop and also told us a lot of fascinating facts as the walk was all around land historically owned by his family. I really liked his style and enthusiasm, some people complained he was loud, but Greek people, especially the men, are loud. Costas is proud of his island and wants to pass on his enthusiasm. His presence added to that day's walk.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I found a fleece useful for the evenings as even at the end of May the breeze was cool after dark. For the price of a coffee you can have a lounger on the main beach for as long as you like - great after a walk. For privacy walk along the front to the left of the hotel, past the castle and through the park. There are steps down to a little cove with oleanders, a prickly pear and a fig tree and space to relax. Turn left out of the hotel and then right and along that street you will find a beautiful shop to buy hand made jewellery and scarves. If you are offered a visit to the pasteli maker then take it.