Deals, Europe, Pilgrimage

Corphew go trekking in the Greek islands

Giorgios, Maria, Evi and all our Greek friends, and Dutch Frank, all tell us that the locals head for the islands when it heats up so Corphew… let’s go trekking in the Greek islands.

And put in the hard work we wimped out on the last time we were there.

On honeymoon, 32 years ago when it was more about sunset walks on the Corfiot beach.

In my defence it was toga-wearing hot when we were there in the September of 1994.

Good reason then for the grumpy Greek Orthodox monks to be wearing robes.

Going Solos

Stark beauty: Corfu

I have since got my walking shoes on on my travels out to the Attica region and Kythera, and continue to mither The Scary One to join me.

Although, of course, my notorious wayfaring is hardly a persuasive argument.

Which will be why she always suggests I go on my own… ‘take a long walk down a short pier.’

Solos are, of course, the go-to for, er solo, trips where you meet like-minded travellers.

Or those who have exhausted the patience of those at home and who you end up falling out with on holiday.

Come what May

Enchanting: Corfu town

And so Solos are marking this May, in celebration of National Walking Month, by sending us all out on a week of hiking and cultural discovery in Corfu.

You’ll be based at Aronda House in Dassia.

And the itinerary features moderate guided hikes through the hills, coastal paths and valleys on this most verdant of Greek islands.

Stretching out: Ready for your trek

Highlights include a coast to coat walk from Skripero, a forested trail past the heritage village of Agios Markos.

And a loop around the flamingo-dotted Korission Lagoon in the island’s quieter south.

With daily distances around 13kms and routes made up of gentle ascents, it’s ideal for all walkers.

Deal us in

Lie back: And think of Corfu

A seven-night Corfu Walking Tour departs on May 1 and is priced at £1,259pp.

This includes return flights, transfers, airport taxes, double room for solo use.

A welcome drink, daily breakfast, BBQ dinner at hotel, three picnic lunches.

Four exclusive fully guided walks and a Solos Tour Leader.

 

 

Countries, Culture, Europe

Greek balls of fire around the Acropolis

We’ve obviously upset the gods on Mount Olympus because there are Greek balls of fire around the Acropolis.

The dedication to Athena is currently taking a breather from us mere mortals because of the heatwave in the Greek capital.

With the Hellenic Hill closed to the public from midday to 5pm on account of the 43C (109F) temperatures in Athens.

Whether this is down to global warming we can debate, and we don’t know how hot it might have been under Socrates’ sandals.

But we do know that Socrates and his buddies favoured a himation, similar to a toga only with a straight bottom hem.

Dress for excess

Hat’s the gear: Cover up with your bandana

Although we understand less about what they put on their heads, if anything.

But, of course, my favourite headwear of choice, the bandana is a first step towards protecting a scalp.

We don’t know either if our skin is less leathery than our forebears.

But for paler-skinned Northerners hot climes are a challenge.

And we should cover ourselves against the heat and stay hydrated and fuelled.

No need to rush: Visitors to the Acropolis

So that in open spaces, whether the Roman Forum, the Acropolis or Jerash in Jordan it’s worth taking a moment.

And remember that as much as we want to channel the Classsicists we’re many of us just pre or post-Millennials northern folk.

The Athenians share with the rest of the Med a Manana laid-back image.

But, in truth, they have always just adapted to living in baking hot climes.

And anyway isn’t it a better way to live than the hectic pace of those of us in the northern part of the continent.

Fare play

All Greek to me: Athens

I’ve seen it first hand on my travels around Athens.

Where the taxi drivers will breezily suggest you pay whatever taxi fare you feel fit. 

And will even wait for you as you hotfoot it around the Acropolis.

Pray to the Gods: For some wind

Although I was always going to take my time to take in the full majesty of Athena’s dedication.

It will, of course, take more than a burning sun to melt the stones that have stood for three millennia.

Return to Athens

Shield your eyes: Like the Classic Greeks did

And I know from personal experience that if we must wait then it is worth it, having missed my allotted time to visit on my Greek odyssey.

But I did get to take it all in on an eventful afternoon on my return from the sleepy island of Kythera.

And you will too. 

Just say a big Efcharisto that we have this ancient wonder to enjoy.

And say a prayer to the Gods to keep them happy and spare us the Greek balls of fire around the Acropolis.