Greek Isles: Fortress, Goats, and Getting Dirty

Greek Isles:
Fortress, Goats, and Getting Dirty

This week, we will explore the beautiful Greek Isles. To help stay oriented among the many islands, we will note the (specific island) in our recommendations.

The Greek Isles are one of the top playgrounds for Europeans. The shorter distance compared to the Caribbean and the relatively low prices make Greece the perfect place to vacation. This helps all tourists who don’t speak Greek because the signs are usually in at least three languages. You will want to pick up a translation app to use when reading the one (there is always one) sign or menu that is not in a language that you understand.

Today, we will deep dive into the Adventure itinerary. Tomorrow, we will focus on a Culture itinerary and Wednesday will bring the ultimate Relaxation itinerary. These tables are handy to keep - a blister or torn muscle may convert your Adventure plans into Relaxation plans. Let’s get this Adventure started.
- Cris

Day 1: Climb a Fortress Then Head Down to the Beach

Ready to climb steep steps? Perfect! Head to Koules Fortress (Crete) and explore this Venetian fortress at the old harbor. Climb those steps to see stunning views in every direction. Wait — why is a Venetian fortress in Greece? Venice built it to defend their territory when they had possession of the island. You gotta love the ancient Venetians - they installed cannons for defense and marble wall art for beauty.

Go for a run on one of the beaches of Crete and then cool down while looking for seashells. I can’t imagine a more perfect setting - clear water, sand, and perfect weather. It can get crowded on these perfect beaches so use it as a chance to make friends from other countries. People are in a really good mood here.

Day 2: Hike the Samaria Gorge

As the second-largest gorge in Europe, the Samaria Gorge is part of Crete’s White Mountains and was a critical source of drinking water in ancient times. The point-to-point hike starts at a 1200m (3937ft) altitude in the mountain town of Omalos, continuing right down to sea level at the black-sand beach of Agia Roumeli on Crete’s southern shore. In the summer, the Mediterranean beckons for a celebratory splash in the ocean when you make it to the end. The complete hike takes roughly 6-7 hours and hiking boots are strongly recommended. Keep your eyes open for the kri-kri (Cretan wild goat) because they are very cute but also blend in with their surroundings.

Dance, Choose, and Wake Up!

Wanna Party?: Need to blow off a little steam and party? Mykonos has what you need.
Love the Choices: Excellent overview of the various Greek Islands
Pro: This is not the first time he has stolen the whole slice

Day 3: Pink Beaches

Travel to Elafonisi Beach on southwest Crete, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with pink sand and crystal-clear waters. This beach is where we worship nature on kayaks, paddleboards, or with snorkels. Pack tissues because you may cry when it’s time to leave.

Please, I beg you, don’t take the sand with you. Tourists began to bottle the sand to take home (“look - it’s pink!”) in the 90’s and have now taken so much that the beach is losing its pink hue and depth. That pink color comes from tiny fragments of shattered seashells. It regenerates but needs a little time. Are you looking for a similar beach with fewer crowds? This beach can get insanely crowded in the summer so head to South Crete for a little open space.

Day 4: Leave the Tourists Behind

Head to the center of Crete for a 4x4 Off-Road Tour of remote villages, hidden gorges, and beautiful views that are inaccessible by regular vehicles. Have a little patience because it’s unfair to expect the local villagers to speak your particular language. Use that translation app. Pause during the trip to park the ATV and swim in a cove to wash off the dirt. Look around - you are not surrounded by lots of people!

Tomorrow, we will explore the Cultural diversity and attractions of the Greek Isles. We will be highly selective because Greece is over 3,000 years old is has (seemingly endless) things to see and experience.

See you tomorrow.

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