What a magical stay and the ideal way to celebrate turning 50! Pilinos House is a beautiful sanctuary and the village is lovely – wish I had more time to explore it more. It’s been over five years since I’ve been abroad on holiday and I couldn’t think of a more perfect place to visit. I’ve swung in the hammock, watching the wind and the sun through the olive tree, watched forked lightning strike above us and in the mountains – heard thunder crash overhead. I’ve spent early mornings watching the village awake, listening to the veg etc trucks call. I’ve played with the village cats and kittens. We’ve explored Koroni sea-front, shops, streets and castle.
Had an amazing 6 hour boat trip with George’s Fishing and Dreaming tour, exploring the coastline and visiting Βενέτικο island – loads of snorkelling seeing a range of fish, having my toes nibbled and being awed by mini sparkling corals. We’ve done the hair-raising drive down to Tsapi beach twice and spent a delightful day sunning and snorkelling after two delicious meals at Maria’s Taverna. We visited Voidokilia beach- a glorious cove then walked around the “cow’s belly” to the pump house (sadly now derelict), took plenty of swim breaks and then climbed to the Palio Kastro- then did the frighteningly steep clamber down the other side (some going on their bottoms) – found out afterwards that the Greek authorities have closed visiting the castle due to it being too dangerous… oops!
We attempted Amoudi beach but got lost and ended up at Kalamaki beach where we enjoyed a bit of snorkelling. On our second attempt we found Amoudi which was stunning. On our last full day we visited Agia Triada, another stunning place to while away the day – though do you recommend getting early for the sun as it faces east. Some amazing, fossilised shells to be found! Lots of skimming stones – best was 13!
Visited the Acrocorinth whilst dropping Alix off at the nearest train station in Corinth – stunning views, recommend wearing grippy soles as lots of climbing on well polished cobbles- also give plenty of time for exploring and climbing! On our return we visited Ancient Messini, awe inspiring and extensive – 2 theatres, huge stadium, temples and more! Sadly run out of time for the museum.
I’ve seen jackals and heard them call at night (no they’re not adolescents having a laugh) a polecat, a snake at the Piliminio waterfalls which were stunning and refreshing, lizards, frogs, beautiful butterflies (one of which landed on my finger) crabs and a plethora of fish. Delicious food at Nikos’ and Café Synantisi in Koroni. A jam-packed two weeks! Overall a delightful slice of Greece and a heavenly holiday. Wish I could stay thank you Emma and Michael.
P.S. highly recommend the supermarket in Charakopio!
Amy. September 2024