As a travel-mad individual, I’m all for discovering something, someone and somewhere new every time I travel. So I rarely revisit the same place twice. But on this rare occasion, I have to admit that this Sunday I will be returning to a place I love and know very well. Greece.
Yes I know what the food is like, yes I know the culture and yes I know what to expect. Which is why this trip goes against most of my travel morals, but when I think back my childhood and family holidays, Greece is the play I remember for the truly awesome holiday memories. My dad is a keen sailor and had us all sailing around the Ionian and Aegean seas from a young age (my sisters were the crew and my dad the captain of course). As we got older, we went from deck sweepers to sunbathers as we realised the white deck of the yacht was the handiest little sun trap around.
Me and my sisters attempting some deck gymnastics back in the day!
But every time we visited, some things never changed. The blueness of the sea, the picturesque cliff faces, the quaint fishing marinas, the breathtaking sunsets, the incredible local food and the friendliness of the locals (Mamma Mia eat your heart out). Whether you’re 16 or 60, some things can’t fail to amaze you. Which is why I’ve decided to revisit my child hood and indulge myself with a Greek sailing adventure one more time.
Me and the gorgeous sunset behind turtle Island…
My trip is going to consist of a stay and sail concept where the first week is spent on ‘dry land’ at a Beach Club hotel with inclusive water sports activities (so the keenos can stil get their nautical fix). I’m going to be staying at The Retreat which located across an idyllic tree covered hill side in Sivota. The luxurious resort has it’s very own pontoon and beach with stunning panoramic views across the Aegean sea. Windsurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, dingy sailing are all available on tap along side expert tuition. I’ve decided to try my hand at waterskiing again following my numerous face plant attempts as a teen!
On the beginners bar during my first ever wake boarding attempt.
The second week is where the fun really begins as I’ll set sail on a plotted route around the Ionian (slight palpitations about where my Wi-Fi supply will be coming from at this point). Whilst the gorgeous sailing yachts looks like the epitome of glamour, all diva-esque qualities are left behind when stepping on board the yacht. With a super compact living and minimal electricity, it’s beach hair and deck shoes from then on out. But that’s half the fun!
During my trip I will spend a week sailing with a flotilla of other yachts
From our departure point of Nidri, we will sail on a plotted route stopping at the likes of Kalamos, Vathi, Frikes and Fiscardo. These Greek coastal towns vary in size but are all equally charming in their own way, with plenty of Greek dancing and Ouzo come night fall of course.
The Route!
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