Franciscan on Sister Water

We took some time to sail to Greece, leaving Turkey in June, for a little summer vacation.  Our first stop was Symi to check in to Greece.  We stayed for a few days and then went off to venture through the Aegean across to the Peloponissos, to Crete and then returned up to Marmaris.  We saw so many beautiful places and met some new friends.

One of the most interesting sights for me were the fantastic views that one can see from the islands.  Many are old volcanoes and so the cliffs can be sheer and most dramatic.

Terracing - Folegandros Island

Many of the islands have been terraced to collect moisture to grow crops.  Many are no longer used, but their existence points to the great agricultural development that was so necessary for survival on these islands.  Today the islands produce some agriculture, but many are dependent on the delivery of goods by ferries.  Tourism is the big industry on most islands and there are passenger ferries that come on a regular basis.

High Speed Ferry

These ferries are very fast and can come behind you very quickly, so one must to aware of them.  There are other types of ferries, some large and some small that take people to small bays and beaches that are a bit out of the way.

Small Beach in Greece

The beaches in Greece are numerous and beautiful.  You can find white, black, pink, brown or rocky beaches.  They are the greatest draw for people and the water is so very clear.

There are many caves and we spent a lot of time hiking around goat trails exploring different islands and their beauty.  Some caves were used for storage, some for animal pens and some were for burial sites.

A cave niche, Greece

A church in a field, Leros, Greece

There are many small Churches or Chapels seen all over Greece.  I assume they are for families and neighbours to attend.  In Ios there were many on top of the hills.  I don’t know the story behind their development, but maybe they were built as gifts of devotion.

Multiple Churches - Ios, Greece

There is much life around the boat.  Many times we forget to look to the beauty around us.   Sometimes around the boat there are many fish and boaters like to feed them.    We were treated to a visit by a sea turtle in Monemvasia in the Peloponissos.

Feeding the Fish

Sometimes the fish come in hordes.  There are more in marinas and where fishing is not allowed.

Sea Turtle - Monemvasia, Peloponissos, Greece

Cats of Greece

While walking through the many towns one becomes aware that cats are a very numerous street animal.  Some cats are pets and some are members of the community.  Some people feed them and so you will see their presence in great numbers.  A clipped ear indicates that they have been neutered.  Some cats are very friendly and will adopt you.

In the Medieval town of Monemvasia, we wandered the streets which have been restored with refurbished hotels, designer shops, restaurants and other historical buildings.  We also hiked up to a small chapel on the side of a hill.

Street in Monemvasia, Greece

View from Malvasia Hotel, Monamvasia, Greece

Another favourite pastime is eating out.  There are so many choices and some of the views are superb.  The food is tasty, the hospitality excellent and some of the best views can be had from many beach tavernas.

Nice View from Greek Restaurant

I always enjoy seeing the  sun rise and set, so I thought I would share some of my favourite shots.

Sunset over Ios, Greece