The Iraklia Extension: For explorers keen to go off-radar, Robinson-Crusoe-style, to a very-special, secret gem of an i
sland for laid-back relaxation.
Discover pure nature and local culture (with stories and great food and the sky thick with stars at night).
We’ll hike and boat and swim and do yoga, and explore with our wonderful local host, my friend Fanis who is a naturalist and expert on his native island.
But don’t worry, we don’t have to sleep on the beach like travelers did in the old days! We will be staying in a beautiful, family-owned Cycladic villa–hotel, as guests of a special local family of this tiny island. The new, purpose-built yoga shala is stunning and has the most spectacular view over the Aegean sea and islands of the archipelago.
Each morning after yoga, the homemade Greek brunch we share on the terrace is a lavish and delicious. A little adventure and loads of beach relaxation adorn the days. Dinners are a joyous affair, out in each of the island’s excellent little restaurants, all in walking distance from our lodgings.
One day we will spend exploring the beautiful neighboring island of Schinoussa by boat and foot, with its golden beaches, stylish hidden village, and pristine trails.
This is the Greek islands as few tourists ever experience.
We’ll explore the pristine nature, tiny villages, and the essence of his beloved, little island on guided exploratory hikes with Fanis, while his uncle Antonis will take us on Eros his restored, traditional caïque boat to the most gorgeous beaches, reached only by sea.
There is only one road on Iraklia, a cute port-village with great little local restaurants (the best of which we will feast in), and only 100 inhabitants– besides the goats.
Iraklia Greek Summer Itinerary
The dates are June 19 - 24, directly following the main retreat.
On June 19, we’ll catch the early-morning boat from Amorgos for the short, beautiful trip to mythic little Iraklia, known as the “Heart of the Small Cyclades”, arriving in time for breakfast.
After which, time becomes irrelevant.
On June 24, the morning boat will take you to nearby Naxos island in time to catch any number of return departures to Athens by air or sea.
What’s Included
• Five-nights accommodation in a lovely, simple villa-hotel owned and run with great care by a native family who lives on the island year round. The views from the property are spectacular. The yoga shala is one of the most beautiful in Greece. All rooms have sea view and private bath. Simple and comfortable.
• Daily Brunch and Dinners.
• Morning yoga in the new yoga pavilion with panoramic sea view. All equipment provided.
•Boat transfer to Iraklia from Amorgos
• Specially-guided private hikes with Fanis to discover the island’s beauty, nature and culture.
• Day-long excursion by boat to explore beautiful Schinoussa Island, a well-kept secret of pristine Greek beauty and a stylish little town.
• A private boat day on the Eros, a traditional caïque, with local captain Antonis to hidden beaches for swimming, snorkeling, lounging.
•Travel coordination for your return leg or onward journey.
Prices:
Classic room $1,550
Superior room $1,750
For any questions, planning assistance, or just to talk about the trip – don’t hesitate to contact me!