The Iraklia Odyssey: For the traveler in you, keen to go off-radar, Robinson-Crusoe-style, to a secret gem of a little i
sland for laid-back relaxation.
Discover pure nature and local culture (with stories, myth, great food and the sky thick with stars at night).
Indulge in ample slow time to just enjoy the ultimate hedonism of glorious simplicity – or partake in explorations by foot and by sea.
We’ll hike and boat and swim and do yoga, and explore the hikes 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 camp on the beach like travelers did in the old days. We will be staying in a beautiful, family-owned Cycladic retreat, as guests of a special local family of this tiny island. The new, fully-equipped yoga shala is stunning and has the most spectacular view over the Aegean sea and islands of the archipelago.
Each morning after an energizing yoga session and meditation, 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 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, pretty 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 native island on guided exploratory hikes with Fanis, while his uncle Antonis will captain the 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 to discover the island’s beauty, nature and culture.
• Day outing by private boat to explore beautiful Schinoussa Island, a well-kept secret of pristine Greek beauty and a pretty little town.
• A private boat day on the Eros, a traditional caïque, with local captain Antonis to hidden beaches for swimming, snorkeling, lounging.
• Plenty of leisure Time to indulge in slow life your style
•Travel coordination for your return leg or onward journey.
Prices:
Classic room $1,650
Superior room $1,850
For any questions, planning assistance, or just to talk about the trip – don’t hesitate to contact me!