Remember the Greek islands in the ’80s? No? Well, neither do I, except for the vaguest haze of post-leaving cert “fun” – stifling heat, stray cats, spanakopita and dreadful hangovers. I think I vowed to never visit again.
That was until I reached middle age when the idea of grilled fish, sparkling seas and low-key (but gorgeously comfortable) hotels without a hint of boom-boom nightlife becomes very appealing. I’m now firmly committed to the idea of staying on the mainland, which has so much to offer – away from any hint of bling. We decided to go in May, which I recommend. It’s just before the maddening crowds arrive while the days are bright and sunny, with cool nights. My partner had his bike shipped down, but whether you’re travelling by car or motorbike the roads and scenery make for a brilliant trip. We made it a week-long road trip: one night in Nafplio, three nights in Kyrimai and Dexamanes, followed by a leisurely three-hour drive back to Athens to fly home.
There’s also something wonderful about not having to get endless ferries, avail of direct flights (with choice of two carriers) and the option to go in May or even October when the seas are still warm, and everyone has buggered off back to school. Greece is also wonderful to drive around by car or motorbike. The roads are good and the drivers aren’t sociopaths.