After the very long day yesterday (up at 05h30 and back at 23h00), this morning started late(r). The plan for today was to complete one of the most beautiful walks in Western Crete, with extensive coastal views from a narrow scenic coastal path. The 10h00 bus was full (again), this time, accompanied by Mr. Tourettes. Arriving at Melissourgio, I got off the bus and walked up a few steps on to a side road and set off through the little village. After a short stretch of following the main road, the track began to wind up the hill, getting steeper whilst the sun got hotter. Stopping at a little red-roofed church, I took a drink of water. Continuing up the hill, the sun seemed to strengthen but the views over Maleme were stunning. Finally, on reaching ... read more

Guess what? Another hot and clear day! After breakfast, another Mercedes took me up to Akrotiri, north east of Chania, leaving me within a plate's throw of the Gouverneto Monastery. Hat on and water bottles full, I headed towards the monastery and stopped by the modern war memorial, erected to memory of the local villagers for their sacrifice in the 1940s. Then, walking down on the newly restored cobble path, I made my way to the Cave of the Bear which had been cleverly converted into a little church, complete with natural cistern which filled with drips from stalactites. Leaving the coolness of the cave, I continued down eventually experiencing something similar to the first view I had of Petra's Treasury, when, rounding a corner, I had the amazing view of a hidden, deserted monastery. Descending ... read more

Up at 06h30. I know that I'm on holiday, but there's far too much to see and do! So, after a quick walk around Chania, I sat down to a breakfast of Greek Yoghurt, fruit, nuts, boiled eggs, fresh orange juice and coffee. This would be my breakfast fare for the next two weeks. Following another leisurely walk around town (and a spot of lunch), I headed to the bus station, purchased a ticket for the Kalidonia Peninsula and waited for the 13h00 bus to be announced. For those not familiar with the Cretan bus process, each bus has a unique number with the route being assigned to a given bus shortly before departure. Thus, one has to keep one's ears peeled for, just two minutes before departure, the station manager announces the bus number and, ... read more

After yesterday's wet walking, I opted for a more exciting walk offering great views across Buttermere and Ennerdale, particularly as the weather was clear ... and forecast to stay clear (albeit with heavy showers in the afternoon!) Set off in the early morning sunshine, blue sky above, golden rays striking the mountain tops, taking the lake walk towards Gatesgarth Farm. The views were very picturesque along the lake shore in the early light, particularly after the earlier rain. Stopping outside Gatesgarth Farm to remove an outer layer, I concluded that, although the temperature was only 6°C, walking in the sun’s rays was making me warmer than intended. Continuing beyond the farm gates, I veered through a gate and began to follow the track used previously by slate miners. On their ascent, the miners, like me, would ... read more

Final day in town ... a quick trip to the shops ... must remember to look up!... read more