Another beautiful morning around Chania Harbour
We had breakfast at one of the hotel cafes. This waiter, George, had worked for 9 years in Loutro and was singing its praises as a special holiday destination. Can’t wait to experience it!
Mark accompanied me on the bus to Sfakia. We met another Australian couple at the bus station also in my Swimtrek group. We passed through some small villages.
It was a very rocky landscape. There was some arable land in the valleys. It looked like harvested wheat crops.
Winding down the steep decline into the small port of Sfakia.
Ferries, small and large, leave regularly from here to reach small communities along this remote, southern coast.
On the ferry I met Julia, another Swimtrekker, who is PhD student, from Eastern Germany, but studying in the Netherlands.
The bare coastline with a single walking track and small shrine.
Arriving in Loutro
Our hotel on the hill
The view from our window. I am sharing with Heather from Perth
Cafes, shops, a small supermarket run along the rim of the shore
Small designated beach areas
A range of choices for swimming and paddling
At 5 we had a briefing in the bar area. A group of 15, mainly Australians, with an age range from early 20s to 78, some with extensive experience in open water swimming and others more recreational swimmers . 4 guys, 11 women.
We were divided into three colour groups, initially decided by your normal lap times. We set off to the beach and swam some circuits so that our guides could assess the general fitness and proficiency of the group. So far so good. Pink middle group for me.
Our guides. Sían from Wales and Pip (Padraic) from Westport in County Mayo
Heather with welcome drinks at the hotel bar and restaurant
Part of the friendly crew
A feast of local dishes
What a choice. The Wimbledon Men’s Final or the final Workd Cup cricket Test in the UK. Both.
Loutro. Our home for a week.
M&M
1 comment:
Looks lovely...and Loutro, just as I remember it.!
Grest descriptions and photos.
Enjoy xxx
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