As is often the case when camping it was an early night and an early morning. After another good sleep I was awake early. The yacht was still OK out in the bay so I prepared myself for brekky and departure.
I decided not to wait for bread rolls to arrive and used my remaining eggs, bacon and tomato for scrambling. I was straight onto the coffee before the rest of brekky was in the pan. After the first coffee was consumed the scrambled, bacon, tomato and eggs were ready. As I enjoyed the scrambled goodness the next coffee was on its way.
Another good breakfast, this time BBQ sauce not required - not on scrambled eggs.
I had delayed departure in the hope that all clothes were completely dry before putting into the DryBags……wet clothes would only make everything else wet in there…….
Unfortunately the overnight dew had moistened everything and I waited as long as possible before packing.
Based on my predictions I departed Erodios Camp on the limit to make Diros Caves before closing time (according to the Internet….)…..
Looks familiar - packed, loaded and ready - yacht looks good too.
After I departed I was not mucking around. They were beautiful roads and very enjoyable with very few cars. I gave it some for as long as I could before I realised I wouldn't make it in time….
I slowed down and enjoyed the ride a little more while still heading to Diros Caves regardless. Who knows what might be there when I arrive.
I arrived at Diros Caves around 2:50pm and it was still open (despite the times available on the internet suggesting it should have closed).
After purchasing my ticket I missed the next available boat so had to wait for the next tour.
The boats used for the tour.
Me (all dressed up) ready for the next tour.
As we headed off.
Within the caves.
Most of the trip it is clear how shallow the caves are. Although the water is crystal clear you could probably fall out and stand up without any trouble.
More of the caves.
When you struggle to see the bottom you wonder how deep it is…..
When you see the buoys and ropes you realise it must be deep…..
The flotation buoys are because it is very deep.
In some areas the water is well over 30 metres deep - hence the safety equipment.
The boat trip gives only an impression of how amazing the cave network is, or must be. It is obvious that the route has been banged or knocked out of the underground system - really quite impressive though.
The boatmen occasionally fall in the water when the stalactites they use to push off to move the boat along unexpectedly break.
Since the staff on the boat were only doing Greek language descriptions, every now-and-then the Greek passengers who were fluent in English would help with some translations. On the way out of the caves I met some of the translators - a Greek couple who were excited and impressed regarding my travels (I am sorry I can't remember both their names - her name was Nancy …)
Nancy and her friend outside Diros Caves.
Apart from a couple of other wonderful places they recommended (maybe later), they suggested Monemvasia as a place to see. I decided I would try for Monemvasia since it was within reach that day.
I continued on after Diros Caves southward, before turning inwards to Monemvasia. On the way I saw a shipwreck (internet is down and I can't confirm factual details at this point). On the way it was a fabulous road before heading inland to the other (eastern) coastline for Monemvasia.
Shipwreck of Dimitrios near Gytheio.
It was a really ride to enjoyable road to Monemvasia through the countryside. It continues to surprise me how few cars are on most of the roads. Upon arriving in Monemvasia I was relieved to find somewhere to stay that was a good price and close to town and the old castle.
The view of Monemvasia from very close to the hotel.
Filoxenia Hotel was close to the Town Centre and well serviced, with quite a good view so I was happy to take a room there for the night….or two,
After checking in I was happy to see what options were available within the compact town centre of Monemvasia for dinner. I managed to find some dinner near the port and was then able to relax with a drink or two, nearby the hotel on my way home.
Monemvasia is very relaxed…and may need to consider that…..
(This update (although it took ages) is thanks to the WiFI at Club Vass, Vassiliki Beach)