11 May 2025 - Gerakas

A varied day, with a relaxed morning waiting to be able to get access to water. Tanks filled, we left around midday.

More views of the medieval village as we departed 


The sea was decidedly choppy, so progress was slow, but our destination was only about ten miles away.

Gerakas had been recommended to us by various people and it didn’t disappoint. It’s a lush green ria. Further in, it’s very reminiscent of The Lake District. The entrance is very difficult to spot from out at sea. A dogleg calms the waves, as you come into a delightful little village.








We joined lots of Greek folk in a packed family run taverna, enjoying their Sunday lunch. It was just as well we arrived as most of them were finishing. The lady of the house was very proud of her home made spinach pie, which she told us, was quite a work out for the shoulders. Her husband is a Leeds United supporter, so is supper excited about their promotion to the premier league. 

The story of Gerakas was written at the back of the menu:

The Natural port of Gerakas had been an unknown shelter for the sailors for many years.

The Greek literature writer Antonis Karkavitas narrates a tragic story about how the experienced captain, captain Valmas bought his own fishing boat. One day he decided to go fishing with his 18 years old son Giorgis. Captain Valmas soon fell asleep in his little cabin leaving Giorgis as the "master" of the vessel. But then a terrible storm broke out. Young Giorgis didn't wake his father up and tried to control the boat by himself. A lighting broke the mast and the noise wake up captain Valmas. He tried to take control of the boat but in vain. Huge waves were about to swallow the small boat. Suddenly his son started shouting: "A port dad! There is a port right in front of us!" His father in one moment believe that his son lost his mind and wanted to lead them on sharp rocks. So he grabs a knife and stabs young Giorgis to death. But suddenly as Karkavitsas describes:

"A small round port with green hillsides, "happy" white houses, castle ruins is opened just in front of him...".

That's how sailors found out about Gerakas.

Distance today -        12 miles

Distance this year - 651 miles 

Tricia (and Steve) 

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