With a stiff wind over our stern, we headed to Syros. Syros is a blend of the urban life of the city and quiet coastal villages. Its primary city, Ermoupoli, is the regional capital with a rich history, opera house, two cathedrals and port large enough for ship building and repairs. We spent two nights on Syros. I rented a car so we could get around. Since my insurance doesn’t cover overseas rentals, I had to opt for the insurance offered by the rental car company. We paid for it out of the group kitty.
Rather than dock in the city, George chose what was to become my favorite port of this trip, Finikas. Finikas is worthy of an Ernest Hemingway novel. The marina, with showers and a cafe, sits at one end of a 600-yard long semi circle harbor. From there, you can walk the boutique hotel and taverna lined waterfront to which the cutest brightly colored fishing boats are tied. As you stroll, occasional steps lead down to the the narrow beach and its free umbrellas. Sailboats swing at anchor. Being so late in the season, no tavernas were more than 25% filled at dinnertime. The atmosphere was peaceful bliss.
For supper, some chose to visit Ermoupoli, but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to check out the waterfront restaurants at Finikas Port! The attraction was too much. When the time came I set out wandering along the waterfront, passing fishermen mending their nets, a marine supplier, and checking out menus as I went.
I settled upon an open air spot with lots of open tables. The server was incredibly pleasant. I sipped a glass of red wine and awaited my meal. And then, my luck turned gold and just as I hoped, the magic happened!
A trio of local musician friends sat down right across from me and began practicing, whilst waiting for their own meal! THIS is what travel is all about. It is priceless moments like this!
The following day we did a little exploration of Ermoupoli. We strolled the steep streets, with their pastel painted Italian inspired buildings, checking out shops, and spending a little time at the Apollo Theatre, built in 1864. More music! A pianist was practicing!
Then it was time to explore Ermoupoli’s cathedrals. One of them was closed, but I found a cliffside restaurant with a commanding view just a short walk away! Terrific lunch spot.
Next, we drove to St. Nicholas Church, a cathedral built in 1870. A Greek-Australian wedding was taking place!
If I had to pick favorite stops on this voyage, I would choose Ano Koufonisi, and Finikas, on Syros! Love love love them!
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