Walking into Weird Pet Land

The rooster beat the CTP in the alarm stakes and we were up for an early start to try and beat the heat

Usual fabulous healthy breakfast and we were off, albeit geographically challenged for the first 15 minutes, before finding the trail which was a surprising 3  kilometre hill walk on the road.

We probably outnumbered the cars and as for animals we heard 3 birds. 

Alas those numbers were to change at the top of the hill when we came across the ultimate mixed grill, spent with turkeys, sheep, goats and chickens, all guarded by a sleepy dog. Unlike many of the fields and farm land it was not drought stricken and had ample  food scattered around.

Next it was a road walk down into a tiny town Bel which consisted of no more than 10 houses and a mosque.

A little more road and then up onto the rocky trails and into some forests where we chatted to a couple of young Germans , with huge packs. They gave us a glimmer of hope when mentioning it was downhill for next 5 Kms – after we reached the next town.

Next town was a deserted goat farm occasionally visited by the owner, who just happened to be around herding his flock.

Left him and found the 650 foot down track and just looking from the top you wondered how the backpackers got up

It was a mix of rock scrambles, dirt , sharp rocks, soft edges and scree. Marking was abysmal and thankfully GPS guided us onto track on most occasions. 

Any wrong move, especially going down one leg at a time was fraught with danger and there was a couple of bum flops and plain old flops onto rocks to stay on or near the track. Jane suffered a few similar experiences.

It was around 33 all day in exposed heat and despite taking in plenty of water I am sure I was dehydrated or mildly sunstruck, as decision making was poor.

Reached the bottom and a welcoming little home shop where we rested and took on drinks. Just before arriving I was looking for a taxi, but because it was only 4 Kms with a couple of steep hills we went on.

First part on road was fine, but steep hills out of valley was a killer  and  emptied the tank. A bit of road walking in hot sun was ok, but once onto rocky areas with bad markings and poor balance it was a chore.

Found ruins but getting in with dicky leg was difficult and took a tumble and struggled to regain feet as all my energy was sapped.

I do recall some great beach views along the coast as we walked down to and through tne ruins.

Stumbled more than walked through ruins before coming to a dead end – in the shape of a reedy lake. Hailed a local who rowed us over for the cost of a beer, after a less than glamorous boat entry.

Walked to bus stop and waited 45 minutes for a ride, during that time engaged with a weird Russian walker whose desire to catch up later might not be our desire. 

Hothouses seemed to be the only form of agriculture  on the way back up beautiful mountain roads to our equally beautiful accommodation. 

Slight problem might be Sunday getting down winding narrow external staircase with luggage and a dicky knee.

It’s great room overlooking pool.

Jane repatched tne wound which is looking ok and hopefully a rest today will help.

Had a few drinks and got back some sense of normality before a beaut dinner – wonder if it is what the locals eat or it’s just tourist fare.

Went to bed at 830.

Hotel Rating – Sidyma

Position – off route in a rural setting on edge of village where ruins situated. 

Room –  converted garden shed with panelling top to bottom. No room for bags

Shower – good shower bit minimal hot water

Staff – friendly and helpful. Spoke some English 

Food – excellent choice, plenty of it, healthy choices 

Extras costs – none

Packed Lunch – soggy sandwich and can of cokepacked lunch taken.- got what we paid for.