The Old Phoenix

My favourite place in the world to go on retreat is Yellowpoint Lodge. Every time I walk up over the sandstone bank and take in the view of the channel and the islands I feel at peace and very much at home. Part of the appeal is the casual atmosphere, the great food and the ability to do absolutely nothing if I want. We have landed in a place that reminds me very much of Yellowpoint. After our gruelling 7 hour hike down the Gorge we took a short ferry ride and a motorboat taxi to arrive at The Old Phoenix. It's just over the hill from Loutro on the southern side of Crete and the only thing here is the resort. For the past 2 days we have done very little other than eat, sleep, read, and swim. The water is crystal clear, the food is fantastic, and the weather is hot and sunny. Tonight we walked over the hill to Loutro, to check out the town and find some supper. Appetizers, mains, wine and dessert came to 35€ for the three of us. Incredible! I had to check the bill twice to make sure we weren't undercharged. Tomorrow we're going to try to swim with the local sea turtles in the morning before heading out to do some more hiking before it gets too hot. If only it were closer, the Phoenix would be my new favourite retreat.
Susan