Pedi and Beyond, Symi

When we arrived on Symi the weather was beautiful, but not quite the scorching Greek temps we’ve grown accustomed to over the years.

This changed rapidly! By the end of the trip it was almost too hot to have breakfast outside.

Don’t worry, we soldiered on through.

Feasting on thick, homemade Greek yogurt, local honey that tastes like orange, thyme and lavender, flakey pastries, fresh fruit and strong black coffee.

Looking out over the utterly unique Symi bay, reflected in the water below.

We decided to explore a little town we’d heard a lot about during our time on the island, Pedi.

The quieter alternative to Symi town itself (which we couldn’t really imagine, given how sleepy our little patch was!)

But of course they were absolutely right. What Pedi lacks in polish, it makes up for in charm.

Pastel houses leading down to pastel boats, dancing on the shoreline.

We explored the little ghost town, coming across the occasional soul – all of whom were local or hairy.

Or both…

Delighting in the bright, bold colours favoured by the islanders.

Sunnies

Yellow playsuit (also comes in a divine swimsuit)

Sandals // Basket

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We toured the coloured houses, complete with pretty pink creepers.

(The plants, not us.)

Befriended a few fishermen and their mum, with big smiles and the few Greek greetings we could muster.

They soon went back to their tasks and we wandered on like happy stray cats after a friendly scratch from a stranger.

It struck us that the houses and even the fishing boats here look more like children’s drawings of houses and fishing boats than the real thing.

Colours plucked straight from a new packet of crayons.

We stopped on the shore for a drink in the shade.

Before mustering up the energy to get to our next spot.

A pretty little bay, hidden up over the closest hill and down in the valley beyond.

We braved the heat and set off along the red dirt road.

Flanked by fragrant Greek herbs.

Leading all the way down to the glowing sea.

About 20 minutes later, we caught sight of our prize.

St. Nicholas bay.

One of the few sandy beaches on Symi, we opted instead for a spot on the cliff.

Better for jumping, you see!

Off the shoulder bikini

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After the long hot walk, there’s nothing quite like that first plunge into crystal clear water.

We swam, jumped and played for the rest of the morning.

Taking the occasional iced cappuccino break.

Coffee is something of a religion in Greece.

They like it strong and brewing it is an art form. If a Greek invites you for coffee, write off your afternoon. You’ll be there for some time!

Everything down to the stirring of it, while sitting comfortably looking out onto a doubtlessly beautiful view, is part of the sacred ritual.

My personal order? “Freddo cappuccino sketo”. (Iced cappuccino with no sugar.) If you like yours a little sweet (delicious especially as the coffee can be really pretty strong) ask for “freddo cappuccino metrio”.

“Efharisto” is thank you.