A Journey to the Forgotten Islands

As the sun rose over the quaint village of Nydri, I found myself boarding a charming vessel, ready to embark on a journey to the forgotten islands of Kalamos and Kastos. The gentle hum of the boat’s engine was a soothing reminder of the many train journeys I’ve taken across Europe, where the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks would lull me into a state of serene anticipation. This time, however, the promise of azure waters and hidden coves awaited me.

Our first stop was the historic Cave of Papanikolis on Meganisi Island. As we approached, the sheer magnitude of the cave was awe-inspiring. It was easy to imagine the tales of submarines hiding within its depths during World War II. The water here was a crystalline blue, inviting us to dive in and explore. I couldn’t help but reminisce about the many hidden gems I’ve discovered on my train travels, each with its own story waiting to be uncovered.

The Allure of Kastos

After a refreshing swim, we set sail for the island of Kastos. This tiny gem, with its simple way of life, reminded me of the small villages I’ve passed through on my European rail journeys. With only around 50 permanent residents, Kastos exudes a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in today’s bustling world.

We wandered through the only village on the island, where time seemed to stand still. The locals greeted us with warm smiles, and I was reminded of the many kind souls I’ve met on my travels. As we made our way to one of the island’s unspoilt beaches, I felt a deep sense of contentment, much like the feeling of watching the countryside roll by from a train window.

Kalamos: A Natural Wonder

Our final destination was the island of Kalamos, a place where nature reigns supreme. The towering pine trees, clinging to the rocky cliffs, seemed to defy gravity as they reached out towards the sea. It was a sight that took my breath away, much like the majestic landscapes I’ve witnessed from the comfort of a train carriage.

We spent an hour exploring the main village, its unchanged harbor a testament to the island’s enduring charm. As I strolled along the waterfront, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the many harbors I’ve visited during my travels, each with its own unique character and history.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Nydri, passing by the islands of Scorpios, Scorpidi, Madouri, and Sparti. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea, and I was filled with a sense of nostalgia for the journeys I’ve taken and the memories I’ve made. This cruise, much like my beloved train travels, was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel and the joy of discovering hidden treasures along the way.