Balkanesque & Asia Minoresque: The other Greece

We’ve reached the end of our 'triad'; we can't say goodbye without writing about Greece.  

Travelling around Greece is more fulfilling if I avoid the tourist spots and head where my heart guides me. [I understood this over the years.]

 

There are two things that we cannot disregard when dealing with Greece – one is the glorious food, and the other is the sea.

 

When you enter Drama from Stavros, Giouras Tavern is on your right. Family-owned, this restaurant is very light-vibed. The food is tasty; you’ll even try specialities, like glistrída.

Right in the heart of Delta Nestos Natural Park sits Porto Kalli – such a wordplay! You sit, watch the sea and the fishermen, and take it slowly. Your senses will be surprised by the taste of the food served here.

Ψαροταβέρνα Στράτος sits by the sea; it is a family restaurant, but locals gather here to enjoy the atmosphere and the great food. They make some great portokalopita.

A breakfast or brunch at Zopyron will satisfy at least vegans and vegetarians; however, it is much more than that. Right downtown Alexandroupoli, you’ll unwind and be present. Don’t forget to order a chocolate and orange cake.

 

Last year, we stopped for a swim at Fanari. The beach was a bit dirty and not spectacular, but it was an unforgettable swim because it felt so good! Marcel and I swam in the rain until the lifeguard whistled us out.

This year we found our favourite Greek beach. We drove for a while, descended by rope, and ended up on Marmaritsa Beach. You can see Samothraki in all its splendour from here; we loved it!

 

What other places caught our eye? Where did we dream sweet dreams?

I confess. I pinned Drama to our itinerary for Agia Varvara Springs and Coffee Berry. We had tried the coffee in Cyprus and were curious to try it again, as Marcel had enjoyed it so much! Well, we were not disappointed. 

Agia Varvara Park was so quiet! We even found banana trees! It was a great escape from the murmur coming from the restaurants we passed on the way.

Another surprise was Xanthi. I’m still overwhelmed by the steepness of the streets! Parking or manoeuvring your car isn’t easy – luckily, Marcel’s driving skills are excellent! Walking is encouraged – you can experience the town's energy better. We even watched some beach volleyball games as we strolled along the history of the place.

We left the heights of Xanthi for the sea and stumbled upon tens of flamingos in the Delta Nestos Natural Park on our way to Fanari. It was a surprise, as I didn’t expect to see them outside winter/early spring!

 

One more thing about Xanthi – Rising Sun Studios is a fantastic place to relax and rest. Plus, you can’t beat the view!

Another great overnight was Romilia Guesthouse in Xilagani, where everything is friendly – from the welcome to your room.

 

So, what should I say? Until next time, Greece!