Italy and Greece Day 13: Cape Sounion

July 14, 2024

From the Central Hotel Terrace Bar in Athens …

It’s Sunday and we’ve been at this for almost two weeks! There is a certain routine to this kind of touring … breakfast at the hotel, morning sightseeing stops, lunch on your own or with the group, afternoon sightseeing or free-time, dinner with the group, and an evening glass of wine or two. And even though my days at home are also kind of repetitive, I do kind of enjoy my home routine. But being able to step away from the comforts of the home routine every so often is really good for me. I enjoy getting away, spending time with my fellow travelers, and seeing people and places out in the world.

We’re on the bus around 8:30a heading south on the Leof. Athinon Sounio highway passing the many coves and beaches on the way to Cape Sounion. It’s hot early at 88F/31C and the beachgoers are already cooling in the sea.

Home to the Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion stands on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. The Temple of Poseidon is a beautiful example of classical Greek architecture. In ancient times the site served as a strategic lookout for protecting Athens from maritime invasions.

By 1p we are back in Athens. Michelle, Mallory, and I enjoy lunch at Liondi Traditional Greek Restaurant in the Plaka. Dolmadakia stuffed grape leaves. Saganaki fried cheese. And traditional kebab, but we forgot to take a picture.

Then Sophie sends a text. Mallory’s sister Jordan just arrived from Boston Logan. It’s a surprise for Mallory when Sophie brings Jordan to the restaurant. Everyone cheers when the sisters unite. Jordan is here to join us for the cruise portion of the trip.

After dinner I head up to the Terrace Bar of the Central Park with Michelle, Greg, Sophie for cocktails and a stunning sunset over Athens.

Tomorrow we board the Celestyal Discovery for our 5-day Aegean Island cruise!