Mount Athos

Discipline disappeared immediately with Steve’s absence and it was a 6 minute late start for the bus trip.

A generally quiet ride down to Ouranoupoli but Rob and Phil did discuss some big issues and eventually agreed a bed divider was the answer to a good night’s sleep ensuring both parties “stayed in their own lane”.

Boarded the Athos Sea Cruises boat and headed off, down the west coast of the Mount Athos peninsula (always at least 500 metres off the coast as it was banned for women to be within that limit of the various monasteries we passed).

There was a learned discussion amongst the brethren that concluded that in the event of the boat sinking the women would have to tread water 500m from shore until a rescue vehicle could be organised.

Apparently, heavy church taxes in the 15th century reduced significantly the number of monasteries. Currently there are 20 monasteries on the peninsula

One of the highlights of the cruise was David’s special anniversary present purchased for Annie. - Greg DellaLæs mere