08 August, 2019
With seemingly untouched pine woods, quayside tavernas and streets dotted with local men playing chess and sipping coffee, Spetses feels untainted by tourism. Private cars aren't allowed here, so people get about by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle and scooter.
This alternative street life hypnotised me instantly. After checking in at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, I wonder how on earth I could discover the island on foot in the August heat.
Mere hours later, I'm driving a quad bike - my first ever quad experience - thinking how grateful I am for not choosing a bicycle or a donkey to carry my camera equipment up the islands winding hillside curves.
It takes as little as three hours to drive around the whole island - and that's going slowly. To soothe my sun-roasted skin, I stop for a dip at one of the many picturesque bays, each one more mesmerising than the last. Under the shade of an ancient eucalyptus tree, I take a moment to really appreciate the beauty of Spetses.
Back at the hotel, I soon learn why the Poseidonion has been a favourite among Athens' high society and affluent travellers since it opened in 1914. I'm blown away by Greek hospitality, and enjoy a tasting menu of quality local produce.
I bathe in the warmth of sunset from the aptly named On the Verandah restaurant terrace. As I study yachts docking below, my mind turns to the enveloping bed that waits in my room. Spetses has stolen my heart.
