Yesterday we set off for the island capital Thira where we enjoyed a mooch around the Prehistoric Museum (3 Euro admission) it was very interesting with lots of pottery and other artifacts including some splendid wall paintings from houses that had been preserved by being buried in the volcanic eruption. Queene Mab was very taken by the little golden ibex that had been cast by the lost wax method, quite exquisite.
From there it was on to the Cathedral of the Candlemass, the principle Orthodox cathedral of the island which houses some wonderful wall paintings. Then an overpriced ouzo (6 Euros each) overlooking the caldera in the sunlight.
After some more exploring the twisty streets we found the alleged highest bar on the island for a glass of lovely chilled white wine with one of the best behaved of the islands dogs, sadly the view was the wrong side of the volcano for the sunset so we moved on to grab a quick chicken gyro at the Toast Club (?) good value at 9 Euros for what could be best described as three chicken doners with Tzatziki and chips in them, plus two portions of chips on the side.
To catch the sunset we climbed up the staircase to the Louis Bar where at least we got some nibbles to go with the expensive ouzo (6 Euro each). The sunset was splendid though all magentas and gold. We polished off the evening in Thira with a half litre of house wine (5.5 Euro) at he Ouzeria taverna which was serving the most wonderfully aromatic food.
However by the time we got back to Perissa the Soul Bar beckoned and we popped in for some cocktails, which were not bad value at 5 Euros each, Germany beat Turkey so all the locals were delighted too.
Today by contrast has been quite quiet as its so bloody hot, I enjoyed a long walk up the seafront followed by an alfresco lunch of feta salad. tinned giant beans and aubergines cooked in a rich tomato sauce and hot cheese dip (whey cheese, feta, olive oil, vinegar and chili, will have a go at making something similar when I get back) plus some of the local wine. Then a snooze in the air conditioned comfort of our room and out again.
Must dash I think there may be a Sexy Greek (Ouzo, lime and lemon juice, garnished with lime zest in an iced Margarita glass) waiting for me.
