Walking in the Wilderness

We were walking again today and it was a glorious day so I was glad we set off at 8.00am!  I had chosen the Kathikas Nature Trail but in the other direction than I had done with Nicky and Rachel the other week because I was guessing no-one else had probably trodden that path in the interim and I was afraid I would not be able to see where the path was in places.

As you can see there are parts which are really overgrown.  Two weeks ago you could see this metal bench - today unless you knew it was there you wouldn't have known.  John was helping Louise because it was damp and slippery underfoot and she had smooth soled trainers on and was afraid of tumbling over.

It is a short but challenging walk with the most incredible views which gave us ample opportunity to stop, catch our breath and take photographs.  Alysia isn't keen on unfamiliar bugs, snakes and iggies and also struggles a bit with heights but was determined and managed it and then declared she had actually enjoyed pushing herself.

This view is of Peyia and the coastline beyond which is a fabulous viewing point after you have managed the traverse across the side of the mountain where two land slides have rendered the trail practically invisible.  At one point there was a large boulder blocking our way but John pushed it and we watched it tumbling, tumbling, tumbling down the ravine which acted as a stark reminder to us of what could happen if we missed our footing!!!

The second part of the Nature Trail is a sharp uphill on a track which under normal circumstances is like loose shale.  I decided we would be better to avoid this and take the winding road up which meets the Nature Trail at the top near where there is an old bench with a lovely viewing point.  We didn't stop there because Malc and John were more interested in looking at the renovations of the house which is at the summit!

We completed the walk by going via our favourite holiday home - the converted bus which is tucked away down a little track and which we stumbled upon last year by accident.  It must have one of the most fabulous views anywhere.  Here we encountered a shed-load of wild asparagus and started to collect so that we could all have some for our breakfasts on our return to Droushia.  It is quite addictive once you have got your eye in you can't stop seeing it!!!

It was the Grand National this evening so we were having a barbeque late afternoon and then watching the race with our neighbours.  After a lot of indecision I had plumped for Mediterranean Chicken Skewers from Shuks and some Lamb Koftas along with some ordinary sausages and sweetcorn (which was being cooked indoors) little roastie hasselback potatoes, coleslaw and rolls.  Add to that the fabulous spare ribs which Nicky brought over along with a tangy lemon cheesecake and a Greek Salad from Ellen and we were well sorted!

We were able to sit outside for our food but retired to the Conservatory for the National.  We had run a sweep stake and Richard took first prize, Mark second and Nicky third.  A lovely evening all round.