Monemvasia to Kiparissi

 Up early for a dip below the walled town and after breakfast on lower terrace we’re on the road by 8:30. Flattish route to start with along the coast with fine views of the other side of Monemvasia. Then the somewhat relentless uphill  starts and it goes on!

We stop for coke and iced coffee at a café frequented by elderly men and then resume the battle with the heat  and hills. Eventually  we make the stunning descent along a narrow road hewn out of the steep cliffs. Sheer drops in places and with dramatic views. C feeling the effect of the hills and the heat and we wait for an hour in some shade before being able to reach the hotel. Kiparissi is very remote and it’s mainly Greeks who are here. It is surrounded by steep mountains and has beautifully clear water. Surprising number of tavernas which we start to frequent!