Our adventure started with a challenge — leaving the little village of Volissos. Small roads, a big car… what could go wrong? 😅 But we managed to find our way out and hit the route we wanted. We headed towards the Caves of Agio Galas, but before reaching them, we just had to stop at some beautiful spots — especially the beaches. We’re absolute sea lovers, after all! 🌊

We discovered fantastic beaches with smooth round pebbles, stunning trees, and untouched nature.

In front of a small church, surrounded by impressive rocks, I thought: “Can I jump in naked?” But then a nun appeared — so, better not! 😅 “The sea is like oil,” as the Greeks say. For us, it wasn’t cold at all — what a blessing.

Back on the road again, driving towards the next beach,

Stunning views

I feel lucky with my tank of a machine — Miss Crema, the Toyota Land Cruiser — she climbs every hill easily and safely! But oh my, the village roads… 🤯 so narrow between the houses that I was sweating: “Will I make it?” We squeezed through with just one centimeter to spare on each side — pffiew! Don’t laugh! Twenty years of driving experience, thank you very much! 😄

Crossing the village, I noticed men sipping their coffees, staring at me with disbelief. A blonde curly-haired woman? In the middle of nowhere? From Holland? With two dogs in this big car?!! I could almost hear their thoughts. Their minds must’ve been full of question marks — it made me laugh inside. At least they had a new story to tell at the café table that day!

We continued along narrow roads and steep hills to reach the next small beach.

A few fishermen watched as I parked right on the pebbles. We jumped out, sat by the shore, soaked up the sun, and I started writing the first part of this blog. We enjoyed the quiet October sunshine — how lucky we are. It reminded me that real happiness hides in the smallest, often costless, moments. What more could we want? The sea, the sun, my beautiful dogs, and this amazing atmosphere.

After a while, we continued towards the Cave of Agios Galas. The route itself was breathtaking. I stopped often to admire the mountain and sea views — believe me, in real life it’s even better than the pictures!

_\*on the right side of themiddle rock is the cave located, on top is a village_ When we arrived, we parked under the olive trees. The area was wonderful, green and refreshing.

We climbed the stairs for even more beautiful views, and I picked some herbs for my tea tonight — because joy truly lives in the little things. 🌿

Bella, my little fox, was on “Expedition Robinson” mode again — curious, fearless, climbing walls, staring down cliffs. I trust her instincts, but still — pffiew! My heart skips a beat watching her there.

Sunny, on the other hand, is older and slower, but so happy with every place we visit. I can see her smiling, even when she’s tired. Tonight she’ll get extra supplements — tomorrow, a rest day for her.

Unfortunately, the cave itself was closed. But the surroundings were already worth the visit. So many beautiful nature.

_\* Pictures from above the cave_

After a small picnic break, we continued to the thermal springs of Agiasmata, in the north of Chios. The route was wonderful again.

On the left, we could see the island of Psara (Ψαρά),

while the road led us through forests of tall pine trees. The air was humid and fresh — I stopped often to take photos and simply breathe it all in. We passed abandoned houses and even an old mine where they used to extract antimony in the 1950s.

Finally, we reached Agiasmata Thermal Springs. The sea was crystal clear, the area stunning. We wandered around, enjoying the calm, and found the small spring — not really worth jumping in, but still charming in its own way.

By then, the dogs were tired, and my legs felt heavy from all the walking, climbing, and exploring. It was 5 p.m. — time to drive back to our temporary home in Volissos.

On the way, the landscape turned to burned hills. Sadly, the island has suffered two big fires recently, and much of its nature has been destroyed. 😢 The smell of ash still lingered in the air.

Yet even among the blackened ground, I could see small grasses and trees starting to grow again. There’s always hope.

I have to say — God, Allah, Boedha or whoever you believe in — what an incredible job you did creating this island. Every day here leaves me speechless, amazed by your work.

Back home, Marble the cat was waiting for us, purring happily. We were happy too — time to cook, rest, and relax for the night.

All photos are my own. 📸