By Gemma Harris
Days off are better spent in the Med
Its that time of the season where charter mode is in full swing, you can taste the first day-off beer and you are more than ready to reap the benefits of being a yachtie again, exploring a new place. A mix of various countries and cultures, the Mediterranean is great for a day off. Beach lovers can’t get enough of the Greek islands, foodies flock to Spain whilst the night owls head to the islands and the culture seekers get involved in all the old towns. Full of culture, history, adventure and tasty menus the Mediterranean has something for every yachtie.
Valencia
As Spain’s underrated city it boasts interesting architecture and a full flavoured menu. Start the early morning with breakfast at the central market – one of Europes biggest. Continue your day on two wheels, cycling is truly the best way to explore this city, the reclaimed riverbed is a perfect landscaped cycle route, ‘Get Your Guide’ offers half day tours taking you around the highlights and ending up at the modern city of arts and sciences, Valencia’s cultural and architectural complex. Head out of the tourist bustle for dinner and into the Fishermans village of El Cabanyal, where you will find Casa Montana, one of the best (and oldest) tapas restaurants in Valencia.
Kotor
The luxurious Porto Montenegro will get you settled in, after a dip in the marina’s infinity pool take to the old town for some cobbled street wandering, set your pace by the coffee, gelato, pastries, pizza and or cocktail spots. To add some adventure to your day climb the city walls and hike up to the St Johns fortress for stunning views over the bay. For a well-deserved dinner check out Galion, situated on the waterfront it is the perfect setting with fresh seafood to end your day exploring.
Corfu
If you find yourself with a day off in between Greek island hopping, Corfu Town is a designated UNESCO heritage site and you will be able to see why. Hire a car or for a true taste of Greek driving grab a moped and head out from Gouvia Marina to the old town to explore. For hikers, complete a section of the Corfu Trail which covers the whole island. If that seems like too much for a day off then head to some of Corfu’s best beaches by car, particularly on the scenic west coast is Mirtiotissa, tucked under the steep cliffs. Throughout the day be sure to stop off at small tavernas along the way to indulge in some saganaki and a cold beer.
Photo © Gemma Harris
Mahon
Mahon offers up a great, chilled vibe for any day off. The fish market here is the perfect place to chill, eat tapas, drink beer and people watch. For those gin connoisseurs (or just the gin drinkers…) Mahon also has a gin distillery, Xoriguer where you can spend an hour or two. Aside from the capital, there is plenty to see and do throughout Menorca, the Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau is a great tranquil area for an afternoon walk, to explore the village, beach and wildlife spotting. For yachties wanting to spend their day off underwater instead of above, contact Merak Diving for a guided dive, they can offer up underwater caves, wrecks and reefs based out of Mahon.
Split
Back in the Adriatic, Croatia has plenty to do on any day off. If you are based in Split then why not take a day trip over to Hvar. Yes, you may have cruised here already but did you relax on a sun lounger with cocktails in hand or did you serve the cocktails…Luckily for yachties with just one day off, there are regular catamarans connecting you to Hvar. If a boat trip isn’t the top of your list to start a day off then explore Split, head to the Diocletian palace, quite simply the living heart of the city. Wander around the winding streets taking in all what daily life has there to offer from quiet passageways to bustling courtyards and everything in between you will be able to fill a day just taking it all in and maybe a spot of shopping at the popular market stalls. In the evening head to the waterfront, full of street performers, food and drink it is a great place to wrap up a day.
A big Thank You
to Gemma Harris for being our Guest Blogger this week! You can catch her at gemmaharris.com and follow her adventures at @gemmaharris3 on Instagram.