Life in the Slow Lane - Spetses, Greece For Suitcase

With seemingly untouched pine woods, quaint quay-side tavernas and streets dotted with local men playing chess and sipping coffee, Spetses feels untainted by tourism. Private cars aren’t allowed here, so people get about by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle and scooter.

This alternative street life hypnotised me instantly. After checking in at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, I wonder how on earth I could discover the island on foot in the August heat.
Mere hours later, I’m driving a quad bike – my first ever quad experience – thinking how grateful I am for not choosing a bicycle or a donkey to carry my camera equipment up the islands winding hillside curves.

Life in the Slow Lane - Spetses, Greece For Suitcase Magazine

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It takes as little as three hours to drive around the whole island – and that’s going slowly. To soothe my sun-roasted skin, I stop for a dip at one of the many picturesque bays, each one more mesmerising than the last. Under the shade of an ancient eucalyptus tree, I take a moment to really appreciate the beauty of Spetses.

Back at the hotel, I soon learn why the Poseidonion has been a favourite among Athens’ high society and affluent travellers since it opened in 1914. I’m blown away by Greek hospitality, and enjoy a tasting menu of quality local produce.

I bathe in the warmth of sunset from the aptly named On the Verandah restaurant terrace. As I study yachts docking below, my mind turns to the enveloping bed that waits in my room. Spetses has stolen my heart.