Chalkis to Voufolo 3 June

We were set for an early start from Chalki and the bell rang at 0500. When we had dropped the mooring line and put the gear in forward we were pulled back with great force to the jetty. Surprise to find that another mooring line got stuck in our propeller so it was only to put on the speedos and cyclops and dive under the boat to inspect and loosen the line. 

Inspection of the prop shaft and any leakage resulted in another disaster. The torch head was loose and fell down in the bilge. Not even Carl has so long and flexible arms to pick up the the torch head and as there was no water leakage these things could be recovered later with the braai tong.

We got away at 0615.

 

Leaving Chalki Marina at day break. 

The new high span bridge at Chalki connecting Evia with the mainland

After from the beginning a very pleasant ride we were hit by a violent down wind as we got close to our  destination Buffalo Bay.(Voufolo) For the last hour we were tumbled in the very unpleasant waves coming from all directions until we came into the shelter of the bay.

Leslie pointing in the direction of the wild water. 

Here we are tied up alongside the quay and nearest neighbour is the Taverna. We could step out of the boat onto the first table. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, this taverna was closed.

.. and a few ducks. Lots of cats in every harbour, but they keep the rats away!

There were lots of dogs In Chalkis. Not at all aggressive and not scabby looking. The dogs have a habit of attaching themselves to you as you walk past and keep tagging you all the way to the boat. It is like taking your own dog for a walk. I suppose they expect to get some food when you arrive at home.

View of inlet to Voufolo bay. The gusts of wind coming down the high mountains were incredible. We have since read that these gusts are common along the Evia Coast because of the high mountains. So next stop over to the mainland, which is flatter. 

We have noticed that the countryside is much drier here than northern Greece.

Olive groves everywhere. Was wondering how they harvest olives. Checked Google and it seems the best way to harvest olives is hand picking. There are apparently machines but the olives get damaged to do not have the same quality.

Took a walk up the opposite hill to take in the view of Voufolo, or buffalo, as we call it.

Maintenance and housekeeping. 

Voufolo is a beautiful place. A tiny village with two tavernas of which one was closed. It is the kind of place one dreams of finding. So genuine and unspoilt. We arrived at about 11 am and spent the whole day somehow, walking up the hill, swimming, sleeping and washing windows. We had a meal at a tavern owned by Nicos and his Moldavian wife, Stella, fish of course!

Stella's dog joining in the meal.