Day 3: Gorge Walks and a Pearl Anniversary

This morning, we set out for a light hike through Imbros Gorge.

Hiking uphill and back down might have been a bit much for us these days, so we took a taxi to the top and enjoyed the easier route — just walking down.

The weather was perfect: sunshine, but not too hot, with a comfortable breeze. The trail was peaceful and scenic.

At one point, we even had to pause for a herd of sheep passing through the path — a charming and unexpected moment that made us smile.

You can watch the video from here.

After the hike, we stopped for a well-earned beer to quench our thirst. We also had a bit of lunch, though unfortunately, the food wasn’t as good as we’d hoped. But that’s often the case with places located right along popular hiking trails — it serves its purpose, and we didn’t mind too much.

Back in town, we decided to try a different beach from the day before.

It was a small bay, quiet and calm — just what we needed for a relaxing afternoon.

And then came the evening question: Where should we eat tonight?

There didn’t seem to be anything particularly exciting nearby... but wait — today is our 30th wedding anniversary!  

We couldn’t let it pass without celebration.

Our plan had been to dine at our favorite restaurant on Crete, Vrisi, on this special day — but since we couldn't make it there tonight, we ended up celebrating our anniversary at a different location instead.

We found a place that sounded interesting: a local restaurant in the nearby village of Anopolis, just 10 minutes away by car.

As I was getting ready and about to put on my earrings, my husband surprised me with a gift — a new pair of earrings, just for our pearl anniversary. They were beautiful: small gold flowers with a Japanese pearl in the center, delicately designed to resemble ume, the plum blossom. Simple, elegant, and so thoughtful. I instantly fell in love with them — I could easily imagine wearing them with a kimono, too.

When we arrived at the restaurant, the place was full of local people — always a good sign.

Following the waiter’s recommendation, we started with a dish of local greens, slightly bitter, a bit like spinach — and very tasty.

I had lamb cooked in a traditional style, and my husband chose grilled tuna. Both were simple but delicious.

On the way back to our hotel, we spotted wild goats on the roadside — a perfect, slightly magical end to a special evening.