MILLY VOICE

October: usually known for blustery weather, falling leaves and an increase in caffeine consumption.

So, I decided to do things a little differently and go to Greece for a mini trip.

24 hours before my trip to Kefalonia, I was not anticipating the fact it would be a solo adventure. My good friend and fellow adventure buddy had had a nasty leg accident off a bike, (thank goodness she is okay) but it meant that I would be going on this trip solo.

Of course, I was miffed. She loves active adventure time like me, and I have known her since I was 4. After asking around if anyone else fancied going the next day (not always ideal for people’s planned holiday leave!) I settled, content, into the knowledge I would be island trotting alone.

But “solo” for me stands for solitude, and is very much part of my being. As a child (in fact in another Greek island: Zakynthos), my family dubbed the phrase “Milly walks her wall”, after I would venture, again at 4 years old, to solo explore the garden path and wall behind where we were staying. I was perfectly content, exploring without needing anyone else. The phrase has stuck ever since, with my dear Mother often still enquiring which wall I would be walking as I head to the next Mountain range.

This “wall” would be exploring Kefalonia, a beautiful and very historical island, and I was unaware of the significance of this trip.

Time to think. It is very important in our busy lives to sometimes take some time out in contemplation. The great philosophers did it, Descartes identified our very being through it, and yet somehow we never make time for it. Or we can be nervous to confront ourselves when forced to.

A lot has been going on with a country move, house move, job relocation and my dear Mother’s cancer journey facing new complications. Taking a moment to pause, as I have known in many race situations, enables you to take stock, and then continue stronger.

I made a small video (below) which encapsulates a few highlights of this adventure, and I really encourage you to take a trip on your own. I have a profession that surrounds me with people, and yet I have spent my life complementing that with much time alone, primarily to run, but also to travel and explore.

It does not have to be luxurious or expensive (it depends how you spend your time) but by doing your research, going a little off the beaten track and going by recommendation really helps. So here is my recommendation for you.

Kefalonia: I have been told by a local that the best time is September to mid October for out of season sun. It was beautifully quiet. Temperature is low to mid 20s, very much “shorts and t-shirt” weather. The water is cool but pleasant.

Accomodation: Meliti Waterfront Suites. Absolutely exceptional service and great location, on the seafront.

What to do: the hiking trails are well signposted - there are some great hills in the region! You must visit AntiSamos beach which is accessible by a beautiful path (more in the video)

Where to eat: lots of lovely tavernas, reasonably priced, on the waterfront. Great ice cream stalls too! I also would buy a selection of Greek food and eat in, which keeps down costs whilst still having an authentic Greek cuisine experience.

There is also an amazing Taverna at AntiSamos beach with THE best coffee I have had in a long time. I came here more than once, enjoying Greek yogurt and fresh watermelon cut in front of me.

More info about the trip can be found in the video - enjoy! Any questions, just ask.

Key links:

Meliti Waterfront Suites: ACCOMODATION >>

FATMAP hiking trail (customise this main route as you wish!) . So many places to explore around here - I wish I had had longer. ROUTE HERE >>

My friend Laura’s amazing wedding business (she is the reason I went to this island in the first place!): WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY >>