Our Greek island-hopping adventures began in Santorini, the most touristic (and one of the most beautiful) islands in the Cyclades. From there a quick boat ride to Folegrandros, much less touristic, but not exactly undiscovered. Onwards to the more remote Fourni Islands. Our last stop on what became our gradual ‘escape from civilization’, was the smallest Greek Island. Upon hearing about this unknown island from a well traveled Italian couple, both my Italian and I were intrigued. Several days, three islands and four boats later, we arrived to Marathi.
Could there be a place more removed from the world than Marathi? I imagined not. The population consists of two families who own the three tavernas. We decided to stay in the more upscale of the three, it was our honeymoon after all. Meanwhile, I was determined to find out as much as I could about the life and history of the island. Did I succeed in our three day visit? Not so well. I learned the most from a Polish waitress who worked for the pirate. Yes, there did live a pirate on the island, one of the three inhabitants in the winter season. The secrets of Marathi will remain buried.
In what felt like the middle of nowhere, we were undoubtedly detached from all manners of distractions. Aside from an occasional imposing yacht, an island in itself, docking in the neighboring waters. And then there was one surprising night of Greek music and dancing in our taverna… who knew we were on a private party island? The greatest calm was found at the old settlement, high on a hill above the harbour, once home to a dozen or so inhabitants before WWII.
What went on in this space so many years ago?
Unfortunately the lonely wild goat did not prove a helpful tour guide.
Only the church stands proudly intact at it’s vantage point.
It was here that we watched our last Greek sunset. Perhaps the most magical of all.
Until the next time.
[…] After exploring as much as was possible, the rough seas subsided, we bid farewell to the locals and fellow pioneers, and set out to continue our journey. In search of islands still more remote… […]
Kasia I have been reading about all your amazing honeymoon adventures in Greece but this island is my favourite. The pictures are simply stunning and who knew such a deserted place could host such a great party?! Magical. Love the sunset (dreaming of greece now!)
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There’s something so uniquely magical about being lost in the world. Greece sets a perfect stage.
Looks lovely! Brings back memories. 🙂
Hi Lara! Have you been to Marathi? I imagine it was much more ‘remote’ years ago before the yachts discovered it. But lovely nonetheless!
Love it!
I was there when my friends renewed their marriage vows at the old village in 2002.
(Would ‘the pirate’ be an Englishman called Matt, by any chance? I know he was smitten with the place … )
A beautiful place to renew wedding vows!
The pirate I met is a Greek man who has lived on the island for many decades, his family is one of the first to settle there. No Matt to be seen…
Your honeymoon looks an absolute dream, and you in your dress – breathtaking. I’m so happy for you, Kasia!
Thank you my dear! I have moments in which it all still feels like a dream.
Oh so dreamy…