In early October 2023, Go Beyond supported a group to the Greek capital, Athens, for an Ancient Ruins-themed holiday, writes organiser Ian Callen.
We were a group of 11 guests and 5 supporting team members. The sky was blue and clear and the Greek people were friendly.
We were lucky enough to explore the Acropolis, with a treasure hunt around the site. We took a sunset trip along the Aegean coast to see Poseidon’s Temple.
There was a full day’s boat cruise from Athens to three different Greek islands – Hydra, Poros and Aegina.
We also took the funicular railway to the top of Mount Lycabettus for stunning, panoramic views of Athens.
On the final day, we visited the archaeological site of Amphiareion. We learned a lot about Greek mythology and how the 250 ruins became dedicated to certain gods.
Amelia Weldon, who writes poetry in her spare time, wrote the poem below, inspired by what she saw and how it made her feel.
Amelia takes time during her Greek holiday to write poetry
The Mythical Athens
From the mountains’ beauty to the sea’s vast views,
Athens, mysterious, its legends true,
The acropolis in ruin, still stands with grace, preserved, it captivates, a historic embrace.
Poseidon’s temple an incredible sight, spirits unknown dancing in the fading light.
The Aegean coastline, waves of blue stretching for miles, silhouettes in the evening light.
The Acropolis museum, stories to be told, stolen statues (English to blame) to mythical creatures bold,
Athena’s symbol an owl so wise, an olive branch a grand prize.
Ian fiddles with pictures, bringing them to life, as if from a different century,
A mirror box confuses, a photo bomb surprise, laughter and confusion, in my eyes.
Another day has come and gone with gentle music in a song,
We went up a mountain to see some views, came back with a surprise, so true,
A boat trip, a party, Greek islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina to explore, Greek dances and singing songs, Greek culture we adore.
The magical sunrise we’re all left in wonder,
As we gaze in awe, the day’s beauty we ponder
Archaeological sites, peaceful and serene, standing on a plinth, like a Greek statue, trying to get off, a hazard foreseen.
The old theatre a sight of grace, stag leaps performed, with careful steps we trace.
All those names, a tongue twister in motion, keen volunteers trying as they might, trying not to laugh at the sight.
Through the holiday fun and laughter we find, hearing rude and funny jokes, leaving no one behind.
Oh, how sunny, our days have been,
In Athens a Journey of memories we’ve seen.
ruins
Amelia leaning on the barrier on a boat cruise looking out onto the port of Hydra
