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Olympia: Exploring the Birthplace of the Olympic Games

After wrapping up our careers as equestrians, we knew we had to keep fitness and sports a central part of our lives. And what better place to celebrate that than in Olympia, Greece—the historical birthplace of the Olympic Games?

A Delicious Greek Lunch and Family Fun

We started the day with a delicious Greek lunch, where there was plenty of attention for the girls and a tasty dessert too. Travel Tip: Try Greek yogurt with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon—it’s an absolute must when you’re in Greece.

Walking Through Ancient History

Fueled and ready, we dove into history. The girls loved exploring the ancient ruins, especially the ones with poses and pictures showing what things looked like centuries ago. We must admit—we enjoyed them just as much.

From running and boxing to pretend-wrestling among the ruins, we immersed ourselves in the ancient Olympic spirit, marveling at the incredible statues and architectural wonders around us. We even took a tour through the archaeological museum, and once again, our eyes were wide with awe.

Career Change? Maybe Not Yet!

For a brief moment, we joked about applying to be museum attendants—just sitting on a chair all day and telling people not to touch anything. But honestly, sitting inside all day just isn’t for us anymore.

Camping by the Sea and a Sunset to Remember

Tonight, we’re parked at a beachside lot, as driving further to the next destination—reportedly an amazing campground—is just a bit too far. Mirre and Diede are playing on the beach while Johan prepares dinner and Jinte is crafting something creative nearby.

One funny moment: a car nearby has all its windows covered with jackets and blankets. As Mirre and Diede walk back from the beach, Mirre casually says to Johan, “I think those two are about to… you know.” Jinte overhears and asks what that means. A quick mini sex education session follows, to which she hilariously replies, “In that car?!” Laughter breaks out. What surprises her isn’t the idea of sex—it’s the location! Moments later she asks, “Will a baby be born in the car too?” Smart girl—always connecting the dots!

Capturing the Magic of the Moment

During dinner, Jinte expresses her wish to take a photo with the sunset. She wants to include Papa, Tinus, and herself. We made it just in time to capture that beautiful moment.

How do you think the photo turned out?

Our time in Olympia was filled with laughter, amazement, and meaningful family moments—a perfect combination of cultural exploration and fun. Stay tuned for our next adventure as we head to what’s been hyped as one of the best campsites in Greece!

Elea Beach: An Unexpected Adventure in Paradise

We had already heard plenty of great stories about Elea Beach, and we were excited to experience it for ourselves. However, the journey to this hidden gem wasn’t entirely smooth. Especially the last part of the drive was a bit tricky. Mirre hadn’t driven in a while, and though we took turns driving on our previous trip, the thought of getting behind the wheel again felt increasingly daunting. It’s funny how thoughts can snowball in your mind.

A déjà vu moment from our previous trip—back when Johan was recovering from strep throat—motivated Mirre to think, “Let’s just go for it!” After all, if something happens to one of us, we both need to be able to handle the campervan on our own.

Nearing our destination, Mirre confidently drove through a puddle, thinking that driving too slowly might get us stuck. Johan, however, would have taken it slow and careful. We often think differently—opposites attract, right?—but this time we didn’t communicate our thoughts. Hidden beneath the seemingly harmless puddle, a rock caused a dramatic jolt and loud noise. Something underneath the camper now seems loose.

We were both startled, and Mirre instantly thought, “I’m never driving again!” But after the emotions settled, we carried on in search of a safe spot to park. Johan optimistically drove toward what looked like a perfect open field. Unfortunately, it turned into a muddy trap—we got stuck again. That’s when we decided: Next time, we’re getting a 4×4 camper!

This time, we managed to free ourselves without any outside help and found a secure, paved place to park the van. The rest of our stay at Elea Beach was truly magical.

Life at Elea Beach

We spent our days relaxing on the beach, making our signature “witch soups,” and catching up on work. Interestingly, there are people who’ve been staying here all winter. In many ways, it’s like a free campsite community. It’s fascinating to see the wide variety of travelers: some arrive in massive tour buses converted into campers—sometimes with trailers in tow—while others live modestly in rusty Volkswagen vans with their families of four.

Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zone

The girls had been talking nonstop about wanting to go horseback riding. It’s definitely outside our comfort zone, but as we read every night in Diede’s favorite book: “Sometimes you just have to be a little bit brave.”

We booked a guided tour and ended up taking an incredible ride through the forest and along the beach. Diede developed a little crush on our guide Costa—just look at the photos and you’ll see! The experience turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable, and we’ve come away with yet another set of beautiful travel memories.

Elea Beach offered us more than just sun and sea—it gave us stories, challenges, laughter, and the kind of moments that truly make a road trip unforgettable.

Exploring Romanos: Family Adventures by the Beach

Our journey began with a small detour — we took the wrong road. A big truck made the same mistake, but with heavy rain expected that night, we preferred to find a secure and solid camping spot. We turned back and arrived at the scenic location we originally had in mind.

Stunning Views and a Private Beach

What a view! From our new spot, we had panoramic vistas and a lovely beach right in front, perfect for the kids. Though we were parked just off the road, it felt safe and stable. The girls spent the entire day playing school. That evening, as Jinte went to bed, she told Johan, “I’m pretty sure that when we return home, I won’t have to go back to school—because I’m really learning everything here. At school, I only played, but with you, I’m actually learning to read.”

This led to a heartwarming conversation about how important play is for learning, and how much children absorb while having fun. Afterwards, we all tucked in for a peaceful night’s rest.

Sunshine and Seaside Discoveries

The next day was sunny and beautiful. We played “school” again, dried flowers between magnetic tiles, and in the afternoon, we relaxed at a serene, sheltered beach. It was the perfect spot to stay out of the wind and dive into nature. Between the rocks, we discovered all sorts of tiny creatures like hermit crabs and small shore crabs.

Diede quickly got soaked and came back to warm up with mom, only to run off again, eager to keep discovering and digging in the sand.

One Last Night, One Big Adventure

The final night before our departure, heavy rain poured down. The next morning, as we tried to drive off, Mirre thought, “We really need to go straight forward, or we’ll get stuck.” She didn’t say it out loud, and Johan turned the wheel. Yep—we got stuck.

After some digging and generous help from our friendly neighbors, we finally managed to get the van out. “Good thing we all share the same hobby,” joked one of them. Phew!

Next stop: Elea Beach.

Methoni: Discovering the Magic of a Historic Ruin

Time to explore some fascinating history! We arrive at the breathtaking ruins of Methoni, a place that immediately transports us back in time. Our daughter Jinte has now mastered the difference between a castle and a ruin—so we’re swiftly corrected whenever we get it wrong.

That afternoon, we embark on a wonderful treasure hunt through history. We wander through crumbling buildings and mysterious tunnels, soaking in the beauty and imagining what life was like here centuries ago. The atmosphere is enchanting, and we are completely captivated by our surroundings. What a fantastic afternoon!

Camping with a View of the Methoni Ruins

We’re lucky enough to be parked at a spot where we have a direct view of the stunning ruins. We’ve seen the friendly French couple next to us several times during our journey. Although they speak little English and we speak barely any French, translation apps help us share a smile and conversation.

After dinner, we enjoy some playtime in the nearby playground—thanks to that extra hour of daylight, we can truly make the most of every evening. As night falls, the ruins light up beautifully, creating a magical and unforgettable scene. This is exactly why we came here!

Continuing the Journey Through Greece

The next morning, we take our time departing. Savoring every last moment in this incredible location, we begin to make our way upward along the coast. Methoni has left a lasting impression, and we’re filled with anticipation for the next adventure on our road trip through historic Greece.

If you’re planning a family-friendly road trip in Greece, make sure to include Methoni on your itinerary. Between the stunning historical landmarks, the scenic views, and the relaxing atmosphere, it’s a destination you won’t want to miss.

Koroni Municipal Unit Travel Diary

During our journey through the beautiful Koroni Municipal Unit, we made a relaxing stop at a local campsite. It was time for some much-needed washing—both our clothes and the camper van got a good cleaning! Johan scrubbed enthusiastically, guided by helpful directions from Diede.

The hammock we received from Iteke and Fred found the perfect spot under the shade, and the girls absolutely love it. Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to enjoy it too now and then!

Exploring a Historic Monastery in Koroni

The next day, we visited a picturesque village monastery that is still in use today. Walking through the ancient buildings was like stepping back in time. Jinte and Diede imagined where the kitchen and other rooms once were. It’s amazing to see how even little Diede is starting to appreciate these beautiful historical sites!

Jinte was especially moved and wanted to light a candle in the small church. Such peaceful moments really make the journey special. 🧡

A Relaxing Afternoon at the Campsite

Our afternoon was calm and restful. We baked some fresh bread and did a bit of tidying up. Everyone took turns using the shower facilities—although it turned into a bit of an adventure when Diede crawled under the shower door and ended up lost in the restroom building! Mirre had to go find her, still in her birthday suit. Thankfully, it’s the off-season and the campsite was quiet!

If you’re planning a family-friendly road trip through southern Greece, the Koroni Municipal Unit is a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure. From strolling through historic monasteries to enjoying downtime at local campsites, it’s a region worth exploring.

Municipality of Messini: A Hidden Gem by the Beach

What a lovely spot! Nestled along the coastline in the beautiful Municipality of Messini, this beachside location has everything we could wish for. There’s the tranquil sea, friendly stray dogs, a cozy playground just around the corner, and fast, reliable internet — perfect for remote working or staying connected while traveling.

Weather Wonders in Messini

What more could anyone ask for? Well… maybe sunshine every day. It’s only the second time during our travels that we’ve had a full day of rain. We really can’t complain, but as you can imagine, this much rain brings some tension. The good news? We’re staying dry! HALLELUJAH! Although we’re slightly hesitant to even write that — you never know what the weather might do next.

Rainy Fun with the Kids

Despite the showers, the kids are having a blast. They absolutely love splashing in the puddles. Diede in particular is enjoying herself immensely — even if she needs a fresh outfit three times a day. At some point we switched her to sandals because her rain boots got too heavy when they filled with water from all her jumping.

Jinte is also in high spirits. She enjoys pretend play and often declares it’s her birthday. She loves singing along with Johan’s tunes and takes great pride in helping us prepare our favorite snack platters. Meanwhile, Diede has discovered a passion for pasta and even creates songs about it.

Playgrounds remain a hit with both girls, and of course, we join them with just as much enthusiasm. Spending quality time together outdoors — rain or shine — continues to be the highlight of our trip.

Sunshine Returns Sooner Than Expected

Though the forecast called for a few gloomy days, it seems they purposely present the weather outlook here a little more pessimistically — perhaps to avoid disappointment. To our delight, the sun came out earlier than predicted, brightening up our stay in Messini once again.

If you’re looking for a place where beach vibes meet family fun — even in the rain — the Municipality of Messini is truly a destination to remember.

Exploring the Municipality of Kalamata on Greek Independence Day

We’re heading to the beautiful city of Kalamata to experience Greek Independence Day. Before making our way to the camper spot at P4N, we stop to do some quick shopping. The area is already bustling with campers — free parking spots near popular cities are always in high demand.

A Rough Start, Then Off to the Parade

The following morning, as we begin our bike ride toward Kalamata, one of the pedals comes off again. Johan reattaches it, but unfortunately, it loosens shortly after — pretty frustrating! We continue on toward the parade taking place in the city center. Diede adorably calls it “piraten” (pirates) instead of “parade.” We treasure these cute mispronunciations, especially as she’s starting to speak more clearly every day.

Traditional Greek Independence Day Celebrations

As expected on March 25th, Greek Independence Day, all the shops are closed and a vibrant national atmosphere fills the air. The streets are alive with a large celebratory parade involving schools and emergency services. It’s a wonderful sight! Compared to the Netherlands, the event is still quite traditional. Kids are dressed in school uniforms, some even in folk costumes, and boys and girls march separately. Jinte and Diede watch in awe — it’s a captivating experience for them. Afterward, we treat ourselves to some fries and relax with a sunny, lazy afternoon back at our camper.

Back to Daily Life in Kalamata

In the mornings, Johan and Jinte usually take Goos, our dog, out for a walk, while Mirre and Diede catch a few extra Z’s. With the stores now open, we head out again. First stop: the bike shop to replace our broken pedal — no luck, as they don’t have the brand we need. Then it’s off to find new Crocs for Diede. She eagerly picks out a pair of sparkly silver glitter Crocs.

Jinte is disappointed she doesn’t get new shoes. We had considered buying her sneakers but later remembered we’ve got an extra pair stored in the camper’s “garage.” After some tears and a heart-to-heart chat, her mood lifts. We visit a shop known for its large gluten-free selection, and Jinte asks for ice cream. Of course, we say yes. With cones in hand, Diede innocently says, “First cry, then ice cream, right?” Uh, not quite, but it’s good life advice nonetheless.

A Chaotic Moment with Goos

Our productive afternoon continues with more errands: we buy dog food for Goos, explore the old city center, visit the local Jumbo (similar to Action) to get coloring paper — and as always, we return with more than we planned. Back at the camper, Mirre lets Goos out on his leash, but out of nowhere, the neighbor’s dog jumps out of their van and attacks Goos.

It’s a tense moment. Goos yelps and struggles as the other dog clamps onto him. Mirre bravely twists the attacking dog’s ear, pleading for it to release. The neighbor shouts “water!” and throws some on them — finally it lets go. Johan takes Goos to safety while the neighbor handles their dog. What a terrifying encounter.

Amid the chaos, Jinte proves she’s an amazing big sister. She calmly tells Diede, “Let’s go stand behind the camper — this is too scary for us.” Such maturity in a young child is heartwarming. Mirre can’t stop crying, but thankfully, Goos is okay, save for a small scrape. The neighbors apologize sincerely, admitting they didn’t think their dog would jump from the van. Hopefully, it’s a lesson learned for them.

Returning to Routine in Kalamata

We spend the rest of the day crafting, puzzling, cleaning, and cooking — a return to normalcy. The next morning, Mirre bikes to Jumbo to buy a pair of professional scissors because Johan’s hair is due for a trim. Surprisingly, the haircut goes very well!

By early afternoon, we’re on the road again. There’s still shopping to do, LPG and diesel to refill, tires to inflate, and the camper needs a wash. Then it’s off to our next overnight spot — just a short 30-minute drive away.

Final Thoughts

Our experience in the Municipality of Kalamata was a blend of Greek tradition, family adventures, and unexpected moments. Whether you’re visiting for Greek Independence Day or simply passing through, Kalamata offers a warm, memorable experience for travelers of all kinds.

Municipal Unit of Lefktro: A Camper Adventure in Greece

We parked our camper van next to a charming little café in the Municipal Unit of Lefktro, located in Greece’s stunning Peloponnese region. While our park4night app gave the green light, we decided to double-check with the locals to ensure it was truly okay to stay overnight. The super friendly owner welcomed us warmly, saying he was happy to have us there. Wonderful!

To thank him, we enjoyed a refreshing drink on the café’s sunny terrace. The girls had a fantastic time playing on the nearby pebble beach — the perfect spot for family fun. After a delicious pasta dinner, we got the kids to bed early. Just before nightfall, we noticed a few musicians arriving at the venue next door and sensed something exciting was about to happen.

Nightlife Surprise and a Balkan Twist

By 9:00 PM, lively music filled the air as a local festival began. The style was unmistakably different from what we’re used to — high-pitched and, at times, a bit shrill to our ears! We chuckled at the unfamiliar Greek and Albanian tunes, all the while realizing that our camper van wasn’t exactly soundproof. (And perhaps not waterproof either, we can almost hear you thinking).

At 11:00 PM, we decided to join the festivities. Holding on to our baby monitor and with the camper still in sight, we ventured out for a little adventure of our own. To our surprise, it turned out to be an Albanian celebration. Sharing a beer and a glass of wine together felt like an unexpected date night — just the two of us in a cozy bar, something that doesn’t happen very often with two little ones around.

The generous café owner even offered us a complimentary shot, and we happily mingled for about an hour. What we didn’t anticipate was having a front-row seat to the party until 4:30 AM! 😱 Strangely enough, all four of us managed to sleep through most of it. Light sleepers didn’t stand a chance, but we surprised ourselves — waking a few times but falling right back asleep.

A New Day in Lefktro

The next morning, Johan took the girls out for some fresh air, giving Mirre time to record a few videos for the online course she’s creating. In the afternoon, we made slime with the girls — a fun family activity that kept the day joyful yet relaxed. After all the excitement, we welcomed a quiet evening and night.

Tomorrow, our Greek road trip adventure continues. Stay tuned as we explore more hidden gems in the Peloponnese!