Although I was unable to unleash my true inner hippy by visiting Stonehenge on the solstice, I thought I would still aim to catch the sunset. Luckily, I was able to do so in a stunning location- the temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
We joined the trail of tourists heading up the hill soon after 8pm. The sun was already low in the sky as the columns came into sight. It was stunning to see these remains crumbling above the sea to whose god they are dedicated. Everyone gathered at the photography spot expecting to capture images worthy of the gift shop postcards. Unfortunately, the sky was hazy from the accumulated dirt of the day and the sunlight did not stream magnificently through the ancient columns. Once it it had dropped behind the mountains and the sky was a satisfying shade of peach, we were shooed away from the monument by guards equipped with impatient whistles. We tramped back down the hillside with the rest of the tourists, full of wonder.
By the time my sister and I had reached the beach at the base of the cliff, it was swiftly growing dark. Instead of heading inside however, we went for a swim as the night closed in around us. We only had the lights of the hotel to guide us. After about ten minutes, however, we noticed a glowing semicircle above the mountain edge and the full moon gradually emerged. To enjoy the full moon and a glorious sunset on the same night was a magical end to our trip.
mywildday 