The Ionian King was docked at 0425 in Iougmenitsa and we were soon on our way on this beautiful highway leading from the docks towards Ioaninna. 30 kms from Ioannina the highway suddenly stopped and we were diverted to the old road as the highway had not been completed. The harrowing experience driving along the old steep roads through clouds and in darkness was something unpleasant to me especially with a back seat driver telling me to be careful on every sharp corner we encountered. I take my hats off to the truck drivers who seemed to be able to negotiate the corners and steep hills without too much problems.

As the day broke we noticed that the temperature had dropped to -2C and then we saw the snow on the grounds and beyond towards Oros Athamanon. It ws such a marvelous view with white fresh snow all around us. We managed to stop at a cafe which was open and had our breakfast of croisant and coffee. Adrian was woken up from a deep sleep and didn't like it too much being disturbed that was until he realised that there was snow on the ground and then he couldn't wait to put on his gloves and jeans. He had such a good time making snowballs and throwing it at me and lying on the snow.

Then it was time to go and reluctantly we drove on. At its lowest the temperature at Katara Pass on the Pindos Oros, which we passed at 0830hrs with the odometer showing 48963, was -5C although the height was indicated to be only1680 metres high. The view thereafter was just astounding with autumn colours in its most glorious form.

At the town called Kalambaka not far from Trikala, we stumbled upon this astounding sight of rock formation known as Meteora. The town was full of campsites and hotels obviously catering for the tourist attracted to Meteora. As it was the wrong time of the year however most of the places were closed for the season. I sms Doug of our intended arrival.

On nearing Volos, I got a reply from Doug and subsequently he called saying that he would wait for us on the main road. He expected us to enter Volos through the coastal road but unfortunately I adhered to the signage and went in through the new route 6. After about 30 minutes running around in circles we finally met up and he led us to his nice, warm and cosy house with spectacular views of the sea and surrounding bay in a small town called Kritharia.

Doug later brought in lunch, consisting of typical Greek dishes which was svoured with delight. Doug and I spent quite a bit of time talking about general things. Adrian was sleeping by 2000hrs and after a quick snack for dinner we retired to the house behind Doug's built for his family use.