Culinary & Cultural Retreats
on Poros Island
The Journey Continues: 2025 Retreat Dates Are Here!
Experience Greece like never before.
After an incredible inaugural run of our Blue Zone Discovery trip in 2024, I’m thrilled to announce the dates and themes for 2025! Last year, we immersed ourselves in the breathtaking beauty and culinary traditions of Poros Island, creating memories that will last a lifetime. From olive oil tastings at the Odyssey farm to preparing hands-on Mediterranean classics like spanakopita and prawn saganaki, the experience was a true celebration of food, community, and the principles of Blue Zones living.
And at the heart of it all, I’ve found my cooking soul sister in Katerina Sakelliou. Her deep connection to Greek culinary traditions, paired with her warmth and humor, has been the perfect complement to my passion for nourishment, longevity and having fun! Together, we’re bringing you an even more immersive experience for 2025—exploring the Mediterranean diet, diving deeper into Greek culture, and sharing the joy of cooking as a way to connect, heal, and thrive. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the heart of Greece, this is your chance. Join us on Poros for an unforgettable week—we can’t wait to welcome you back!
-Jeremy
immerse yourself in Greek cuisine, culture, natural beauty & community with a unique blend of culinary education & cultural exploration.
The Island of Poros & The Peloponnese
Poros, nestled in the Saronic Gulf, is a place that instantly feels like home. Its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture embodies the true Mediterranean lifestyle—where life is savored slowly, surrounded by stunning scenery and delicious food. From the ancient Temple of Poseidon to the neoclassical charm of Poros Town, every corner tells a story, whether from the Mycenaean era or the Greek War of Independence.
Just a short ferry ride away, the Peloponnese offers even more. Ancient landmarks like Epidaurus and Mycenae, along with the historic town of Nafplio, bring Greek mythology and history to life. With its rugged landscapes and olive groves, it’s the perfect complement to the serene yet vibrant lifestyle of Poros.
Together, Poros and the Peloponnese offer a journey into the heart of the Mediterranean—a way of living that celebrates history, culture, and the simple joy of living every moment fully.
The Food of Poros
The island's cuisine is a feast for the senses, showcasing a variety of Greek flavors that embody the warmth of local hospitality.
Discover the vibrant flavors of Poros, a Greek island where culinary traditions are as rich as its breathtaking landscapes.
From freshly caught seafood like prawn saganaki to iconic dishes such as gemista (stuffed vegetables) and spanakopita (spinach pie), the cuisine of Poros is a celebration of Mediterranean simplicity and bold flavors.
Indulge in hand-pressed olive oils, sun-ripened produce, and aromatic herbs that bring every dish to life. End your meal with sweet treats like baklava or melomakarona, paired with a glass of ouzo or a refreshing local wine.
Our cooking retreats not only immerse you in the art of preparing these traditional dishes but also reveals the stories, techniques, and cultural significance behind them. This is your opportunity to savor the soul of Greece, one delicious bite at a time.
The Odyssey Boutique Hotel at Poros
Nestled in the peaceful Askeli area, The Odyssey at Poros is a haven where Greek hospitality shines, lovingly nurtured for over 25 years by Rik, Katerina, and their daughter Dora Sakelliou. This family-run retreat beautifully blends timeless traditions with a modern commitment to sustainability, creating an experience that feels both authentic and deeply meaningful. Guests are welcomed as part of the family, immersed in a setting that celebrates the essence of Greek culture and the island’s vibrant culinary heritage.
The accommodations reflect this same spirit of care, offering a range of options from elegant Superior Suites with private balconies to spacious Deluxe Apartments perfect for families, complete with double bathrooms and serene views. At the heart of The Odyssey is the bistro, where dishes are crafted with fresh, local ingredients and served in a cozy, inviting dining room. Every meal is an opportunity to savor the flavors of Greece and connect with fellow travelers.
The Odyssey Eco Farm Glamping
Odyssey Eco Farm Glamping offers an eco-friendly retreat on the mainland just opposite Poros Island, where guests can immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. Accommodations include bell tents nestled among olive, lemon, and orange trees, stone cabins, and a seaside cottage with bathrooms, all tastefully decorated in traditional Greek farmhouse style. Each tent is equipped with electricity, a fridge, and a fan, with private bathrooms located just a few meters away. Guests can relax in private outdoor areas furnished with chairs and hammocks, enjoying the soothing sounds of the nearby sea.
The glamping site features shared outdoor living spaces, including a communal kitchen and dining area where weekly Greek barbecues are held, offering fresh local produce and unlimited wine, fostering a sense of community and introducing guests to the Greek concept of "Kefi." Additional amenities include a swimming pool shaded by olive trees and a secluded beach with a boat dock and deck chairs, providing stunning views of Poros Island. Odyssey Eco Farm Glamping is an ideal destination for environmentally conscious travelers seeking an authentic Greek experience and deeper connection to the land without sacrificing comfort.
"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"
- Hippocrates
"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food" - Hippocrates
Meet the Chefs
Chef Katerina
Katerina Sakelliou is a chef from Poros, Greece, who grew up learning to cook in her family's restaurant, Spiros. Following generations of culinary tradition, she honed her skills through hands-on experience and later expanded her expertise with courses at renowned restaurants in Holland, including a Michelin-starred location.
Since the mid-2000s, she has been teaching Greek cooking workshops at her bistro on Poros Island, welcoming guests from around the world. Katerina's approach to cooking reflects her deep respect for family traditions, the environment, and the connection between food and culture. Her passion is rooted in a lifelong commitment to sharing the love of Greek cuisine.
Chef Jeremy
Chef Jeremy Rock Smith known for his lighthearted humorous approach to cooking is a culinary expert who transitioned from the fast-paced world of traditional cooking to a path centered on nourishment, mindfulness, and longevity. After stepping away from the restaurant industry during a “midlife cooking crisis,” Jeremy embraced food’s power to heal—not just through eating, but through the act of cooking and serving.
With over 20 years spent at Canyon Ranch, Kripalu Yoga Center, and Miraval Resort, Jeremy has blended classical training with principles of wellness, Ayurveda, and Blue Zones. Inspired by a culinary trip to Greece, he now shares his passion for longevity-focused living through retreats, workshops, and his best-selling cookbook, The Kripalu Kitchen: Nourishing Food for Body and Soul.
Jeremy and Katerina, though from different corners of the world, have forged a meaningful friendship through their shared passion for food, culture, and the way both connect people through cooking and laughter. Katerina’s deep-rooted love for Greek culinary traditions and her expertise in Mediterranean flavors perfectly complements Jeremy’s holistic approach to cooking and his focus on wellness and longevity.
Together, they create a dynamic partnership—blending Katerina’s dedication to heritage and Jeremy’s innovative take on nourishment. Their combined talents and humorous approach to teaching offer a unique, immersive experience that celebrates the joy of cooking, the richness of cultural exchange, and the power of food to bring people together in meaningful ways.
At Odyssey, you're not just a visitor;
you become part of a family, promising a return to this unique blend of Greek culture and hospitality.
Click the buttons below to view the trip itineraries and save your spot!
Have questions? Email Chef Jeremy at chefjrocksmith@gmail.com.
Choose Your Experience
Odyssey Hotel Retreats
Mediterranean Diet and Longevity