A Greek Culinary Adventure on the Island of Syros
10th October – 17th October 2026
October is a beautiful time to visit Syros, the sun is still shining, the sea is warm and there’s an abundance of locally ripened produce.
The land is covered in wild thyme, rosemary and fennel, and the warm air is filled with the scents of these timeless herbs.
The island is friendly and unspoilt, and has a rich and fascinating culinary tradition.
We will be collaborating with Elisa and Kostas, cook and conservationist, to host a very special cooking-class holiday on this special island.
The accommodation is over several floors. The balconies and roof terrace of the house overlook the town, the port and the neighbouring islands. There is a built-in courtyard with plants, seating and shaded dining areas.
The cooking classes take place in the purpose-built kitchen. Karen and Elisa will share their experience and cooking skills to introduce you to the marvelous food of the island.
There will be a welcome lunch, four days or evenings with cooking classes, and still ample time for you to explore the island and relax.
The Cost:
€2250 single, €1950 sharing double or twin room.
What is included:
Optional meet-up and escort with Con in Athens from Piraeus onto the ferry for Syros.
What’s not included:
How to get there and back:
Like most special places, Syros takes a little effort to get to!
The route is to fly to Athens, then take the ferry from Piraeus (the main port of Athens) onwards to the islands.
We usually use KLM from Cork via Amsterdam and then onward to Athens. There are many other options, including direct flights from Dublin to Athens. The times of the ferries and flights seldom connect, so we typically spend the night in Piraeus, eat in the local taverna, and get the ferry the next morning.
Then we do the reverse returning, as the ferries off the island arrive too late for flights back to Ireland. It’s all part of the adventure ;)
The ferry from Athens leaves at 7.30 in the morning and arrives in Syros around 11.45, a perfect timing to move in, have lunch and for the holiday to begin.
Con will meet whoever wants to travel with him from either Cork airport or from Piraeus. You can of course make your own way to the island. If you are in Piraeus in the evening, Con will be happy to escort you to the local taverna, and help you with ferry tickets or any other queries. We can recommend hotels that we use which are comfortable and close to the ferry for the morning.
This trip is for anyone who loves food and is able to climb the fifty steps up to the house. Unfortunately, there is no other access, so being able to walk is vital.
It’s ideal for couples, friends and especially solo travellers — as cooking together and eating together creates great camaraderie.
The last group had such fun that they still keep in touch.
The classes are held in the well-equipped kitchen that has an enormous island. We teach via a mix of hands-on and demonstration. There will also be plenty of time to wander out and explore.
It was one of my best holidays ever! Great swimming, great food, great craic! I went with a friend but made friends with everyone in the group. It would be ideal for a solo holidaymaker.
A memorable and thoroughly enjoyable holiday. The schedule was crafted to make maximum use of time but never felt rushed or over-organised, leaving everyone in good and relaxed humour. The hosts were engaging and very good company. The unexpected extras were most enjoyable especially Hazel’s morning yoga on the rooftop and the swimming trips. And best of all the effortless companionship of a group who started out as strangers but who quickly became friends.
I’m still pinching myself after the incredible culinary adventure I had with Letercollum. From start to finish, the trip was impeccably organized, and every moment was a delight. We explored the charming Greek island of Syros, discovering hidden gems and savoring and preparing delicious local flavors.The cooking classes were fantastic, and the shared meals that followed were a highlight of the trip. We got to prepare and try all sorts of tasty dishes, and the company of our talented chefs and helpers made every experience even more special.
The location was perfect, and the warm hospitality of the chefs made us feel right at home. Really familiar and lovely atmosphere, including optional yoga practice in the mornings.💙 It was truly one of the best vacations I’ve ever had.
If you’re a foodie or just love exploring new cultures, I highly recommend lettercollum for an unforgettable experience.