Keto Mediterranean Retreat 2024: A Culinary Odyssey Through Time and Taste

Our Keto Mediterranean Retreat 2024 was like those feel-good movies that you wish lasted longer. We simply cannot believe those 7 days passed so quickly. The sun was casting its golden glow over the ancient landscapes of Greece, where every breeze carried whispers of myth and history. Perched on a cliffside, our villa—an oasis of serenity and inspiration—overlooked the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea. Here, in the Ancient Marathon region, a group of vibrant, health-conscious souls gathered, not just for a retreat, but for an odyssey. An odyssey that promised more than just a journey through the culinary delights of Keto; it was an invitation to explore the deep, rich tapestry of Mediterranean culture, to walk the paths where gods once tread, and to taste the flavours that have nourished minds and bodies for millennia.

A Symphony of Heritage and Health

This year, the Keto Mediterranean Retreat didn’t merely meet expectations—it redefined them. We ventured beyond the familiar, diving into the heart of Greek heritage, weaving together the threads of history, health, and hedonism. Each day was a new chapter in our collective story, filled with laughter, learning, and, of course, an abundance of mouth-watering, Keto-friendly creations. From the sun-drenched beaches to the ancient ruins, from the bustling local shops to the tranquil villa mornings, every moment was a celebration of life, health, and the joy of discovery. This was not just a retreat; it was a symphony of experiences, where the ancient world met the contemporary, and where each participant became a vital note in the melody of our shared adventure. As for Apollonas and myself (Roberta), we couldn’t be more grateful for this year’s participants and the unforgettable moments we shared. It all came together in a way that surpassed our hopes and dreams.

A Cast of Characters: Our International Keto Family

The cast of this year’s adventure was nothing short of extraordinary. From London, we had the dynamic duo, Helen and Andrew Rixon. Picture this: two people who look and act at least a decade younger than their actual ages, radiating energy like the Mediterranean sun itself. Helen, with her Maltese heritage, was like a fish in water—reconnecting with her Mediterranean roots while diving deep into the world of Keto Mediterranean lifestyle. Andrew, on the other hand, charmed everyone with his astonishing British humour, delivering witty quips that had us all in stitches. Yet beneath the laughter, he was the epitome of an extraordinary gentleman, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand, making everyone around him feel at ease and thoroughly entertained.

Then there was our beloved Canadian family from Montreal, the Wyndhams: Todd, Jen, and their three remarkable daughters—Lindsay, Erin, and Jody. Todd and Jen, our comrades from the 2023 retreat, felt more like family than participants, seamlessly stepping into the role of co-hosts as they worked alongside me in the kitchen. Whether it was preparing breakfast, organising cooking workshops, or sharing tips on their favourite Keto recipes, the Wyndhams were always there, lending a hand with warmth and enthusiasm. Lindsay, the bold and beautiful warrior who conquered eczema with the Carnivore diet, Erin, the charming, smart and steadfast Keto disciple, and Jody, their lovely youngest sister, starting to walk the path of reducing sugar and processed foods. Their presence felt like a homecoming, and the bond we shared only grew stronger as we cooked, laughed, and learned together.

The Greek – American Connection

Adding to this colourful mosaic was Ellen Dorian, originally Armenian but Boston-bred, with a fiery passion for life and Keto. Ellen was more than just a participant; she was a beacon of warmth and kindness, always ready with a friendly smile and a helping hand. As a relationship consultant by profession, she brought her unique expertise to the retreat, even offering invaluable advice to some of our Greek friends who visited, helping them navigate the complexities of their love lives. Her presence was like a soothing balm, making everyone feel understood and supported. Ellen had followed Apollonas’ meal plans like a seasoned explorer charting a new course, and this retreat was a new reconnection with the Greek Goes Keto team.

We also welcomed John and Bernadette Farrell from New York—a mother-son duo with a heritage as rich as their enthusiasm for Keto. John, a devoted follower of the Carnivore diet, was on a mission to keep his knee inflammation under control, and he hoped to inspire his mother to embrace the Keto lifestyle as well. With their Italian and Irish roots, they were eager to compare the American and Greek approaches to Keto, diving into the nuances with great curiosity. We recommended that John try the Greek Goes Keto approach, with a particular focus on omega-3-rich sources like ruminant animal meat and seafood, advising him to reduce his intake of pork and chicken—an essential difference between our Keto Mediterranean Diet (KMD) and the classical American approach to Keto or Carnivore. Bernadette was open to exploring this new path, and together, they brought a refreshing perspective to our discussions, their insights proving invaluable as we shared and learned from one another.

Greeks Bearing Gifts – Not Always a Bad Idea

And then, like the final flourish in a masterpiece, we were joined mid-week by Panagiotis Kouvaris and Maria Kallitsounaki, a Greek couple who brought with them the true essence of Greek hospitality. Panagiotis, an artisan of award-winning bio honey, shared his liquid gold with us, offering a profound connection to the ancient rhythms of the land and the life of the bees. His outstanding presentation showcased eight distinct types of honey, each harvested from different regions of Greece, highlighting the rich diversity of his craft. Apollonas provided complementary nutritional insights, discussing the general benefits of honey and how, when properly dosed, it can still be part of a low-carb diet. As a special gesture, Panagiotis gifted each participant a jar of his top-quality raw honey, encouraging them to enjoy it in small doses, as Apollonas had advised.

Maria, a hardworking saleswoman in the field of dental equipment and materials, was equally remarkable. She didn’t just join us—she immersed herself in the retreat, helping to create our sumptuous breakfasts and offering invaluable insights into the benefits of the Keto Mediterranean Diet (KMD) on psychological health and wellbeing. Her kindness and generosity shone through as she demonstrated the true meaning of Greek hospitality, making everyone feel welcome and cared for. Together, Panagiotis and Maria added a layer of authenticity and warmth to the retreat that left a lasting impression on us all.

Cultural Immersion: A Journey Through History and Flavour

Every day was a new adventure, a new chapter in our Keto Mediterranean story. We explored the cultural treasures of Greece, starting with the historic heart of Athens, where the ancient and the modern dance in a harmonious tango. The Acropolis Museum was the culmination of our cultural journey. We walked the hallowed grounds of the Marathon battle site, imagining the clash of ancient warriors, then found serenity at the Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods, where history whispered through the stones and unique Hellenistic-Egyptian statues.

We visited different beaches, each giving its unique experience! Crystal-clear waters lapped at golden or white sands, where we soaked up the sun and let the salty water cleanse our souls. Each day was a new coastline, a new seascape and a setting to fall in love with. However, we didn’t stop there. The local folk fair was a riot of colour and sound, a celebration of life that culminated in a traditional lamb feast! Grilled or skewer-cooked, succulent, and seasoned to perfection. It was a feast for the senses, with every bite a reminder of why we love this lifestyle so much.

Culinary Creations: From Villa Breakfasts to Carnivore Delights

Back at the villa, every morning was a culinary playground. We dived into breakfast options that could make a gourmet chef weep with joy: from scrambled eggs cooked in sheep’s ghee, each version a masterpiece, to Greek sheep yoghurt as thick and creamy as a dream. We sipped raw sheep and goat milk lattes that transported us to the pastoral hillsides of Greece. Furthermore, we knocked back sea buckthorn juice, butterfly pea iced tea and even slightly diluted freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. Let’s not forget mutton sausages and the famous kebab with lamb, veal and Mediterranean herbs!!!

Our workshops were the stuff of Keto legend. We baked Keto Angel cake together, a divine creation that was light as air and seductive as Greek myths. And then, the carnivore pizzas! Not one, not two, but three versions of carnivore pizza, each one a testament to the endless possibilities of our lifestyle. We kneaded, (minced meat) we topped (all good things), we baked, and then we devoured—with the kind of joy that only comes from sharing food you’ve made with your own hands. Let’s not forget our barbecue party from which you can see a short video on our Facebook page.

And because variety is the spice of life, we ventured out to an Italian restaurant—not to break our diet, but to practise ordering breakfast like Keto masterminds. We navigated the menu like seasoned sailors charting a course through carb-laden waters, emerging victorious with plates of perfectly Keto-friendly fare.

Ancient Grains and Golden Nectar: A Day of Discovery

One of the retreat’s unusual but important moments was our exploration of ancient grains and honey. We dedicated a day to Emmer wheat, a grain that has been feeding humans since the dawn of agriculture. Unlike its modern counterparts, Emmer is lower in gluten and higher in nutrients, making it a perfect fit for those who still want to eat carbs occasionally. As we learnt about its history and tasted its nutty, wholesome flavour, we felt a deep connection to the ancient Greeks who once thrived on this humble grain.

Panagiotis took us on a journey through the world of honey, sharing the secrets of his award-winning bio honey. We learnt about the sacred place honey held in ancient Greek culture—used not just as food, but as medicine and in religious rituals. Tasting his honey was like tasting the essence of Greece itself—sweet, rich, and deeply satisfying.

A Low-Carb Holiday to Remember

As the retreat drew to a close, we found ourselves richer in friendships and new knowledge. We had forged connections that transcended borders and shared meals that nourished our bodies and souls. Most importantly, we created memories that will linger like the aftertaste of the finest Manouri cheese. The 2024 Keto Mediterranean Retreat wasn’t just a holiday—it was a journey. A journey through time, culture, and the boundless possibilities of the Keto Mediterranean lifestyle. We laughed, we learnt, we ate (oh, how we ate!), and we left with our hearts as full as our stomachs.

We’re already dreaming up the wonders of the next retreat, and we can’t wait to welcome old and new friends to our Keto family. Until then, keep cooking, keep exploring, and keep living the vibrant life you deserve.