According to the legend, Halcyon, (Aλκυών, Alkion) the kingfisher calms the seas every winter so she can lay her eggs on a safe, floating nest.

Hence the term Halcyon Days or (Αλκυώνιδες Μερες, Alkionedes Meres) which signifies peace and tranquility.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Crete in winter, you can indeed experience up to 14 windless, calm days in January.

These bright warm days are the highlight of winter and are missed if, occasionally, they don’t occur!

FM