Holiday Facilitators: Mary Jelliffe
skill, experience, warmth
Biography
Mary worked for many years in the adventure travel industry, leading expeditions throughout the continent of Africa. Her love of adventure and wild places led her to sea kayaking and she has participated in overseas kayaking expeditions in Norway, New Zealand and, most recently, the Antarctic.
When in the UK, she enjoys sharing her passion for kayaking and nature with others around the beautiful coastline of Scotland and her home county of Cornwall.
She is a qualified British Canoeing Paddlesport Instructor and has a B.Ed degree in Physical Education and English. She holds a Masters Certificate in Neuro Linguistic Programming and is also an accomplished underwater photographer.
What people say about Mary and her courses:
Mary's joy, passion and energy were wonderful.
Early morning and sunrise kayaking were fabulous.
Mary for Kayak: The best ever!! Bring her back please.
I did kayaking and it was by far the best course and now I’m super fast at kayaking.
Mary was an excellent teacher.
Mary - fantastic teacher, wonderful warm supportive and fun sessions.
Mary - exceptional kayaking knowledge. I feel safe in her care and learned skills that improved my ability.
Where does Mary Jelliffe facilitate?
Sat 23 Aug - Sat 30 Aug 2025 (7 nights)
At a glance
Atsitsa Bay is a holistic holiday centre set in a stunning, natural location, right on the bay and surrounded by pine forest. With a wide range of courses and activities and an outstanding team of facilitators, it's the perfect place to be inspired and try something new. Julia Bell is directing this holiday.
About
Skyros attracts mostly solo travellers from all over the world. Although all ages are represented approximately 70% are between 35-65. A huge majority - over 80 percent - report that the Skyros holiday experience had a lasting positive effect on their lives. Nearly a third of guests come back again and again - even after they have said that Skyros was the 'holiday of a lifetime'.
Accommodation
Most people choose to live simply and comfortably in twin-shared rustic huts in the gardens. Or stay in Atsitsa's main house, subject to availability. See more about accommodation in Atsitsa here >>
Inspiring Courses
Courses and activities are introduced to you at the beginning of each week. Choose your favourites from a wide range including yoga, writing, art, kayaking, windsurfing, personal development, singing, comedy and more.
Food & Drink
All meals are included and served as a buffet. Special diets are always catered for. Teas and coffees are available throughout the day. Other drinks and snacks can be purchased at Atsitsa's bar.
Guide Itinerary
07.15: Morning drop-in classes
08.30: Breakfast
09.00: Demos (news of the day)
10.30: Oekos (home groups)
11.15: Mid-morning courses
13.30: Lunch
15.00: Siesta/beach time
17.00: Afternoon courses
19.00: Sunset classes
20.00: Dinner & evening activities
Average Temperature
July and August are the hottest months in Skyros with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celcius. Light showers are possible but rare.
Location
Summary
What's included?
- More than three courses per day over four to five days each week
- An unrivalled and vibrant community atmosphere
- Fun evening activities and events
- Three delicious Mediterranean meals each day
- Twin shared rustic accommodation in Atsitsa's gardens
What's On
Travel
To travel to Skyros island you need to fly to Athens as there are no direct flights to this beautiful, unspoilt island.
Fly to Athens on the day before your holiday begins, ie Friday. Join our overland transfer to Skyros island including a night with us in Central Athens.
Return on the last day of the holiday, ie Saturday. If you book our overland transfer, you can book a flight home from Athens after 3pm.
