Mediterranean Diet & Longevity:
History & Cooking Immersion

October 11-18, 2025
Poros, Greece

An unforgettable experience awaits…

Join Chef Jeremy Rock Smith, and local expert and Chef Katerina Askeliou for Fresh Freedom! A week-long immersive journey in Greece that is more than a culinary and outdoor adventure—it’s a reconnection to nature’s abundance and ancient wisdom.

Together, we’ll discover treasures from the land and sea—wild greens, fresh seafood, herbs, honey, and olives—while discovering the timeless rhythms of Greek nature and culture. In the afternoon, under the expert guidance of Katerina & Jeremy learn how to transform local ingredients into traditional dishes that capture the flavors of the sun, sea, and history.

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that nourishes both body and soul, celebrating the enduring harmony between people, land, and sea.

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.

Meet Your Hosts

Chef Katerina SAKELLIOU

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 ROCK SMITH

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.

The Itinerary

October 11-18, 2025
Poros, Greece
$3950 USD

Click the + to expand and read the daily details

  • After making your way from Athens to Poros your adventure begins with a warm & tasty welcome from Jeremy, Katerina & the Odyssey family. After getting settled in your rooms you will get a first taste of the culinary skills you’ll be developing over the week at the bistro, Odyssey’s Corner where we will share our first authentic Greek meal together while getting to know each other and discuss the activities for the week.

  • Kick off the day with a traditional and amazing Greek breakfast, followed by a walking historical exploration of Poros led by a local expert. You’ll wander through its alleys, visit the local markets, and enjoy a light lunch at a local taverna. After lunch you’re free to explore Poros town on your own before returning to the Odyssey for the first cooking class led by Jeremy & Katerina in the indoor/outdoor kitchen where we will prepare our evening meal together. The day ends with local wine, dinner, laughter and the celebration of the group’s culinary creations.

  • Embark with Jeremy and a local guide on an excursion to the tranquil, car-free port on the island of Hydra, known for its rich history and artistic vibe. After arriving by ferry in this picturesque port we’ll take a short historical walking tour of Hydra whose beauty and tranquility inspired musician Leonard Cohen to call Hydra his home and became the living set for many Hollywood films. From there you'll have free time to take lunch on your own while exploring the beautiful stairs and alleyways that contribute to the health and longevity of its inhabitants while exploring the many shops of Hydra before we catch our return ferry back to Poros. After freshening up when we return, a buffet dinner awaits at the Odyssey bistro where we close out the day by socializing and sharing the day's experiences with each other.

  • After breakfast, join a local beekeeper and honey producer to learn the importance of honey in the Greek culture for both culinary and medicinal uses. From there spend some time on your own at Askeliki Beach or in the Odyssey Library or cook along side Jeremy and assist in the preparation of a Mediterranean lunch for the group. After lunch enjoy some free time for a siesta and return for a local wine & cheese tasting followed by our second cooking session with Jeremy & Katerina where we will focus on Seafood Cookery. Of course, there will be a multitude of veggie offerings to complement our fish dish as the cuisine here is 85% vegetarian!

  • After breakfast, we'll take a water taxi to Galatas and embark on a deep dive into the heart of Greek gastronomy with a full day visit to Odyssey's farm, home to lemon, pomegranate, and olive groves. Here, we'll explore the significant role these elements play in Greek cuisine and harvest some fruits and veggies to be used later in our afternoon cooking class.

    After touring the farm we’ll learn about the history, health benefits and significance of olive oil in Greek history, culture and gastronomy followed by an olive tasting with freshly baked sourdough breads.

    We’ll then enjoy a traditional Greek lunch served in the beautiful outdoor dining area on the farm.

    After lunch you may enjoy some downtime in the sun by the sea overlooking Poros or take part in an olive oil soap-making demonstration, the choice is yours. 

    Late afternoon we’ll have our third cooking class in the beautiful outdoor kitchen where we will make homemade phyllo, fresh pitas and a traditional lamb dish.  The day culminates in a communal dinner under the stars a fitting celebration for the deep ties between Greek culture, its land, and its gastronomy.

  • Today we embark on an enriching journey with two unforgettable experiences. We’ll venture to the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus the birthplace of modern medicine and explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius and explore the connection between diet and health in Ancient Greece on a guide tour.

    From there we will visit the picturesque city of Nafplio, the former capitol of Greece where Venetian architecture and historic sites offer a glimpse into Greece's rich past. After a group lunch upon arrival at a local taverna you’re free to wander the streets and explore the local shops of this picturesque city in the Peloponnese.

    We’ll finish the day with a buffet dinner at the Odyssey.

  • After breakfast you may take an optional guided hike into the hills of Poros to visit the Ancient Sanctuary of Poseidon or just chill- the choice is yours!

    The evening brings the Odyssey culinary experience to a climax with the last and most special cooking class of the visit.

    Together we’ll prepare a dinner that encapsulates the essence of Greek hospitality and cuisine and learn how to make an Odyssey signature cocktail.

    This final experience, with a few surprises, will wrap up our week as we celebrate the joy of cooking and eating together in a truly Greek way!

  • After breakfast, we'll close out our week and bid farewell to one another, marking the end of a week filled with culinary discovery, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Inclusions & Lodging

your adventure includes:

  • Ferry Transfer to and from Poros

  • 3 meals daily* excluding lunch in Hydra

  • 1 Guided walking tour of Poros

  • 2 Travel tours

  • 4 Cooking classes and 1 cocktail class

  • Honey, Olive Oil, and Wine & Cheese Tastings

  • Guided hike

  • Olive oil soap-making session

  • Cookbook

  • Apron

  • Saturday surprise (!), plus good vibes and fun


    Pricing is $3950, based on double occupancy.

    For single occupancy, add $499. Apartments available for groups larger than 2.

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.

You Might Be Wondering…

Have a question that we haven’t answered?
Send an email to Chef Jeremy at chefjrocksmith@gmail.com.

  • The package includes accommodation, all meals prepared by our chefs, cooking classes, cultural tours, workshops, and transfers from/to the designated meeting point in Athens to be taken to Poros Island.

  • Deposit and Payment:

    • Full payment of this experience is $3,950 USD.

    • A $1499 USD deposit is required to secure your reservation, with the balance due 90 days before the retreat start date.

    • Full payment is required for bookings made within 90 days of the retreat start date.

    • The deposit is fully refundable up until 30 days from purchase. After 30 days, the deposit can be transferred or applied as a credit for a future trip.

    Cancellation by Participant:

    • Full Refund of deposit if requested in writing within 30 days of purchase

    • 89-60 days before the start date: 75% refund of the balance (excluding the deposit).

    • 31-60 days before the start date: 50% refund of the total cost (excluding the deposit).

    • 30 days or less before the start date: No refund available.

    Cancellation by Organizer: Full refund within 30 days of cancellation notice, including the deposit.

    Cancellation Procedure: Cancellation requests must be made in writing at chefjrocksmith@gmail.com and are effective upon receipt by Jeremy.

    Refunds: Refunds will be processed to the original form of payment within a 7-10 business days following the effective date of cancellation. A $100 processing fee will be incurred.

    Transferability: Bookings are transferable to another person.

    Highly Recommended: We strongly encourage all participants to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. This ensures peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without worry. Investing in travel insurance can protect against losses from last-minute cancellations, travel interruptions, or unexpected health issues, ensuring that your investment in this retreat is protected.

  • All participants are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances.

    This ensures peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without worry.

    Investing in travel insurance can protect against losses from last-minute cancellations, travel interruptions, or unexpected health issues, ensuring that your investment in this retreat is protected.

  • Absolutely! We cater to various dietary needs. Please inform us about your dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.

  • Transfer to Poros Island from the Port of Piraeus by ferry is included in the trip.

    We will provide you with detailed travel instructions upon booking, including guidelines for booking flights to Athens that align with ferry schedules to ensure a smooth transfer to the island.

  • We recommend packing comfortable clothing suitable for cooking classes and outdoor activities, swimwear, sun protection, a hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking. A more detailed packing list will be provided closer to the departure date.

  • The retreat package covers most expenses, but you may want to bring extra money for personal expenses, optional activities not included in the itinerary, souvenirs, or additional beverages outside of meals provided.

  • To ensure a personalized experience, we limit the group size to a maximum of 10-11 participants. This allows for intimate cooking classes and a cohesive group dynamic.

  • Please send your cancellation notice via email to Jeremy (chefjrocksmith@gmail.com), including your booking number and details. We'll process your cancellation according to our policy and confirm via email.

  • Activities may be adjusted based on weather conditions to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. We have indoor alternatives for most outdoor activities to ensure your experience is not disrupted.