The Halcyon Myth

Ancient mariners believed that the sighting of a Halcyon Bird was an omen for calm seas and light winds. Our cottages are named after the Halcyon birds from the myth of Halcyone and King Ceyx of Thessaly.

Halcyone was the daughter of Aeolus, the god of wind, and wife of King Ceyx of Thessaly. Whilst adventuring at sea, King Ceyx was drowned in a violent storm. When Halcyone discovered the drowned King floating off Thessaly's shores, the gods took pity on her grief and transformed the unfortunate lovers into Halcyon birds.

It is said that the Halcyon birds took flight in the form of Kingfishers. From that time on, Aeolus and Zeus have calmed the wind and seas for the Halcyon birds so that they can nest and breed.

The expression 'Halcyon days' is derived from the myth and refers to a time of peace and happiness.