Cultural Exploration in Historic Delphi

Finding Peace Above and Below in Delphi

As our Delphi adventure nears its end, Hans-Peter and I sought a day of reflection and natural beauty, a gentle pause before our journey takes us onward. We traded ancient ruins for modern serenity, discovering that Delphi offers more than just a glimpse into the past. Today was about embracing the present, finding peace in quiet corners, and savoring the simple joys of Greek hospitality.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hermes Delphi Hotel Restaurant. Fuelled up, we set off towards the Profitis Ilias Monastery, perched high above the town. The drive itself was an experience, the road winding upwards offering ever more breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As we ascended, I couldn't help but reflect on the many times I've driven winding roads back in Inverness, though none quite as steeped in history as this. Hans-Peter, ever the stoic navigator, kept his eyes firmly on the road, though I caught him stealing glances at the vistas every now and then.


Discover a peaceful sanctuary near Delphi with stunning views, rich history, and serene gardens at Profitis Ilias Monastery.
Reaching the monastery, we were immediately struck by the sense of tranquility that enveloped the place. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant bleating of sheep. The monastery itself was a beautiful structure, simple yet elegant, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me as we stepped inside. The views from up there were simply magnificent. You could see for miles in every direction, the rolling hills and valleys stretching out like a patchwork quilt.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are not found in ancient ruins, but in the quiet corners of our own hearts.

After our visit to the monastery, we decided to explore Krya Park, a lush green oasis located a short drive from Delphi. It was a complete contrast to the stark beauty of the mountains, a riot of colour and life. The park was teeming with families enjoying picnics, children playing, and couples strolling hand in hand. We wandered along the well-maintained pathways, admiring the vibrant array of flowers and trees. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, and the gentle murmur of the Erkyna River provided a soothing soundtrack to our walk. We even spotted a bust of the nymph Erkyna, a charming touch that added to the park's unique character.


Discover the tranquility of Krya Park in Livadia, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
For lunch, we chose Taverna BASANOS, a charming spot recommended by one of the locals we met at the park. It was a delightful experience. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I opted for the moussaka, while Hans-Peter, predictably, chose the souvlaki. Both were excellent, and we savored every bite, accompanied by a glass of local wine.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Basanos in Delphi—where every meal tells a story amidst breathtaking views.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a little bit of relaxation at the Rocky cafe and bar. It was a cozy little place with a laid-back vibe, the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We settled into a comfortable corner, ordered a couple of drinks, and simply watched the world go by. Hans-Peter, surprisingly, struck up a conversation with a group of young backpackers, swapping travel stories and tips. I listened in amusement, occasionally chiming in with my own anecdotes.


Discover the charm of Rocky Cafe and Bar in Delphi, where local flavors and stunning views create the perfect retreat for travelers.
Dinner was at Delphi Restaurant, a more formal affair than our lunch. The food was exquisite, the service impeccable, and the ambiance elegant. We celebrated our last evening in Delphi with a bottle of champagne, toasting to our adventures and the memories we had made. As we savored our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Delphi Restaurant in Agios Gordios - where tradition meets stunning views.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, our final day in Greece, we plan to visit Loutra Ypatis and perhaps spend some time at the beach. We'll also be doing some last-minute souvenir shopping at Greek Spirit, hoping to find the perfect mementos to remind us of our time here. We'll have breakfast at our hotel, lunch at Kaplanis Taverna, and a farewell dinner at Zephyros Sea food restaurant in Itea.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a little bit sad that our trip is coming to an end. But I also feel incredibly grateful for the experiences we've had, the people we've met, and the memories we've made. Delphi has been a truly special place, a city that has captivated us with its history, its beauty, and its charm. It's a place that I know we'll never forget, and a place that I hope to return to someday.

This trip has been a wonderful escape from our usual routine in Berlin. While I love teaching English and Hans-Peter enjoys his retirement, it's important to step away and immerse ourselves in new surroundings. It reminds us of our younger days, when we were both more adventurous and carefree. Perhaps we'll plan another trip soon, maybe somewhere completely different. Who knows what the future holds? But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of our Delphi adventure, a chapter in our lives that we'll cherish forever.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Delphi. Until tomorrow!