Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Delphi with Family

Spiritual Heights and Subterranean Depths

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the serene heights of a mountaintop monastery to the mysterious depths of an ancient cave. Delphi continues to surprise and enchant me, offering layers of history and natural beauty that resonate deeply with my soul. With Aoife and Liam by my side, every moment felt richer, every discovery more profound.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Delphi Restaurant. The strong Greek coffee was exactly what I needed to prepare for the day’s adventures. After breakfast, we set out for the Profitis Ilias Monastery. The drive itself was stunning, winding through the mountainous terrain with breathtaking views at every turn. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers.

Profitis Ilias Monastery: A Spiritual Retreat

Reaching the monastery, I was immediately struck by its serene beauty. Perched at an altitude of 500 meters, the Holy Monastery Prophet Ilias offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The monastery exuded a sense of peace and tranquility, a perfect escape from the bustling tourist spots. We wandered through the flowery courtyard, taking in the quietude and the stunning vistas of the olive groves of Amfissa and the Corinthian Gulf.

The monastery has a rich history, serving as a refuge for fighters during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. It's incredible to think that this peaceful place played such a vital role in the country's struggle for freedom. Inside, we admired the wooden-carved iconostasis, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The intricate details and craftsmanship were truly remarkable.

Aoife, with her librarian's eye, was particularly fascinated by the monastery's library, filled with handwritten documents and letters from the revolutionary period. Liam, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about the monks who once lived here and their role in preserving Greek culture and history.

The journey matters more than the destination, especially when the journey is filled with moments of quiet reflection and shared experiences.

Stalactite Cave Levavot: A Subterranean Wonder

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery, we descended back into Delphi and drove towards Diakopto, eager to explore the Stalactite Cave Levavot. The drive took us through winding roads, offering glimpses of the stunning Greek coastline. Finding the cave was an adventure in itself, but the anticipation only heightened our excitement.

The Stalactite Cave Levavot is a hidden gem. As we descended into its cool depths, I felt like we were entering another world. The cave is adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years. The shapes and patterns created by these formations were mesmerizing, sparking my imagination and making me feel like a true explorer.

Liam was particularly thrilled by the cave, his eyes wide with wonder as he pointed out different formations that resembled animals and mythical creatures. Aoife, ever the historian, was fascinated by the cave's geological history and its potential use as a shelter in ancient times. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the power of nature and the slow, patient process that created this subterranean masterpiece. I was reminded of other caves I've visited, but this one felt particularly special, perhaps because it was still relatively undiscovered.

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Delphi

After our subterranean adventure, we were ready for a late lunch. We drove to Skeletóbrachos, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and authentic Greek flavors. Located in Galaxidi, the restaurant offered stunning views of the sea. We indulged in a feast of grilled octopus, fried calamari, and a traditional Greek salad. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were vibrant and satisfying.

As we savored our meal, we reminisced about the day's adventures. Aoife and I shared stories of our past travels, while Liam regaled us with his observations about Greek culture and history. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special, creating lasting memories and strengthening our bond.

Sunset at EKEI: A Perfect Ending

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Delphi, determined to find the perfect spot to watch the sunset. We stumbled upon EKEI, a bar known for its stunning views and relaxed atmosphere. Perched on a hillside, EKEI offered panoramic vistas of the valley below and the distant mountains. We ordered a round of drinks and settled in to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

The sunset was nothing short of spectacular. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, with hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the landscape. The air was still and quiet, save for the gentle murmur of conversation and the clinking of glasses. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Delphi with my family. From the spiritual heights of Profitis Ilias Monastery to the subterranean depths of Stalactite Cave Levavot, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. And as we prepare to leave Delphi tomorrow, heading towards The Lion of Chaeronea and the Distomo Mausoleum, I know that the memories we've created here will stay with us forever.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to have dinner at To Pithari in Arachova. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm atmosphere and friendly staff. We savored traditional Greek dishes, each bite bursting with flavor and authenticity. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Delphi.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Delphi has exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my readers, and I hope that my words inspire you to embark on your own adventures.

Tomorrow marks the end of our time in Delphi. We plan to visit The Lion of Chaeronea and Distomo Mausoleum. We'll also stop by Meandros Souvenir Shop before having our last meals here at Delphi Restaurant for breakfast, Kalýba for lunch and Maistrali Restaurant for dinner. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm excited to see what the final day holds. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration and discovery.


Discover comfort and convenience at Parnassos Delphi Hotel, your ideal base for exploring Delphi's rich history and stunning landscapes.


Discover the spiritual serenity and breathtaking views at Profitis Ilias Monastery in Delphi, a must-visit destination for history and nature lovers.


Explore the stunning natural formations at Stalactite Cave Levavot in Diakopto, a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.


Discover the flavors of Greece at Skeletóbrachos - where fresh seafood meets authentic Greek hospitality in stunning Galaxidi.


Experience the best of Athens nightlife at EKEI, where music and dance create unforgettable memories.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at To Pithari in Arachova – where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.