Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Delphi with Family

A Day Away From the Stones

After days spent exploring ancient ruins, today was a welcome change of pace. We traded temples for tavernas, history for hospitality, and ancient stones for sandy shores. While the echoes of the past still resonate in Delphi, sometimes the soul needs a different kind of nourishment. Today, we set out to explore the more contemporary delights of this region, seeking relaxation and unique finds.

Our day began, as most do on this trip, with a hearty breakfast at Epikouros Restaurant. Aoife and Liam are big fans of this place, and I must admit, they are right. The views overlooking the valley were magnificent, especially as the sun began its ascent. The restaurant was already buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and tourists eager to start their day. I opted for the traditional Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts, a simple yet satisfying way to fuel up for the day ahead. Aoife, ever the traditionalist, chose the Spanakopita, while Liam, with his boundless energy, went for a stack of pancakes. It's become a morning ritual that sets a positive tone for whatever adventures lie ahead.

With breakfast concluded, we decided to embrace the morning sun and head towards the coast. Delphi is nestled in the mountains, but a short drive will bring you to several beaches. We chose one near Itea, a charming coastal town. The drive itself was stunning, winding through olive groves and offering glimpses of the sparkling sea. Arriving at the beach, we were greeted by the gentle lapping of waves and the warmth of the sun. It wasn't crowded, which was perfect for us. Liam immediately ran towards the water, eager to test its temperature. Aoife and I found a couple of sunbeds and settled in, ready to soak up some much-needed Vitamin D.


Discover the serene beauty of Itea Beach, where crystal-clear waters meet golden sands in a perfect coastal escape in Greece.

The beach offered a sense of tranquility that we hadn't experienced amidst the historical sites. Liam, of course, was in his element, building sandcastles and splashing in the water. Aoife, with her book in hand, found a shady spot under an umbrella. I, on the other hand, decided to take a stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the feel of the sand between my toes. The sea was crystal clear, and the air was filled with the scent of salt and sunscreen. It was a perfect moment of relaxation, a reminder that sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most rewarding.

Sometimes, the best way to appreciate history is to take a break from it.

After a couple of hours of sun and sea, we packed up and headed towards Loutra Ypatis. I had read about the thermal springs in the area and thought it would be a great way to unwind and rejuvenate. The drive to Loutra Ypatis was picturesque, taking us through lush landscapes and quaint villages. As we arrived, the air was noticeably cooler and fresher, a welcome change from the coastal heat. The town itself seemed peaceful, a haven away from the bustling tourist spots.


Experience the healing waters and scenic beauty of Loutra Ypatis, a tranquil retreat in Greece renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and rich heritage.

Loutra Ypatis is known for its thermal baths, which have been used since ancient times for their therapeutic properties. We decided to visit the main spa, where we indulged in a soak in the mineral-rich waters. The experience was incredibly relaxing, the warm water soothing our tired muscles. Liam, initially hesitant, soon warmed up to the idea and enjoyed splashing around in the shallow end. Aoife, ever the pragmatist, commented on how good the minerals were for her skin. I simply enjoyed the feeling of weightlessness and the sense of calm that washed over me.

Feeling refreshed and revitalized, we decided to have lunch at Lefas Restaurant in Delphi. We were all ravenous after our morning of sun, sea and spas. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered a selection of traditional Greek dishes, including moussaka, souvlaki, and a fresh Greek salad. The food was delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked with love. Liam, surprisingly, devoured the moussaka, declaring it his new favorite dish. Aoife and I savored the souvlaki, reminiscing about our previous culinary adventures in Greece. It was a satisfying meal, a perfect end to our relaxing afternoon.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the local shops in Delphi. I was particularly interested in finding some unique souvenirs to take back home. We stumbled upon Michailou, a charming store that seemed to be a treasure trove of locally crafted goods. As an antiques dealer, I'm always drawn to items with a story, and this place was full of them. The store was filled with an array of beautifully crafted items, from traditional ceramics to exquisite textiles. The ambiance was inviting, and the staff were incredibly helpful, sharing insights about the products and their origins.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Michailou, the charming souvenir store in Delphi, Greece, perfect for capturing memories of your journey.

Aoife was immediately drawn to the hand-painted ceramics, admiring the intricate designs and vibrant colors. Liam, on the other hand, was fascinated by the collection of worry beads, spending ages trying to master the art of twirling them. I found myself captivated by the vintage maps of Greece, each one a piece of history in itself. After much deliberation, we all made our purchases. Aoife chose a set of hand-painted bowls, Liam a string of worry beads, and I, of course, a vintage map of Delphi. It was a successful shopping trip, a chance to take a piece of Delphi home with us.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Maniatis 3rd generation, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a selection of traditional Greek dishes, including lamb chops, Greek salad, and various pies. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Liam, predictably, devoured the lamb chops, while Aoife and I savored the pies and salad. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a chance to reflect on our experiences and enjoy each other's company.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore some of the scenic viewpoints around Delphi, including The Peak of Love. We'll start the day with breakfast at Delphikón, before venturing out to capture the breathtaking views. In the evening, we might stop by Rocky cafe and bar for a drink, soaking in the local atmosphere.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about ticking off landmarks and historical sites. It's also about embracing the simple pleasures, connecting with the local culture, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. As we head towards the final days of our trip, I'm grateful for these moments of respite, these opportunities to recharge and appreciate the beauty of the present. It's these experiences that make a journey truly unforgettable, a tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and personal connection. And as I sit here, penning these thoughts, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.

As we prepare for our final days in Delphi, I am reminded of a quote by Henry Miller:

One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.

Indeed, this trip has been more than just a visit to ancient ruins; it has been a journey of discovery, a chance to see the world through new eyes. And as we continue our exploration, I am excited to see what other perspectives await us.

Until tomorrow,
David.