Exploring the Ancient Charms of Delphi with Aoife

Delphi Delights: A Day of Ancient Wonders and Modern Treats

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the ancient grandeur of Delphi with the sweet, simple pleasures of modern Greek life. Aoife and I dove headfirst into both, creating memories that I know will last a lifetime. It’s funny how travel can throw the past and present into such sharp relief, making you appreciate both in new and profound ways.

Our day began, as most days here have, with a delightful breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi Restaurant. There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting the day with a good meal, especially when you know you have a full day of exploring ahead. Fuelled up, we set out to uncover some of Delphi's hidden gems.


Experience modern comfort and historical charm at Amalia Hotel Delphi, your ideal base for exploring the ancient wonders of Delphi and beyond.

First on our list was the intriguing Iron Throne. Now, I know what you might be thinking – is this some sort of *Game of Thrones* tie-in? Well, not exactly. It turns out that within the Temple of Apollo, there was an actual iron throne upon which the poet Pindar sat when he visited Delphi to sing hymns to Apollo. It’s fascinating to think of the history imbued in such a simple object. I tried to imagine Pindar himself, composing his verses, the air thick with the scent of incense and the weight of ancient tradition. While the throne I saw may or may not have been the original, standing there, I felt a tangible connection to the past, a sense of continuity that only a place like Delphi can offer. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring power of art and the human spirit.


Discover the thrill of imagination and adventure at the Iron Throne theme park in Pavliani, a magical destination for tourists of all ages.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Next, we ventured out for the MoKa Honey Stories tour, and what a treat that was! I’ve always had a soft spot for honey – a fondness that goes back to my childhood in Vermont, where we had a local beekeeper who supplied the whole town. This tour, however, took my appreciation to a whole new level. Located a short, scenic drive from Delphi, in the area of Itea, the MoKa farm is a family-run business with a passion for sustainable beekeeping and olive cultivation. We were greeted by one of the brothers who runs the place, who was incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He walked us through the entire honey-making process, from the buzzing hives to the final, golden product.


Discover the enchanting world of honey at MoKa Honey Stories in Itea, Greece, where tradition and flavor combine for an unforgettable experience.

Aoife, ever the librarian, was particularly fascinated by the history of beekeeping in Greece, while I was more interested in the practical aspects. We learned about the different types of honey produced in the region, each with its unique flavor profile and health benefits. And, of course, we got to sample them all! From the delicate floral notes of thyme honey to the rich, earthy tones of chestnut honey, it was a true sensory experience. We also learned about the crucial role bees play in the ecosystem and the importance of protecting them – a message that resonated deeply with both of us. We even got to try our hand at some basic beekeeping tasks, which was both fun and educational. I have to say, donning that beekeeper's suit was an experience in itself!

For lunch, we headed to Taverna Porto in Galaxidi, a charming seaside village a short drive from Delphi. The setting was idyllic – a classic Greek taverna right on the water, with stunning views of the harbor. We sat at a table overlooking the sea, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and grilled fish. The food was, as expected, superb. We started with a selection of mezze – *tzatziki*, *melitzanosalata* (eggplant dip), and some delicious *dolmades* (stuffed grape leaves). For our main courses, Aoife opted for the grilled octopus, while I went for the fresh grilled sea bass. Everything was cooked to perfection, the flavors simple and authentic. It was the kind of meal that nourishes not just the body, but the soul. As we savored our food, we watched the local fishermen tending to their boats, the sun glinting off the water. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, a perfect encapsulation of the Greek way of life.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Porto in Galaxidi – where fresh ingredients meet stunning seaside views.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Delphi and decided to explore some of the town itself. We stumbled upon a charming little bar called Delphikón. Perched on a hillside, it offered breathtaking views of the valley below. We settled in with a couple of glasses of local wine and watched as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring.


Experience the finest of Greek cuisine at Delphikón, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of historic Delphi.

For dinner, we chose Maistrali Restaurant, drawn in by its reputation for traditional Greek cuisine and stunning views. Located a short drive from Delphi in Itea, the restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and authentic dishes. We started with a classic Greek salad, followed by *moussaka* for Aoife and *kleftiko* (slow-cooked lamb) for me. The food was hearty and delicious, the portions generous. The service was warm and welcoming, making us feel like we were dining in someone's home. As we ate, we watched the lights of Itea twinkling below, the night air filled with the sound of cicadas. It was a magical end to a magical day.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with breathtaking views at Maistrali Restaurant in Itea - a culinary delight on your Mediterranean journey.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – the opportunity to experience new things, to connect with different cultures, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Delphi has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your imagination and stirring your soul. It’s a place where the past feels very much alive, where the present is vibrant and full of life, and where the future seems full of possibility.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Museum of Delphic Festivals and Krya Park. I'm particularly looking forward to the museum, as it promises a deeper dive into the history and traditions of the Delphic Games. Krya Park, with its natural beauty, should be a welcome change of pace. Aoife is already planning her visit to DIONYSOS JEWELRY. I have a feeling tomorrow will be another day filled with discovery and wonder. Until then, *αντίο* from Delphi!