Exploring the Ancient Charms of Delphi with Aoife

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day filled with both natural beauty and profound spiritual experiences. Leaving the antiquities of Delphi behind for a day, Aoife and I ventured into the mountains and monasteries that dot this historic landscape. It was a journey that fed both our souls and our appetites, leaving us with memories we'll cherish long after we've returned to Dublin.

Our day began, as most days here do, with a delightful breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi Restaurant. I always appreciate a good start to the day, and the Amalia certainly provides that. After fueling up, we set off for our first adventure: the Parnassos Experience.


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

The drive itself was stunning. As we wound our way up Mount Parnassus, the views became increasingly panoramic. The air grew cooler, a welcome change from the heat of the valley. The landscape transformed from olive groves to dense forests of fir and pine. It reminded me a bit of the Wicklow Mountains back home, though with a distinctly Greek flavour. I did miss my sunglasses though, a silly thing to forget considering the strong Greek sun!

The Parnassos Experience turned out to be an ATV tour, something I hadn't done in years. Aoife was a bit hesitant at first, but the guides were reassuring and provided all the necessary gear: waterproof trousers, jackets, gloves, and helmets. Safety first, of course! Once we were suited up, we hopped on our ATVs and followed our guide into the wilderness. The trails were a mix of dirt roads and rocky paths, winding through the forest and offering glimpses of breathtaking vistas. We stopped at several viewpoints, each more stunning than the last. From one spot, we could see all the way to the Corinthian Gulf, the water shimmering in the distance.


Explore the beauty of Arachova with Parnassos Experience, the go-to outdoor activity organizer for adventure seekers and nature lovers in Greece.

“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.”

It was exhilarating to feel the wind in my face and the sun on my skin as we navigated the rugged terrain. Aoife, initially apprehensive, was soon laughing and cheering as we splashed through puddles and climbed over small rocks. It was wonderful to see her enjoying herself so much. I must admit, for a moment I felt like I was young Liam again, tearing through the countryside on my bike. The Parnassos Experience, while a bit touristy, offered a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the region. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a bit of adventure and a break from the ancient ruins.

After our exhilarating ride, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at PHIVOS Restaurant in Delphi, drawn in by its promise of traditional Greek cuisine and stunning views. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant had a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the patio offered breathtaking views of the valley. We started with a classic Greek salad, the tomatoes bursting with flavour and the feta cheese creamy and salty. For my main course, I opted for the wild boar stew, a local specialty. The meat was tender and rich, simmered in a flavorful sauce with herbs and spices. Aoife chose the moussaka, a layered dish of eggplant, potatoes, and meat sauce topped with a creamy béchamel. Both dishes were delicious and satisfying. The portions were generous, and we left feeling pleasantly full.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at PHIVOS Restaurant in Delphi - a hidden gem offering stunning views and exceptional flavors.

What I particularly enjoyed was the friendly service. The staff were attentive and helpful, offering recommendations and sharing stories about the local cuisine. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, rather than a restaurant. A truly authentic Greek experience.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: the Holy Monastery of Hosios Loukas. The drive to the monastery was as beautiful as the drive up Mount Parnassus, winding through picturesque valleys dotted with olive groves and small villages. The monastery itself is located on the slopes of Mount Helicon, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.


Explore the Holy Monastery of Hosios Loukas, a UNESCO heritage site, where Byzantine architecture and spiritual serenity merge in the heart of Greece.

As we approached the monastery, I was struck by its imposing presence. The walls were thick and sturdy, built to withstand the ravages of time and invaders. The architecture was a blend of Byzantine and Romanesque styles, reflecting the complex history of the region. The monastery has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, a testament to its historical and cultural significance.

The Monastery of Hosios Loukas was founded in the 10th century by the hermit, St. Luke of Steiris. The main shrine of the monastery is the tomb of St. Luke, originally situated in the vault, but later placed at the juncture of the two churches. St Luke (not to be confused with the Evangelist author of the Gospel of Saint Luke), was a hermit who died on 7 February 953. He is famous for having predicted the conquest of Crete by Emperor Romanos. It was unclear if he was referring to Romanos I, the emperor at the time. However the island was actually reconquered by Nicephorus Phocas under Romanos II.

We entered the monastery through a large wooden gate, stepping into a courtyard filled with the sound of birdsong and the scent of incense. The air was thick with a sense of peace and tranquility. We wandered through the complex, admiring the intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorned the walls. The artwork was stunning, depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. The colours were vibrant, and the details were exquisite.

The monastery consists of two main churches: the Church of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary) and the Katholikon (main church). The Church of the Theotokos is the older of the two, built in the 10th century. It is a smaller, more intimate space, with a simple yet elegant design. The Katholikon is larger and more imposing, built in the 11th century. It is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, with a soaring dome and intricate mosaics. The Katholikon contains the best preserved complex of mosaics from the period of the Macedonian Renaissance.

We spent hours exploring the monastery, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the artwork. It was a truly spiritual experience, a chance to connect with something larger than ourselves. I found myself reflecting on my own life, my own beliefs, and my own place in the world. The Monastery of Hosios Loukas is a place of pilgrimage, a place of contemplation, and a place of beauty. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Delphi. Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to stop at Rocky cafe and bar for a drink. The cafe offered stunning views of the valley, and we sat on the terrace, sipping our wine and watching the sky turn from blue to gold to purple. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the charm of Rocky Cafe and Bar in Delphi, where local flavors and stunning views create the perfect retreat for travelers.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore some of Delphi's hydraulic structures and take the MoKa olive stories tour. I'm particularly looking forward to learning more about the production of olive oil, a staple of Greek cuisine. And of course, we'll be sure to stop by Poseidon Workshop for some souvenir shopping.

Until then, goodnight from Delphi!