Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Delphi

Seaside Serenity and Shopping Treasures

As our journey through the ancient wonders of Delphi draws to a close, Lena and I decided to dedicate our final day to relaxation and a bit of souvenir hunting. After days filled with historical exploration, the allure of the nearby beaches was too strong to resist. We envisioned a day of sun, sea, and the perfect keepsake to remind us of this incredible adventure.

Our day began, as most mornings here have, with a delightful breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi. The fresh pastries and strong Greek coffee were the perfect fuel for our last day of exploration. We savored the moment, knowing we'd soon be trading these stunning views of the Delphi valley for the familiar sights of Berlin.


Discover the charm of Amalia Hotel Delphi, a serene haven near ancient ruins with stunning views and modern comforts for your perfect getaway.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards the coast. The drive from Delphi to Itea is always a treat, winding through picturesque landscapes dotted with olive groves. It's a stark contrast to the ancient ruins, but a beautiful reminder of the diverse beauty Greece has to offer. We decided to head to Kavos beach first, enticed by the promise of relaxation. I have to admit I briefly confused it with Kavos in Corfu, which I had heard was party central, but Lena quickly corrected me!


Explore Kavos Beach in Lichada, Greece, where crystal-clear waters meet golden sands for the ultimate beach experience.

Arriving at Kavos Beach, we were greeted by the inviting sight of the Crisaean Gulf. The beach was a mix of sand and pebbles, and the water was crystal clear. Despite it being a popular spot, it wasn't overly crowded, allowing us to find a perfect spot to settle in. We spread out our towels, applied sunscreen, and prepared to soak up the Mediterranean sun. The convenience of having sun loungers and umbrellas available made it easy to settle in for a relaxing day.

Lena, ever the sun worshipper, was immediately in her element. I, on the other hand, took a bit longer to adjust. I'm more of a history buff than a beach bum, but even I couldn't deny the calming effect of the gentle waves and warm sun. We spent the morning swimming in the clear waters, building sandcastles (or rather, Lena built them while I offered moral support), and simply enjoying each other's company.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the simple pleasures of life.

Around midday, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We packed up our things and drove to Itea, a charming seaside town known for its excellent seafood restaurants. After a bit of deliberation, we chose Zephyros Sea food restaurant. The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the sea, and the aroma of grilled fish was irresistible.


Experience authentic Greek seafood at Zephyros Seafood Restaurant in Itea—where fresh ingredients meet stunning sea views.

We started with a selection of classic Greek appetizers: creamy tzatziki, flavorful dolmades, and crispy fried calamari. For our main courses, Lena opted for the grilled octopus, while I chose the shrimp saganaki. Every dish was cooked to perfection, bursting with fresh, authentic flavors. It was the perfect way to savor our last official meal in Greece.

After lunch, feeling content and relaxed, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. Our mission: to find the perfect souvenir to remind us of our trip to Delphi. We drove back towards Delphi, stopping at Poseidon Workshop, a local shop known for its handcrafted jewelry and souvenirs. I had read about it online and was intrigued by their unique, artisanal creations.


Discover exquisite handmade jewelry and unique souvenirs at Poseidon Workshop, a gem in the heart of Delphi, Greece.

Stepping into Poseidon Workshop was like entering a treasure trove of Greek artistry. The shop was filled with an array of beautiful items, from intricate necklaces and bracelets to hand-painted ceramics and bronze statues. The craftsmanship was evident in every piece, and it was clear that each item was made with love and care. Lena was immediately drawn to a delicate silver pendant shaped like an owl, the symbol of wisdom and knowledge. It was the perfect memento for her, a reminder of our intellectual explorations in Delphi.

I, on the other hand, was captivated by a hand-made chess set, complete with chemically oxidized, cast-bronze statues for pieces. The board itself was a work of art, stamped with different Greek symbols like the owl, axe, and meander. It was a bit of a splurge, but I knew it would be a cherished keepsake, a reminder of our adventures in Delphi every time I played a game. It also reminded me of home in Cyprus, where we would play chess for hours in the town square.

With our souvenirs in hand, we made our way back to the Amalia Hotel Delphi. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the valley. We sat on our balcony, sipping local wine and reminiscing about our time in Delphi. We talked about the awe-inspiring Temple of Apollo, the enigmatic Oracle, and the breathtaking views from Mount Parnassus. We laughed about our misadventures, like the time we got lost trying to find the Corycian Cave, and the time Lena accidentally ordered a plate of snails at a local taverna.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, we felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared in Delphi. It was a trip that had exceeded all our expectations, a journey into the heart of ancient Greece that had enriched our minds and souls. As a Cypriot, I felt a deep connection to the history and culture of this land, a sense of belonging that transcended time and space.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Athens for our flight back to Berlin. While I'm excited to return to the comforts of home, I know that a part of me will always remain in Delphi. The memories we've made here will stay with us forever, etched in our hearts like the ancient ruins on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.

Before heading to Iniohos Taverna for dinner, we took a moment to appreciate the sunset from our hotel balcony. It was a fitting end to our day of relaxation and reflection, a perfect way to bid farewell to Delphi. We enjoyed a tasty meal at Iniohos Taverna, reflecting on our experiences. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making our dining experience even more memorable.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Iniohos Taverna in Delphi - where tradition meets breathtaking views.

As we prepare to leave Delphi, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. As a software developer, I often find myself immersed in the digital world, but this trip has reminded me of the importance of connecting with the physical world, of exploring ancient cultures and immersing myself in history. I hope that our experiences inspire you to embark on your own adventures, to discover the hidden gems of the world and create memories that will last a lifetime. Until next time, farewell from Delphi!

As we prepare to leave Delphi, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. As a software developer, I often find myself immersed in the digital world, but this trip has reminded me of the importance of connecting with the physical world, of exploring ancient cultures and immersing myself in history. I hope that our experiences inspire you to embark on your own adventures, to discover the hidden gems of the world and create memories that will last a lifetime. Until next time, farewell from Delphi!