Welcome back to my Greece & Turkey series!
Let’s return to January 13th, 2024.
This was our first full day in Delphi, Greece after arriving late the night before. We started our day by touring the Tholos of Athena as well as the Delphi archaeological site and museum.
In Ancient Greece, Delphi was known as the “bellybutton of the world”. People would travel from all over just to hear what the Oracle of Delphi had to say about their futures.
I enjoyed the breathtaking views as we slowly climbed up the cliffside during our tour of the archaeological site. Oh, and we also got to drink water straight from the Castalian Spring which was sacred during ancient times. It was delicious, and maybe even a little magical.
After our morning tours, we were given the afternoon to explore. My friends and I decided to go for a hike in the mountains! The trail that was recommended to us was supposed to be fairly short — maybe an hour long.
We started up the trail, taking in the beautiful views along the way.
After a while, we reached a point where the trail seemed to end.
Should we turn back? That was a short hike.
What if…. we keep exploring?!?!
Haakon noticed what looked to be a continuation of the trail.
It was headed straight up the mountain.
I checked my AllTrails app. It didn’t show up as being part of the trail, but I was desperate to keep hiking. Spending time with my friends out in nature was rejuvenating; I didn’t want to go back to the hotel! And I sure as hell didn’t want to do my homework.
After debating whether to return or carry on, we decided to follow the mystery trail.
Up and up and up we went.
We reached the top of the mountain just as the sun was starting to set… which meant we needed to hurry back for class!!!
We practically ran the entire way down, which left us time to grab some hot chocolate from a local cafe before going to class.
At the end of the day, we all ate dinner together. It was an especially entertaining one since we were all exhausted from hiking and could not seem to stop laughing.
The spontaneity of our hike up the mountain this day, along with the quality time spent with my friends, was what made this day particularly memorable to me. What started out as a short hike guided by GPS turned into a long adventure to the top of the mountain. And to think this all happened before class?!
If I’ve learned anything from this day, it’s to not be limited in adventure. Be curious, explore, and take the path less traveled.
Oh, and sometimes I’ll do ANYTHING to procrastinate doing my homework 😆
Until next time,
Clara