In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the centre of the Earth. Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of gods, heroes, and monsters across five mythical destinations in Greece. From Apollo's oracle to Poseidon's love nest, these sites offer a journey through timeless stories that shaped ancient culture and still resonate today.
Navel Gaze with Zeus at Delphi
According to myth, Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the Earth to find its centre; they met at Delphi on Mount Parnassus. This site became the spiritual heart of ancient Greece, where Apollo's temple housed the oracle Pythia. Supplicants, from shepherds to kings, sought her cryptic guidance after a three-day trek. Today, the modern town of Delphi offers tavernas and hotels with panoramic views of the archaeological site, including Apollo's pillars, an amphitheatre framed by Mount Kirfi, and the Pleistos valley with its ancient olive groves. The Kastalia Boutique Hotel provides doubles from £62 room-only.
Bathe in Hades' River in Epirus
The Acheron River, known as the 'River of Woe' in mythology, encircled Hades' underworld. In summer, its cool, clear waters offer a refreshing escape. The river flows from the Tomares mountains through the Acheron valley to the sea, with banks lined by lush forest. Visitors can explore the Necromanteion (oracle of the dead) near Mesopotamos, the fishing hamlet of Ammoudia, and the Acheron Springs near Glyki for swimming, rafting, or ziplining. The Gates of Hades, where the river cuts through towering limestone cliffs, provide a dramatic entrance to the underworld. Atman Eco Lodge near Glyki offers doubles from £103 room-only.
Float Up to Nestor's Cave at Pylos
Homer's 'Sandy Pylos' is a seaside town in Navarino bay, site of a naval battle in the Greek War of Independence. It features in the Odyssey and Iliad as the home of King Nestor, whose palace is nearby. The Ottoman castle Niokastro guards Pylos, but the ruined Paliokastro overlooks Voidokilia bay, where turtles nest. Nestor's cave, where the infant Hermes hid stolen cattle, sits above the bay. Dio Pigadia ecovillage offers cottages from €50 a night.
Marvel at Mycenae's Lion Gate
Mycenae, the bronze-age citadel founded by Perseus, was the home of King Agamemnon. The Lion Gate features megalithic architecture with stone lions. Inside are palace ruins, the tomb of Clytemnestra, and the treasury of Atreus. The museum displays Linear B tablets and a copy of Agamemnon's golden funeral mask. The Grand Sarai hotel in Nafplion offers doubles from £130 B&B.
Poseidon's Love Shack on Paxos
The island of Paxos was created by Poseidon as a love nest for the sea nymph Amphitrite. According to myth, he struck off the southern tip of Corfu and placed the dolphin Delphinus among the stars. Visitors can enjoy turquoise seas, snorkel over posidonia seagrass meadows, and spot dolphins. The blue caves are said to be the couple's palace. Lakka village and Gaios town offer charming stays. Village Life Penthouse is available from €195.
Susan Smillie's book, The Half Bird, recounts her sailing voyage from the UK to Greece and these mythical destinations. Order at guardianbookshop.com.
