In the heart of Phocis, at the foot of Mount Parnassos and overlooking the Corinthian Gulf, the site of Delphi continues to fascinate visitors. Where nature, culture and myth coexist, the idea of Delphian Paths was born, an experiential tourism proposal that seeks to reinvent the place through its paths.
How was the idea of Delphian Paths born and what makes it unique?
Delphian Paths is an innovative experiential tourism proposal based in Phocis, in the Delphi area. We specialize in the design and implementation of thematic hiking trails that combine the exploration of nature with the historical narrative and cultural heritage of the region. Through authentic experiences that utilize the ancient paths and natural treasures of Parnassus, we aim to promote experiential tourism and create a deep connection between visitors and the place.
What does the experience of hiking in Delphi mean to you?
We were created to offer more than just a hike. Our goal is to invite the visitor to a living narrative of the history, nature and energy of Delphi and the surrounding areas. From the ancient paths that connected Delphi with the port of Kirra, a path that great philosophers, kings and emperors walked to seek oracles from the sanctuary of Pythia, to the steep alpine landscapes of Parnassus, the traditional alleys of picturesque Galaxidi and the fertile expanses of the UNESCO-protected Delphic landscape and olive grove of Amfissa, each route we design is an open invitation for a deep and authentic connection with the place.
What is your vision for the destination?
Our vision is to establish the wider Delphi area as a destination for experiential and alternative tourism. We want the visitor to leave with more than just photographs — with emotions, memories, new knowledge and, ideally, a sense of connection with themselves and the landscape. At our core are three values. First of all, authenticity, we are local and work with local people, we highlight local products and stories and we respect the natural and cultural environment. Second, experience, we do not just offer a “service” but offer an experience that combines hiking with storytelling, exploration with relaxation and information with sensation. Finally, connection, we seek to bridge and unite people with the place, themselves and others, through the silence of nature, the shared path on the path and the value of experiential learning.
Take us with you on a journey! What experiences can the visitor experience with you?
Our routes are designed with accessibility, diversity and immersion in mind. The visitor can choose between gentle walks in traditional villages, descents on the ancient paths of the area, but also more demanding routes with stunning views. We design thematic experiences that combine history, nature and culture.
In the Delphi – Kirra Ancient Path experience, visitors follow the path walked by ancient pilgrims to the Oracle of Delphi, with the stunning Delphic landscape and the Amfissa olive grove as a backdrop, a protected natural monument. The Prophet Elias Monastery and Mycenaean Tomb route combines a visit to the Prophet Elias monastery, with views of the Delphic landscape and the Amfissa olive grove, as well as the Mycenaean tomb, offering an experiential connection to the history and tradition of the area. In the Korykeion Cave of Andros and the Alpine Landscape, visitors discover this particular cave, a historical place of ancient Greek mythology, while enjoying the panoramic view of Mount Parnassos and the surrounding alpine landscape. Finally, the Galaxidi and Nautical Tradition experience invites visitors to explore traditional Galaxidi, with its picturesque straits and nautical traditions that characterize this historic settlement, discovering its relationship with the sea and Greek seafaring.
Each route is for us a unique experience that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and experiential learning, promoting authentic contact with the place. We move away from classic narratives. All routes are interactive and through fun group games of knowledge the visitor learns the history of the place as well as about the cultivation of olive trees. We divide the groups into teams and during the hike we ask them questions about historical events in the area. Of course, we do not expect them to know the answers, we help them discover them in a fun way. At the end of the route, the team with the most points wins a small prize. Through this interaction, the routes become more interesting for families with children and for companies looking for team building activities.
What do you feel is changing for visitors and the region thanks to your work?
Since our foundation until today, we have had the pleasure of hosting visitors from all over the world, with particular appeal in markets such as the USA, France and the Netherlands, through partnerships with alternative tourism travel agencies. Participants constantly give us positive feedback. They talk about the rarity of the experience, the feeling that “something changes” inside them after a route, but also about the hospitality they experience. In collaboration with local organizations, associations and professionals, we have contributed to the development of alternative tourism in the region and the creation of new synergies. Many travelers return or send others through recommendations, strengthening the model of quality, sustainable tourism.
What are the next steps for Delphian Paths?
The next step for us is to develop new thematic experiences, digitally record the routes, contribute to the regeneration of the paths and strengthen international partnerships. At the same time, we are looking for new ways to raise awareness in the local community and involve more residents in the activity through collaboration with schools and clubs, as well as with the Delphi Economic Forum — so that our vision can have a greater social impact. The invitation remains open: Come and experience Delphi differently. Not as spectators, but as fellow travelers. Through our paths, we invite everyone to discover not only the place, but also themselves.
See more about Delphian Paths here.
Source: marketinggreece.com