The old town of Kos is a charming maze of narrow streets, historic ruins, and traditional whitewashed buildings, reflecting the island's rich history and cultural heritage.
Greece: Arachova
As we neared our next destination in Greece, Delphi, we entered a village called Arachova, which nestles picturesquely at the foot of Mt. Parnassos. In a parking lot just shy of the village there was one of those huge ‘I love’ signs for Arachova, which we had to stop and take pictures of. It also was a great spot to photograph the village from, with its small house perched on the side of the mountain.
Once we reached Arachova we decided to park up and have a look around. It was Monday, so most shops were closed so it was very quiet indeed. In the winter months, this village turns into a ski resort. I never knew such a thing existed in Greece. On the way through Karen had spotted a very long set of steps leading to the very top of the village, so we set off to find them. Once there it became our challenge to climb them. We lost count of the number, but there was a lot, and by the time we reached the top our quads were beginning to complain. But the views made it worth it. There was a very quaint church on the hill, which looked like a picture on this bright, sunny day. Coming down was a lot easier, and rather than come back down the steps we wound our way down through the cobbled street and tiny passageways back to the car.
It was well worth spending a few minutes to explore this lovely little village.
Planning your visit to Arachova
Getting There
- By Car: Arachova is about 160 km (100 miles) northwest of Athens, roughly a 2-hour drive via the Athens-Lamia National Road and then the E962.
- By Bus: KTEL buses from Athens to Delphi often stop at Arachova. It’s a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing and enjoying the snowy landscapes at Mount Parnassus Ski Center.
- Spring (April–June): Perfect for mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and exploring ancient sites.
- Autumn (September–November): Crisp air and stunning fall foliage make for a scenic getaway.
- Summer (July–August): Cooler than Athens, with cultural festivals like the Parnassia.
Top Attractions
Mount Parnassus:
- Ski in winter or hike in warmer months.
- Explore trails offering breathtaking views and connections to Greek mythology.
Delphi (10 km from Arachova):
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient oracle, and the Temple of Apollo.
Arachova Village:
- Stroll through cobblestone streets, shop for handmade rugs, and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere.
- Admire the Clock Tower (Agios Georgios) for panoramic views.
Saint George Church:
- A historic and picturesque church located at the top of the village.
More to Explore
