It was our first cloudy and windy day, but that didn’t stop Pete and Karen from heading ashore to explore the area around the port of Itea.

Following an amazing bus ride up the slope of Mount Hellicon, our first stop was at the Monastery of Ossios Loucas. The Monastery was built in the 11th Century, and was similar to a small fortressed city. There was a large courtyard area, surrounded by the Monk’s living quarters and a large church. (photo 1) Following our walk around the courtyard, we were “prepared” to go inside the church. All the ladies had to be completely covered, so we were all provided with some lovely skirts to put over top of our shorts! (Photo 3) We then entered the church, where our guide explained all about the beautiful frescoes, inlaid with 24 k gold, and the Byzantine mosaic art pieces. As it was Sunday today, we saw monks and local families coming to worship in the church. It was amazing to be in such a historical place and think of how many years ago the Monastery was built.

We then continued our drive up the mountain to the whitewashed village of Arachova. We were hoping to sample some of their famous cheese, Formaela, which is fried and then sprinkled with sugar, but we did not have enough time! We were able to take a quick stroll down their main street and see the adorable little shops selling olive oil and hand carved items. (Photos 4 and 5…Amazing Race fans will recognize the stairs that Pete and Karen are on in the photo. Teams had to race up the stairs…Yikes!)

We then started our decent down Mount Parnassus back to the port. We passed by Delphi, which is considered one of the most important ancient sites in Greek history. The site is said to have been picked out by the god Zeus, who believed it to be the centre of the earth. Delphi was home to a powerful Oracle and pilgrims would come here from all over to seek her advice. (Photo 6)

Jim and Kelley spent a relaxing day on the ship! We had yet another wonderful dinner with our new friends Helen and Julie from England. We then went to the comedy show which was great fun even though the British humor was difficult to get! We all laughed anyways! (Photo #7 is with Helen and Julie and Dave and Michelle at the show!)

Following the comedy show, we went up to "Horizon's" lounge where we enjoyed a nightcap and the amazing view as we sailed under the Rio–Antirrio bridge. This bridge is one of the world's longest cable suspended bridges and crosses the Gulf of Corinth near Patras, linking the Peloponnese peninsula to mainland Greece by road.

Our final photo is Kelley and Karen snuggling up to stay warm on the poolside deck, while the men enjoy their bedtime snack!