Greece is renowned for its rich history, magnificent beaches and picturesque islands. But did you know that this country also offers fantastic opportunities for hiking enthusiasts? Indeed, one of Greece’s hidden gems is Mount Olympus, a mythical mountain and kingdom of the Greek gods. In this article, we’ll tell you all about hiking on Mount Olympus and give you an idea of the exciting challenges that await you! Where to stay, how to get there, what to visit? … So let’s get going!
Mount Olympus, the mythical mountain
The Mount Olympus in northern Greece is the country’s highest mountain, rising to 2,918 meters. In Greek mythology, it was the home of the Olympian gods. Today, Mount Olympus is a protected national park, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and natural, even divine, beauty! By hiking this mountain, you’ll have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the gods and immerse yourself in unspoilt nature.
Choose your itinerary: Mount Olympus “à la carte”!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Mount Olympus offers a variety of itineraries to suit all skill levels. The most popular trail is the route to the summit, known as E4. This demanding route takes you through breathtaking scenery, from lush forests to steep cliffs. If you prefer a gentler hike, there are also trails of varying length and difficulty, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of this majestic mountain. To help you plan your itinerary, we recommend two comprehensive websites:
3 main hikes :
- For experienced sportsmen: ⏰8 hours’ walking. The main route passes through
- visit Enipéas gorges and
- the refuge A Spilios Agapitos . There is also the option of a 3-hour trip directly to the Prionia refuge.
- For very experienced sportsmen: ⏰ 5 hours’ walking. The second route passes
- by the “valley of the muses“,
- via the Kakalos hut, which can be reached from Diastravossi (15 km from Litochoro) and is 1h30 from Mytikas (also 30 min. climbing).
- For sporty people and families: ⏰ 3/4-hour walk. From Litochoro, you can also take the Mount Olympus road to Prionia (17 km), and branch off to the monastery of Agios Dionysos in the hollow of the valley.
Testimonial of hiking for all: good plans
Here, for example, is a suggested itinerary (hike 3 above). Our friends from Vivre Athènes share their experience of a weekend conquering Mount Olympus! So we’re giving you all the tips, tricks and information you need to prepare for this fabulous hike. Thanks friends!
There’s nothing like hiking with friends!
First stage: Before tackling Mount Olympus, they chose to spend a night in Lithochoro, staying at the Afroditi Arhontiko hotel. Nightly rates are around 70 euros for a double room. They loved it, especially the gargantuan breakfast at 7.50 euros per person, which will live long in the memory!
Second stage: Instead of setting off from the starting point of the hike to Mount Olympus in Prionia, they preferred to leave from the parking lot of the monastery of Agios Dionysos Olympianus.
Stage 3: Beautiful, well-marked walk to the Spilios Agapitos hut.⏰3/4 hours with breaks. Firstly, they found the refuge clean. Secondly, count around 16 euros /person. So here’s their valuable advice:
- Bring warm clothing (the refuge is at 2,100m).
- Slippers: mandatory for indoor use
- It is advisable to be well equipped with good shoes, poles and a “meat bag”.
- Book well in advance, especially in summer
Stage 4: They came back down because it had snowed! But it’s just a matter of time before they finish this ascent of Mount Olympus – that’s just the way things are on this beautiful mountain!
Mount Olympus refuges
Essential anchor points for hikers wishing to explore this majestic mountain, here are some of the main refuges on Mount Olympus:
Spilios Agapitos Refuge at an altitude of around 2,100 meters. It is one of the most popular refuges and the common starting point for hikers heading for the summit. This refuge has dormitory rooms, sanitary facilities and a restaurant serving hot meals (basic dishes such as spaghetti bolognaise for around 8 euros). It also offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
Kakkalos hut The Kakkalos hut is located at a higher altitude, at around 2,650 metres. It can be reached from the Spilios Agapitos refuge by following trail E4. This refuge is generally used by hikers climbing Mount Olympus. It is therefore reserved for seasoned athletes. It offers basic facilities, including dormitories, sanitary facilities and a dining area.
The Stavros hut (hut D) is an excellent refuge for tourists and also for visitors not heading for the summit. It has 30 beds and fresh spring water, although it’s often a pit stop for coffee and food.
Finally, the Gioso Apostolidis hut, at 2,697 metres, lies on the high ridge between the Toumba and Profitis Ilias peaks. It has 66 beds to accommodate travelers.
What to see and do on Mount Olympus
Sports activities, “when the mountains win you over”.
Aside from mountain hiking, there are plenty of sporting activities and surprises to discover:
- Canyoning on Mount Olympus Jump over waterfalls, descend on ropes, swim in crystal-clear rivers… Let yourself be carried away (in complete safety) and enjoy the thrills! What’s more, it’s an activity available in French.
- Tandem paragliding flight over Mount Olympus A magical tandem paragliding flight over Mount Olympus. Fly over the Mountain of the Gods and enjoy the view of the mountain and the Aegean Sea. Not to be missed on your visit to Greece!
- Orlias river trekking on Mount Olympus With this river trekking experience, you’ll set off on one of the most fascinating trails on Mount Olympus.
And for runners who enjoy mountain running, don’t miss the annual Olympus Marathon in June: trails and ultra-trails up the mountain of the gods.
Archaeological sites near Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus also boasts significant archaeological wealth. Here are some of the most important archaeological sites on Mount Olympus:
- Dion is one of the most important archaeological sites on Mount Olympus. It was once a sacred city dedicated to Zeus, king of the gods. Dion was a major religious and cultural center, with temples, theaters, shrines and public buildings. A visit to the ancient “City of Zeus” allows visitors to see how the ancient Greeks lived, prospered and worshipped their gods. Excavations have revealed interesting remains, such as mosaics, statues and ritual objects, offering a glimpse into the religious and daily life of the period. Official website
- One-way ticket: Full: €8, Reduced: 4 €
- Winter: November 1, 2022 to April 15, 2023: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Tuesday CLOSED
- Summer: April 16, 2022 to October 31, 2023: 08:00-20:00.
- Vergina Vergina: Although not directly adjacent to Mount Olympus, Vergina deserves a mention for housing the royal tombs of Macedonia, including that of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Vergina lies around 120 kilometers northwest of Mount Olympus. The archaeological discoveries at Vergina have been extremely important for our understanding of the history of ancient Macedonia.
Spectacular panoramas and exceptional biodiversity
As you venture up Mount Olympus, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas at every step. Views from the peaks therefore offer incredible vistas of the sparkling Aegean Sea, verdant valleys and other surrounding mountain peaks. You’ll feel as if you’re touching the sky as you gaze at these magnificent landscapes, an experience you’ll never forget. The site is also part of Greece’s first national park, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.
Mount Olympus is home to exceptional biodiversity, with a rich and varied flora and fauna. As you stroll along the trails, you’ll have the chance to observe unique species such as the bearded vulture, a majestic bird of prey, or the martagon lily, a rare flower. The diversity of the mountain’s ecosystems makes it a true paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
But remember to respect this exceptional place by not leaving any garbage or picking any plants… 😇
How do I get there? Transport – equipment
To Litochoro from Athens
- By car 🚗: 420 km (⏰4 and a half hours)
- By train🚝: Take a train from Athens main station (Larissis station) to Katerini, then on to Litochoro.
- By bus🚌: Take the bus from Athens to Katerini where you change for Litochoro.
To Litochoro from Thessaloniki
- By car 🚗: 90 km (⏰a good hour)
- By train 🚝: Direct train from Thessaloniki station.
- By bus🚌: Direct from Makedonia bus station.
The list of equipment to take
You can never be too careful in the mountains, so here’s a little “todolist ” for summer climbing!
Although helmets and trekking poles aren’t necessary, they’re always a good idea.
- Helmet and cap
- Hiking poles
- Hiking/mountaineering boots
- Durable pants and jacket
- Rucksack
- Sleeping bag
- Emergency pharmacy
- Toiletries for overnight stays (personal hygiene items, towel, sheets if necessary)
- Energy snacks and water
- water bottle
- sun protection
- sunglasses
Are you tempted by the experience but reluctant to organize your own ascent of Mount Olympus? We spotted (but didn’t test) several guided excursions, most of them in English:
- Hiking around Mount Olympus from Litochoro – 1 day: Prionia, Enipeas waterfalls, monastery and Agios Dionysos cave, Litochoro mills. Organized by Greek Adventure, with the possibility of a French-speaking guide.
- Mount Olympus summit hike – 2 days. Climb the E4 trail to Greece’s highest peak, Mount Mytikas, with overnight stay at the refuge. In English.
- 3-day trek to Mount Olympus. With ascent of Mytikas peak or Skala and Skolio depending on the weather and the group’s physical condition. Includes 2 nights in refuge. In English.
Finally, the entire Vivre Athènes team wishes you a marvellous ascent, worthy of the Olympian gods!
So don’t hesitate to share your experiences with us…
Céline P.
