Greece is famous for its sunshine and beaches. But a little less so, and this is a shame, for its mountains, which make up 80% of its territory. And yes, Greece is the 6th most mountainous country in Europe! So of course it’s possible to ski in Greece, even just a few hours from Athens. Here we describe the Parnassos (Mount Parnassus) resort near Arachova, which offers a superb playground for mountain enthusiasts. Ideal for a weekend or even a day away from it all, find out more in our article A winter weekend at Mount Parnassus. Skiing in Greece, Parnassos resort : all the information !
Mount Parnassos: the preferred area for intermediate skiers
The “Parnassos ski center” ski area rises between 1,600 and 2,260 meters above sea level. It has 2 peaks: Kellaria and Fterolaka. The ski area is sparsely wooded, but offers magnificent views of the mountain and, in good weather, even the sea. A real pleasure!
Most of the resort’s 23 pistes are blue or red (36 kms of runs). The slopes are divided into 4 green slopes (very easy, for mini-beginners with babylifts), 11 blue slopes (easy), 8 red slopes (medium difficulty). In addition, 4 of the red runs (no. 6 Heniokos, no. 8 Heracles, no. 9 Odysseus and no. 2 Bacchus) have been certified by the International Ski Federation to host international ski races. There are few bumps and the slopes are heavily groomed, no doubt to keep the snow in place as long as possible. If you like long, uncomplicated descents, you’re in for a treat.
On the other hand, the resort is not ideal for toddlers or absolute beginners. In fact, there is no protected area reserved for novices; lessons take place in the middle of the crowds arriving at the bottom of the lifts.
The resort boasts 17 lifts, including numerous chairlifts and gondolas, so that even non-skiers can reach the top of the slopes.
Practical information
When to ski in Greece
The period for skiing in Greece on Mount Parnassos is relatively short. Depending on the weather, it starts around mid-December and lasts until the end of March. We strongly advise you to check the snow conditions before going there on Snowreport website which gives real-time snow conditions and piste openings.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on the day you want to ski. Normal rates are €37 per day on weekends and vacations, €32 on Mondays and Fridays, and €21 mid-week. For children, prices range from €10 to €13. There are also 4-day rates, family rates (48€ to 80€) and rates with parking included from 50€. Access price list .
In season, we recommend you click on Skipass on the resort’s website to buy your tickets online and avoid queuing at the ticket office.
For further information, visit the Parnassos ski resort website.
Where to rent your equipment?
The easiest way is to rent equipment (skis or snowboards) at the bottom of the resort. There are three stores, all belonging to Dimitriadis S.A.:
- Dimitriadis at KELARIA 1750: +306970007440
- another store at KELARIA 1950 (inside the chalet): +306986854541
- And Dimitriadis at FTEROLAKA 1850: +306983340614
email: info@dimitriadis.gr website: www.dimitriadis.gr
There’s also a Parnass store on the Arachova road that rents skis from €8 (not tested). Rental rates on the website.
How do I get to the Parnassos ski resort?
There are several options for getting to Mount Parnassos:
- By car: just 2h30 from Athens, via the northern freeway to Kastrou, then the beautiful mountain road through Arachova. Please note that parking at the bottom of the slopes is expensive, and should be added to your budget. If you don’t have a car, we recommend you rent one via the car rental comparison website Rentalcars .
- The skibus: very practical and inexpensive (€20 for online purchase), this bus operates during the winter period. The snowbus leaves Athens and the surrounding area early in the morning. It goes as far as the Parnassos ski resort and leaves again for Athens in the late afternoon.
Once you arrive at the resort, there are two main entrances to the ski area:
- Kelaria 1750, where the biggest parking lots are located. Here you’ll find the cash desks to buy your ski passes, as well as an equipment rental shop. However, there are no plans for catering. To do this, take the gondola up to Kelaria 1950.
- Fterolaka, the original station. A little further away in distance, but in case of heavy traffic it’s a good idea to park in this area. At 1640m, you’ll only find a cash point to buy your ski passes; snack bars and ski rental companies are located at 1840m. It’s also a quieter place to start, as there’s more space.
Other less direct options from Athens allow you to get closer to the resort at a lower cost:
- By train : from Athens to Amfikleia or Lilaia stations (2h15 – €10). Hellenic train .
- Bus: an intercity bus runs from the Liossia bus station in Athens to Amfissa (3h – €18)-. KTEL Fokidas .
Where to stay near Parnassos ski resort?
There is no accommodation at the ski resort. You’ll need to stray about 30 mins from the slopes to sleep. To find accommodation not too far from the Parnassos ski area, we recommend the site Booking . You’ll find a wide range of accommodation, including breakfast-included offers, which are very practical for this type of ski weekend.
Discover our favourite ski resorts in Greece:
Sophie B.
