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Mount Olympus

A complete guide to visiting mount olympus.

Hiking or Climbing Mount Olympus

• Ancient History of Mount Olympus

Modern History of the Mountain

Where it is and how to get there, where to stay.

Mount Olympus, in northeast Greece, has been known as the home of Zeus and the major Greek gods since before the time of Homer. The semi-legendary author of the Odyssey and the Iliad, who is thought to have lived between 800 and 1200 BCE, included this dramatic mountain in his stories of the gods and as the source of thunderbolts from Zeus.

It's no surprise that magical stories grew up around Mount Olympus. It rises almost straight from the Aegean Sea to a height of 2,917 meters (9,570 feet or nearly 2 miles) at its highest peak, making it the tallest mountain in Greece and the second tallest mountain in the Balkans. Its lower slopes are broken by narrow, densely forested gorges marked by waterfalls and caves where lesser gods and other spirits were said to live. Its peaks—and there are 52 separate peaks—are snow-capped for eight months of the year and often hidden in the clouds the rest of the time.

If you are an experienced mountaineer, hiking to the summits of Mount Olympus is not difficult, but many visitors come a cropper by underestimating the challenges and trying to hike the mountain unprepared and without a map. There are mountain rescues and fatalities on the mountain almost every year. 

There are several easy walks to the trailheads and into some of the more scenic gorges. You can also drive part way up, to the National Park parking areas at the head of several trails. A full trek on to the Mount Olympus massif takes two to three days and involves staying overnight in one of the trail refuges as well as stamina, good balance and a head for heights. The trails vary in difficulty from III to VIII in international mountaineering standards.

The safest information about trekking Mount Olympus is available from the Hellenic Alpine Club of Lithochoros. Their website is in Greek, unfortunately, but their office is below the main parking lot in the village and they distribute maps and leaflets with information about Mount Olympus trails and treks.

An easier way for those inexperienced in mountaineering to tackle Mount Olympus is to go with a guide or at least consult one before you leave. Olympus Paths , based in the nearby town of Pieria offer a variety of guided treks for individuals and groups of different abilities, including family groups. They also offer information on appropriate preparation, equipment, and clothing.

Ancient History of Mount Olympus 

Although the story of Mount Olympus is rich in myth, there is very little archaeological evidence of early occupation or worship on the mountain. That is not to say it's not there at all. Greece is so rich in heritage that perhaps few archaeologists have ventured to excavate this rugged terrain. Occasional finds of Iron Age artifacts suggest there may be more to be discovered in the future.

More can be found near the ancient Macedonian city of Dion, near the foot of the mountain. Finds in the Archaeological Park of Dion suggest that Alexander the Great and his followers made offerings to the gods before going to battle.

The mountain's highest and most difficult peak, considered its summit amid a forest of false summits, is known as Mytikas. It was first reached in August 1913 by a party of Swiss climbers– Frederic Boissonnas and Daniel Baud-Bovy—led by a Greek wild goat hunter named Christos Kakkalos. Since then, approximately 10,000 people a year visit to climb or hike the mountain, though very few attempt its highest peaks, Mytikas and Stefani (the home of Zeus himself).

However, it is possible that a religious ascetic climbed the mountain first. The Chapel of the Prophet Elias on Prophitis Elias, one of Mount Olympus's many peaks, was built at an altitude of 2,800 meters in the 16th century. The Chapel, believed to have been constructed on earlier ancient ruins, by Saint Dionysios, is said to be the highest chapel in the entire Orthodox world. 

In 1938, 92 square miles covering the mountain and the surrounding area, became the first Greek National Park . This was in recognition of the area's extraordinary biodiversity. It is estimated that there are 1,700 plant species (25 percent of all plant species found in Greece), as well as 32 species of mammals and 108 species of birds that live on the mountain. In 1981, UNESCO classified the region as the Olympus Biosphere Reserve. It is also included in an EU list of the most important bird areas of the European Community and is currently on a tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Mount Olympus sits on the border of the regions of Thessaly and Macedonia. The easiest access to the mountain and its trails is from the tourist village of Litochoro, at the base of the mountain. It is about 260 miles North of Athens or 57 miles southwest of Thessaloniki . 

Long distance bus and train travel in Greece is not well organized for tourists and non-Greek speakers. Very little information about schedules and station locations is available online and booking online is pretty much impossible. Your best bet using public or private tour transportation from Athens is to work with an organized excursion company or to check with one of the many local travel agents at the airport or around Syntagma Square. The trip from Thessaloniki is much easier and is recommended.

• Getting there by car: If you choose to go by car, it makes the most sense to do it as a side trip from Thessaloniki because it is a nearly six-hour drive from Athens on the E75 and E65—part of which is a toll road and some of which is challenging. From Thessaloniki, the drive will take a little over three hours on the A1, the E75 Toll road, and the EO 13. Parts of this route can also be tricky but it is shorter and less tiring.
• Getting there by train:  The train journey from Athens involves catching a train from Athens main rail station to Larissa and then onward to Litochoro, followed by a five-mile taxi journey to the village. The first leg of the trip takes about 5 hours. The trip from Larissa to Litochoro only takes 35 minutes but the train only leaves every three hours, so you have to coordinate the two legs of this journey carefully or plan on sitting around train stations for a long time. If you travel by train from Thessaloniki. there is a direct train that takes about an hour and 10 minutes, followed by the taxi journey described above. Hellenic Train is the sole railway operator in Greece for intercity, suburban and international rail services. There is information on their website about schedules and booking tickets and all information is available in English.
• Getting there by bus:  The bus journey from the main coach terminal in Thessaloniki takes about two hours and ten minutes, including a 51-minute wait between buses in Katerini. From Athens it is a seven-and-a-half to eight-and-a-half-hour bus trip, including a 51-minute holdover in Katerini.

Litochoro is the most convenient place to stay and is well organized for hikers, trekkers, and climbers. The Hellenic Chamber of Hotels  lists a variety of hotels there and in nearby towns. ON the site, forget about using the search box to find hotels. The website takes some fiddling to use and loads slowly but it can help narrow down options in the area near Litochoro as well as the seaside resorts of Neoi Poroi and Leptokaria.

If you prefer to camp in the National Park, Camping Hellas has a site near the base of the mountain. Wild camping is illegal in Greece and, though it is sometimes tolerated in certain areas, it is not allowed in the National Park or on the high mountains.

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Visit Mount Olympus: Home Of The Greek Olympian Gods

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Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and is famous for being the home of the powerful Olympian gods of Greek mythology. It is located on the border between the Greek regions of Thessaly and Macedonia and is a short distance from the large city of Thessaloniki.

Mount Olympus is one of the most famous places from ancient mythology that one can actually visit . Mount Olympus in the north of Greece, as one comes up from Athens be sure to stop by in ancient Thermopylae - the battlefield of the famous 300 Spartans in en route.

Mount Olympus In Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, the gods dwelt on Mytikas's peak (the highest peak in Olympus). "Olympus" was the name of the home of the Twelve Olympian gods. Olympus was thought of as a lofty mountaintop and in all the regions that the Greeks settled they tended to so name the highest local elevation.

• Mytikas: Highest Peak Rising to 2,917 Meters or 9,570 Feet (Means "Nose)

There are many peaks called "Olumpos" in antiquity including in Laconia, Mysia, Lycia, Cyrus, Attica, Euboea, Ionia, and Lesbos. This "Olumpos" in Greece is the highest peak of any of the Greek settlements and came to be seen as the "Pan-Hellenic" representative of the seat of the gods.

• Herodotus: In The 5th Century BC Herodotus (1.56) Identified Olympus As The Peak In Thessaly

The twelve Olympians were the major deities of the Greek pantheon, they are normally considered to be Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Ares, Hephaestus, Aphrodite, Hermes, and the twelfth is thought of as either Hestia or Dionysus. Some say that later on Hestia surrendered her place to Dionysus.

They got their name "Olympians" because they lived on Mount Olympus. Besides the twelve Olympians, there were many other cultic groupings of twelve gods in the ancient Greek pantheon of gods.

• Hades: Was The Brother of Zeus and The God of the Underworld and A Major God, But As His Domain (the Underworld) was Far From Olympus He Was Not One of the 12 Olympians

Related:  Why Do We Eat Cake On Birthdays? Ancient Greece Has The Answer

Mount Olympus Today

Olympus was the first Greek National Park established in 1938. It is noted for its exceptional biodiversity and is a World Biosphere Reserve.

Mount Olympus has 52 peaks and deep gorges with Mytikas being the highest peak.

• Designated: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Since 1981

There are professional rangers and guides providing tours for groups in the mountain years. The Olympus National Park Information Center in Liochoro (opened in 2016) provides information about the geology, archeological sites, the monasteries, flora, fauna, and mythology of Mount Olympus.

There are many archeological sites in this area from ancient Greece and from the Christain era (with monasteries). The whole region of Pieria's Olympus has been declared an archaeological and historical site.

• Archaeological Park of Dion: the Most Important Archaeological Site On Mount Olympus, Includes Sanctuaries From The Hellenistic and Roman periods

Hiking In Mount Olympus

It is a popular area for exploring and hiking for those who would like to admire its rich fauna and flora, see the stunning backdrop of its dramatic landscapes, and for those enamored with ancient Greek mythology.

There are various mountain refuges (shelters) and a number of mountaineering and climbing routes. The normal starting point for climbing Olympus is from the town of Litochoro or from the eastern foothills of the mountain.

If one is an experienced mountaineer, then it is not difficult to climb Mount Olympus - but still don't underestimate this imposing mountain of the gods. There are also several easy walks to the trailheads and around the scenic gorges.

A full trek to the Mount Olympus massif takes two or three days with at least one overnight in the trail refuges according to Trip Savvy . The trails vary in difficulty from III to VIII in international mountaineering standards and one should ensure one has the stamina for the task.

Related:  The Mythological Guide To Greece: Destinations Every Fan Of Homer Has To Visit

Mount Olympus Enipeas Half-day Hiking Tour

One example of a guided tour in Mount Olympus is the  Enipeas Half-day Hiking Tour . With this tour, one can discover the mythical splendor of Mount Olympus through the gorge of Enipeas.

On this tour one will see the old monastery of Agios Dionysios, hike the gorge of Enipeas, see the bathtub of Zeus, and hike for 5 hours through Mt. Olympus. One will hike for 12 kilometers or 7.5 miles immersed in the wilderness of Mount Olympus and its waterfalls, dense nature, old wooden bridges, and more.

• Departure Time: 7.30 am
• Return Time: 1.00 pm
• Includes: English Speaking Mountain Guide, Pick up/Drop off, Snacks
• Price: 80 Euros ($90)

Visit Olympus Travel offers many more half-day and full-day guided options in and around Mount Olympus.

Next:  Mount Olympus: Is It Real, And How Can You Explore The Mythical Mountain?

• Destinations

Shutterstock / Zaharia Bogdan Rares

Top choice in Macedonia

The cloud-covered lair of the Ancient Greek pantheon, awe-inspiring Mt Olympus is simply spectacular. It fires visitors' imaginations today, just as it did for the ancients who venerated it. Greece’s highest mountain, Olympus hosts more than 1700 plant species, some rare and endemic, as well as wolves, jackals, deer and more than 100 bird species. Its slopes are thickly forested and its peaks often shrouded in fog.

The first known mortals to reach Mytikas (2918m), Olympus’ highest peak, were Litohoro local Christos Kakalos and Swiss climbers Frédéric Boissonnas and Daniel Baud-Bovy in August 1913. Olympus became Greece’s first national park in 1938.

Although you can drive up Olympus, many people hike; consult the Litohoro-based hiking associations for maps and current conditions, or check with the Olympus National Park Information Center , which also lists the hiking routes and the regulations for visitors. Both provide info on the mountain's 15 refuges, where hikers can sleep.

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Mount Olympus

Home of the Greek Gods and numerous endemic species, Olympus is just excellent for trekking. Do not skip a visit to Dion - you will love it.

Mount Olympus Things to Do

Climb to the top of Olympus (Mytikas Peak)

The peak of Olympus is 2918m above sea level. It takes about an hour to get up and it requires preparation and alertness. The views are rewarding.

Kanalon Monastery

An old and historical monastery hidden in the dense vegetation of the southern part of Mount Olympus. It's worth a visit.

Old Monastery of St. Dionysios of Olympus

At the foothills of the highest Greek mountain, this monastery stands out for its beauty and relics. There is a small cave-church within walking distance.

Spilios Agapitos (Zolotas) Refuge

On the road to the peak, this is the first and largest organized shelter. Food here is great and the view already amazes.

Orlias Stream

The trail to Orlias is a fantastic experience, and the waterfalls at the end of it are just refreshing. Families with children will love it.

Old Vrontou Village

Old Vrontou is a village wiped from the map by Nazi bombardments. Great for pictures or excursion in the nature for some distinctive pictures.

Prionia Place

At the carpark begins a path to the mountain leading also to waterfalls. The highlight, however, is a taverna with delicious traditional food.

Hiking Trails of Mount Olympus

Hikers and nature lovers from all over the world come here to trek on the mountain of the Greek Gods. Get here equipped and prepared.

Mount Olympus Day Trips

In Olympus' shadow, Litochoro stands out for its elegant blending of mountain and sea, jungly green beaches, as well as for its delicious food.

Mount Olympus Why visit?

• Greece's highest peak - 2917m or 9570ft.
• The first National Park of Greece protected since 1938.
• 200 million year old grounds still being shaped by nature's forces.

Mount Olympus Attractions

Archaeological Site of Dion

Wandering through the partly-restored ruins of this ancient Macedonian town is one thing. The views of an imposing Mount Olympus is another.

Mount Olympus Beaches

Leptokarya Beach

At Leptokarya, you enjoy a view of Mount Olympus while swimming. The place has fantastic sunrises too. Down-side, it usually gets crowded.

Mount Olympus Festivals

Mount Olympus Marathon

A marathon only for the best of runners. It is a demanding long-distance race on uneven ground through high-altitude paths on Mount Olympus.

• Olympus Tours
• Olympus Transfers
• Mount Olympus Summits
• Mount Olympus Refuges
• Mount Olympus Hiking Trails
• Enipeas Gorge
• Litochoro Village
• Platamon Village
• Old Panteleimon Village
• The Archaeological Park of Dion
• Platamon Castle
• St. Dionysios Monastery
• Getting to Olympus from Athens
• Getting to Olympus from Thessaloniki
• Getting to Olympus from Meteora
• Getting to Olympus by Train
• Getting to Olympus by Bus

What to See

The Olympus and Pieria region in Greece is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of natural and cultural wonders to explore. From the mythical Mount Olympus to the charming coastal towns and ancient archaeological sites, this region is brimming with beauty and history. If you’re planning a visit to Olympus and Pieria, here are some must-see attractions that should be on your itinerary:

Train Tours to Olympus

Mount Olympus And Dion Day Trip From Athens By Train

Mount Olympus And Dion Day Trip From Thessaloniki By Train

Mount Olympus and Dion Full Day Tour from Katerini

Mount olympus.

Mount Olympus, in north east Greece, refers the home of Zeus and the Greek gods since before the time of Homer. Must know that magical stories grew up around Mount Olympus. It rises to a height of 2917 meters (that’s 9570 feet), making it the tallest mountain in Greece and the second tallest mountain in the Balkans. Its peaks 52 (separate peaks) are snow-capped for 8 months of the year.

Towns and Villages

Every part of Greece has something distinctive to offer and the region of Olympus is of no exception. Olympus is bursting at the seams with thrilling hiking trails, mesmerizing historic settlements and ancient sites that stand the test of time. To get familiar with the regional splendors, you’ll have to discover the mountainous and seaside towns and villages of Olympus. Below we’ve compiled the best must-see towns and villages of Olympus that offer the perfect insight into the legendary land of the gods.

Archaeological Sites

Mount Olympus offers an enchanting blend of classical Greek mythology and rare flora and fauna. A trip to Olympus wouldn’t be complete without exploring the rich history of this legendary land. From touring the sacred site of Dion, to exploring one of the largest crusader castles in Greece, to uncovering a former refuge and monastery, here are the top three archaeological sites to visit in Olympus.

Featured Tours and Activities

Olympus Sunset Tour

Enipeas Half-day Hiking Tour

On a country road

© Olga Charami

Where to Stay and Visit on Mount Olympus (Map Included)

Our selection of charming villages, comfortable guesthouses, great wineries and more to visit without losing sight of the majestic peaks of olympus..

Olga Charami | December 5th, 2019

The gateway to Olympus

Located at the end of the Enipeas Gorge and a short drive from the coast, this small mountain town is where most visitors to the area come to stay. With guesthouses, restaurants and stores selling climbing equipment, it’s a great all-year destination.

The main town square, with its fountain and the Church of Aghios Nikolaos , is where Litochoro’s older generation likes to gather in the mornings, enjoying the view of the Enipeas River. After a day of climbing, however, most visitors prefer to join the town’s younger residents at the livelier cafés and meze joints in the area known as Lakkos .

The name might be a mouthful, but Gastrodromio en Olymbo (Tel. (+30) 23520.213.00) is one of the best restaurants in town, serving excellent Greek cuisine and an extensive selection of wines.

Before heading up the mountain, stop by the Olympus National Park Information Center (Tel. (+30) 23520.830.00, olympusfd.gr , open Mon-Fri 09:00-16:00) and let the center’s 3-D imaging system, touchscreens and comprehensive exhibition give you a better idea of the mountain’s history, natural treasures, trails and peaks.

COURTI ESTATE, RACHI

Nectar of the mortals

The Courti Estate’s organic vineyard and winery in Rachi, in the northern foothills of Mount Olympus, is an idyllic location and the best spot to sample some wines made of native grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Vidiano, Agiorgitiko and Xinomavro, and to enjoy international classics like Trebbiano, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon .

Tastings, which are held in the lovely rustic setting of the main building, comprise seven labels and are accompanied by nibbles of sourdough bread, handmade sausage and goat’s cheese.

Tel. (+30) 697.447.1230

www.thecourtiestate.com 

AGHIOS DIONYSIOS MONASTERY

Mountain mystic

Dionysios was a monk who spent his life in the caves of Mt Olympus, modestly refusing all honors offered to him and enjoying great popularity among the locals. The monastery he founded in the 16th century in Prionia (some 20km from Litochoro) is nestled in the wooded hills and has become a popular attraction.

Its charming restored buildings and well-tended garden, along with a refectory where visitors are often treated to a spoon sweet and a glass of cold water, give it the feel of a true refuge.

There are two trails into the Enipeas Gorge that start at its parking lot: one is an easy ten-minute walk to a pretty waterfall, while the other goes to one of the caves where the saint once lived.

PALAIOS PANTELEIMONAS

A picturesque place

Restored stone houses with red-tiled roofs, quaint car-free streets and a pretty square with plane trees, tavernas and shops where you can purchase herbs, local products and souvenirs: built at an elevation of 500m with a view down to the sea, Palaios Panteleimonas is the loveliest village in the area and the most developed in terms of tourism.

Its “frozen-in-time” charm is the result of having been abandoned by its residents (who relocated further downhill) in the 1950s, leaving the original architecture unchanged. This was also the case in the two neighboring villages of Palioi Poroi and Palaia Skotina , though those cannot offer quite the same amenities.

Palioi Poroi has an attractive main square with a taverna and a stone fountain, while Palaia Skotina (accessible by dirt road) is best known for its 19th-c. church, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary .

If you enjoy white-knuckle adventure, try paragliding with Olympic Wings (Tel. (+30) 23520.417.41) at Neos Panteleimonas.

PLATAMON CASTLE

Ruins with a view

Built near the Vale of Tempe on the old route connecting Thessaly to Macedonia, this once-imposing castle appears to date back originally to ancient times, but it acquired its present form – with its dramatic 18-meter octagonal tower – during the Byzantine period.

Take the cobblestone path up the hill and wander around the ruins of a settlement that once included churches, homes and various outbuildings. The view from the ramparts is amazing, but mind your step on the climb up. 

Tel. (+30) 23520.444.70

Admission: €2; hours vary depending on the time of year

KTIMA BELLOU

A natural haven

This eco-friendly guesthouse is located on a 4.5-hectare estate that produces herbs – including Olympus mountain tea (ironwort) – strawberries, walnuts, potatoes, beans and other foodstuffs supplying the estate’s restaurant kitchen and other on-site ventures.

The Rosa damascena roses, for instance, are used to make a sweet preserve, but they’re also processed for their essential oils at the distillery on the estate, which produces other preserves and liqueurs as well. In the summer, guests can learn about beekeeping, too, as the estate keep hives.

Tel. (+30) 23517.700.21

ktimabellou.gr

ORLIAS AND AGHIA KORI

Overlooked beauties

There are two delightful spots on the outskirts of the village of Vrontos that are often overlooked by visitors: the canyon of Orlias and the Church of the Aghia Kori , both with gorgeous waterfalls and pools, perfect for a refreshing dip in the summer and on hot autumn and spring days.

For Orlias, follow the signposts for the Koromilia Refuge. The first waterfall is a 10-minute hike from the Chapel of Aghios Konstantinos , though the most impressive one is an additional 50 minutes or so away at Kokkinos Vrachos . This is also a great spot for canyoning and rappelling.

The waterfall near the Church of Aghia Kori is a 10-minute hike from the parking area. You can double back the same way or take a circular one-hour trek instead. Many locals believe the spring by the church is miraculous and make frequent pilgrimages here, although the area is not properly maintained.

KOKKINOPILOS

Woodland adventure

The village of Kokkinopilos is the gateway to the mountain’s western flank. Here, you can relax on the huge main square with its massive plane tree, visit the restored Church of Aghia Paraskevi , have a meal at the only taverna that’s open all year round and spend the night at one of its guesthouses.

Walking and hiking aren’t the only activities available; this area is also perfect for a bit of off-road 4×4 adventure in the woods. Should you choose to get behind the wheel, a 20km gravel road takes you through dense forests of beech, black pine and fir trees to the area of Xerolakki and the Naoum Stream .

This spot looks out at Mikra and Megala Kazania (or “Small and Big Cauldrons”), so named after the effect produced by the clouds trapped between two steep cliffs, and at the three summits of Mt Olympus: Mytikas, Skolio and Stefani . It’s also the starting point for trails leading to the Plateau of the Muses .

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• How to Hike Mount Olympus Greece: practical guide by a solo hiker

This is post 7 of 9 in the series “Greece”

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One of the biggest highlights of my Greece trip was that I got to hike Mount Olympus. Yes, you read right – the Mount Olympus that is home to the Olympian gods. It’s about 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki in the north of Greece, and a natural stop if you’re heading south to Athens.

I was excited and eager to hike Mount Olympus, but on initial research, I was faced with a myriad of information that was too technical or too broad. Here is a comprehensive guide that includes all my experience and research:

FAQ on hiking Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is not actually a mountain, but the name of a nature reserve in the north of Greece. It consists of 52 hills with the highest being Mytikas at 2,917m. It’ll take you days if not weeks to hike all the trails in the region, which is not recommended if you don’t have hiking experience. I’ve broken it down further in the below questions:

Can tourists climb Mount Olympus?

Yes, anyone can climb Mount Olympus. You don’t need a permit or hire a guide or join a tour to hike Mount Olympus. Although it’s recommended to be prepared for your hike and join a tour/hire a guide if you’re hiking solo (which is what I did).

Is climbing Mt Olympus worth it?

Yes! You have the bragging rights of not only summiting the highest peak of Greece, but also having visited the home of the Olympian gods. Mount Olympus is a nature reserve and the biosphere as you go up are beautiful in their own rights.

Is it easy to climb Mount Olympus?

Mount Olympus isn’t as hard as I thought to hike, and I would rate the hike not including summitting Mytikas to be easier than both Mount Kinabalu and Mount Fuji. However, the highest peak Mytikas, was a scramble up and not to be attempted by those who have no climbing experience or a fear of heights.

Can you hike to the top of Mount Olympus?

Yes! Mytikas, the highest peak of Mount Olympus, is hikable. But it is a Class III scramble, so you need some experience, time, and careful footing in order to attempt it.

What is a Class 3 Climb?

The definition of a Class 3 hike is a hike that would require you to use your hands to scramble extreme terrain. In Mount Olympus’ case, it would be steep rocks that are a little loose. 

How many days does it take to climb Mount Olympus?

It really depends on which route you take. If your goal is to reach Mytikas, the highest peak, then generally it’s a 2 day 1 night hike. But there are multi-day hike tours that would last up to a week!

Of course, there are also day trip options that will take you around Mount Olympus Nature Reserve. This trip combines a visit with Dion and is less physically demanding , while this one is a full hike from Thessaloniki . Or you can also do a canyoning trip !

Can you climb Mount Olympus in one day?

Yes – it is possible to hike Mount Olympus in one day. If you start early and take the Gorstica trail, which is also the one that I took, you can make it back down by nightfall. The hike is estimated to take 10-11 hours, so you should only try to do it in one day if you are fit and have hiking experience.

How long does it take to climb up Mount Olympus?

The hike is said to take 10-11 hours, but you should also budget in time to eat and rest as well. This is why most people opt to do it over 2 days and stay overnight on a refuge. The highest one looks right at the Mytikas peak and serves hot food.

How do you prepare to climb Mount Olympus?

There are several ways you can prepare for climbing Mount Olympus, but mostly it’s to do with your physical fitness and your equipment.

Fitness level for hiking Mount Olympus

You don’t need to be very fit to hike Mount Olympus, especially if you opt to do that 2 day 1 night trail. However, if you want to summit Mytikas, I would recommend gaining some rock climbing and bouldering experience as well.

If you are in Hong Kong – some comparable trails to prepare for that level of hike are Lantau Peak (stone river) and Pak Lung Stream trek. Of course, they are not as long.

Gear list for Mount Olympus

Depending on the time of the year you climb up, you might or might not need extra thermal layers. It does get very cold during the night, so it’s best to pack your fleece or puffy jacket.

• Good hiking shoes – ankle support would be a bonus but I was okay with my regular hiking shoes.
• 25-30L backpack – ventilation panel preferred. Some would advise you to use a bigger backpack but only bring essentials!
• 2L hydration bladder – which really was a life saver for me but you can probably do with bottles
• Waterproof and windproof jacket – the weather can be unpredictable when you get high up and the wind can get quite strong
• Thermal laye r – fleece or puffy jacket. I have a 3-in-1 jacket and it was perfect for the cold evening and morning.
• Hiking poles might be useful, but I didn’t have any and I was fine. You don’t need hiking poles for the ascent and descent to Mytikas because it’s a scramble and you would need your hands
• Snacks for the road – I opted for a half board 2D1N hiking package and was able to purchase sandwiches from Litochoro to bring up. I also had a few snack bars and juice boxes that was nice to have.
• Sunscreen – the sun can be strong so definitely wear and bring sunscreen.
• Sunglasses – same.
• Cap – you do also want to have a cap!
• Sleeping liner – I didn’t have this either but I would recommend having at least something to put on the pillow because it’s not very clean. I was wearing so much that not having the liner wasn’t too bad.
• Fast dry towel – you can wash your face and brush your teeth at the refuge, so it’s good to have a towel for that. I also have a separate one for sweat during the hike.
• Basic toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, and emergency lotions are very handy.
• Battery pack – cold temperate can drain your devices’ batteries! And getting a charging slot at the refuge can be impossible. So make sure you have a battery pack!
• Charger and cable – there is a place to charge your devices at the refuge but space is first come first serve. It’s still better to have the option than not!
• Camera gear – I only had my GoPro and phone, but if my bag wasn’t so heavy or if I can carry more, I’d!

Note: I tried to find if there are rental shops for hiking gear in Litochoro (where I started my hike) but couldn’t find any. Nor did I see any hiking gear shops, so go prepared or buy things at Thessaloniki.

Where do I start the Mount Olympus hike?

Most of the routes for Mount Olympus start in Litochoro, which is about 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki. There are also hikes that start at Dion. If you are aiming for the easiest route up to Mytikas, then it would definitely be Litochoro.

How to get to Mount Olympus (Litochoro)

From thessaloniki to litochoro.

The best way to get there is by bus. You need to take the bus from KTEL Macedonia , which is 3.5km from the city center. It’s best to take a bus or taxi from the city center.

You can find the bus schedule here . The taxi ride to the bus station cost 7.5 euros and the bus itself 8.5 euros.

It’s super easy and well-labeled inside with different counters for different destinations. The bus to Litochoro passes by Katerini, and the overall journey time is about 1 hour 15 minutes.

The bays are all easy to find and I waited for the bus which boarded and left on time.

There are two stops once we got to Litochoro, one at the official bus station, and the other at the square in the middle of town. Depending on where your accommodation is, get off at the one most convenient for you!

From Athens to Litochoro

I did this trip in reverse, but the bus to Litochoro is much longer and requires a change. My bus driver was very kind and made sure I got off and waited, but it did involve a roadside stop in the middle of nowhere close to Litochoro. It’s also pricier at 34 euros but it is a 5-hour trip.

I would recommend flying to Thessaloniki and then heading to Litochoro. Alternatively, take the train or bus up to Kateri and then take a bus to Litochoro.

The bus station it connects to in Athens is the KTEL Liosion , which is also not close to the city center and requires a bus or taxi.

Mount Olympus Overview

Mount Olympus has long lived in Greek Mythology but the summiting of its highest peak wasn’t until the 20th century. The first person to summit the highest peak Mytikas was Swiss photographer Frederic Boissonnas and his companions in 1913.

The area consists of 55 peaks between 2000 to 2918.9 m and it was established as a national park in 1938 and cover 225 km2. If you want to learn more about the entire national park, don’t miss the Olympus National Park Information Center .

Mythology of Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the seat of the Olympian gods. And the rise of the 12 Olympians is related to the overthrowing of the Titans who ruled before them. The famous battle from which they emerge victorious is called the Titanomachy.

The Mytikas peak is the Seat of the Olympians, created during the Titanomachy. At its peak is the Parthenon, where the gods would gather, and Zeus’s throne is just below on Stefani. Further down are the plain of the Muses where muses and other minor gods would be.

Geology of Mount Olympus

As much as I love Greek Mythology, the shape of Mount Olympus is best explained by its geological history.

Mount Olympus is part of the Pelagonic mountain, from Macedonia to Evia Islands. Most of the rocks are Dolomites and limestones with crystalline schist substratum, and the unique shape is a result of Ice Age glacier movements.

The mountain overlooks the plain of Katerini and you can see all the way to Thessaloniki and beyond on a good day.

Trails to Mount Olympus

There are over 160km of trails in Mount Olympus National Park, so hiking all of them would take weeks if not months. The most classic trail to hike for people looking to summit Mytikas is the Gortsia Trail.

Another is the E4 trail that links Litochoro to Prionia which goes through the beautiful Enipeas Canyon and takes around 5-6 hours. It is a great choice for a day hike and much easier.

Weather on Mount Olympus

Since Mount Olympus rises to over 2,000m above sea level, it has several climates. The foothill is Mediterranean with Black pine and Bosnian pine trees. Even during the summer, the temperature difference between day and night was huge and it got extremely windy and cold.

The best time to hike Mount Olympus is between July and September. While trekking to the peak is still possible in the colder months, you might need special equipment as the area would be covered in snow.

You can check the weather at the summit on this website .

Flora and Fauna on Mount Olympus

The Mount Olympus National Park is a rich biosphere with many florals and faunas. As someone who’s more of a geologist, even I can see the change in plant species going up. But unless you are a plant enthusiast, you’ll likely only notice the change from pine to a more barren landscape.

The coolest thing was spotting a group of Balkan Chamois- there are only 150 of them living here! There are other wild animals around but I did not spot them on the trek!

Mount Olympus Hike

Hiking mount olympus without a tour or guide.

While you don’t need a hiking tour to summit Mount Olympus, I recommend joining one unless you have extensive bouldering or rock climbing experience. It is dangerous to hike to Mytikas without a helmet, and it’s far better to have harnesses and ropes to assist. Unless you pack specifically for the hike or is a pro, you’re unlikely to have this equipment.

Mount Olympus Hike Tour

There are quite a few different tour options for the Mount Olympus hike and generally the 2 day 1 night ones cost around 200 euros. The one-day ascent is cheaper at 135 USD, but only take part in it if you are fit!

I mostly browsed the tours on here , but ultimately didn’t book through it.

In the end, most tours are filled up because of how last minute I left it, there was only one tour left. But if you are a group, you have more options depending on the group’s physical fitness:

Greek Adventures 

I ended up booking the 2 day 1 night trip with Greek Adventures on their join-in day. I opt for the half board which included dinner and breakfast and it was perfect.

Somehow, I also ended up being the only one on the joint in tour. My guide was Thanos and while his English wasn’t good, it was good enough for us to chat. He organised everything in the refuge and also the equipment for summiting Mytikas.

Cost: 215 Euros (195 Euros + 20 euros half board supplement)

Trekking Hellas

My first choice was Trekking Hellas but they are more popular and the dates got filled up quicker. The cost is similar and they are a trusted Greek company for adventures.

Cost: 210 Euros (meals not included)

Tips on booking Mount Olympus hiking tour

• Look out for guaranteed fixed departure dates.
• Find friends so you can go on a private tour. It’s cheapest to be in a group of 4 to 5.
• Book early to get the dates you want!
• Book accommodations in Litochoro before and after the hike so you are prepared.

Hiking Mount Olympus

The Greek Adventure hike starts with a 9am meet-up at the town square in Litochoro. Since I was the only one on the tour, my tour guide drive us up to the trail start of the Gortsia trail in his car.

It’s actually not a short drive in itself, which is why I was glad I booked a tour. If you rent your own car, you can also drive up. It seems to be a free for all parking situation at the trail start and we parked a little further away.

There is a signboard that marks that trail start with a map for you to check the route.

Gortsia Trail Start

The average time is 3 hours to the first refuge. It’s mostly in the alpine forest with shade. There are a few flat stretches but mostly switchbacks going up the mountains.

The path itself is gravel-y and littered with lines and generally easy to walk on, with tree roots holding them firmly and the occasional bouldery parts. We took a small break along with other hikers at a bench, mostly to refuel aka eat a snack bar.

It’s pretty easy and nice to hike in the shade, but there isn’t much to see until we get close to the first refuge.

Refuge of Petrostrouga 

We actually reached the Refuge of Petrostrouga in about 2 hours or so. This is the first refuge (the name for the mountain hut) you’ll find closest to the bottom of the hill.

There were people there enjoying a tea or coffee break, and it also offers overnight accommodation. Since it was still quite early and I wasn’t that tired, we only stopped for a short while before continuing up.

The trail does get steeper and a short walk later, we emerged out of the tree line. There is a stretch that felt a little dodgy but it’s fine. The trail is still quite rocky but still decent to walk on, so ankle-support hiking boots aren’t too necessary.

Skourta Peak (2485m)

The Skourta Peak is marked by a pillar and we stopped there for lunch. It has a great view of the massifs that make up the highest mountain cluster of Mount Olympus.

From there, it actually wasn’t too bad with only a switchback stretch before reaching the Plain of the Muses.

Plain of the Muses

The Plain of the Muses is just a plain that rests below Mytikas. There are two refuges in the area and we took the trail to the left to go to Spilios Agapitos Refuge.

It’s a gentle incline up and we actually made it to the Refuge by 2 pm or so.

Spilios Agapitos Refuge

The Spilios Agapitos Refuge is the first refuge established on Mount Olympus in 1939. It is the base camp for climbing up Mytikas and comes with a kitchen, dorm, and bathroom.

The bathroom is indoor but can only be accessed from the outside at the back of the building, while the dorms are mixed but come with pillow and blankets. As mentioned in the gear section, it’s much better to bring a liner to sleep in.

We took a short break here and the tour actually took me up to the summit on the same day and not for sunrise!

Chondronmesorachi Ridge

The Chondronmesorachi Ridge is the name for the narrow ridge that scoops under Mytikas. Once we reached the other side, my guide Thanos carefully looked for the scramble trail up.

We donned our helmets, and I was hooked onto his harness with a rope. This makes sure that if I slipped and fell, I wouldn’t fall off. I asked the guide if that actually ever happened and he said only twice in his career as a hiking guide. So don’t worry.

The ascent up to Mytikas was truly more like bouldering and rock climbing. But if you have good hand-eye coordination and shoes with a reasonable grip, you should be able to do it. A girl we met on the way up did it in runners and shorts!

But let me warn you in advance that coming down is another story.

Mount Mytikas

The summit of Mytikas is smaller than I thought given that it’s the seat of the Olympians. The highest point is marked by a Greek flag and there is a guest book you can sign!

I took some photos and panorama at the top but overall, the view isn’t particularly better or worse except that you get a 360 view.

Going down was really not something I’d like to do again. It’s hard on the knees and some of the footings are difficult. You also have to watch out for other hikers in case one of you knocked off some loose rocks. With the level of steepness, it can gather momentum and cause real damage.

We were lucky to spot a Balkan Chamoix as well!

Sunset by Spilios Agapitos Refuge

We made it back to the Refuge with plenty of time to spare. The dinner choices weren’t much, and I ended up getting spaghetti bolognese (you can also get rice). It wasn’t the best meal, but the portion size was generous and it was tasty enough.

Water, however, costs extra.

Sunset was somewhere behind the refuge and it was only a short walk, so I headed over. The view was well worth it but remember to get back before it gets too dark!

The temperate also drops dramatically at night, so it’s important to bring warm layers. Especially since the bathroom is accessible from the outside.

Most people have gone to bed by 8 pm and I did the same. The data signal also comes and go, so there isn’t much to do.

Sunrise and Descent

Most people got up around sunrise and so did I. From my window, I could see the view of Mytikas which was quite nice.

I set up my GoPro to take a timelapse while I brush my teeth and got breakfast. I had a choice between omelet and toast and I went with omelet.  

We ended up setting off back down at around 7 am and it was the same way down. The golden hour made everything look more magical, and we ended up back down in around 3 hours.

Litochoro is the default base for all those looking to hike Mount Olympus. It’s a small town with many locals and 22km from Katerini, so many take the bus there to go to the beach as well.

There isn’t any special attractions in town, although I did enjoy a visit to the Mount Olympus Information Center. Even if it was a weird walk from town. If you are staying a little bit before and after like I did, here are some recommendations:

Restaurants in Litochoro 

There is actually a good selection of restaurants in Litochoro and also plenty of mini-marts and one supermarket. Do note that mini-marts tend to close for siesta, so make sure you have your snacks and drinks or you’d have to go to the one supermarket .

Most restaurants also have a siesta but there are also quite a few cafes around. Here are the ones that I’ve tried and liked: 

Hairi is right by the town square where I was dropped off the bus and I had my first meal there. The moussaka – a Greek lasagna with aubergine/eggplant – was delicious and a hearty portion! There are also seafood dishes and the owner was very friendly.

Address: 28is Oktovriou, Litochoro 602 00, Greece

Opening times: 12:00 – 0:00

Mele Mele Μεζέ Μεζέ

Mele Mele is located along the main road about 5 minutes from the main square. It is right by the pavement with adorable red tablecloth street-side dining. There were a lot of choices on the menu. Since it was my last meal before the hike, I went for a chicken dish that was also very generous in size. 

Address: Agiou Nikolaou 40, Litochoro 602 00, Greece

Opening times: 12:30 – 23:45

Lemonas is a bakery restaurant that I walked past on the way to the supermarket. It so happens that they sell individually wrapped sandwiches, which are perfect for hiking. They have a meat one and a cheese one, and both are quite delicious. Since it’s only a 2D1N hike, and you can get down before lunch if you’re fast, you only really need to carry a few.

Opening times: 9:00 – 23:00

ONE WAY- Fresh Fast Food

When I got back from the hike, all I want to do is to lie down and rest. So I bought a bottle of 1L Fanta orange and grabbed a gyros pita from here and took it back to my apartment. And it was perfect!

The staff there were really nice and the price very good. This is definitely a good budget eatery to go for. It’s a shame that gyros pita would not be ideal as a hiking snack as it’d fall apart.

Address: 28is Oktovriou 3, Litochoro 602 00, Greece

Opening times: Close Monday, 18:00 – 23:00

Litochoro accommodations for hiking Mount Olympus

I would recommend staying by the main road of Litochoro to avoid going up the hill if you have big luggage. But staying in the hilly part of town can give you a crazy good view of Katerini and beyond. Some places even have a view of Mount Olympus:

Budget: Olympiades Rooms and Apartment is a great budget (but basic) option on the hilly side of town with friendly owners. Olympus View Roo ms Sauna & Spa is near the town square with a good breakfast. 

Mid-range: Areti Apartments has kind hosts and comfy rooms. Mythic Valley is another boutique option with an indoor courtyard.

Splurge: Olympus Mediterranean Boutique Hotel has a spa that would be a great option post hike.

Hi, my name is Nam. I am 24 and spent half my life in Hong Kong and the other half in UK. I believe there's endless experience and beauty in the world and this is me chronicling how to experience the best at the best price.

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Useful info

Olympus is located in northern Greece, near the city of Thessaloniki.

It is the highest mountain in Greece, reaching an elevation of 2,917 meters (9,570 feet).

Olympus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes.

The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering, offering a range of trails suitable for different skill levels.

The most famous peaks of Olympus are Mytikas and Skolio, which attract adventurers from around the world.

The national park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals

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Where myth meets modern greece.

Olympus is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a place steeped in Greek mythology. According to ancient tales, this was the sacred dwelling place of the Twelve Olympian gods, making it a pilgrimage site for worshippers throughout history. Explore the mythological significance of the area as you encounter the Cave of Zeus, believed to be the birthplace of the king of gods.

While exploring Olympus, don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the warm local communities that call this region home. Discover traditional mountain villages, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the locals and savor authentic Greek cuisine that reflects the flavors of the land.

Whether you are an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply seeking a serene escape, Olympus offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let the mountain of the gods captivate your imagination and leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

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Frequently asked questions about olympu.

Reaching the summit of Mount Olympus requires proper planning and physical preparation. Here are the general steps to reach the summit:

Choose a suitable trail: There are several trails that lead to the summit of Mount Olympus, varying in difficulty and duration. The most popular and challenging route is the E4 trail from Prionia, which takes around 6-8 hours to reach the summit.

Obtain a map and essential information: Before starting your ascent, acquire a detailed map of the mountain and gather information about the trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any necessary permits or restrictions. It is advisable to consult with experienced hikers or local authorities for the latest updates.

Plan your itinerary: Based on the chosen trail, plan your itinerary, including the number of days required for the ascent and descent. It is recommended to allocate additional time for acclimatization and unexpected circumstances.

Pack necessary equipment: Ensure you have appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather conditions, a backpack, sufficient water and food, a headlamp, a first aid kit, and navigation tools.

Start your ascent: Begin your hike early in the morning to allow ample time for reaching the summit and returning safely before nightfall. Follow the designated trail markers and signs, and pace yourself according to your fitness level.

Overnight options: If you plan for a multi-day hike, there are several mountain huts and campsites available along the trails, where you can rest and spend the night.

Safety precautions: Be aware of the potential risks associated with high-altitude hiking and adverse weather conditions. Follow safety guidelines, stay on the marked trails, and inform someone about your hiking plans. In case of any emergencies or unexpected situations, contact the local mountain rescue services.

Reaching the summit of Mount Olympus is a challenging and rewarding experience, but it is crucial to prioritize safety, physical fitness, and proper preparation throughout the journey.

Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring Mount Olympus. These tours can provide a convenient and organized way to experience the beauty and grandeur of the mountain while benefiting from the expertise of experienced guides.

The best time to visit Mount Olympus depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Here are some considerations for each season:

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, with mild to warm temperatures at lower elevations. It is an ideal time for hiking and exploring the trails, as most paths are accessible and the weather is generally favorable. However, keep in mind that the summit and higher elevations may still have cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. It is recommended to start early in the day to avoid the midday heat.

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October): These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, and fewer crowds compared to summer. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn showcases colorful foliage. The weather can be more variable during these seasons, so it’s advisable to check the forecast and be prepared for potential rain or sudden weather changes.

Winter (November to March): Winter brings snowfall to Mount Olympus, transforming it into a winter wonderland. It is a great time for snow enthusiasts and experienced mountaineers who enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The mountain trails may be covered in snow, requiring proper equipment and skills for winter hiking. It’s essential to check the weather conditions and avalanche risks before planning a winter visit.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Mount Olympus depends on your personal preferences, activity choices, and tolerance for different weather conditions. Consider your desired experience, whether it’s enjoying mild temperatures, witnessing seasonal beauty, or engaging in specific outdoor activities, to determine the ideal time for your visit.

It’s essential to be aware of and respect the rules and regulations of Mount Olympus National Park. This helps preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for both visitors and the environment. Before your visit, research and contact the relevant authorities or visitor centers to obtain the most up-to-date information on permits, restrictions, and any other requirements for hiking in the national park.

There are several attractions and activities near Mount Olympus that you can explore. Here are some suggestions:

Enipeas Gorge: Located near Litochoro, the Enipeas Gorge is a stunning natural formation with beautiful hiking trails. Explore the gorge, marvel at its lush vegetation, and enjoy the cascading waterfalls along the way.

Dion Archaeological Park: Visit the ancient city of Dion, located at the foot of Mount Olympus. This archaeological park offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region, with ruins of temples, theaters, and baths that date back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Platamon Castle: Situated along the coastline near Mount Olympus, Platamon Castle is a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Explore the castle’s towers, walls, and courtyards while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Location of Olympus on the Map

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A Guide to Easy Day Hikes at Mount Olympus

A day trip to Mount Olympus is just enough time to disconnect and immerse yourself in the enchanting mountain of the Gods. This guide will take a look at easy day hikes at Mount Olympus, starting from Prionia the highest point a car can reach on the mountain. There are several easy and routes starting from Prionia for first time hikers or for anyone just looking for a laidback route. In fact you have several options to take from Prionia depending on the level of difficulty and adventure you’re aiming for.

Standing tall at 2,917 meters (9,570 ft), Mount Olympus is just an hour away from Thessaloniki, and visiting the tallest mountain in Greece is truly an unforgettable experience. You can check out more day trips from Thessaloniki in this blog post .  Legend has it that Mount Olympus was home to the original 12 Gods of Greece with Zeus being their king and ruler of the mountain. Although there are no signs of any Olympian Gods today, the mountain still has a mythical quality with its overabundance of flora and fauna, impressive waterfalls, gorges and ravines and charming wooden bridges. Due to its unique landscape, there are several hiking trails you can take throughout Mount Olympus. From hiking to the summit, to easy and laidback treks, there are hiking paths for everyone’s preferences and abilities. In this Mount Olympus day hike guide, we’ll look at the different paths you can take starting from Prionia.

The starting point to these easy day hikes at Mount Olympus, along the Enipeas Gorge start at Prionia, which is already at an altitude of 1,100 meters (3,609 ft) high. You can reach Prionia from Litochoro either by car or by taxi. This is the last point of the road – from here you either hike up the mountain to the summit or hike down on the international hiking path E4 that eventually leads back to Litochoro. There is a free parking lot here where you can leave your car for long periods of time as well as a restaurant.

Table of Contents

• 1 Breakdown of the Easy Day Hikes at Mt. Olympus Starting from Prionia
• 2.0.0.1 Level of Difficulty:  Easy
• 2.0.0.2 Duration:  2 hours
• 2.0.0.3 Length:  6 km (3.7 miles)
• 3.0.0.1 Level of Difficulty:  Medium Difficulty
• 3.0.0.2 Duration:  5 hours
• 3.0.0.3 Length:  9 km (5.6 miles)
• 4.0.0.1 Level of Difficulty:  Medium Difficulty
• 4.0.0.2 Duration:  3 hours
• 4.0.0.3 Length:  4.5 km (2.8 miles)
• 5 When to Visit Mount Olympus
• 6 Things to Know Before Going to Mount Olympus
• 7.0.0.1 Pin for later!

Breakdown of the Easy Day Hikes at Mt. Olympus Starting from Prionia

There are three different trekking routes you can take from Prionia that are all equally majestic and impressive. Starting from the Prionia parking lot you can take the Prionia – Agios Spilaio – Agios Dionysios Monastery route, the Prionia to Litochoro route, or the Prionia to Spilios Agapitos Refuge route.

Prionia – Agio Spilaio – Agios Dionysios Monastery Hike

 If this is your first time visiting Mt. Olympus, this is a great trekking route to try, as it encompasses many elements, such as a breathtaking waterfall, a small hut in the mountains and a monastery dating back to the year 1542 where a single monk now resides. From the Prionia parking lot head down to the E4 trail that leads down to Litochoro. Along the way you’ll cross a wooden bridge with breathtaking, panoramic views of the mountain. At some point you’ll take a left to follow the path leading down to the Enipea waterfall. After your visit to the waterfall head back to the E4 for another 20 minutes before  coming across Agio Spilaio where Saint Dionysios lived as an ascetic. From here you can visit the Agios Dionysios Monastery, which is open from April to October. To return back to Prionia follow the E4 trail otherwise continue the trail down to Litochoro.

Level of Difficulty:   Easy

Duration:   2 hours, length :  6 km (3.7 miles), prionia – litochoro hike.

As mentioned above, you can take the international hiking trail E4 from Pionia all the way down to Litochoro. Likewise, you can start from Litochoro and make your way up to Prionia. This route is quite challenging due to the ascents and descents but the various stops along the way such as the Enipea waterfall, the Agios Dionysios Monastery and the open valleys of precious green land make it all worth it. Pack a water and a lunch and make a day out of this hike. Since this hike is the longest, it  is a great way to test your endurance and abilities to prepare you for the hike to the summit one day.

Level of Difficulty:   Medium Difficulty

Duration:   5 hours, length:   9 km (5.6 miles), prionia – spilios agapitos refuge hike.

Of the three hiking trails from Prionia, this is the only one where you’ll hike uphill towards the summit. But do not let the idea of an uphill ascend intimidate you as the hike is only 4.5 km (2.8 miles) long, allowing you to take plenty of breaks along the way. The majority of the walk is through the forest, with lush vegetation and diverse flora to observe along your hike. The path is in very good condition with frequent opportunities to take in all the astonishing views of the Mountain of the Gods.  After about 3 hours of hiking this trail you’ll come across Spilios Agapitos Refuge , a stone building situated on a natural flat surrounded by pine trees. If you aspire to reach the top one day, this is a good taste of what’s to come, as this refuge is the starting point to the summit, otherwise whenever you are ready make your way back to Prionia before it gets too dark.

Level of Difficulty:  Medium Difficulty

Duration:  3 hours, length :  4.5 km (2.8 miles), when to visit mount olympus.

The best time to visit Mount Olympus is from June to end of September. With that being said, if you are not planning to hike to the summit and the weather permits, you can enjoy day hikes at Mount Olympus all year round. I personally find the fall months, September to November to be the most worthwhile as the trees change colors and the air is crispier.

Things to Know Before Going to Mount Olympus

• There is no signal on the mountain
• There are no WC’s along the trails
• Agios Dionysios Monastery is open from April to October
• There are no garbage cans throughout the trails, only at the parking lot at Prionia
• Bring a water with you
• Bring snacks
• Layer up in clothes as it can get pretty chilly in the shade
• Wear comfortable shoes

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Hi I’m planning a trip to Thessaloniki and want to take a daytrip to the mountain. You write that Mount Olympus is only an hour drive from Thessaloniki, but when I look it up on google maps, it’s a 3 hour drive from Thessaloniki. Am I looking at the wrong mountain? Thank you for a lovely and very helpful blog.

Hello! The village of Litochoro which is found at the base of the mountain is only about an hour away. Most hiking trails start from there.

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#themountolympus, walk with us, the mount olympus.

Mount Olympus was one of the first recording and publishing efforts. Photo albums, travel guides, posters, notebooks, diaries, calendars, reports, presentations, publications and many ascents. After about 25 years of photographing Olympus, but also around it, Pieria and Larissa, it is time to present all this material. “ Escape Greece ” in cooperation with the non-profit company “ Greek Cultural Routes “, present the travel and cultural portal “The Mount Olympus”, a travel site dedicated exclusively to the mythical Olympus and the surrounding area.

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MythologySource

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Where Was Mount Olympus in Greek Mythology?

Mount Olympus was famous as the home of the gods, but where was this legendary place? Keep reading to find out!

In Greek mythology, the gods lived on the highest peak of Mount Olympus.

Their beautiful palaces were detailed by many writers. They held feasts in golden halls and hosted the full assembly of all the deities in a great courtyard in Zeus’s residence.

By most accounts, the home of the gods was similar to the palaces of Greece’s wealthy rulers. They lived in luxury but still had practical considerations like stables, a forge, and storage rooms.

The gods had a comfortable home on Mount Olympus, but where exactly was their home?

The answer to this question depends largely on which sources you consult. While some Greeks believed that Mount Olympus was relatively close to their own cities, others believed that it was another realm entirely.

Mount Olympus on Earth

Mount Olympus was not only the home of the gods. It was also a real place in Greece.

Olympus is the largest mountain in the modern country of Greece. It is located in a mountain range of the same name that runs along the border of the Greek region of Thessaly and the country of Macedonia.

Mount Olympus is considered to be a single mountain, but it has over fifty individual peaks.

The Greek gods were said to have made their home on the highest of these, Mytikas. At over 2,900 meters (over 9,500 feet) tall, Mytikas is one of the tallest peaks on the continent of Europe.

Some sources claimed that the gods had palaces spread across the peaks of Olympus. The highest place was reserved only for Zeus , who kept his throne there.

As the highest mountain in the region, Olympus seemed to be a logical home for the remote gods of the Greek pantheon. From there, they could see the world of men but were almost entirely inaccessible to mortals.

The ancient view of Mount Olympus was of an acropolis on a grand scale.

When the Acropolis of Athens is known for its temple complexes, the first such sites served a more practical purpose. They were fortified hilltops that protected the people of early Greece and their supplies from attack.

Even when the Acropolis of Athens and other cities came to be associated more with rituals than fortification, they still served as places of refuge during a crisis. Stores of food were kept in temples and fresh water was available from wells and springs.

While the acropolis was no longer necessarily fortified, it was considered a place of safety. The temples built there offered protection because no Greek person would dare to commit murder inside the sacred space of the gods.

Mount Olympus was the paradigm of this sacred space.

The golden palaces of the gods were the models for their temples on earth. While some sources claimed that Olympus was protected by golden gates, its real protection came from the gods themselves and the inviolability of their sites.

As the Greek view of Mount Olympus came to be more that of a sacred space than a fortified stronghold, the idea of where the home of the gods really was changed as well. Although the gods were always said to live on Olympus, later writers saw this much less literally than the early Greeks had.

Mount Olympus in the Heavens

As Greek religion developed, the gods came to be seen as increasingly remote to the people of the region. Even their fellow Greeks were not as close as they once had been.

When the stories of the Olympian gods had first developed, Mount Olympus had been an immediately recognizable landmark for the people who heard the stories. For later Greek colonists in Anatolia, North Africa , and Italy, however, the Greek mountain was even more remote than the exotic lands in many of the legends.

The peaks of Mount Olympus were still too high and rugged for any man to climb, but the mountain as a whole likely seemed less remote and threatening than it once had. With broader exposure to mountain ranges in other countries and increased trade with countries beyond the Olympus range, the mountain seemed less extraordinary than it would have to earlier, more isolated people.

The Greek idea of the gods’ home became increasingly removed from the physical world. Eventually, it became an almost purely sacred space instead of a literal site on earth.

Later writers claimed that the Olympus of the gods was not the same as the mountain in northern Greece. Instead, they had their acropolis in a realm that was unseen and completely unreachable by ordinary humans.

This Olympus was above the clouds and the paths of the stars. It was so far from the ground that most of the gods did not even have a clear view of the world below them from its acropolis.

Olympus was in the realm of the aether, the bright blue air of the upper sky. Some writers said that it was at the apex of the dome of the heavens, so high that the gods could almost touch the bronze dome from their rooftops.

While the home of the gods still shared its name with the mountain, it was generally understood to be a separate realm. This was reflected in how later writers described the deities.

They were more often said, for instance, to control the sky or the heavens. They were understood to be entirely removed from the earth rather than living in a remote place on its surface.

The Greeks believed that the gods had become more removed from them both physically and in their relationships.

The Age of Heroes, when the gods had routinely interacted with men, was believed to have ended with the Trojan War. After this, the gods agreed to interfere less in human affairs.

For Homer, this age had ended as little as three hundred years before his birth. The Greeks believed that only a few generations separated them from people who had been in close contact with the gods.

With each successive generation, this period became more and more remote. The gods seemed more separated from mankind than they had been closer to the supposed time of the heroes.

The view of Mount Olympus as an unseeable realm rather than a remote but visible mountaintop reflected the changing views the Greeks had toward their gods over time. From being close to humankind in proximity, behavior, and relationships, the gods came to be seen as denizens of a completely separate and sacred world.

The Greek view of where the gods lived changed over time.

They were said to live on Mount Olympus, the tallest mountain in Greece. Its 52 peaks were so remote and inaccessible that the Greeks could imagine the gods building great palaces out of sight and reach of average people.

The mountaintop was seen as being very similar to the acropolis, or fortified hill, at the center of most Greek cities. It was an enclosed and easily-defended space that kept the gods out of reach of anyone else.

Over time, however, this idea began to change. Like the hilltops in actual cities, Mount Olympus came to be seen less as a fortified stronghold and more as a sacred space.

Many people came to believe that the Mount Olympus mentioned in Greek mythology was not the same as the physical mountain they could see to the north. Instead, Olympus was an entirely separate realm in the aether, higher than even the stars.

The Greek view of Mount Olympus, like the gods that lived there, gradually became more separated from the human experience. When the people of Homer’s time believed that the gods were just a few miles above them, later Greeks believed that they were in a separate realm that could never be seen.

My name is Mike and for as long as I can remember (too long!) I have been in love with all things related to Mythology. I am the owner and chief researcher at this site. My work has also been published on Buzzfeed and most recently in Time magazine. Please like and share this article if you found it useful.

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Opinion: Greed and ambition for power doesn't offer seamless transition to 2028 Olympics

O ne commentator offered this sage comment in summary of Olympian hopes and dreams: “In the Olympics, if you get it wrong you have to wait a long time to get it right.”

The same is true of our sacred system of government. Historically, once nations turned to authoritarianism, whether on the left or the right, it took many decades, if not centuries, to right the ship and return control of the government back to the people. Most often those initially democratic nations were never able to get back on track, electing emperors, conquerors, dictators or despots to represent them forevermore.

America is currently giving up on people’s government in politics and law by fashioning special privileges and immunities for our self-proclaimed God-blessed partisan leaders. We are also giving up on social and economic equality, as our corporations settle into unchallenged monopolies in restraint of trade and our billionaire class moves to enact special citizenship privileges for the wealthy and powerful.

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Political monopoly is the conjoined twin of economic monopoly, and both are inevitably reflected in culture and sports. America’s Olympic experience in 2024 amply demonstrates this.

Television coverage of the Paris games was steeped beyond belief in what I like to call “celebrity worship,” a form of hero-worship America accords daily to those who have special skills we love to see on display, but who contribute little to our traditional principles and activities of republican government. Those who do practice democracy are marginalized and forgotten.

In Paris, America the Brash elevated our trash-talking athletes on the track field and the basketball court, for example, to the level of, well, elite gods ruling the universe from their pedestals on Mount Olympus.

Noah Lyles came to the Olympics bragging like he is the greatest to ever set foot on the track. He intended to conquer all comers and claim four gold medals as his rightful inheritance. Instead, he disregarded the rules of public health so necessary to success in democratic life and underperformed and disappointed.

Stephen Curry strutted around like Alexander the Great after America limped to gold-medal victory, barely beating vastly less talented teams. Curry ignored the sportsmanship necessary in a world where humility, not boasting and brow-beating, is the way to impress people. It was only a basketball game, Steph.

One Olympic ad touting the aggressive mentality of our athletes asked, “Am I a bad person?....I’m single-minded....delusional....maniacal....does that make me a bad person?” Well, it makes you a celebrity American exploiter-athlete, just like your corporate sponsor.

The closing ceremony of the games featured this exploitative mentality in spades. All the heroes of the games were paraded out to help transition the Paris spectacle to the one in Los Angeles in 2028. Hyping Los Angeles '28 before the curtain even fell on Paris '24 is the corporate equivalent of a president who wins an election on Nov. 5 and then kicks off his second term campaign on Nov. 6. The greed and ambition for power is just too evident to ignore.

“Visit California” ads blared out across the ceremony’s commercial breaks. Every athlete employed to promote LA in 2028 played their mercilessly scripted, mechanical role perfectly. However, one wonders if LA has sufficient time to sweep its homeless population out of town by then. Where will they be hidden? Catalina Island? More of those $700,000 public housing units for lucky street-dwellers? Refurbished state mental hospitals? Cozy boxes six feet under?

America today is as much a disappointment in the world as some of our corporations and athletes show themselves to be. For example, we have underperformed in Palestine for decades, and in Gaza we are currently playing the role of the evil genius puppeteer destroying the lives of innocent civilians, subverting religious freedom, and enriching the accounts of the military-industrial sector. The country is slowly figuring this out, as it once did at the time of the Vietnam War, but too late for tens of thousands of hapless victims of American greed and cruelty.

Yes, America is a bad person. The nations of the world have figured it out, but our own people are still clueless.

More: Opinion: Do we continue the American experiment of Democracy or return to dictators?

More: Opinion: Trump's lies are so ubiquitous that facts in this country no longer matter

Robert Kimball Shinkoskey is the author of books on democracy, religion, and the American presidency. 

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Opinion: Greed and ambition for power doesn't offer seamless transition to 2028 Olympics