Mount Olympus National Park: hike back in time amongst the Greek Gods

You've probably heard of Mount Olympus in Greece, which has often been included in many literary works and films such as Hercules. It is known to be the home of the twelve ancient Greek gods: Zeus, Hera, Athena, Apollo, Poseidon, Areas, Artemis, and so forth. However, Mount Olympus isn't the product of any mythical legend or some writer's imagination; it's a place that exists, and is there for you to explore!

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Olympus National Park is where you'll get the chance to travel to the home of the ancient gods: Mount Olympus; which is also the highest peak in Greece, and the main attraction of the park. So, prepare yourself for jaw-dropping sceneries, dense forests and archaeological sites which make the ingredients for an unforgettable experience. While exploring this beautiful park, you can also imagine what it was like for the ancient Greeks who viewed this place as extraordinarily sacred and divine.

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This national park is situated in the northernmost part of Greece, between Thessaly and Macedonia, about 100 km from Thessaloniki-- and is a true paradise for outdoor and nature lovers. And now you know that it's not just an average park, it's also where the ancient divinities gather and feast high up on the peaks of Mount Olympus-- as the legend goes. So, trek back in time and discover the wonders this magnificent site has to offer, amongst the gods. 

Mount Olympus covers 189 square miles of the park, and has more than fifty peaks, making it an exciting climb with many viewpoints to enjoy and take in the all-encompassing lush scenery. A lot of meteorological phenomena have eroded the mountain over the centuries, creating its distinctive towering features. 
The highest peak is called Mytikas, which means "nose" and is also considered one of the highest summits in Europe-- with an altitude of 2.917 metres above sea level, making it a favourite for adventurous and experienced hikers. Most amateur hikers prefer climbing up to the most accessible part of the mountain: Skolio Peak. The best way to reach it is by setting off from the village of Litochoro-- also known as the City of Gods, given it's perched on the mountain slope.  

The park has a great variety of flora and fauna and has also been listed as a World Biosphere Reserve. Admire the beautiful landscapes and wildlife on your trekking routes around the park.  

Among its fauna, visitors can encounter jackals, roe deers, eagles, wild boars, wolves, vultures, squirrels, and an abundance of reptiles and insects. Unfortunately, bears have disappeared from this habitat. 
Also, from its wealth of flora, one can find 1,700 plant species, of which 23 are endemic, such as Potentilla deorum, Campanula oreadum, and Cerastium theophrastii, and the Jankea heldreichii species-- which date back to the Ice Age period. 


The best trails of Mount Olympus National Park are:

1) Litochoro Saw: a moderate hike that takes around 5 hours, 9,000 m. 

2) Cave of Dear Stair Mytikas: a moderate/ slightly-difficult trail covering 3,000 m. Ideal for those more experienced or those who are prepared to challenge themselves. 

3) Musical Plateau Peaks: The most arduous hike of the four, covering a distance of 1,500 m with a steep height of 268 m. There are also possible rockslides. So this is definitely one for the most experienced and for those who what the trail will entail. 

4) Sewing-Shelf Cave Agapitos:
This hike takes around 3 hours to complete and covers around 4,500 m with a height of 9,000 m. This hike trails through the amazing Enipea canyon.

Ultimately, Olympus National Park is an idyllic place for outdoor lovers, which blends classical culture and breathtaking nature, while offering great hiking trails for all levels. Yet, for those who are less experienced, we highly recommend hiring the service of a specialised guide to ensure maximum safety. Otherwise, this attraction is a must-visit during your stay in Greece! 


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