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Duration
4 days
Activities
  • guided walk
Accommodation
  • mountain huts
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 4 Lunches
  • 3 Breakfasts

Price

$950USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: CMO

Trip highlights


  • Experiencing the exhilaration of ascending the famous peaks of Mt Olympus
  • Absorbing the incredible views over the Aegean
  • History, culture and mountain landscapes
  • Wandering through the lively village of Litochoro, at the foot of the mountain

For anyone who loves a walking challenge your visit to Greece will not be complete without a visit to the highest peak in the nation, Mount Olympus. In Greek mythology, Olympus' high summits were saturated by the nectar of the ancient Greek gods, and was known as the seat of Zeus, the god who gathered the clouds and threw down thunder and lightning from the holy mountain. Beyond the mythology the mountain is home to many species of flora and bird life such as the peregrine falcon. It's importance in Greek history saw it's many natural treasures protected since 1938 when it became the country's first ever National Park. The lower flanks of Olympus, known as Kato Olympus, or Lower Olympus, is a declared biosphere reserve. Trekking to the various peaks of the Olympus - there are 52 in total - to experience the spectacular vistas and scenery as well as to absorb the vast legacy of ancient civilizations up on the higher plateaus will provide the essence of this rewarding walking challenge on Mt Olympus.

Trip Grading

moderate to challenging

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

This morning you will meet your guide and the rest of the group in Litochoro. Transfer to Gkortsia (Diastayrwsh), from where we begin our hike, at an altitude of 1,100m. The route from Gkortsia to Petrostrougka Refuge is one of the two most frequented hiking paths on Mount Olympus. Most of the hike is through a thick forest of pine, beech and fir trees, and the path is in good condition. We make our way up to an altitude of 1,940m to reach the refuge. Walking distance 5km, altitude difference +927m

Meals:  L,D

From the refuge, we follow a zigzag path to reach the Plateau of the Muses where a small but friendly refuge will accommodate us (2hrs walk). This is an easy day in breathtaking scenery. After lunch and time to relax and absorb the views, we climb a small peak – named Profitis Ilias and Toumba – just above our refuge to admire superb views of Mt Olympus summits and deep gorges (2hrs round trip). Overnight refuge. Walking distance 5.5km, altitude difference +840m

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we have two options according to group fitness and weather conditions: Before reaching the summit we ascend to the main path and cross the spectacular precipice under the summit of Stefani - the throne of Zeus. We either climb first Skala at 2882m and then crossing a narrow ridge climb to the summit of Skolio at 2911m (4-5 hrs walking on narrow paths – some scrambling involved – altitude gain of 800m). Or if weather permits and there is no snow, we ascend to the main summit - Mytikas (2917m), Greece’s highest peak, following a narrow gorge (it involves about 150m of scrambling). Later we follow the trail to refuge A at 2100m, known as the “balcony of Greece” (2hrs walk). Afternoon at leisure for rest as the next day will be demanding. Walking distance 6.5km, altitude difference -908m

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we follow the E4 path (international path) until Litochoro. The walking begins fairly straightforward until we stop at Prionia, one of the highest points which can be reached by car. We continue to the Enippeas gorge, passing a cave-chapel and the monastery of St. Dionysus, as well as taking advantage of several swimming opportunities en route in river pools. After about seven hours walking, the gorge opens up on the outskirts of Litochoro. The route is quite tiring, but the varied geological features, the small lakes with crystal waters and the sheer mountain slopes provide a rare beauty and are entirely rewarding. Trip concludes on arrival in Litochoro. Walking distance 14.8km, altitude difference -2110m

Meals:  B,L


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 3 breakfasts, 4 packed lunches and 3 dinners - breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices, lunches are picnic style while dinner in the refuges is usually mountain style, generally with 2 courses with a soup to start and main course of pasta or rice with meat and vegetables.
  • 3 nights mountain refuge on a multishare basis
  • Transfer from Litichoro to the start of the hike and return
  • English speaking experienced local trekking guide
  • Local taxes

  • Travel to and from Litochoro
  • Airport transfer Thessaloniki to Litochoro return – requires pre-booked and payment in advance, ask your consultant for details
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Luggage transfer - you will be required to carry all of your gear. A comfortable 45-55 litre hiking pack is essential
  • Travel insurance
  • Items of a personal

Grading

moderate to challenging  

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING – GRADE 4 The walking is graded moderate to challenging with 3 to 7 hours walking each day over hilly to steep terrain. There are numerous ups and downs in mountain hike and you preparation should include climbing and descending steps.The hike is mainly along good forest paths; above the tree – line, the terrain varies from grassy uplands to rocky ridges, with some scrambling required for the peak ascents. A good level of fitness and experience is required to climb the peak and the guide reserves the right to make the final decision if we climb the final peak. Areas of the route are exposed and would not be suitable for vertigo sufferers. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, stair walking and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.


Departure dates


Notes

Note:
During the hike you will need to carry all your gear in a 45-55 litre trekking pack.
Note:
Other dates available on request, from Jun to Oct, for a group of minimum 4 participants.

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Priceper person from

$950USD

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

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Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

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