Mount Olympus hiking.

Mount Olympus, home of the 12 Olympian Greek gods and goddesses is in Central Greece, on the Greek mainland, a beautiful mountain, the dominant peak of a still-wild mountain area. It is appreciated as a hiking or skiing destination. An outstanding archaeological site in view of Olympus is the little-visited city of Dion, which boasts a partially-intact Temple of Isis.

Many visitors to Olympus feel impelled to climb it. For experienced hikers, the ascent and descent, in good weather, can be accomplished in a single day.

Climbing Mt Olympus is not that difficult. I've done it six times so far and look forward to get the chance and do it whenever I can. The best period is August, when there is no snow high up. It is estimated that more than 10,000 people climb Mt Olympus each year. The European E4 hiking path crosses the Mt Olympus national park. It will take you two relaxed days, but you can do it in just one, departing early morning. Your starting point will be Litohoro in Pieria, northern Greece, which is the safest route. You can get there by bus, train or car.

You will need to stay the night in a hotel there, to be able to get up early in the morning for your hike, starting from Prionia, which is the furthest point accessible by car. From there you begin climbing the path to Zolotas (or Spilios Agapitos) refuge (altitude 2,100 m., capacity 100 persons, tel. +30.23520.81800). It will take you about 2.5 h.

From that point, you will follow the path to the highest peak, called Mytikas, which will take you to the summit through Skala passage (another 2 h). Once to the top, you can enjoy spectacular views and sign the visitor's book located in the cabinet under the metal flag. On your way back you may follow the same route or return through the Musses plateau path. All paths are clearly marked, and you will not have any orientation problems.

It will most probably be crowded up there, so you may ask anybody for assistance, if needed. When you get back to Prionia, depending on the time, you may return to Litohoro, or you can continuw on the E4 path through the Enipeas valley. This is the most beautiful part of the entire hike and is highly recommended.
Walking the Prionia-Litohoro path you cross an amazing forest and have the chance to visit the St. Dionysius monastery and the caves used as chapels. It will take you another 4 h.

All in all, climbing Mount Olympus is a great experience and is highly recommended.