This month of May treat yourself to a trip that’s literally… divine! Where? To the Mount of the Gods, of course. Mount Olympus, in Greece! Most people think Mount Olympus overlooks Athens, but it is at about five-hour drive from the Greek capital, instead. Surrounded by rocky peaks and wild forests, this mountain offers a marvelous natural panorama that perhaps for this very reason looks like paradise. Is it worth leaving all the famous Greek locations, with their ruins, palaces, and beaches, to immerse yourself in this unique landscape? Yes, and we’ll tell you why. Pack your bags, wear the appropriate mountain gear and embark on an unforgettable adventure. We will accompany you with our personalized transportation, ready to pick you up from Athens Airport (ATH) or the much closer Thessaloniki-Macedonia Airport (SKG) or … wherever you happen to be.
The highest mountain
Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece. Rising nearly 3,000 meters a.s.l. (2,917 to be precise), it dominates the border between the regions of Thessaly and Macedonia in the north of the country. Declared a national park in 1938, today it is a paradise of Mediterranean flora and fauna, but for many centuries in the past it was considered a real paradise inhabited by powerful and capricious Gods… without whose permission one could not even approach.
The mountain owes its name to an ancient word that can be interpreted as “round obstacle” and indeed the ancient populations though it was impossible to climb to its summit (hence the belief that it was a divine place). Today, however, many tourists love to explore Mount Olympus – whose climate varies depending on the season and altitude. The valley is dominated by Mediterranean heat, with dry summers and mild but rainy winters. In the central area and at the summit, rainfall is more abundant even in summer, and the winter is harsh and snowy. On Mount Olympus, you can also ski at the Vryssopoules, Mytikas, or Skolio resorts.
Historical beauty on Mount Olympus
On Mount Olympus you can admire places rich in history and art. Among the must-see treasures is the Monastery of Agios Dionysios (Saint Dennis), located at 830 meters above sea level and consisting of two buildings (medieval one and modern one) set 15 km apart. The older monastery is still partially destroyed after the bombings of World War 2.
The Church of Prophet Elias, located almost at the top of the mountain, is also a destination worth discovering. The “highest church in the Balkans” dates back to the 16th century and, in its simplicity, displays all the beauty of Orthodox churches. From its churchyard, you can enjoy a breathtaking view! On the eastern slope of Mount Olympus lies the archaeological site of Dion, where millennia-old remains have been discovered, including the Ancient Theater – still in use, the burial place of the mythical Orpheus, dozens of other artefacts preserved in the beautiful Archaeological Museum.
And then there’s the Castle of Platamonas, the Monastery of the Virgin of Kanalon, and the charming town of Litochoro, with its narrow streets, stone houses, and artisan shops… in addition to the beautiful views it offers at every turn. Litochoro is the starting point for many trekking routes.
What to see at Mount Olympus National Park
From the town of Litochoro, specifically from the village of Myloi, many nature trails lead to discover, for example, the Enipeas Gorge …place of streams, woods, rocks, and wooden bridges. Passing below the monastery of Agios Dionysios, you will find natural pools that are also used by tourists for swimming in the summer. Also near the monastery, it’s worth visiting the Holy Cave (Agion Spilaion) of Saint Dennis and the water spring that flows from it.
Near the archaeological site of Dion, following a marked path between two monasteries, you’ll discover the 18-meter-high Kokkinos Vrachos waterfalls. If you are looking for more challenging trails and breathtaking views, head to the mountain’s highest peak—Mytikas Peak—or to the Giosos Apostolidis Refuge, located about 1 km from the spectacular church of Prophet Elias.
Nature walks take place in the shade of fir, beech, holm oak, and juniper trees. Along the way, you might encounter foxes, wild boars, squirrels, and wild cats. Chamois live on the highest peaks, while the woods are also populated by wolves and bears, so always hire a local guide before you go. In the sky, the new “Gods” of Olympus are the wonderful birds of prey including the booted eagle, the falcon and the buzzard.
Trips nearby…
Near Mount Olympus, you can drive to some of Greece’s famous tourist destinations. The city of Thessaloniki, for example, is about 110 km away and offers stunning beaches and monuments such as Art Nouveau villas, beautiful Byzantine churches, the Great White Tower, the Jewish Museum, and the Archaeological Museum. You can also reach Larissa, 85 km to the south, with its medieval historic core filled with museums, art galleries, parks, churches, and mosques all dominated by the ancient castle.
