Mount Olympus Hikes

Challenge yourself on Greece's legendary mountain through expert-guided hiking adventures. Experience mythical alpine wilderness, challenging mountain trails, and breathtaking views of the home of the Greek gods that create memories to last a lifetime.

Elevation

2,918 meters

Park Established

August 1938

Location

Thessaly, Greece

Mount Olympus Hiking

Choose Your Mount Olympus Hiking Adventure

1 Day summit Olympus
Scenic

1 Day summit Olympus

AA lesser-known but very beautiful route leading to the summit of the legendary Mt. Olympus, offering a full day of adventure. In just one day, you’ll journey through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged alpine paths, all while experiencing breathtaking views and the timeless mythology surrounding Greece’s highest peak.

9 hours Private guide Strenuous
$223
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Hiking in Mt Olympus National Park
Adventure

Hiking in Mt Olympus National Park

A pleasant hike around the forgotten paths of the National Park, where nature quietly thrives away from the crowds. Wander through serene trails, breathe in the fresh air, and discover hidden corners that bring a sense of peace and adventure.

3 hours Small group Iconic views
$117
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Explore Mount Olympus & Dion: History & Nature Day Trip
Nature

Explore Mount Olympus & Dion: History & Nature Day Trip

Escape the hustle and bustle of Thessaloniki with a day trip to Mount Olympus. Explore the ancient city of Dion, hike through the dense forest of Mount Olympus and enjoy great views of Thermaic Gulf.

8 hours Live tour guide Ancient forests
$141
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Greece's Legendary Mountain

Mount Olympus stands as Greece's most iconic landmark, a majestic massif rising 2,918 meters above sea level. Known as the legendary home of the twelve Olympian gods, this ancient peak has been a sacred presence in Greek culture and mythology for thousands of years.

The mountain is home to unique Mediterranean ecosystems, with endemic flora and diverse wildlife thriving on its slopes. Mount Olympus National Park, established in 1938, protects this remarkable landscape where ancient forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic gorges create the perfect setting for challenging hiking adventures just hours from Athens.

With numerous well-marked trails, Mount Olympus offers hiking experiences for every skill level, from gentle forest walks to challenging high-altitude alpine routes to the summit. The mountain's diverse ecosystems and dramatic elevation changes provide some of the most spectacular and mythically-inspiring hiking terrain in Europe.

Discover History
Mount Olympus

Why Choose Mount Olympus?

Mythical Greek Peak

Experience the legendary throne of Zeus, where ancient mythology meets pristine wilderness. Mount Olympus defines Greek heritage and offers unparalleled alpine beauty steeped in divine legend.

Diverse Ecosystems

From Mediterranean forests to alpine meadows, explore distinct life zones in a single visit. Witness incredible biodiversity and endemic species that thrive in Olympus' unique habitats.

Hiking for All Levels

From gentle walks through Enipeas Gorge to demanding high-altitude ascents to Mytikas summit, find your perfect hiking challenge in the home of the gods with trails for every adventurer.

Challenging Alpine Terrain

Experience world-class hiking with dramatic gorges, pristine alpine lakes, and mythical mountain vistas. Every season offers unique challenges from wildflower meadow treks to snow-covered summit routes.

The Mount Olympus Story

Ancient Times - Home of the Gods: For thousands of years, Mount Olympus has been revered as the legendary home of the twelve Olympian gods, with Zeus ruling from its highest peak, Mytikas. Ancient Greeks considered it the most sacred mountain in their world.

Classical Period - Literary Immortality: Homer's epics and countless Greek myths immortalized Olympus as the divine realm, making it one of the most famous mountains in human culture and literature.

1913 - First Recorded Ascent: Christos Kakkalos, Frederic Boissonnas, and Daniel Baud-Bovy completed the first recorded ascent to Mytikas summit, opening the mountain to modern mountaineering.

1938 - National Park Status: Mount Olympus National Park is established, protecting its unique ecosystems and establishing it as a premier destination for hiking and nature conservation in Greece.

Present Day - Mythical Legacy: Mount Olympus continues to inspire visitors from around the world, offering transformative wilderness experiences where ancient mythology meets pristine nature in the heart of Greece.

Explore mountain trails

Mount Olympus Highlights & Destinations

Mytikas Summit Views

Mytikas Summit

The highest peak of Mount Olympus at 2,918 meters, Mytikas offers spectacular views across Greece and the Aegean Sea. Known as the "Throne of Zeus," this challenging summit provides access to the most rewarding and mythically significant hiking experience in Greece.

Enipeas Gorge

Enipeas Gorge

A dramatic gorge carved by the Enipeas River, featuring lush forests, hidden waterfalls, and ancient footpaths steeped in myth and legend. This gateway to Olympus offers some of the most scenic and accessible hiking experiences in the national park.

Alpine Meadows on Mount Olympus

Alpine Meadows

High-altitude meadows that burst with wildflowers in summer, providing habitat for rare plants and panoramic views of Olympus' peaks. These mythical landscapes offer some of the most photogenic and peaceful hiking experiences on the mountain.

Spilios Agapitos Refuge

Spilios Agapitos Refuge

A historic mountain refuge that serves as a base camp for summit attempts and multi-day hiking adventures. Located at 2,100 meters, the refuge offers stunning views and access to the most challenging trails on Mount Olympus, including the route to Mytikas.

Planning Your Mount Olympus Visit

Hiking at Mount Olympus

Make the most of your Mount Olympus adventure with these essential planning tips:

  • Park entry - No entry fees required for Mount Olympus National Park. However, guided tours and refuge stays may have associated costs. Parking is available at trailheads near Litochoro.
  • Best visiting times - June through September offer the warmest weather and accessible high-elevation areas. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers clear summit views, and fall provides stunning autumn colors.
  • Gateway town - Litochoro serves as the main base for Mount Olympus adventures, offering lodging, dining, equipment rental, and supplies. Located about 4.5 hours north of Athens by car.
  • Weather preparedness - Mountain weather changes rapidly. Dress in layers, bring rain gear, and wear sturdy hiking boots. Snow can occur at high elevations even in summer months.
  • Trail permits - No permits required for day hikes, but overnight stays in mountain refuges require advance reservations. Summit attempts should only be undertaken by experienced mountaineers.
  • Wildlife viewing - Look for chamois, golden eagles, and endemic butterflies during early morning and evening hours. Maintain safe distances and respect the fragile alpine environment.
  • Full day hikes - Allow 8-12 hours for challenging summit attempts. Consider staying overnight in Litochoro or mountain refuges to fully experience the mythical landscapes and demanding alpine trails.

Find Mount Olympus in Northern Greece

Address: Mount Olympus National Park, Litochoro, Pieria, Greece 60200

Nearest Airport: Thessaloniki Airport - 1.5 hours drive

Coordinates: 40°05'20"N 22°21'29"E

Mount Olympus National Park is located in northern Greece, on the border between Thessaly and Macedonia. The mountain is easily accessible from Litochoro, the main gateway town, which is approximately 4.5 hours north of Athens and 1.5 hours from Thessaloniki. Main trailheads begin from Litochoro and the nearby village of Prionia, with well-marked paths leading to various destinations including refuges and the summit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Allow at least a full day (8-12 hours) for a comprehensive hiking experience at Mount Olympus. For summit attempts and challenging hikes, consider 2-3 days with refuge stays. The mountain offers everything from 3-hour moderate hikes to multi-day alpine adventures.

No entrance fees are required for Mount Olympus National Park. However, overnight stays in mountain refuges require reservations and fees (typically €15-25 per night). Guided tours and equipment rental have separate costs.

Yes! Mount Olympus offers hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy walks through Enipeas Gorge to challenging summit routes. The Enipeas Gorge trail and lower forest paths are perfect for beginners, while Mytikas summit requires mountaineering experience.

Peak wildflower season typically runs from late May through July, with alpine meadows blooming at different elevations. June offers the best combination of accessible trails and flowering plants. Many endemic species bloom only on Mount Olympus.

No permits are required for day hikes on Mount Olympus. Overnight stays in refuges require advance reservations, especially during peak season. Summit attempts should only be undertaken by experienced hikers with proper equipment.

Common wildlife includes chamois, golden eagles, wild boar, roe deer, and numerous endemic butterfly species. Early morning and evening offer the best viewing opportunities. The mountain hosts many species found nowhere else in Greece.

Litochoro offers numerous hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Mountain refuges (Spilios Agapitos, Apostolidis) provide accommodation for multi-day hikes. Camping is permitted in designated areas with proper permits.

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