Mt. Olympus - 4 days
Guided / Trekking / Multi Day / Mt. Olympus /
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  • Activity level Moderate/Hard
  • Group size 2 - 16 participants
  • Duration 4 days
  • DATES 2020 JUNE 22-25, JULY 20-23, AUGUST 24-27, SEPTEMBER 22-25
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Introduction

Olympus was notable in Ancient Greek Mythology as the home of the Twelve Olympians. It is noted for its very rich flora and fauna, has been announced a National Park since 1938 and a World's Biosphere Reserve.

This hiking package is addressed to the real mountain lovers who will enjoy a daily 5-6 hours trekking on the trails of the mountain and will enjoy the atmosphere of mountain refuges.

 


DAY 1: Walk to Refuge Petrostrouga

Arrive and meet your guide and rest of the group in Litochoro and transfer to Gortsia. From there we begin our hike on a well maintained path, through a thick forest of pine, beech and fir trees, to the refuge of Petrostrouga at an altitude of 1940m. 

Estimated walking time: 3 hours
Overnight in Petrostrouga refuge


DAY 2: Plateau of the Muses – Refuge Ch. Kakkalos, alt. 2,700 m

Starting from the refuge, a Zig Zag path will bring us to the plateau of the Muses, an alpine plateau at an altitude of 2700m (2 hrs walking). This is an easy day in breathtaking scenery. After lunch and relax at the refuge we will climb a small peak just above the plateau to admire superb views of Mt Olympus summits and deep gorges ( 2 hrs round trip )

Estimated walking time: 4 - 5 hours
Overnight in Mountain refuge


DAY 3: Peak ascents

Starting from Muses plateau we ascent to the main path and cross the spectacular precipice under the summit of Stefani - the throne of Zeus. From there, we either climb first Skala at 2.882 meters and then crossing a narrow ridge climb to the summit of  Skolio at 2.911meters (4-5 hrs walking on narrow paths – some scrambling involved – altitude gain of 800m). Or if weather permits and there is no snow, we ascent to the main summit - Mytikas (2.917meters), Greece’s highest peak, following a narrow gorge ( it involves about 150 m of scrambling. After the ascent we will follow a short path to refuge A, “the balcony of Greece”, at 2.100m. ( 2 hrs walk ) Afternoon at leisure for rest as the next day will be demanding.

Estimated walking time: 5 - 6 hours
Overnight in Mountain refuge A


DAY 4: Enipeas Gorge

Today we will follow the E4 path (international path) to Litochoro, after an easy walk we stop at Prionia. (Prionia is one of the highest points which can be reached by car). We will continue to 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.

Estimated Walking Time 6 – 7 hours


Included


  • Accommodation in berths on refuges on Mt. Olympus
  • English speaking guide during the ascent of Mt.Olympus
  • Guide’s expenses
  • Transfer from Litochoro to the start of the hike
  • Transfer from the end of the hike to Litochoro
  • VA Tax

Not Included

  • Transport to and from Litochoro
  • All meals (Breakfasts, lunches & dinners)
  • Personal expenses and drinks
  • Everything not clearly listed above

Insurance

Everyone participating in any of Cretan Adventures events/activities is covered by third party insurance through Ethniki Asfalistiki.

Participants need to be covered by their own personal insurance (Health/accident insurance) for the chosen activities.

Cretan Adventures is not responsible for any accidents or mishaps directly or indirectly related to the tour.


Transport

You travel either by taxi or by our own rented air-conditioned mini-bus.


Accommodation

Berths in Mountain refuges with shared facilities


Activity Level

The hikes offer a moderate/hard trek with a maximum of 7 hours walk. We mostly follow 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. The guide reserves the right to make the final decision of the peak ascend.


Equipment

  • Large, comfortable rucksack (45-55 litres) with padded straps and waist belt, internal frame preferred; waterproof liner recommended to keep clothing, etc. dry inside.
  • Sturdy, worn in trekking shoes
  • Good waterproof top with hood
  • Warm clothes, both for windy / cold daytime conditions and for the cool evenings (fleece tops or similar)
  • Shorts and long trousers for walking, preferably quick-drying material (cotton or polycotton not denim)
  • Sweatshirts or T-shirts for walking, at least one with long sleeves and collar (against sun-burn)
  • Sheet sleeping bag or similar (e.g. duvet cover), for the overnights in the refuge, although blankets will be available.
  • Sunglasses, towel, sun hat or cap, sun block
  • Penknife
  • Water bottle
  • Wash bag and simple first aid kit (plasters or blister kit, aspirin or similar, antiseptic)
  • Torch (head torch if you have one)
  • Walking sticks

Note on Itineraries

Please bear in mind that the itinerary can be altered for numerous reasons beyond our control (e.g. harsh weather, trail conditions) to ensure the safety and the well-being of the group. The final hiking selection is left up to Cretan Adventures.