Mythical Heights

Not only does Mount Olympus belong to the Greek gods of mythology, but also to the mere mortals who climb it.

This majestic peak, where gods and muses once roamed, where Zeus hurled down his thunderbolts, captivates you effortlessly. Soaring to 2,918 metres high, this mountain was the first site in Greece to receive national park status. A one-hour thirty-minute drive from Thessaloniki, this vast expanse spans 500 square kilometres. From summer through late October is the perfect time to explore. Amidst the rocky terrain, wild geese saunter and leap effortlessly. Cascading waterfalls, ravines, and rushing streams adorn the landscape. At the same time, impressive forests of fir, pine, beech, and oak trees create an unparalleled vista. Yet, to be explored, it demands discipline and reverence.

The trails traversing Mount Olympus offer a range of challenges. The route we embark upon is a popular choice, though not for the faint of heart. It typically takes around seven hours, yet may extend to eight or nine accounting for necessary breaks. Our journey commences from the Gortsia post at 1,120 metres shortly after passing the Stavrou shelter. Setting off on the western path towards the Gortsia ridge, we follow one of the primary access points to the lofty peak of Mount Olympus. Pausing at Barba provides a brief respite before pressing forward towards the Petrostrouga shelter, which has amenities capable of hosting up to 90 individuals.

Our journey proceeds to the summit of Skourta and culminates at the challenging Pass of Giosos. Here, nestled within this gully, climbers put their endurance and fortitude to the test against an almost vertical, narrow fissure among the rocks. Transitioning onwards, the shelters perched atop The Plateau of Muses (Giosos Apostolidis and Christos Kakkalos, respectively) stand as beacons for the intrepid souls unwilling to yield, steadfast in their pursuit of reaching the pinnacle – the eternal Mytikas.

The saga of Mount Olympus unfolds afresh with each passing day whenever adventurists and mountaineers resolve to scale its heights. It teems with a diverse array of small creatures and flora that progressively transition as elevation increases, stealing one’s breath. The expedition on Mount Olympus unfolds as a singular odyssey embellished with indelible scents, sights, and subtleties. Those who have braved this mountain’s ascent find themselves inexorably drawn to return at their earliest opportunity. Are you prepared to take on the challenge?

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TEXT : GEORGIA DRAKAKI
PHOTOS : GIANNIS PARASKEVAS