Sacred Mountains of Greece

Discover the amazing clifftop monasteries of Meteora and ascend the 'mountain of the Gods', Mount Olympus

The dramatic rock formations of Meteora, in the Eastern Pindos Mountains, are an extraordinary sight. The clifftop monasteries are a testament to the audacity of the first monks who climbed these rocks and made their shelters at the top of the tiny summits.

After the exploration of Meteora, the week focuses on the ascent of Greece’s highest mountain, Mount Olympus. A unique mountain with its location so close to the coast, it is also a legendary peak. Supposedly home of the twelve Olympian Gods and place of many mythical stories, it is at the heart of Greek mythology. And as Greece’s oldest national park, it boasts a great concentration of flora and fauna, expanses of forests and the crystal clear waters of the Enippeas River.

Our trek culminates in the ascent of Mytikas, highest point of Mount Olympus at 2917m..

What makes this trip responsible?

We have had an excellent relationship with the local operator and this helps to stabilise their income generation and so helps to create a more sustainable future. We use local leaders who are committed to responsible tourism and helping to preserve the way of life in their area. The leaders will give a briefing on Responsible Tourism issues to help you understand how you can help reduce your impact and maximise the benefits to the local community from your visit. During this tour we spend 4 nights in small 2/3* hotels, and a further 3 nights in locally owned mountain refuges. We believe this to be a good way to ensure that a significant proportion of the money we spend goes directly back into the local community.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Greece

Day 1

Fly to Athens, transfer to our hotel.

Day 2

In the morning we take the train to Kalambaka and transfer to Kastraki village, beneath the breathtaking Meteora rocks. After settling in our hotel, we enjoy an evening walk to Meteora and a visit of the monasteries.

Day 3

Our first daywalk starts from Kalambaka and follows a circular route around Meteora's rock formations; this is a moderate walk to start warming up for Mt. Olympus.

Day 4

We head to Prionia, where we start our walk to Refuge A. Starting at 1100m, we climb up to 2100m.

Day 5

From the refuge a zigzagging path takes us just under the main summit. From here, depending on the group's fitness and weather conditions, we either start with the climb to Skala at 2882m and then cross a narrow ridge climb to the summit of Skolio at 2911

Day 6

A more relaxing day today, walking through breathtaking scenery. We climb to the peak of Profitis Ilias before descending back to the first refuge. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 7

Today's descent is via the impressive Enippeas gorge, which, after about seven hours walk, opens up on the outskirts of Litochoro. This is a challenging walk, which takes us through varied geological features and beautiful landscapes.

Day 8

In the morning take the train to Athens. Fly back to London.

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Trekker looking over Ados River valley, Gamila behind, Pindos Mountains

Meteora, Greece

What makes this trip responsible?

Itinerary

Images from SACRED MOUNTAINS OF GREECE