Mount Olympus: Litochoro, the Enipeas Gorge and the Climb to Mytikas

Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the twelve gods, is the highest mountain in Greece, rising almost straight from the sea at the border of Macedonia and Thessaly. You do not need to be a mountaineer to enjoy it: forest walks, a deep gorge, a mountain village and an ancient city at its feet make it a wonderful trip for every traveller.

Litochoro

The little town of Litochoro, at the foot of the mountain and close to the sea, is the gateway to Olympus. It is a lively base with tavernas, outdoor shops and mountain guides, and views straight up to the peaks.

The Enipeas gorge

From Litochoro a marked path follows the river Enipeas up the gorge, through plane trees and pine forest, past small waterfalls and pools. You can walk a short section from the town, or the full route up to Prionia – a long day in the forest.

Prionia and the refuge

A mountain road climbs from Litochoro to Prionia, the highest point you can reach by vehicle. From there, the classic path to the Spilios Agapitos refuge (Refuge A) takes about 2½ to 3 hours through beech and black pine forest – a beautiful day hike even if you go no further.

Mytikas, the summit

Mytikas, at 2,918 metres, is the highest peak of Greece. The summit day starts from the refuge and the last part is a steep scramble on rock: it is for experienced, well-equipped hikers in good weather, ideally with a mountain guide. The usual season is June to October.

Ancient Dion

At the foot of the mountain, the archaeological site of Dion was the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians, with sanctuaries in a green setting of springs and trees, and a museum with finds from the site.

Getting there

Litochoro is about 1 hour from Thessaloniki and about 4½ hours from Athens. With a private transfer you can go straight from Thessaloniki airport, or from Athens with stops on the way, and be dropped at the trailhead in Prionia.

Private transfers from Athens or Thessaloniki on request – ask us.