DESCRIPTION
Attention: some sections can be technically challenging
Mount Olympus, located in northern Greece, is one of the world's most fascinating natural wonders. Standing at 2,917 meters, it is the tallest mountain in Greece and dominates the surrounding landscape with its majesty. Its natural beauty is characterized by a variety of ecosystems ranging from lush forests to rocky, snow-capped peaks. The mountain is shrouded in an aura of mystery, with clouds often covering its summit, creating suggestive and picturesque scenes.
The slopes of Mount Olympus host a wide range of flora and fauna, some of which are unique to this region. The pine and fir forests create an enchanting environment, while the peaks offer spectacular panoramic views of the Greek countryside. This natural environment was declared a National Park in 1938, the first in Greece, to preserve its biodiversity and beauty.
Mount Olympus stands out from other mountains not only for its height and natural beauty but also for its mythological and cultural significance. Unlike many other mountains, Olympus has been associated with legends that have shaped the identity and history of an entire civilization. This connection with mythology has given the mountain an aura of sacredness that continues to fascinate scholars, tourists, and enthusiasts of history and mythology.
Moreover, its geographical location and unique formation make it a place of extraordinary biodiversity, offering a unique habitat for many rare species. Mount Olympus is also a significant destination for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts, offering trails that vary in difficulty and allow visitors to explore its rich natural and cultural variety.
Olympus is not just a mountain; it is a natural and cultural monument of unparalleled historical relevance, a symbol of the fusion between nature and myth that continues to inspire and fascinate humanity.
On day 3, embark on a captivating 4-hour walking tour through the heart of Thessaloniki, where history and gastronomy intertwine. Led by a licensed guide, this experience takes you on a flavorful and cultural journey across the city's most iconic landmarks and culinary treasures.
INCLUDED
- All transfers in luxury 9-seater van or car
- Transfer Kalivia - mountain hut 2430 mt - Kalivia with 4x4 off road veicle
- English/Italian-speaking driver/escort
- English speaking mountain escort for the trekking
- Accommodation in double rooms in 3* hotels
- Special equipment for climbing to the summit of Mytikas
- Accident insurance for day 2
- Complete history and food tour in Thessaloniki with licensed official guide and 5 food stops (all tastings included in the gastronomic tour)
- Breakfasts
- VAT
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunches and dinners
- Flights to and from your place of origin
- Stay taxes
- Medical/luggage travel insurance day 1,3,4
- Cancellation insurance for medical reasons
- Entrance fees to sites and museums or nature parks/reserves where applicable
- Anything not specified as included
DAY 1: THESSALONIKI - LITOCHORO
Your journey begins with your arrival in Thessaloniki, a city rich in history and culture. After settling in, you can spend the afternoon exploring the wonders of this fascinating city. Must-see attractions include the White Tower, the Rotunda of Galerius, and the Church of Saint Demetrius. After the visit, there will be a transfer to Litochoro, a picturesque village located at the foot of Mount Olympus, where you will spend the night in preparation for the next day's adventure.
Distance traveled: 90 km
DAY 2: LITOCHORO - KALIVIA VILLAGE - MYTIKAS PEAK - KALIVIA VILLAGE - LITOCHORO
Early breakfast and transfer to the south-western side of Mount Olympus.
We will meet at 8:00 a.m. with the mountain guide in the centre of the village of Kalivia and travel by 4x4 vehicles to the Christakis refuge. The first 20 kilometres to the refuge are on paved roads. Then it becomes a dirty road for another 22 kilometres (about 1 hour's drive) until we reach the refuge at an altitude of 2,430 metres. Leaving our vehicles there, we will continue by foot for the rest of the route. We will follow the European E4 trail for about 60-70 minutes. We cross the Skolio peak at an altitude of 2,912 metres until we reach Skala. Here begins the most difficult part of our hike. We continue our hike to the Kakoskala point and climb to the top! We reached Mytikas at an altitude of 2,918 metres! The total duration of this part of the hike depends on the size of our group, its previous experience and level of fitness. It can last from 2 to 4 hours. At around 5 p.m., we will be back in the village of Kalivia and from there we will leave for Litochoro for dinner at the participants' expense and overnight stay.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3/5
Participation requirements
- Aged between 13 and 70 (children must be accompanied by their parents)
- Good physical and mental health
- No acrophobia (fear of heights)
Equipment
- Hiking boots (recommended) or running shoes
- Small rucksack with personal water bottle. As part of our environmental policy and action plan, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic bottles.
- Comfortable clothing (preferably quick-drying material)
- A long-sleeved T-shirt and a second T-shirt
- Fleece jumper
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Personal backpack (no larger than 25 litres)
- Hiking poles (optional)
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sun cream
DAY 3: LITOCHORO - THESSALONIKI FOOD AND HISTORY TOUR - THESSALONIKI
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Thessaloniki, where our official guide will be waiting to take us on a walking tour of Greece's second largest city in terms of size and population.
Your adventure begins at the legendary White Tower and continues through the city's rich Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman heritage:
· The Galerian Complex and the majestic Rotunda
· The Church of Hagia Sophia and the unique Acheiropoietos
· The revered Church of Saint Demetrius
· Aristotelous Square, featuring the historic Bey Hamam (Ottoman Baths) and Panagia Chalkeon
· A stroll through the vibrant Kapani market, brimming with local life
Culinary Delights: Along the way, enjoy 8 delicious tasting stops that showcase the best of Thessaloniki's food culture:
· Flaky bougatsa and sweet trigona Panoramatos
· Roasted nuts and syrupy isli paired with traditional Greek coffee
· Artisanal cured meats and cheeses
· Premium olive oil, olives, and local honey
· A light meal of authentic Greek cuisine to end your tour on a savory note
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or both, this tour offers a unique opportunity to savor Thessaloniki's soul… one bite and story at a time!
At the end of the experience, transfer to the hotel
Distance traveled: 90 km
DAY 4: THESSALONIKI - THESSALONIKI AIRPORT
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport
Cancellation policy.
