This Summer choose mountains - Discover Greece's Majestic Mountains

Greece is renowned for its picturesque islands, sun-kissed beaches, and vibrant coastal towns; however, its majestic mountains often remain overshadowed. These breathtaking and diverse mountainous regions provide travelers with an exceptional opportunity to experience a different side of Greece, one that is steeped in rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. From soaring peaks to tranquil valleys, the mountainous landscape offers a refreshing alternative to the more commonly visited seaside destinations.

During the summer months, Greece's mountains come alive with their lush greenery and vibrant fauna, making it an ideal time for exploration. The fresh alpine air, coupled with the abundance of adventure activities available, attracts nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Hiking trails wind through forests and past crystal-clear lakes, offering stunning vistas along the way. Each mountain range, from the imposing Pindus to the iconic Olympus, has its own unique character, welcoming visitors to engage with age-old traditions and local communities.

The biodiversity found within these mountainous regions is remarkable, boasting various ecosystems that support an array of flora and fauna. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as bird watching and botanic explorations while marveling at the region's endemic species. Additionally, the mountain villages provide insights into local customs, where travelers can immerse themselves in the authentic Greek way of life. The rich culinary traditions ensconce visitors in the flavors of locally sourced ingredients, showcasing how geography influences cuisine.

Thus, a summer getaway to Greece's mountainous wonders not only satiates the desire for adventure but also enriches the travel experience through deeper engagement with nature and culture. Discover the hidden gems that these majestic mountains have to offer, and appreciate Greece's beauty beyond its coastal allure.

Mount Olympus National Park: The Home of the Gods

Mount Olympus National Park, renowned as the highest mountain in Greece, holds immense significance not only from a geological perspective but also within the realm of Greek mythology. Known as the dwelling place of the ancient gods, Olympus is steeped in legend and stories that have shaped the cultural heritage of Greece for millennia. The revered mountain, rising to a majestic peak of 2,918 meters, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore breathtaking trails while engaging with a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.

Aside from hiking and bird-watching, visitors can delve into the historical aspects of the park by exploring ancient ruins scattered throughout the area. The remnants of sanctuaries dedicated to the gods are testimony to the deep-rooted reverence the ancient Greeks held for Mount Olympus. To enhance your visitor experience, it is advisable to plan your trip during the summer months when the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities.

Enipeas Springs and Enipeas Gorge Trail

This essential hiking route follows the Enipeas River past a series of springs, natural pools, and waterfalls—including the famed Prionia spring—making it a favorite for experiencing both mythic and natural water features, as well as varied mountain scenery. This trail follows the lush Enipeas River canyon, passing multiple springs, small natural pools, and waterfalls. The famed Prionia spring is a notable refreshment stop. Wooden footbridges cross the river multiple times offering picturesque views. The trail also passes by the Agios Dionysios Monastery and the Agia Kori (Holy Maiden) Spring near Orlias Gorge, a lovely spot with a waterfall and secluded bathing pools.

• Route: From Prionia (altitude approx. 1,100m) descending to Litochoro (approx. 400m)

• Distance: About 11.7 to 12 km one way

• Duration: Around 4 to 6 hours (depending on pace)

• Difficulty: Moderate, mostly downhill when hiking from Prionia to Litochoro

Prionia to Spilios Agapitos Refuge (E4 Trail)

As the most popular segment of the E4 European long-distance path on Olympus, this trail leads hikers from the car-accessible Prionia spring through beech and pine forests to the Spilios Agapitos alpine refuge, passing springs, streams, and panoramic viewpoints. The refuge offers meals and lodging, serving as a base for summit attempts, notably to Mytikas peak (2-Day Trail).

• Route: Ascending trail from Prionia (1,100m) to the Spilios Agapitos Refuge (2,040m)

• Distance: Approximately 5.5 km

• Duration: About 3 to 4 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate with some stretches uphill, suitable for those in good fitness

Muses' Plateau and Alpine Zone

Reaching the high-altitude Muses’ Plateau (at 2,550m) immerses trekkers in an alpine tundra landscape with stark beauty, hidden seasonal lakes, and sweeping views of the Olympus massif—a true gateway to Olympus’ higher summits.

• Location: Around 2,550m altitude in the higher alpine zone of Olympus

• Route: Can be reached from the Spilios Agapitos Refuge via continued ascent

• Distance: Approximately 14 km round trip from Litochoro via Gortsia

• Duration: 6 to 7 hours depending on exact starting point and pace

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to elevation gain

Orilias Stream and Red Rock Waterfall

The area is accessible by car via a forest road from Dion leading near the chapel of Agios Konstantinos and Eleni. The access road is paved but has some steep ascents and sharp turn. Parking is available near the chapel. Access to the Red Rock Waterfall is by following a 1-hour uphill hike from the chapel area.

• Location: Orlias Gorge, ~5 km southwest of Dion village, Mount Olympus eastern foothills

• Route: Start at the chapel of Agios Konstantinos and Eleni (car parking available) and follow marked trail through forest, past smaller waterfalls and natural pools.

• Distance: Approx. 5 km one way (10 km round trip)

• Duration: Around 2 to 2.5 hours round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate — steady uphill sections and uneven terrain, suitable for hikers in good physical condition.

Notable Car-Accessible Locations:

Prionia - Highest point reachable by car on Mount Olympus.

About 18-19 km from Litochoro, accessible via a well-maintained asphalt mountain road. It has a large free parking lot, a café-restaurant, restrooms, and spring water refill points. From Prionia, you can start hikes to waterfalls, springs, alpine refuges, and higher mountain trails.

Gortsia

Located around the 14 km mark on the Litochoro-Prionia road, it offers parking and access to trails leading to the Barba Plateau and natural wells.

Kokkinopilos Village (West Olympus)

Accessible by 4x4 vehicle, located 34 km from Elassona, it grants access to less crowded parts of the park and nearby refuges. It provides entry to remote and less visited parts of the park, including trails leading to the Christaki Emergency Refuge at 2,550 meters.

Pelion Mountains:Where Myth Meets Nature

Straddling the Aegean Sea and Pagasetic Gulf, the Pelion Mountains combine dense chestnut forests, sparkling streams, and charming stone villages. Hiking trails wind past waterfalls, ancient bridges, and panoramic views, adapting to every fitness level. The unique coastal proximity offers the best of mountain and beach escapes, while local tavernas delight with fresh seafood and traditional mezedes.

Mythology lingers here too — tales of centaurs add a mystical aura, inviting visitors to connect with layered histories alongside nature’s beauty. Pelion’s landscape, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, invites visitors to connect deeply with the layered histories embedded in its natural beauty, making it a captivating destination where myth meets nature seamlessly

The Centaurs’ Path (Portaria area)

This is one of the easiest and most enjoyable walking routes in Pelion, relatively short and suitable even for children. It starts near the chapel of Agia Marina and goes to the Mana spring, passing through shaded plane trees and ferns, alongside streams and small pools. The route includes seven small wooden bridges crossing streams, making it picturesque and gentle in elevation changes. It typically takes less than an hour to complete and is well signposted.

Poros Waterfall and Waterpond Trail

An easy hike starting from Karavoma Junction, this trail takes you along a dirt road and gravel paths toward serene waterfalls and ponds. It is gentle in slope, suitable for beginners, and offers the soothing presence of streams and water features without challenging terrain.

Waterfall Trail (Agrioleukes to Makryrrachi)

This 9.2 km trail passes through dense oak and chestnut forests, fed by dozens of springs forming small streams and ravines. It culminates in the impressive Feloukas gorge and waterfalls near Makryrrachi, flowing into the Aegean Sea. The route is challenging but offers breathtaking natural water features and lush scenery.

Tympanos Spring and Waterfall near Kissos

An accessible and enchanting hike starting from Kissos village leads to the Tympanos Spring and waterfall. The path follows alongside a stream with a short section near a drop, ending in a striking waterfall oasis that is both awe-inspiring and serene.

Mixing it with some Aegean Breeze

Pelion offers a variety of beautiful beaches that complement its mountainous and forested landscape, perfect for both relaxation and water activities. Here are some of the most notable beaches to visit in Pelion:

Mylopotamos Beach
One of Pelion’s most popular and picturesque beaches, located near Tsagarada village on the east coast. It features sand and fine pebbles, crystal-clear light blue waters ideal for snorkeling, and a distinctive rocky archway dividing the beach. It has both organized and more secluded parts, along with tavernas offering great views.

Fakistra Beach
A wild and stunning beach known for its emerald waters, sandy shores, fine pebbles, and dramatic cliffs. Accessible via a 20-minute downhill walk, it is a more natural, less developed beach without amenities, perfect for those seeking a pristine environment and adventurous canyoning/swimming experiences.

Damouchari Beach
Famous partly as a filming location for "Mamma Mia," this beach has a charming small port area with shops and tavernas. The main beach has white pebbles and emerald water, and you can enjoy kayaking or SUP in nearby sea caves. There’s also a scenic footpath connecting it with Tsagarada and Fakistra.

Papa Nero Beach
Close to Damouchari, it is a long sandy beach with fine pebbles and clear water ideal for snorkeling. It offers both organized and unorganized spots, with nearby tavernas. It continues into Plaka Beach, which is quieter and surrounded by lush vegetation.

Agioi Saranta Beach
One of the longest beaches on the east side, with fine sand bordered by pine trees and cliffs. The large rock formation in the sea is popular for diving. It has sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports, and beach bars, making it ideal for longer stays.

Horefto Beach
Another long sandy beach known for its relaxed atmosphere, watersports, beach bars, and natural beauty with green surroundings. It is also near Parisaina Beach and the sea caves of Palia Mitzela for boat excursions.

Vikos Gorge and Voidomatis Springs

The Vikos Gorge and Voidomatis Springs in the Pindus Mountains of Epirus combine stunning natural scenery, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage, making them a premier hiking destination where nature’s raw beauty and crystal-clear waters invite exploration and reflection. Vikos Gorge lies on the southern slopes of Mount Tymphe in the north Pindus range, part of the Vikos-Aoos National Park in Epirus. It is one of the world’s deepest gorges, with towering limestone cliffs reaching up to 1,000 meters in height, creating dramatic panoramic views.

Despite being largely dry as the gorge’s karst limestone terrain channels the water underground, hikers encounter small pools, some stream flow in wetter months, and rich shaded forest environments. The trail offers spectacular views of the gorge’s cliffs, abundant flora including maples, beeches, figs, and oaks, and fauna such as rare birds and turtles. The area around Vikos Gorge and the larger Zagori region features many walking opportunities, including alpine lakes like Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) and historic stone bridges, integrating natural wonders with cultural visits. The famed Pindos Horse Shoe Trail is an 8-day scenic trek through the region, incorporating Vikos Gorge, alpine zones, and traditional villages such as Mikro Papingo.

Monodendri to Vikos Village (Classic Vikos Gorge Trail)

This trail begins at Monodendri village, near the Agios Georgios church, and descends steeply into the gorge. Hikers pass through shaded forests rich in flora and fauna, walk along cobblestone paths (kalderimi), and traverse rocky riverbeds. Towering limestone cliffs rise up to 1,000 meters around you. The hike ends in the traditional village of Vikos, where you can rest and arrange transport back. The path includes steep descents and ascents, uneven rocky terrain, and areas with large pebbles.

• Distance: 12 to 12.5 km one way

• Location: Vikos Gorge, Epirus, Greece

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (roughly 3.5 out of 5). Not recommended for novices or children due to steep descents/ascents and rocky footing, typically 5 to 7 hours. Hiking poles are advisable.

Vikos Village to Voidomatis Springs Trail

An easy, family-friendly trail starting at Vikos village that passes by the historic 18th-century Virgin Mary monastery before reaching the pristine Voidomatis Springs with their crystal-clear turquoise waters. The trail offers lush green forest scenery and cultural heritage sites. Suitable for less experienced hikers or anyone wanting a short, scenic walk.

• Distance: 3.4 km

• Location: From Vikos village to Voidomatis Springs

• Difficulty: Easy. Takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Terrain is gentle and suitable for all levels.

Papingo to Voidomatis Springs and Vikos Village

This moderate hike starts at the mountain village of Papingo, passes the Voidomatis Springs, and ends at Vikos village. Hikers enjoy panoramic mountain views including the spectacular Astraka Towers peaks, alpine landscapes, and traditional Zagori villages. The trail includes cobblestone and dirt paths with some rocky and uneven terrain.

• Distance: 6 km

• Location: From Papingo village through Voidomatis Springs to Vikos village

• Difficulty: Moderate. Approximately 4.5 hours of hiking. Requires good fitness to manage elevation gain of about 600 meters.

Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) of Mount Tymfi

This impressive alpine hike starts from the traditional village of Mikro Papingo in the Zagori region, ascending through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky mountain terrain. The trail passes several natural springs and leads to the Astraka Mountain Refuge, where hikers can rest before the final climb. The lake itself lies at about 2,050 meters altitude, nestled beneath the towering Astraka peaks. Known for crystal-clear waters inhabited by alpine newts (the "dragons"), it offers breathtaking panoramic views and a serene alpine atmosphere. This hike is widely regarded as one of Greece’s most beautiful mountain routes.

• Distance: Approximately 16.6 km round trip

• Location: From Mikro Papingo village to Dragon Lake, Mount Tymfi, Vikos-Aoos National Park, Epirus, Greece

• Difficulty: Moderate. Typically takes 6 to 8 hours total. The route involves steady uphill hiking with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, requiring good fitness and preparation.

So if this summer you are choosing Greece for your adventures, consider trying out something different. Instead of the usual beach parties and crowded islands, dive into the beauty of the high mountains where you can discover hidden trails, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy breathtaking views. Experience the unique flora and fauna, visit charming villages nestled in the hills, and enjoy the tranquillity that the natural surroundings offer. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning landscapes of Greece.