Mount Olympus Hiking Experience – Trekking in Greece

If you’re craving a genuine adventure and want to stand on the peaks of Greece’s most legendary mountain, this Mount Olympus hiking tour offers a memorable journey. Starting from the charming town of Litochoro, you’ll traverse the rugged trails that wind through ancient landscapes, reaching the summit of Mytikas—the highest point in Greece at 2,918 meters. This experience, priced at around $415 per person, is designed for those with a moderate level of fitness who want to combine physical challenge with breathtaking scenery and authentic mountain hospitality.

What we love about this trek is how organized and safety-conscious it is, thanks to expert guides who prioritize your well-being. We also appreciate the chance to spend a night in mountain refuges, allowing us to soak in the mountain’s atmosphere and enjoy hearty, traditional food. A second standout: the spectacular views from the summit, including both sunrise and sunset, make every step worth the effort.

However, it’s worth noting that climbing to Mytikas depends heavily on weather conditions and personal fitness. The ascent isn’t suitable for everyone, especially those sensitive to altitude or with health issues. So, if you’re ready for a physically demanding but incredibly rewarding experience, this tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore Greece’s most mythic mountain.

This tour suits travelers who value professional guides, authentic mountain shelter stays, and striking panoramic vistas. It’s ideal for those seeking more than just a day hike—a genuine, two-day immersion into sacred landscapes and mountain culture.

Key Points

• Authentic Multi-Day Trek: Experience the stunning beauty of Mount Olympus over two days, including overnight stays in mountain refuges.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Giannis and Christos are praised for their professionalism, safety training, and engaging manner.
• Spectacular Views: Reach the summit of Mytikas for unmatched vistas of the peaks and coastline, weather permitting.
• Balanced Difficulty: Suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, but climbing to the peak is optional depending on conditions.
• Authentic Mountain Food: Enjoy hearty meals at refuges, with reviews praising the delicious, filling fare.
• Flexible Options: The tour offers different meal packages, accommodating various preferences and budgets.

An In-Depth Look at the Mount Olympus Trekking Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins in Litochoro, a picturesque town famed as the gateway to Mount Olympus. The tour includes a transfer from Litochoro to Gortsias, a village at 1,123 meters altitude, which is the starting point of the hike. This transfer, along with all taxes, is included in the price, removing one logistical headache. From there, the journey into the mountains truly begins, setting the tone for the immersive experience ahead.

The convenience of being picked up and dropped off reduces stress and maximizes your time on the trails. If you’re coming from Thessaloniki or elsewhere, you’ll need to organize additional transport though, as this tour starts and ends in Litochoro. That said, many travelers find this setup ideal—they get to focus on the hike, not logistics.

The First Day: Trails and Mountain Shelters

The first day is all about covering significant ground—about 13.5 km of hiking in roughly 7-8 hours, with an ascent of over 1,600 meters. We loved how the route passes through characteristic points like Barba, Koka, and Strangos, each offering views and photo opportunities that make the long day worthwhile.

The hike begins at Gortsias, climbing through rugged terrain and passing the Petrostruga shelter at 1,940 meters, a perfect spot for a quick rest. From there, you’ll continue to the plateau of the Muses, one of the highlights, where the landscape feels almost otherworldly. The ascent to Skourta (2,476m) provides sweeping vistas and a sense of accomplishment.

Overnighting at the G. Apostolidis shelter on the Moussa plateau is a highlight. These refuges are simple but cozy, offering a chance to relax and reflect on your day. Many reviews praise the delicious, hearty meals served here, perfect for replenishing energy after a demanding day.

The Second Day: Summit and Return

The second day is the ultimate test—climbing to the summit of Mytikas, 2,918 meters. The early start is necessary, with the ascent requiring additional effort and caution. Guides use safety equipment, and the climb is suitable only if weather conditions are favorable and you’re physically prepared.

From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the peaks and the coast—the kind of scenery that makes every step and breath worth it. The reviews highlight the thrill of standing on Greece’s highest point, with some travelers mentioning they saw both sunrise and sunset from the peak.

After a brief celebration and signing the visitor’s book, the descent takes you to the Spilios Agapitos refuge, where a quick stop allows for a rest and snack. The walk then continues down to Prionia, where transportation awaits to return you to Litochoro.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a balanced package: accommodations in mountain refuges, an experienced guide, transportation from Litochoro to Gortsias, and all taxes. This setup is great for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience, with many reviews praising the professionalism and safety training of the guides.

Not included are meals, drinks, and transportation from Thessaloniki or other towns, so plan accordingly if you’re arriving from outside the local area. The optional meal packages (FB or HB) provide some flexibility, and many guests found the food hearty and satisfying—perfect after a long day’s hike.

The Challenge and What It Means for You

Climbing Mt. Olympus is not a walk in the park. It’s physically demanding, especially the ascent to Mytikas, which involves rough terrain, altitude, and climbing safety gear. If you have moderate fitness, you’ll find the trek manageable, but those with altitude sensitivity or health issues should consider carefully.

Weather can change swiftly in the mountains, and the guides reserve the right to cancel or modify the climb for safety reasons. This prudent approach ensures your safety but also means that the summit is not guaranteed. Still, even without reaching the top, the day hike and overnight experience are rewarding.

Authentic Mountain Experience and Authenticity

Reviews frequently mention the professional guides, with travelers feeling safe and well cared for. Many praise the delicious mountain food served at refuges—think rustic, filling, and satisfying after a day of exertion. The mountain scenery is described as “gorgeous,” with views that make the effort worthwhile.

The refuge stays add a layer of authenticity, allowing visitors to experience mountain life rather than just a day trip. This makes the trip suitable for those looking for an adventure that combines outdoor activity with cultural and natural immersion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurers with a moderate fitness level who crave a challenge and want to see Greece’s most iconic mountain from multiple angles. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs alike—especially those who appreciate the blend of spectacular views, mountain camaraderie, and hearty mountain cuisine.

While the climb to Mytikas is optional, many reviews mention feeling proud of having attempted it, and some have succeeded in reaching the summit. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the first day’s hike and the refuge overnight still offer plenty of stunning scenery and authentic mountain charm.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-organized, safety-conscious, and rewarding hiking experience on Mount Olympus, this tour ticks all the boxes. It balances challenging trekking, authentic mountain accommodation, and expert guidance, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a casual walk.

The spectacular vistas from the summit, coupled with the warmth of mountain refuges and the professionalism of guides, create an experience that’s as memorable as it is authentic. It’s best suited for those with some hiking experience and a desire to challenge themselves physically, all while soaking in Greece’s legendary landscape.

This tour offers incredible value for the price, especially considering the included accommodations, transportation, and guided support. It’s a chance to connect deeply with nature, enjoy genuine mountain hospitality, and perhaps even stand on Greece’s highest point—an achievement that stays with you long after you return home.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour is designed for those with moderate fitness, the climb to Mytikas can be demanding. Beginners with some hiking experience and good physical condition should be fine, but those with altitude sensitivity may want to consider their comfort level.

What is the weather like on Mount Olympus?
Weather in the mountains can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Guides will decide whether the weather permits climbing to the summit, prioritizing safety. It’s wise to be prepared for variable conditions, including wind and cooler temperatures.

Are food and drinks included?
Meals are not included in the base price, but optional meal packages are available—such as breakfast, lunch packs, and dinners, which many guests have found hearty and delicious. Bring extra snacks if you’re particularly hungry.

What should I bring?
A sturdy backpack, waterproof trekking shoes, layered clothing suitable for cold and windy conditions, sun protection, water bottles, and personal essentials like a small first aid kit and camera. The guides recommend traveling light but prepared.

Can I climb to the summit if I’m not an experienced climber?
Yes, but the decision depends on weather and your physical condition. The guides retain the right to halt progress for safety reasons. Climbing to Mytikas is optional, so you can enjoy the trek and mountain scenery without reaching the peak.

Is there transportation included from Thessaloniki?
No, the tour starts and ends in Litochoro. You will need to arrange your own transport if coming from Thessaloniki or other nearby locations, although some reviews mention optional pickups.

In sum, this Mount Olympus trekking tour combines natural beauty, authentic mountain refuge life, and professional guidance, offering a rewarding challenge for those ready to explore Greece’s legendary peak. Whether you reach the summit or enjoy the stunning trails, it’s a journey you won’t forget.