Climb to the summit of Mount Olympus (2918m), the mythological home of the gods and highest peak in Greece. The two-day route from Prionia overnight in the Spilios Agapitos refuge before the technical scramble to Mytikas summit.
The Mount Olympus summit trek climbs Mytikas, the highest peak in Greece at 2,918 metres, inside Mount Olympus National Park in Pieria, northern Greece. In Greek myth the mountain was the home of the twelve gods, and it is also a protected area, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and one of the best-known hiking destinations in the Balkans. The standard route starts at Prionia, at about 1,100 metres, reached by a road from the coastal town of Litochoro, and climbs through beech and pine forest to the Spilios Agapitos refuge at around 2,100 metres, where most trekkers stay overnight. The second day continues to the Skala or Skolio ridges and ends with a scramble on rock to the Mytikas summit.
The trek is demanding. It requires good fitness for a day of steady climbing, followed by a second day at altitude, and the final section involves exposed scrambling where hands are needed and falling would have serious consequences. It is not a technical climb in the sense of requiring ropes for most walkers, but a head for heights and sure footing are essential, and the weather can turn quickly. Many hikers join a licensed mountain guide to manage navigation, pacing and the scramble, which is where guided prices of roughly $60 to $120 per person apply. Hikers bring sturdy boots, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, a headlamp, sunscreen, water and food. A helmet is advisable on the summit section. Mountain refuges provide beds and meals, but a sleeping liner or bag and a reservation are typically needed.
Safety is a major consideration. Experienced guides will check the forecast and turn the group around when thunderstorms, wind or snow threaten, and the Mytikas section should not be attempted in poor visibility. The refuge staff, the national park service and the Greek mountain rescue services coordinate rescues, and a mobile phone with the European emergency number 112 works in much of the area, though coverage is patchy. Hikers are asked to register their plans at the refuge.
The main hiking season runs from June to October, once the snow has cleared from the upper slopes, with July to September the most stable. Winter ascents need alpine equipment and are for experienced mountaineers. Weekends in July and August can be crowded at the refuge, so early reservations help. Litochoro, at the base, offers lodging, guide offices and tavernas for the night before and after the climb.
| Price | $60-120/person with guide |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | challenging |
| Season | June to October |
Activity facts
- Where
- Mount Olympus National Park, Litochoro, Pieria
Highlights
- Summit of Mytikas at 2,918 metres, the highest point in Greece
- Two-day route from Prionia through beech and pine forest to the Spilios Agapitos refuge
- Exposed rock scramble along the final approach to the summit
- Mount Olympus National Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve with rich alpine flora
Tips for visiting
- Reserve a bed at the Spilios Agapitos refuge well ahead for July and August weekends.
- Start the summit push early in the morning, because afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
- Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves and a headlamp; temperatures near the summit drop sharply even in July.
- Consider a licensed mountain guide if the exposed scramble is unfamiliar, and wear a helmet on the summit section.
- Check the forecast with the refuge or national park office before leaving, and turn back in poor visibility.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Mount Olympus trek take?
The usual itinerary takes two days: about three to four hours from Prionia to the refuge on day one, then the summit and descent on day two. Fast, fit hikers sometimes do the climb in one long day.
Is a guide required?
A guide is not legally required for the standard path, but many hikers use one for the exposed Mytikas scramble and for navigation. Guides also help judge weather.
When can Mount Olympus be climbed?
June to October is the normal window, with July to September the most stable. Winter climbs need mountaineering equipment and experience.
Where do trekkers start?
Most start at Prionia, reached by road from Litochoro. Taxis and guides arrange transfers from the town.