Discovering Mount Olympus – An Ascent Beyond the Obvious

There are mountains that simply stand tall in the landscape, and there are others that speak to your soul. Mount Olympus certainly belongs to the latter. It is not only the highest mountain in Greece—it is a symbol of strength, myth, and rebirth. Every step on its slopes is an act of self-discovery—a journey where body, spirit, and nature unite in perfect harmony.

The Ascent as a Ritual of Life

Climbing Mount Olympus always begins with awe. From the very first steps through the dense forests of fir and beech trees, you feel as if you are entering sacred ground. Nature surrounds you with the scent of earth and the freshness of the mountain air. Your mind slowly leaves behind the stress of daily life and synchronizes with the rhythm of your breath and your steps.

The journey to the top is far more than a physical activity—it is a transformative experience. Each steep incline strengthens the body, but above all, it cultivates patience and perseverance. Olympus tests you, but it also rewards you generously.

The Power of Nature and Inner Renewal

Beyond the physical benefits, hiking on the mountain works like therapy for the soul. The pure air, the silence of the forest, and the vastness of the view bring a sense of serenity. Every step takes you further away from the noise of the city and closer to yourself.

It’s the moment you realize that happiness doesn’t require much—just the heartbeat of the earth beneath your feet and a horizon that seems endless.

The Summit Moment – The Gift of Achievement

When you finally reach the summit—whether it’s Mytikas (2,918 m) or Skolio (2,905 m)—time seems to stop. The air grows thinner, your heart beats faster, and your eyes stretch as far as the Aegean touches the sky.

That moment is unique—not only because you’ve conquered the mountain, but because you’ve conquered a part of yourself. Olympus teaches that the real summit is not a point on a map, but the realization that you can go further than you ever imagined.

The Unknown Western Olympus – A Hidden Path for the Initiated

While most hikers know the eastern side of Olympus through Litochoro, the western side—accessible from Elassona—remains a hidden gem. Here, nature reveals its wild and authentic character, with rugged slopes, deep gorges, and a serenity that feels almost otherworldly.

Trekking Hellas offers a unique one-day ascent from the western side, combining off-road adventure and mountain hiking. Starting from the Kalyvia of Elassona, 4x4 vehicles take participants up to Christakis Mountain Refuge, located at 2,400 meters. From there, the ascent to Skolio takes about an hour and a half along the European trail E4, leading to the Skolio saddle at 2,830 m and then to the summit.

The route requires no climbing gear or technical experience. It’s of moderate difficulty—ideal for those who want to reach high altitudes safely while enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery. From the top, you can see Mytikas, Stefani, the Pierian Mountains, Mount Ossa, and even the distant peaks of Pindos on a clear day.

It’s an experience that fills your senses—a journey that words can barely describe.

Olympus as a Way of Life

Olympus is not just a destination; it’s a way of life. It reminds us that every summit requires effort, perseverance, and respect. It teaches us to move with rhythm, to appreciate silence, and to find joy in the journey—not just the destination.

Climbing Olympus is, in many ways, a lesson on how to live: with courage, faith, and love for the path itself.

Transnational Cooperation Project “Together We Utilize Cycling Tourism and Hiking in All Four Seasons”

The Local Action Group – Development Organization of Local Government of Larissa Prefecture (AENOL S.A.), as the National Coordinator, together with the Development Agency of Serres (ANESER S.A.) and the French LAG Ventoux, participate as partners in the Transnational Cooperation Project “Together We Utilize Cycling Tourism and Hiking in All Four Seasons.”

This project is part of the LEADER/CLLD Local Development Programme, under Sub-measure 19.3 of Measure 19 of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014–2020.

Its goal is to exchange ideas and approaches on the development of hiking and cycling tourism, empowering the three partner regions to promote sustainable tourism opportunities throughout the year.

The program focuses on specific mountain areas of the three partners:

• the northeastern arc of the intervention area of ANESER S.A. (Lake Kerkini – Mount Beles),

• the Olympus mountain region within the intervention area of AENOL S.A.,

• and Mount Ventoux in France.

The aim is to enhance tourism potential through hiking and cycling activities, showcasing the natural wealth, diversity, and sustainability of Europe’s mountainous landscapes.