Climbing Mount Olympus: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Greek mythology says that Mount Olympus was the home of the main gods ruled by Zeus. The ancient Greeks believed that in the peaks there were crystal mansions in which the gods lived. Nowadays, it is a top spot for outdoor adventures and invites visitors to experience both the inspiring wilderness and culture. Climbing Mount Olympus is an unforgettable experience and one that you can carry in your memory too!

So, where exactly is Mount Olympus located?

The Olympus range is located in the north of Greece, between Thessaly and Macedonia. It is a six-hour drive away from Athens and commonly accessed from the beautiful gateway town of Litochoro, which is an hour and half away from Mount Olympus by car. The highest point of Mount Olympus is Mytikas at an altitude of 2,917 m. (9,570 ft).

Can anyone climb Mount Olympus?

Climbing Mount Olympus is not technically difficult, however, it does involve a difficult Grade III scramble at the top. A good fitness level and some prior experience are necessary, and it is always best to go with a guide. The full climb usually takes between 2 to 3 days, although it can take longer too. The mountain is well equipped with mountain huts. If you decide to go outside of the summer season, however, you will need to make special arrangements with your guide.

What are the best Olympus climbing routes?

The most common climbing routes to the top of Olympus are the Priona Trail and the Gortsia trail.

The Priona Trail allows you to set off from Litochoro and also go by the Enipea Canyon and stop at the famous historic Agios Dionysios Monastery.

The Gortsia Trail is a bit longer and also a bit easier, it also tends to be less crowded.

For those that want a bit more of a challenge, there is also a route from Louki to Mytikas that requires some more mountaineering than the other routes.

Whichever you choose, you can be sure that the views from the top will be a worthy reward after an exhilarating challenge.

Find a certified mountain guide on Explore-Share and start planning your next adventure to the top of Mount Olympus!

Mount Olympus: a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Its natural environment, formed by Mediterranean vegetation, deciduous and coniferous forests, and home to squirrels, deer, and even eagles, makes Olympus unique and especially appealing for nature lovers. It has been a Natural Reserve since 1938 and since 1981, it has also become a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Greek mythology and history

Mount Olympus is a central spot of Greek Mythology and of Greek history and culture. Do not miss the ascent to the residence of the gods, in which Zeus and his brothers, Poseidon and Hades, fought Cronus and the Titans in the war known as 'Titanomachy'.

From Scala to Mytikas: easy to hike, hard to scramble

Although climbing Mount Olympus isn't technically difficult from a hiking perspective, the last stretch from Scala Peak to Mytikas involves a Grade III scramble. This makes Olympus all the more appealing as you will be able to combine some easy-going hiking with a bit of a challenge too!

In places at sea level the climate is typically Mediterranean: hot and dry in summer and humid and cold in winter. As you ascend in height, the climate becomes more humid and severe, as in the case of Mount Olympus. Here it usually snows throughout the winter, and the temperature varies between -10 °C to 10 °C.

The best season to climb Mount Olympus is during the summer. Although the thermal amplitude varies from 0 °C to 20 °C with strong winds at high altitude, there is little rain and conditions are more favorable for a climbing adventure. The best months to climb Mount Olympus are from June to August. Off season climbing is also an option, and one to consider with your guide who can help to arrange logistics.

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Mount Olympus is a six-hour drive away from Athens and around a 1-2 hour drive away from Litochoro. The closest airport is in Thessaloniki. There are train and bus services to Mount Olympus too.

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