Trek Northern Greece's Pindus Mountains, Vikos Gorge, Meteora, Mount Olympus and the Pelion Coast

Though Greece is better known for the wonders of the ancient Acropolis and Agora, for sun-drenched islands, whitewashed houses and its beaches on the wine-dark sea, there is a large and wondrous part of the country in the north that is a perfect setting for hikers who love to explore stunning rugged landscapes and experience authentic village life far from the tourist track.   Adventurers will find it well worth their time to consider the following areas, all easily accessible by plane, car or bus from Athens, and yet are seldom crowded.

• The Pindus Mountains (often referred to as the ‘Spine of Greece’) form a dramatic, forested backbone running through the country, crisscrossed by long and short trails connecting ancient stone-built villages and high summer sheepfolds with high meadows, peaks and lakes.  The Pindus Trail is a long-distance hiking route of 6-10 days duration weaving through Vikos–Aoös National Park and the greater Pindus Mountain Range; but many shorter options are available.  Further, the Pindus Mountains are one of the most ecologically significant regions in Greece, home to rare wildlife like brown bears, wolves, golden eagles, and Balkan chamois.
• Zagorohoria, a region of 46 remote stone-built communities in the Pindus connected by cobblestone paths, arching stone bridges and stone-hewed staircases – a footpath network built in the 15^th century to serve nomadic shepherds, pilgrims, farmers and tradesmen – and still used by residents today.
• The Vikos Gorge, often compared to the Grand Canyon (but greener and more dramatic), is one of the deepest gorges in the world. Trails through the Pindus descend into this breathtaking canyon, where limestone cliffs tower above and the Voidomatis River runs crystal clear below.
• High in the Pindos, the Drakolimni or Dragon Lakes are said to be home to ancient dragons, locked in an eternal rivalry, who hurled massive boulders at each other, leaving behind the jagged cliffs and rocky formations that still surround the lakes today.
• A short drive away is Meteora, a complex of 24 Eastern Orthodox monasteries atop giant natural pillars, mainly from the second half of the 14th century, of which six are still active and open to visitors.
• Not far to the northeast, Greece’s highest mountain Mount Olympus – notable as the home of the Greek Gods – has 52 peaks and deep gorges. The highest peak, Mytikas, rises to 2,917.7 metres (9,572.60 ft) and is the highest peak in Greece, and one of the highest peaks in Europe in terms of topographic prominence. Two subordinate summits, Skala (2,882m) and Skolio (2,911m), are physically demanding and rugged hikes with some exposure, but generally don’t require technical climbing expertise or special gear. 
• A short way to the south, the Pelion Coast features both intimate villages and some of the finest beaches in Greece such as Mylopotamos, Agios Ioannis, Horefto, and Fakistra, as well as delightful small villages, stone-built churches, and traditional taverns featuring local delicacies.

One can hike the Pindos and on Olympus in Summer (July–August), though these months can be hot, especially at lower elevations; and in Autumn (Sept-October) where you’ll find fewer people and beautiful fall foliage.  Before June, Olympus and the higher elevations of the Pindos may still be snowy and require winter gear.

Trails in the Pindos are rated moderate to challenging due to their length, elevation gain, and rugged terrain. Previous long-distance hiking experience is recommended. Some sections (like Vikos Gorge) include steep descents and river crossings.  Mount Olympus is generally strenuous and rugged with a fairly long approach (which can be moderated with a stay in a mountain hut) but a climb to the top of the highest of the three summits is a scramble requiring a helmet, harness and technical rock skills.

No special permits are required for hiking the Pindus Trail,  Vikos–Aoös National Park or Mount Olympus. However, wild camping is restricted, so check local regulations before setting up camp. Many hikers in the Pindos stay in guesthouses in the Zagori villages instead.

Gateways

Athens is the international airport that provides the initial gateway to the northern mainland of Greece.  From there, a short flight to Ioninna’s airport provides access to the Pindos, Vikos Gorge and Meteora, and buses are available from Ioninna and Athens.  Olympus is located just over 400 kilometers from Athens and can be reached via car, bus, train or plane. The most popular entrance point for an Olympus hike is the village of Litochoro.  Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) is the closest airport to Mount Olympus, located about 78km away.  To reach Pelion, Greece, the best options are flying into either Thessaloniki (SKG) or Volos (Nea Anchialos) Airport (VOL), then taking a bus, taxi, or rental car. Alternatively, you can drive from Athens or Thessaloniki, or take a bus from either city to Volos and then a local bus to your final Pelion destination. 

• Suitable Activities: Global Adventures, Day Hiking, Backpacking
• Seasons: Year-round, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy, Moderate, Strenuous, Very Strenuous

• Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
• Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12