Journey to the Mythical Mount Olympus

Reaching for the Gods

Today was a day of immense beauty and physical challenge as Sophie and I ventured further into the realm of the gods. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs as we set out to conquer the Muses Plateau and the Skala Summit, two iconic locations on Mount Olympus. It was a day filled with panoramic views, hearty Greek food, and a shared sense of accomplishment that only a challenging hike can bring.


Explore the mythical Muses Plateau on Mount Olympus: breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and ancient legends await!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Myloi Restaurant. It was a cozy spot, and the traditional Greek yogurt with honey and nuts gave us the perfect energy boost for the day ahead. I always appreciate a good, wholesome breakfast before a long day of hiking; it reminds me of the simple, nourishing meals my mother used to make back in Huancavelica. I made sure to pack some extra snacks in my backpack, a habit ingrained from my days exploring the Andes. Sophie, ever the planner, had already checked the weather forecast, noting the moderately chilly temperatures and the potential for light rain.

The drive to the trailhead was scenic, winding through the foothills of Olympus. December drapes Mount Olympus in a unique charm. Though the mountain may not have the vibrant greenery of spring, the crisp air and tranquil ambiance create a serene environment. As we ascended, the landscape transformed, revealing snow-dusted peaks and frosted trees. The transition from the familiar Mediterranean foliage to the stark beauty of the alpine environment was striking.

Our first major stop was the Muses Plateau. The hike up was invigorating, the trail winding through rocky terrain and offering glimpses of the valleys below. I found myself thinking about the ancient Greeks and how they envisioned this place as the home of the Muses, the goddesses of arts and sciences. It's easy to see why they chose this location; the panoramic views are truly inspiring. Sophie, with her librarian's mind, was equally fascinated by the history and mythology surrounding the plateau.

Reaching the Muses Plateau felt like stepping into another world. The vast expanse of the plateau, surrounded by towering peaks, was breathtaking. We took our time exploring the area, soaking in the views and capturing photos. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird. It was a moment of profound peace and connection with nature.

The mountain is not merely a physical challenge, but a spiritual journey that connects us to the history and mythology of Greece.

After spending a couple of hours on the Muses Plateau, we set our sights on the Skala Summit. The trail to Skala was more challenging, with steeper inclines and rocky paths. I was grateful for my hiking boots and the walking stick I had brought along. Sophie, despite being less experienced in mountain hiking, tackled the trail with determination. Her stamina always amazes me. I guess all those years of shelving books has given her some serious leg muscles!


Hike to Skala Summit on Mount Olympus for breathtaking views and a rewarding trek through mythical landscapes.

As we climbed higher, the views became even more spectacular. We could see the Aegean Sea stretching out to the east and the plains of Thessaly to the west. The sense of being on top of the world was exhilarating. The final ascent to Skala Summit required a bit of scrambling over rocks, which added an element of adventure. I had to remind myself of the need to be careful, especially with the winter conditions adding a layer of complexity to the climb.

Reaching the Skala Summit was a moment of triumph. The panoramic views were simply stunning. We could see the jagged peaks of Olympus stretching out in all directions, covered in a blanket of snow. We took a moment to catch our breath and savor the view. It was a moment of shared accomplishment and a testament to our perseverance. I felt a surge of pride, not just in reaching the summit, but in sharing this experience with Sophie.

For lunch, we descended slightly to Nostalgia Taverna, a charming spot we had spotted earlier on the trail. The traditional Greek salad and grilled souvlaki were delicious and satisfying after our strenuous hike. We chatted with the owner, who shared stories about the mountain and its history. It's these kinds of interactions that make traveling so rewarding, connecting with locals and learning about their culture.


Savor the taste of Greece at Nostalgia Taverna - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we started our descent. The trail was just as challenging going down as it was going up, and we had to be careful not to slip on the loose rocks. The golden light of the setting sun cast a magical glow on the landscape, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.

Back in Litochoro, we decided to celebrate our successful day with dinner at Veranda Seaside. The restaurant offered stunning views of the coastline, and the fresh seafood was simply divine. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day's adventures. Sophie and I shared stories and laughed about our near-slips on the trail. These are the moments that make traveling together so special.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking sea views at Veranda Seaside in Plaka, Greece.

After dinner, we decided to unwind at Different All Day Bar. The atmosphere was lively, and the drinks were refreshing. It was the perfect way to end a long but rewarding day. As I sipped my drink, I thought about tomorrow's itinerary. We plan to visit the Litochoro Maritime Museum and explore the Leptokarya Serpentine Road. It will be a change of pace from today's strenuous hike, but I'm looking forward to learning more about the region's history and culture.


Discover the vibrant ambiance of Different All Day Bar in Leptokarya, Greece, where exceptional drinks and friendly service create unforgettable moments.

Mount Olympus in December offers a unique and enchanting experience. The crisp air, snow-covered landscapes, and tranquil ambiance create a serene environment. While some trails may be covered in snow, December is an excellent time for winter hiking.

Today was more than just a hike; it was a journey into the heart of Greek mythology and natural beauty. As we head into tomorrow, I'm excited to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Sophie, my partner in life and adventure. Even though I missed the portable charger I forgot to pack, and Sophie teased me about it constantly, I wouldn't trade today for anything. It’s these shared moments, the laughter, the challenges, and the triumphs, that make our travels so meaningful. And who knows, maybe tomorrow I'll finally find a decent cup of Peruvian coffee here in Greece!