Journey to the Mythical Mount Olympus

Whispers of Olympus

Today was nothing short of magical, a day where myth and reality intertwined as Sophie and I explored the legendary Mount Olympus. As a restoration technician with a love for history, walking in the footsteps of ancient gods and mortals alike was an experience I'll treasure forever. The crisp mountain air and the stunning landscapes made me feel closer to my own roots, reminding me of the majestic Andes back in Huancavelica.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Nero Restaurant - Cavo Olympo. The restaurant lived up to its reputation; it was modern and the food was delicious. Sophie enjoyed a traditional Greek yogurt with honey, while I opted for a savory pastry filled with local cheeses. Fuelled up, we set off to explore Mount Olympus National Park.


Discover the mythical home of the Greek gods, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity.
The park in December is a different beast altogether. The weather was crisp, with the promise of snow in the air. Though December in Mount Olympus brings colder temperatures, with highs around 30°F to 38°F, and lows dipping to 19°F to 24°F, we were well-prepared with our warm clothing. The landscape was breathtaking, a mix of rocky terrain and snow-dusted evergreens. I couldn't help but imagine Zeus surveying his kingdom from the highest peak, Mytikas. Sophie, ever the avid reader, shared stories of the ancient gods and their mythical escapades as we hiked along the trails. I made sure to take extra care as we hiked, mindful of the potential for ice.

The mountains whisper, and the waterfalls sing; a symphony of nature echoing the tales of gods and heroes.

Navigating the park was an adventure in itself. According to park regulations, entrance is only allowed on existing roads, and traffic is permitted from sunrise to sunset. We made sure to stick to the formed paths, respecting the delicate ecosystem around us. I was particularly mindful of the rules against collecting plants or disturbing the natural environment, a practice I hold dear from my restoration work.

After a morning of hiking, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Ellinikon Fish Tavern, a local favorite known for its fresh seafood. Sophie, always eager to try new things, ordered grilled octopus, while I savored a plate of fried calamari. The food was simple, yet delicious, and the cozy atmosphere of the tavern was a welcome respite from the cold.

Our next stop was the Waterfall Agia Kori. The drive there was scenic, winding through small villages and offering glimpses of the Aegean Sea. The waterfall itself was a hidden gem, a cascade of crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery. The descent to the waterfall involved navigating approximately 175 steps, which were a bit slippery due to the dampness. The legend of Agia Kori, the holy daughter who sought refuge in Mount Olympus, added a layer of reverence to the site. The water was icy cold, but the brave souls who took a dip seemed invigorated by the experience. Sophie and I contented ourselves with taking photos and enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.


Experience the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Waterfall Agia Kori, a hidden gem near Tirnavos, Greece, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Le Moon Luxury Sea Side Beach Bar Restaurant. The bar was a stylish oasis, a blend of modern design and natural beauty. Sipping on a glass of local wine, we watched the sunset over the Aegean Sea, the sky ablaze with colors. The juxtaposition of the sea and the mountain was stunning, a reminder of the diverse beauty of Greece.


Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Le Moon Luxury Sea Side Beach Bar Restaurant, the perfect seaside escape in Litochoro.
Dinner was at Zorbas Tavern, a traditional Greek restaurant known for its hearty dishes. We shared a plate of moussaka, a classic Greek casserole, and a serving of souvlaki, grilled meat skewers. The food was comforting and flavorful, a perfect end to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Zorbas Tavern in Leptokarya – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Before heading back to our lodging, we took a moment to reflect on the day. Mount Olympus had exceeded all our expectations, a place where history, mythology, and natural beauty converged. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with Sophie, my partner in life and adventure.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus and the Sacred Cave of Saint Dionysios of Olympus. I am eager to delve deeper into the spiritual history of this remarkable place.

As I write this, I am reminded of a quote from Nikos Kazantzakis:

In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can.

This trip is a testament to that belief, a journey to discover the hidden wonders of the world and the strength within ourselves.

The day started with a delightful breakfast at Nero Restaurant - Cavo Olympo. The combination of modern gastronomy and Mediterranean cuisine was a treat. Sophie enjoyed a selection of fresh fruit and local cheeses, while I couldn't resist trying their signature omelet, infused with mountain herbs. The setting was elegant, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, setting the perfect tone for our day's adventures.

After breakfast, we headed straight for Mount Olympus National Park. The park's trails were a bit challenging due to the winter conditions, but the scenery was more than worth the effort. The crisp air, the towering trees, and the occasional glimpse of snow-capped peaks transported us to another world. We took our time, soaking in the tranquility and marveling at the sheer grandeur of nature. It was a welcome change from the bustling city life of Montreal.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but draw parallels between Mount Olympus and the Andes Mountains of my homeland, Peru. Both ranges possess a raw, untamed beauty that stirs the soul. I shared stories of my childhood in Huancavelica with Sophie, describing the vibrant culture and the deep connection to the land that defines the Peruvian people.

One of the highlights of our hike was discovering a hidden grotto, adorned with ancient carvings. It felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the generations of people who have revered this mountain for centuries. Sophie, with her librarian's knowledge, identified some of the symbols as representations of ancient Greek deities. It was a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the region.

After a few hours of hiking, we made our way to Waterfall Agia Kori. The waterfall was a sight to behold, a cascade of crystal-clear water plunging into a natural pool below. The surrounding vegetation was lush and vibrant, creating a serene oasis. We spent some time taking photos and simply enjoying the beauty of the scene. I even dipped my toes in the water, bracing myself against the cold. It was invigorating!

For lunch, we chose Ellinikon Fish Tavern, a charming restaurant nestled in a nearby village. The aroma of grilled seafood wafted through the air, tempting our taste buds. We ordered a platter of fresh fish, accompanied by a traditional Greek salad. The flavors were simple yet exquisite, a testament to the quality of the ingredients. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly service made us feel right at home.

As the sun began to set, we decided to unwind at Le Moon Luxury Sea Side Beach Bar Restaurant. This trendy establishment offered a stunning view of the Aegean Sea, along with a wide selection of cocktails and snacks. We sipped on refreshing drinks as we watched the sky transform into a kaleidoscope of colors. The music was upbeat and the ambiance was lively, creating a perfect setting for relaxation.

Before heading back, we had dinner at Zorbas Tavern, a family-run restaurant known for its authentic Greek cuisine. We ordered a variety of dishes, including moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. Each dish was bursting with flavor, showcasing the culinary heritage of Greece. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great value for money.

As we drove back to our accommodation, Sophie and I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored ancient ruins, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and savored delicious food. But more importantly, we had connected with each other and with the rich history and culture of Greece. It was a day that we would cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the New Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios of Olympus and the Sacred Cave of Saint Dionysios of Olympus. I am eager to delve deeper into the spiritual history of this remarkable place.