Journey to the Mythical Mount Olympus

First Steps on Olympus

The air was crisp and carried the scent of pine as Sophie and I set foot on the hallowed ground of Mount Olympus. After months of planning, our journey to explore the mythical home of the Greek gods had finally begun. I felt a sense of excitement mixed with reverence, a feeling I always get when standing at the threshold of history. I couldn't wait to dive into the rich tapestry of stories and landscapes that awaited us.

Our day started early with a hearty breakfast at Olympus Taverna. The warm, rustic setting was exactly what we needed to prepare for the day ahead. I ordered some local pastries and strong Greek coffee, while Sophie enjoyed a selection of fresh fruits and yogurt. The flavors were simple but satisfying, a perfect introduction to the local cuisine. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Montreal, perhaps adding a Peruvian twist to honor both my heritages.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Olympus Taverna in Leptokarya, where every meal is enhanced by stunning views of Mount Olympus.
Fueled up, we made our way to the Olympus National Park Information Center. The center itself is quite impressive, with exhibits in both Greek and English detailing the park's history, flora, and fauna. I was particularly fascinated by the displays on the mountain's geological formation and its role in ancient Greek mythology. Sophie, ever the librarian, was engrossed in the historical accounts of early explorers and mountaineers who had attempted to conquer its peaks.


Explore the wonders of Mount Olympus at the Olympus National Park Information Center, your gateway to Greece's legendary mountain and its breathtaking landscapes.

To walk in the footsteps of legends is to understand the enduring power of stories and the landscapes that inspire them.

After spending a couple of hours at the information center, we decided to do some shopping at Olympus Sport. I realized I had forgotten to pack an extra pair of gloves, and Sophie wanted to pick up a hiking stick. The store had a decent selection of outdoor gear, and we quickly found what we needed. I couldn't help but notice a familiar pang of nostalgia as I browsed the shelves, remembering similar shops in Huancavelica where I used to buy equipment for hiking in the Andes. It's funny how certain places can evoke such vivid memories, no matter where in the world you are.


Explore Olympus Sport in Katerini for top-quality sporting goods tailored for every athlete's needs.
With our supplies secured, we drove to Prionia for lunch. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Prionia is the highest point accessible by car on Mount Olympus, and the views from the restaurant were simply incredible. We sat on the terrace, soaking in the scenery as we enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and fresh salads. The air was so clean and crisp, it felt like we were breathing in the very essence of the mountain. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, but some things are simply too grand to be captured in a photograph.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Prionia, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors near Mount Olympus.
As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Spilios Agapitos (Zolotas) Restaurant for dinner. This charming mountain refuge is known for its traditional Greek dishes and warm hospitality. We sat by the fireplace, enjoying a hearty meal of spaghetti bolognese and Greek yogurt with honey. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, a welcome respite from the chilly mountain air. We chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences from our respective journeys. It's moments like these that I cherish the most – connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures, united by a shared love of exploration.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Spilios Agapitos Restaurant near Mount Olympus, where stunning views meet delicious flavors.
Before heading back to our lodging for the night, we took a moment to gaze at the stars. Far from the city lights, the night sky was ablaze with constellations. I pointed out some familiar constellations to Sophie, sharing stories I had learned from my grandfather about the Andean constellations and their significance in Incan culture. It was a beautiful way to end our first day on Mount Olympus, connecting the ancient myths of Greece with the ancient traditions of Peru.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Mount Olympus National Park and visit the Waterfall Agia Kori. I am excited to see what adventures await us and to continue to share our experiences with you all.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with history, culture, and the people who call these places home. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Mount Olympus with my beloved Sophie.