Family Adventure to Mount Olympus: Exploring Myths and Nature

Day 4: Whispers of the Gods on Mount Olympus

Today marked the fourth day of our family’s Hellenic adventure, and it was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Eleanor, Kenji, and I ventured deeper into the heart of Greece, drawn by the magnetic pull of Mount Olympus. I must admit, the idea of treading the same ground as ancient gods and legendary figures was a powerful motivator, and I was eager to share this experience with my family.

Our day began in the charming town of Litochoro, the gateway to Mount Olympus. After a hearty breakfast at Milos Taverna, where we indulged in traditional Greek pastries and strong coffee, we set off towards Mount Olympus National Park. The crisp mountain air was invigorating, a welcome change from the bustling cityscapes we were accustomed to back in Bristol. As a software developer, I spend most of my days indoors, glued to a screen, so these moments in nature are particularly precious to me. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with something far more profound.


Discover the mythical home of the Greek gods, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity.
The drive to the park was scenic, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the rugged landscape. The anticipation was building, especially for Kenji, who was captivated by the stories of Zeus and the other Olympian gods. Eleanor, ever the pragmatic one, made sure we were well-prepared with extra layers and plenty of snacks. I, of course, had my camera ready, eager to capture the grandeur of the mountain.

Upon entering the park, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of Mount Olympus. Its peaks, shrouded in mist, seemed to pierce the sky, creating an atmosphere of mystery and reverence. I could almost imagine Zeus himself surveying his domain from the highest summit. As we started our hike, I felt a sense of humility, a reminder of the insignificance of our everyday concerns in the face of such natural majesty.

The trails were well-maintained, but the winter chill added an extra layer of challenge. We opted for a moderate route, mindful of Kenji's little legs and the potential for icy patches. The landscape was a tapestry of greens and browns, with the occasional splash of color from hardy wildflowers. The air was filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, a symphony of nature that soothed the soul.

We paused frequently to take in the views, each one more breathtaking than the last. Eleanor pointed out various species of trees and plants, sharing her knowledge as a primary school teacher. Kenji, meanwhile, was busy collecting pinecones and inventing stories about the creatures that might inhabit the mountain. It was heartwarming to see him so engaged and imaginative.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Our ultimate destination for the day was the Muses Plateau, a place steeped in mythology and natural beauty. The ascent was challenging, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we emerged onto the plateau, we were greeted by a panoramic vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The peaks of Mount Olympus loomed above us, their snow-capped summits glistening in the afternoon sun. It was a scene of such grandeur that it felt almost surreal.


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

According to legend, the Muses, goddesses of the arts and sciences, once graced this plateau with their presence, inspiring creativity and wisdom. I could understand why. The serene atmosphere and stunning surroundings were conducive to contemplation and reflection. We spent some time simply soaking it all in, feeling a sense of connection to both the natural world and the ancient past.

Kenji was particularly fascinated by the idea of the Muses. He imagined them dancing and singing on the plateau, their voices echoing through the mountains. Eleanor and I encouraged his imagination, sharing stories of the various Muses and their respective domains. It was a wonderful opportunity to blend mythology with our family adventure, making the experience all the more enriching.

For lunch, we enjoyed a picnic of local cheeses, olives, and bread, savoring the flavors of Greece amidst the stunning scenery. Even simple fare tastes extraordinary when consumed in such a setting. As we ate, we watched as a pair of eagles soared overhead, their majestic flight a symbol of freedom and grace. It was a moment of perfect harmony, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.

After lunch, we explored the plateau further, discovering hidden nooks and crannies that offered unique perspectives on the surrounding landscape. I took numerous photographs, attempting to capture the essence of this magical place. Of course, no photograph can truly do justice to the experience of being there, but I hoped to at least preserve a glimpse of the beauty for future reflection.

As the afternoon wore on, we began our descent, retracing our steps along the winding trails. The light was beginning to fade, casting long shadows across the mountain. The air grew colder, and we quickened our pace, eager to reach the warmth of our rented car.

Before leaving the park, we stopped at the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store, where we picked up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time on Mount Olympus. Kenji chose a small figurine of Zeus, while Eleanor opted for a handcrafted olive oil soap. I selected a book of Greek myths, hoping to delve deeper into the stories that had shaped this land.


Explore the heart of Greek craftsmanship at the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store in Rethymno, where authentic souvenirs await.

For dinner, we dined at Flisvos FC, savoring traditional Greek cuisine. The hearty meal was the perfect way to end a day of hiking and exploration. As we ate, we recounted our favorite moments from the day, reliving the magic of Mount Olympus. Kenji, exhausted but content, fell asleep in Eleanor's arms, dreaming of gods and goddesses.

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Flisvos FC in Platamonas – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
As I reflect on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Mount Olympus is more than just a mountain; it is a symbol of history, mythology, and natural beauty. It is a place that inspires awe and wonder, a reminder of the power and majesty of the natural world.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Waterfall Agia Kori and the village of Makrinitsa, continuing our exploration of the region's natural and cultural treasures. I am particularly excited about visiting Makrinitsa, known for its traditional architecture and stunning views of the Pelion peninsula. And perhaps we will end the day with a relaxing drink at Le Moon Luxury Sea Side Beach Bar Restaurant, enjoying the sunset over the Aegean Sea.

For now, though, I am content to bask in the memories of today, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my loved ones. As we continue our journey through Greece, I am confident that we will encounter many more moments of beauty, wonder, and connection. It is these experiences that make travel so enriching, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us all together.