Family Adventure to Mount Olympus: Exploring Myths and Nature

Hidden Gems and Coastal Dreams

Today's adventure was all about uncovering the lesser-known treasures of Mount Olympus. We ventured off the beaten path, seeking out a secret waterfall and panoramic vistas that promised to take our breath away. With Kenji's boundless energy and Eleanor's keen eye for detail, I knew we were in for a day of unforgettable discoveries. It's amazing how much richer a place becomes when you delve beyond the typical tourist spots.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Veranda Seaside. The crisp sea air and the aroma of freshly baked bread set the perfect tone for the day. Kenji was particularly excited, pointing out the fishing boats bobbing gently in the harbor. After breakfast, we packed our essentials, making sure we had plenty of water and snacks for our hike. I did a mental check, and realized I was still kicking myself for forgetting the portable camp stove and extra camera batteries. Note to self: always double-check the packing list!

The first stop was the Olympus last secret waterfall. Finding it felt like a true accomplishment. The trail wound through a dense forest, the sunlight dappling through the leaves, creating an ethereal glow. The air was filled with the sound of rushing water, growing louder with each step. When we finally reached the waterfall, it was even more stunning than we had imagined. The water cascaded down moss-covered rocks into a crystal-clear pool below. Kenji was mesmerized, splashing his hands in the cool water and laughing with delight.


Explore the breathtaking Olympus Last Secret Waterfall, a hidden gem in Litochoro, perfect for hiking and connecting with nature's beauty.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

I took out my camera, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, but no photograph could truly do it justice. Eleanor sat on a nearby rock, sketching in her notebook, capturing the scene in her own unique way. We spent a good hour there, simply enjoying the tranquility and the sheer beauty of nature. It was moments like these that made all the planning and preparation worthwhile.

After our waterfall adventure, we drove to Pórtes, a spot recommended by a local we met at Veranda Seaside. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering glimpses of the coastline and the Aegean Sea stretching out to the horizon. Pórtes turned out to be a hidden gem, a small village with a charming harbor and stunning views. We had lunch at Ta Mezedakia, a quaint taverna overlooking the sea. The food was simple but delicious, fresh seafood grilled to perfection and served with a generous helping of Greek salad.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Pórtes, a stunning natural paradise in Dio-Olympos, Greece, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Kenji, fueled by his earlier waterfall excitement, insisted on exploring the harbor. He ran along the rocky mole, pointing out the colorful fishing boats and the occasional seagull swooping overhead. Eleanor and I followed at a more leisurely pace, hand in hand, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the gentle sea breeze. It was a perfect family moment, one that I knew we would cherish for years to come.

In the late afternoon, we decided to do a bit of shopping at Kallntin Handmade. It was a delightful little shop filled with unique crafts and souvenirs. Eleanor found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, while Kenji picked out a small wooden toy. I bought a few postcards to send to friends and family back in Bristol, sharing our Mount Olympus adventure with them.


Explore Kallntin Handmade in Palaios Panteleimonas for exquisite handcrafted jewelry that embodies the spirit of Greek craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our campsite, tired but content. For dinner, we decided to try Sunday's restaurant, wanting something hearty after our long day of exploring. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm fire burning in the hearth. We shared stories of our day, laughing and reminiscing about our favorite moments. Kenji, of course, couldn't stop talking about the waterfall, describing every detail with wide-eyed enthusiasm.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Sunday's in Litochoro - where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciated these moments of discovery, venturing beyond the well-trodden paths and finding hidden gems that truly captured the essence of a place. It reminded me of my own childhood in Matsumoto, exploring the hidden corners of our local mountains and discovering the beauty that lay just beyond the familiar.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Pigadouli Water Spring and Yosos Pass. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the water spring, hoping it will be as enchanting as the waterfall we discovered today. And perhaps after a day of hiking, I'll treat myself to a pint at Oliver's Pub. We'll see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm grateful for the memories we made today, the hidden gems we uncovered, and the joy of sharing it all with my family.

As we settle into our tent, the sounds of the night surrounding us, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. This trip to Mount Olympus has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and a reminder of the importance of family. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what other hidden gems await us on this magnificent mountain.