Family Adventure to Mount Olympus: Exploring Myths and Nature

Reaching for the Gods

Today was the day we'd been anticipating since we began planning this trip: summiting Mount Olympus 2917.727 m. The air was crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the sense of adventure palpable. After yesterday's exploration, we felt ready to tackle the mountain's heights. I was especially excited to see the panoramic views I had read so much about. Kenji was bouncing with energy, eager to start the climb, and even Eleanor, who usually prefers a leisurely pace, had a determined glint in her eyes.

Our day began with breakfast at Flisvos FC. It wasn't exactly a culinary highlight, but the strong coffee and simple pastries provided the necessary fuel for the day ahead. We packed some extra snacks, remembering our oversight with the portable camp stove, and set off towards the trailhead. The anticipation was building with every step.

The hike up to the Punkt widokowy was challenging but rewarding. The trail was a mix of rocky paths and snowy patches, a testament to the December weather. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-dusted trees and glistening ice formations. Kenji was particularly thrilled, throwing snowballs and making tiny snow angels whenever we stopped for a breather. Eleanor and I exchanged smiles, cherishing these simple family moments amidst such grandeur.


Experience the stunning natural beauty of Punkt Widokowy in Litochoro, Greece, where breathtaking mountain views and tranquility await.

The higher we climbed, the more we felt connected to the ancient stories and legends of this mythical place.

Reaching the viewpoint was an experience in itself. The panoramic vista was simply breathtaking. We could see the surrounding landscape stretching out in all directions, a tapestry of mountains, valleys, and the distant sea. The crisp, clear air made everything seem sharper, more vivid. I took out my camera, trying to capture the scene, but no photograph could truly do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of what we were witnessing. Kenji, surprisingly quiet, pointed out different landmarks, his eyes wide with wonder. Eleanor simply stood in silence, soaking it all in.

After spending some time at the viewpoint, we continued our ascent towards the summit, Mount Olympus 2917.727 m. The climb became steeper, the air thinner, and the challenge more intense. There were moments when I questioned my ability to make it to the top, but the thought of reaching the legendary peak kept me going. We took frequent breaks, sipping water and munching on the snacks we had packed. I was glad I had remembered to bring my hiking poles; they were a lifesaver on the steeper sections.

We stopped for lunch at Prionia, a restaurant nestled at the foot of the mountain. The hearty Greek fare was exactly what we needed – warm, comforting, and delicious. We savored every bite, knowing that the final push to the summit would require all our strength and energy. I had a moussaka, Eleanor chose the souvlaki, and Kenji devoured a simple pasta dish. It was a delightful culinary experience.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Prionia, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors near Mount Olympus.

The final stretch to the summit was the most demanding. The path was icy, and the wind was biting. We had to navigate carefully, using our hands for balance in some places. Kenji, surprisingly resilient, kept his spirits high, chanting little Japanese rhymes he had learned from his grandmother. His energy was infectious, pushing us forward when we felt like giving up. I made sure he was safe and close to us at all times.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached the summit. The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming. We had made it! Standing on the highest peak in Greece, surrounded by a sea of clouds, was an experience I will never forget. We took photos, hugged each other, and simply stood in awe of the majestic panorama. The world felt different from up there, somehow more expansive and full of possibilities. Despite the cold, we lingered as long as we could, wanting to imprint the moment in our memories forever.

The descent was challenging but faster. We took our time, carefully navigating the icy patches and rocky terrain. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the mountain, we made our way to Krypte ArtShop. The shop was a treasure trove of Greek art, jewelry, and crafts. Eleanor and I found some unique souvenirs to remind us of our trip, while Kenji picked out a small ceramic figurine of Zeus, the king of the gods. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Explore the artistic heart of Greece at Krypte ArtShop, where unique handmade treasures await every visitor in Archaia Olympia.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at Veranda Seaside. The fresh seafood and stunning views of the Aegean Sea were a welcome reward after our long day of hiking. We savored the flavors of Greece, reminiscing about our adventure on Mount Olympus. It was a day of mythical proportions, filled with breathtaking views, challenging climbs, and cherished family moments.


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

As I sit here in our tent, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Mount Olympus has exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of natural beauty, mythological wonder, and personal challenge. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Sacred Cave of Saint Dionysios and the Old Holy Monastery of Saint Dionysios. I'm looking forward to exploring more of the cultural and historical treasures that this region has to offer. For now, though, I'll drift off to sleep, dreaming of snow-capped peaks and ancient gods. I'm also glad that I remembered to pack my warm clothes for this trip.

I've learned that the key to a great travel is the ability to adapt and enjoy the unexpected. Even though we forgot our portable camp stove, we made do with what we had and discovered new culinary delights along the way. The most important thing is to be present in the moment, appreciate the beauty around you, and share the experience with loved ones. That's what makes a trip truly unforgettable.

Thinking about the day ahead, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Mount Olympus has in store for us. I am also excited to visit the MOLOS beach bar for a relaxing drink.

Mount Olympus in December is truly a unique and enchanting experience. The crisp air, snow-covered landscapes, and tranquil ambiance create a serene environment. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this mythical mountain has something special to offer during the winter season. Just be sure to pack your warm clothes and a sense of adventure!

I'm also glad that Eleanor and Kenji enjoyed the day as much as I did. It's not always easy to find activities that appeal to everyone, but Mount Olympus managed to captivate us all. Perhaps it's the mountain's mythical aura, or perhaps it's simply the stunning natural beauty, but whatever the reason, it's an experience that we'll cherish for years to come.