Τάφος Μιμίκου και Μαίρης
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Mount Ymittos: Athens' Natural Escape
Discover Mount Ymittos: Athens' green escape with hiking, history, and panoramic views, just a short trip from the city center.
Escape the Athenian bustle on Mount Ymittos, a natural haven offering hiking trails, Byzantine monasteries, and panoramic views. Known for its thyme-scented honey and diverse wildlife, it's a perfect blend of nature and history just a short trip from the city center.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ymittos
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Ymittos, GR
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Getting There
Public Transport
From central Athens, take the 856 bus from Omonoia station to Pl. Ymittou. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes and costs €2. From there, local buses or a taxi can take you closer to specific trailheads or the Kaisariani Monastery. Check OASA (Athens Urban Transport Organisation) for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
Taxi
A taxi from Athens city center to the foothills of Mount Ymittos, near Kaisariani Monastery, takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is typically between €10-€15. Ride-sharing services are also available. Be sure to specify your destination clearly, as Mount Ymittos covers a large area.
Walking
For those staying in the eastern parts of Athens, such as Pangrati or Ilisia, it's possible to walk to the lower slopes of Mount Ymittos. From Alsos Ilision park, it takes about 50 minutes to reach the foothills. Follow Nikolaou Chlorou Street and Oulof Palme Street to reach the Zografou Campus, which marks the beginning of the mountain trails. This option is free but requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the trails can be rocky.
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Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures.
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Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on the mountain.
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Explore the Kaisariani Monastery, but note it's closed on Mondays.
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Be aware that access to the very summit may be restricted due to military installations.
Discover more about Ymittos
Mount Ymittos, also known as Hymettus, rises to the east of Athens, offering a refreshing escape from the city's intensity. This mountain range, part of the EU's Natura 2000 ecological network, provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Colloquially called 'Trellós' or 'Trellóvouno' ('crazy mountain') due to its winding length, Ymittos has been a protected area since it was assigned the status of a protected area in the EU's Natura 2000 ecological network.Hymettus has been known since antiquity, with Athenians establishing ancient temples in the area. The mountain was famed for its marble quarries and honey production. Today, you can explore remnants of this rich past through its Byzantine monasteries, including the Kaisariani Monastery, dating back to the 11th century.The mountain offers various activities, including hiking on well-maintained trails that lead to stunning views. The 'Aesthetic Forest of Kesariani' is a protected nature reserve ideal for walkers, runners and cyclists. Popular trails include the Byzantine Trail, the trail to the peak of Ymittos, and trails around the Monastery of Aghios Ioannis Prodromos Kynigos. The mountain's diverse flora and fauna, including over 100 bird species, foxes and rabbits, make it a haven for nature lovers.While the summit, where a sanctuary to Zeus Ombrios once stood, is currently restricted due to a military installation, the well-maintained trails offer ample opportunity to explore Ymittos. Along the way, discover sites like Leontari Cave, once a sanctuary possibly dedicated to Pan and the nymphs. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply escaping the city, Mount Ymittos provides a rewarding experience.
A brief summary to Ymittos
Use Ymittos as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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