Mount Olympus

Overdehils

The dark evenings & wet days have got me thinking about trips for next year!! Anyone hike Mount Olympus & that area? As a solo female traveller, joining a group would be the best option....any input gratefully appreciated! Looking at late September/October.

dogmatix

I posted this way back in 2012 to someone else interested in Mt. Olympus. At the time I went with a company called "Explore Worldwide" who do group trips.

My original post below - hope it helps.

I did that specific route way back in August 1995. It's tough but easy enough for someone who has no climbing skills. On day 1 we walked up through fragrent pine forest to a basic hostel/lodge, surrounded by pines and perched on a ridge. We stayed overnight in a dormitory and at first light made for the summit. It's not technical - there is a good trail all the way up - takes about 4-5 hours from the lodge (i think - it was 17 years ago!). There is a large flat expense at the top of the switchback trail, good for a rest stop - you then make for the summit along a narrow ridge (which is again not technical but not suitable for people who have no head for heights).

You can get a cooked meal in the lodge - its basic but filling. At the time all food and drink had to be delivered by Donkey as there are no paved roads - might have changed by now.

Be warned - it gets cold at night in lodge, even in August in Greece and you can expect to still find snow in shaded areas near the summit. A good quality fleece and waterproof jacket are a must.

The early morning ascent to the summit I found hard (and I was well fit in 1995) but should be within the capabilities of a reasonably fit person.

After that we walked down, past the lodge to a road where a hired bus picked us up.

BTW - sunrise is not to be missed as the sun paints the summit golden from our start position at the lodge.

Overdehils

Thanks so much dogmatic.....great to get feedback! 🙂