The top of Olympus in Greece cannot but excite the imagination of everyone, even the most sophisticated travelers. Every year tourists come here from all over the world. What attracts all these people? Is there still a place left somewhere that it is simply impossible not to visit at least once?
This article will introduce its readers to such a stunningly interesting vacation destination at any time of the year as Greece. Olympus in this case will be considered as the main attraction of the ancient country. And this is not surprising, because it was here, according to legend, that the gods ruling the Earth once lived. How can you not visit such a place?
Greece. Olympus. General information
2917-meter Olympus is rightfully considered not only the highest point of the state, but also a world-famous national park, which is now a great pleasure for both locals and numerous guests of the state.
The highest peak of Olympus (Greece) is located in the northeast of the historical region called Thessaly. Incidentally, far fromeveryone knows that in ancient times it served as the natural border between this country and Macedonia.
It should be noted that the excursion to Olympus (Greece) assumes that the traveler will have the opportunity to see three peaks at once - Skolio, Stephanie and Mitikas. It is because of their presence that this mountain is often called the three-headed one.
The national park of the same name and its features
As mentioned above, Olympus is not only a snow-covered mountain peak, but also a popular natural monument of the planet. Geographically, this territory is located in the vicinity of the nomes of Pieria and Larisa-Thessaly.
The national reserve is characterized by a huge variety of biological species. At the moment, you can find more than 1,700 species of flora representatives here, and this is about 25% of all that are found on the territory of the country. 23 of them are considered endemic, which means that they can only be found in this region.
From the fauna it is worth mentioning 8 species of amphibians, 32 species of mammals, excluding domestic animals, 136 species of birds and 22 species of reptiles.
Is it possible to climb to the top of a state like Greece (Olympus)?
This is the question most often asked by tourists coming here. “Of course you can!”, the locals joyfully answer, who are ready to endlessly talk not only about the myths of Greece (“Olympus and its gods”, “Hercules”, “Dionysus” and others), but also about the unique places of their country.
It would not be superfluous to note thatthat trying to climb to the very top is not worth it. Why? The fact is that today a British military radar is installed there, so the territory is considered closed to outsiders.
But, of course, you need to visit its surroundings. Walking here, you can meet real mouflons, rare ruminants. By the way, it is this artiodactyl that now adorns the emblem of the famous Cypriot Airlines brand. Hunting them, of course, is prohibited. But it is quite possible to take some successful photographs. The main thing is to have time to catch a good shot, because the mouflon is considered a very nimble and shy animal.
Professional ascent to Olympus
Those who have the skills to conquer mountain peaks are advised to start climbing from a village called Litohoron. There is a specialized information center that also provides mountain equipment rental services.
It is recommended to take a taxi to the Prionia point, although the most desperate can go on their own, because there is still a walking route. At an altitude of 1100 meters, a parking lot and modern latrines have been built, in which it is even possible to take a shower. By the way, you can spend the night in the monastery of St. Dionysius, located next door.
From Prionia, travelers head to Shelter A, located at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level. There is also a kind of recreation area, consisting of a hotel and a more budget camping. From here you can easily climb the Rock or go further to other mountain shelters. From the Rock, as a rule, they get to Skolio andMitikas. By the way, it is worth paying attention to one important point. The last of the peaks listed above is recommended not to climb in bad weather or for those who do not have special training.
Local mythology
The myths of ancient Greece, in which Olympus occupies one of the main places, are known to many. Perhaps now even the average student will be able to remember a few of them.
This peak is known as the residence of the main Olympian gods. Legends say that it was here that the Cyclopes, freed by Zeus from the realm of the dead, built majestic palaces. In gratitude, they also rewarded him with power over lightning and thunder.
In general, Greece (Olympus in particular) is often associated with the name of the working god Hephaestus, who in his workshop made decorations for all the above-mentioned palaces. By the way, the entrance to his monastery was carried out through special gates, reliably guarded by less significant gods who were not included in the category of the main ones.
Love in the legends of Ancient Hellas
Perhaps, not a single myth about Olympus (Ancient Greece) and its environs is complete without mentioning such a sublime feeling as love.
We all know about the beautiful Aphrodite, whose beauty was truly unearthly. She was born from the blood of the titan Uranus mixed with sea foam. That is why, apparently, this goddess gained fame as an insidious and tough woman. According to legend, Aphrodite married Hephaestus, but marriage is not enough for a beautyinterested. She preferred to spend most of her time on Mount Olympus or traveling the world, falling desperately in love and falling in love with herself.
Aphrodite's most famous crush was Ares. It was he who managed to arouse jealousy in Hephaestus, and he, without hesitation, forged a special net that caught lovers during one of the meetings. Burning with shame, Aphrodite fled to the island of Crete, subsequently giving birth to two sons there - Deimos and Phobos.
The favorite place of the goddess was the city of Paphos, built just in the place where she emerged from the sea foam. In ancient Greece, there was also a temple built in her honor. It is interesting to note an interesting fact. According to local traditions, it was believed that if a girl who visited this place entered into a casual relationship in its vicinity, she would be guaranteed a lifetime blessing of the goddess.
Unfortunately, this temple was not destined to survive to this day. But locals believe that a heart-shaped pebble found while walking along the coast will give the lucky one the huge and only love for life.
Ski holidays on Olympus
Olympus attracts many travelers with the opportunity to spend time doing what they love. The so-called high season for skiers and snowboarders comes here from approximately January to March.
Every visitor will get a unique opportunity to stay in one of the small but very comfortable hotels, use a modern lift for a very modest fee and ride down the snowy slope. Equipment rental points will not disappoint even the most seasoned fans of these sports.
Most tourists note the high level of service in all, even the most modest hotels. And as an added bonus, from absolutely every balcony you can enjoy amazing views of the snow-capped mountains.
What to do around Mount Olympus?
In fact, no one who came here on vacation has yet complained of boredom and lack of opportunities for interesting pastime.
Besides walking in the fresh air and surrounded by unique landscapes, it is recommended to take courage and climb the Mitikas peak. Where else can you leave your message in a special iron box?
If you are just about to learn the art of conquering the snowy slopes, Olympus is the place to go first. Local instructors will be happy to teach you and your little ones the basic tricks of this hobby.
Those who are lucky enough to be in the vicinity of Olympus in the warm season are advised to go with the locals for a regular walk in the mountains. Experienced guides are happy to tell their guests about the local flora and fauna, introduce legends and myths, teach you how to navigate with a map and compass, and, finally, organize an amazing outdoor lunch, consisting mainly of dishes and drinks of local cuisine.
