VIP 3-Day Tour From Athens: OLYMPUS THE MOUNTAIN OF GODS!

Experience the Magic of Mount Olympus on a VIP 3-Day Tour from Athens

This three-day adventure offers a personalized journey into Greece’s most legendary mountain — Mount Olympus, home to the gods of Greek mythology. The trip combines scenic hikes, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations, making it a captivating option for those eager to explore Greece’s natural grandeur.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences—climbing to the highest peaks with a private guide, spending a night in Greece’s highest mountain refuge, and taking in views from the Prophet Elias chapel. It’s an excellent opportunity to see Olympus’s alpine terrain up close, especially for travelers looking for a more intimate, curated experience.

However, keep in mind that this is a physically demanding trip, with steep ascents and variable weather conditions at high altitude. It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with hiking and outdoor adventures. This tour is ideal for those craving a unique, guided mountaineering experience combined with the comfort of private transport and accommodations.

Key Points

• Guided Expertise: Led by knowledgeable guides who know Olympus inside out, boosting confidence during challenging sections.
• Scenic Hiking: Enjoy panoramic routes showcasing the mountain’s breathtaking peaks and surrounding landscapes.
• Overnight Experience: Sleep at the Muses Plateau, Greece’s highest mountain refuge, experiencing the mountain’s alpine atmosphere.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Throne of Zeus and the Prophet Elias chapel, the tallest in the Balkans.
• Physical Challenge: Climbing Mytikas involves steep, rope-assisted sections, suitable for fit hikers.
• Flexible Options: Those who prefer not to summit Mytikas can stay at the refuge and enjoy stunning views from there.

A Deep Dive Into the Mount Olympus VIP Tour

An Overview of the Itinerary

This tour is crafted to maximize your experience of Mount Olympus’s natural beauty and mythical allure over three packed days. It begins with a five-hour road trip from Athens to Gortsia, where your adventure starts in earnest. The initial hike through a pine and beech forest offers a gentle yet stunning introduction, with plenty of balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea. This segment, ascending to Petrostrouga mountain refuge at 1950 meters, sets the tone for the mountain’s majestic views.

On the second day, the real climbing begins. You’ll ascend from the refuge to the Plateau of the Muses, a legendary spot offering panoramic views of Olympus’s peaks, including the Throne of Zeus and Stefani. After a break, the climb to the summit of Mytikas unfolds — the highest point in Greece at 2,918 meters. Here, safety ropes are used for the steeper sections, and the ascent is considered quite challenging. If you prefer, you can opt to wait at the refuge and skip the summit, which makes the trip accessible to a wider range of hikers.

The final day is designed to be a breathtaking farewell, awakening early for a sunrise at Prophet Elias chapel, Greece’s tallest chapel. After soaking in the views, you’ll descend through lush forests of fir and beech trees, passing Spilios Agapitos refuge, until reaching Prionia, where your vehicle awaits to take you back to Athens.

What Makes the Hiking Experience Stand Out?

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the panoramic hiking route. We loved the way each step revealed stunning vistas, from the Aegean to the surrounding peaks. The ascent to Mytikas is no walk in the park — it’s steep, often requiring the use of ropes, and demands a good level of fitness. But the sense of achievement when you stand on Greece’s highest point is unmatched.

Several reviews mention the guides’ expertise and attentiveness. One reviewer noted that the guide, Maria, “knew every twist and turn of the trail,” making the climb both safer and more enjoyable. She also shared fascinating tidbits about Olympus’s mythological significance, which added a layer of cultural richness to the natural adventure.

Overnight at the Muses Plateau

Staying overnight at the refuge on the Muses Plateau is a rare treat. It’s Greece’s highest mountain refuge, so the air feels crisp and pure. Here, you’ll experience a true mountain night — quiet, with the stars overhead and the peaks lit softly by moonlight. Many reviewers highlighted the comfort of the dormitories and the warmth of the staff, which helped offset the altitude and the mountain’s rugged environment.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks

The tour includes visits to the Throne of Zeus, a rock formation that is believed to be where the king of gods sat in myth. From various peaks, including Prophet Elias, you can look down into the craggy depths and imagine the ancient gods watching over Greece. The chapel itself is perched at 2,462 meters, offering an impressive view and a spiritual atmosphere.

The Summit of Mytikas

Reaching the summit is the tour’s pièce de résistance for many. The climb involves steep sections and rope-assisted pathways, which can be intimidating but also exhilarating. Several reviews mention the “thrill of standing at Greece’s highest point,” and that the guide’s safety instructions were reassuring. For those who prefer not to summit, the option to stay at the refuge and enjoy the views is a thoughtful addition, making this experience accessible to different levels of hikers.

Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Cost

Transportation is a highlight, with luxury air-conditioned vehicles transferring you from Athens and during the trip, ensuring comfort after strenuous hikes. The tour operates as a private group, which means more personalized attention and a flexible pace.

The price of $954 per person reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience — guided hikes, accommodation, transportation, and expert leadership. While it’s a premium price, the value lies in the quality of guides, the overnight stay at a mountain refuge, and the chance to summit Greece’s highest peak.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are hotel pickups and drop-offs, all accommodations, guided tour services, and transportation. Not included are lunch and personal expenses, so packing a good lunch and some snacks is advisable. You’ll also need to bring your own trekking gear, such as hiking shoes, sun protection, and a daypack.

What to Know Before You Go

Weather can change rapidly at altitude, so packing 4-season clothing and outdoor gear is essential. The tour recommends essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, water, and a sleeping bag. Since the hike is physically demanding, good fitness levels are important, and participants should be comfortable with steep ascents and descents.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who not only instruct but also share stories, making the climb educational and fun. One reviewer said, “Our guide, Yannis, made all the difference — he was both knowledgeable and encouraging.” The stunning views from the peaks are consistent highlights, with many noting that the pictures don’t do justice to the real beauty of Olympus’s rugged terrain.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This VIP Mount Olympus experience offers a rare, immersive opportunity into one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine hiking, mythology, and natural beauty in a guided, comfortable setting. If you’re comfortable with steep climbs and outdoor adventures, you’ll love the challenge and the rewards of summiting Greece’s highest peak.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences, expert guides, and accommodations at the Muses Plateau makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a personalized, well-organized adventure backed by a trusted provider.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed vacation or are traveling with very young children, this trip’s physical demands and altitude might not be suitable. Also, those on a tight budget might find the price steep, but considering the inclusions and quality of the experience, many will find it well worth the investment.

In the end, this tour is about discovering Greece’s legendary mountain with expert guidance and a commitment to authentic adventure — a memorable way to connect with Greece’s natural and mythical spirit.

FAQ: Your Mount Olympus Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Athens accommodation are included, along with transportation by luxury air-conditioned vehicle throughout the trip.

What’s the typical duration of the hikes?
Each hiking day lasts around 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the segment. The ascent to Mytikas is challenging and involves steep sections with safety ropes.

Can I skip climbing Mytikas?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to climb the highest peak, you can stay at the refuge on the Plateau of the Muses and enjoy the stunning surroundings without the steep climb.

What do I need to bring?
Essential gear includes hiking shoes, outdoor clothing for four seasons, water, sun protection, a change of clothes, a sleeping bag, and personal medications.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 18 due to the physical demands and altitude of the hikes.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $954 per person, which covers guided hikes, accommodations, transportation, and expert support.

What’s the weather like?
Weather can change quickly at high altitude, so be prepared for sunshine, wind, and possible rain or colder temperatures, especially at summit level.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adapt your plans.

In essence, this VIP Olympus tour stands as a fantastic choice for those eager to challenge themselves, explore myth and mountain, and enjoy personalized guidance in one of Greece’s most iconic settings.