Athens to Mount Olympus: 2 days private tour

Athens to Mount Olympus: 2 Days Private Tour

This private 2-day tour takes you from Athens directly to the legendary Mount Olympus in Thessaly, Greece, for an adventure that combines scenic landscapes with flexible hiking options. Priced at $836 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with private transfers, allowing for an intimate and personalized journey. The itinerary includes a drive of approximately 5 hours each way, with plenty of time to explore at your own pace and stay overnight amid stunning mountain scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its customizability: you can choose your own hiking route and opt to stay in Litochoro for an easier hike, or camp if refuge space is unavailable. While it does not include a mountain guide or accommodation, the organization can assist in arranging these, giving you flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences. It is ideal for hikers seeking independence combined with the comfort of private transport.

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Key Points

• Private transfers from and back to Athens simplify logistics and eliminate worries about transportation.
• Flexible hiking options allow you to select routes according to your physical condition and interests.
• Overnight stay at Spilios Agapitos refuge or in Litochoro offers options for different levels of difficulty.
• Tour price includes Wi-Fi, bottled water, and a knowledgeable English-speaking driver.
• The tour does not include a mountain guide, refuge accommodation, meals, or hiking gear, which can be arranged upon request.
• Duration is 2 days, with starting times available upon checking availability.

Starting Your Journey from Athens to the Foot of Mount Olympus

The adventure begins in Athens, where a private car picks you up directly from your hotel. The drive of about 5 hours takes you through scenic Greek landscapes until reaching Prionia, the base of Mount Olympus. This convenient pickup and drop-off service ensure a smooth start and end to your trip, with Wi-Fi on board for catching up or relaxing during the drive.

This private transfer is a notable advantage, reducing the hassle of public transportation or shared tours. The driver, who speaks English, provides useful information along the way, making the journey as informative as it is comfortable. The flexible timing means you can choose your departure time, adding to the tour’s convenience.

Exploring Mount Olympus from Prionia

Prionia serves as the gateway for hiking on Mount Olympus, situated at the mountain’s foothills. From here, you can start your selected trail toward the Spilios Agapitos refuge, located at 2,100 meters elevation. The hike to the refuge takes approximately 4 hours, offering a manageable challenge for most hikers. The trail offers picturesque views and a chance to experience the mountain’s natural beauty firsthand.

This tour emphasizes personal pacing, as you can explore the mountain at your own speed. The absence of a guide means that you need to be comfortable with navigation or arrange for a guide separately. The refuge provides a convenient overnight spot, but if unavailable, options include staying in Litochoro or camping outside the refuge in a tent.

Staying Overnight at Spilios Agapitos Refuge or in Litochoro

For the overnight stay, travelers can opt for spending the night at the mountain refuge or staying in Litochoro, a charming town at the mountain’s base. The tour does not include accommodation, but assistance can be provided to arrange refuge stays or hotel bookings.

If the refuge is full, staying in Litochoro offers a less physically demanding alternative with easy access to the mountain for future hikes. This flexibility is ideal for those with varying fitness levels or those who prefer a more relaxed experience after a day of trekking.

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Custom Routes and Hiking Options on Day Two

On the second day, you have the freedom to choose your own route around Mount Olympus. The driver will meet you either at Prionia or Gortzia, depending on your hiking plan and preference. This flexibility allows for a customized experience, whether you want to explore further into the mountain or keep the hike shorter and easier.

Since the tour does not include a mountain guide, travelers should be prepared with their own navigation skills or arrange for a guide if desired. The flexibility to select your route makes this tour suitable for both seasoned hikers and those seeking a more relaxed visit.

No Guided Tour, But Assistance Available

While the tour does not come with a mountain guide, the organization can help arrange one if needed. This option is useful for travelers unfamiliar with mountain hiking or those seeking expert insights during their trek. The focus of this tour is on personal independence and flexibility, giving you control over your route and pace.

The absence of guided services also means you have the freedom to design your adventure, but it is recommended to have some experience with mountain hikes or to consider arranging a guide separately for safety and local knowledge.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

The included amenities in this tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, a private A/C vehicle, Wi-Fi, knowledgeable English-speaking driver, and bottled water. These features contribute to a comfortable and convenient experience, allowing you to focus on the hike and scenery.

However, the tour does not include a mountain guide, refuge or hotel accommodation, meals and drinks, hiking equipment, or personal expenses. You should plan accordingly—bringing your own gear, arranging accommodation, and packing food if needed.

Flexibility with Booking and Cancellations

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds flexibility to your travel planning. Since the tour operates as a private group, it offers a more personalized experience with fewer other participants.

Suitability and Physical Considerations

The tour is suitable for active travelers comfortable with hiking at their own pace. Staying in Litochoro or camping outside the refuge provides options for different fitness levels and preferences. Keep in mind, the tour involves a 4-hour hike to the refuge, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for a comfortable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Athens to Mount Olympus Private Tour

This 2-day private tour from Athens offers a flexible and personalized way to experience Mount Olympus in Greece. Its highlight is the freedom to choose your own hiking route and pace, complemented by private transfers that simplify logistics. The ability to stay overnight at the mountain refuge or in the nearby town makes this a versatile option.

While the tour does not include a mountain guide or accommodation, assistance can be arranged for both, allowing you to tailor the experience. It is especially suited for independent hikers who want control over their route and timing.

This tour strikes a good balance between convenience and adventure, ideal for those seeking a self-directed mountain experience with the comfort of private transport and flexible options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially if you choose the easier hike options in Litochoro or stay in the town. The hike to the refuge takes about 4 hours but can be adjusted based on your pace.

Can I stay overnight at the refuge?
Yes, staying at the Spilios Agapitos refuge is included in the options, but it’s not included in the basic package. Assistance with refuge booking can be provided.

What do I need to bring for the hike?
Since hiking equipment is not included, it’s advisable to bring your own gear suitable for mountain trekking, such as sturdy shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is a guide included in this tour?
No, but arrangements for a mountain guide can be made if desired.

How long does the drive from Athens to Mount Olympus take?
The drive lasts approximately 5 hours each way, making the total travel time about 10 hours across the two days.

Can I customize the hiking route?
Yes, you can choose your route on the second day, meeting the driver at your preferred location, like Prionia or Gortzia.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided in the private vehicle for added convenience.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $836 per person, which includes private transfers and the flexibility to customize your experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

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