The picturesque Litochoro is synonymous with exploring the mythical Mount Olympus, yet it lies just a few kilometers from the sea, making it an ideal destination for all seasons.
Olympus. Mythic, imposing, mysterious. It is the highest mountain in Greece, the countrys first National Park, a UNESCO Protected Ecosystem and the home of the twelve gods. Its striking elevation (2,918 m.), unique natural landscapes and mythical allure make it a magnet for thousands of visitors from every corner of the world.
The classic base for exploring the mythical mountain is the picturesque Litochoro, at the foot of its eastern side. It is the gateway to Olympus, yet lies just a few kilometers from the sea. An ideal destination forlovers of escapes into gorgeous nature, forhikers, mountaineers and climbers who want to savor wandering on the mountains slopes and conquer its summits.
Litochoro: Between mountain and sea
Litochoro is built on the eastern foothills of the mythical mountain, 25 km from Katerini and 90 km from Thessaloniki. The picturesque small town of Pieria serves as the main gateway to Olympus, since from the locations «Prionia» and «Gortsia» the ascents begin to its mountain refuges and to the summit, Mytikas (2,918 m.). It is, however, just a few kilometers from the sea, making it an ideal destination to enjoy the mountain nature and also take your swims in the summer months.
From the central square of Litochoro begins a labyrinth of narrow lanes, while at the top of the settlement lies the old village. Macedonian-style houses, neoclassical captains mansions, small neighborhood squares, stone fountains and churches paint the townscape. Dont miss the Maritime Museum, with exhibits that reveal the rich seafaring heritage of this Macedonian town.
Also, Litochoro is an ideal base for exploring the traditional settlements of Palaios Panteleimonas and Skotina. As for beaches, within close reach await Variko, Gritsa and Plaka (the seafront of Litochoro) with views on one side to the endless sea of the Thermaic Gulf and on the other to Olympus.
Dont miss
The Enipeas Gorge
Visit the enchanting gorge of the Enipeas River, along an impressive route starting at the Mills, at an elevation of 400 m. The trail, dense with vegetation (part of the European long-distance trail E4) leads to wooden footbridges that link sections of the gorge, while passing by the Holy Cave (Saint Dionysios lived here as an ascetic), the Monastery of Saint Dionysios (15th century) and beautiful waterfalls with natural pools shortly before Prionia (1,100m.).
To the summit of Olympus
A few kilometers before Prionia (at the location Gortsia), the route begins to the Plateau of the Muses (2,600 m.) where there are two mountain refuges (Apostolidis and Kakkalos) and from there to the mountains highest peaks. The sight of the impressive «Throne of Zeus» (Stefani) will stay with you forever. If you are beginners, you should limit yourselves to the summer months, when the refuges are open.
Platamon Castle
In a strategic position that controls the passage of the Vale of Tempe and the road Macedonia-Thessaly-Southern Greece, southeast of the mountain of the gods, the castle of Platamon dates from the Frankish period and lies a short distance from todays town of Platamon. It is one of the loveliest and best-preserved castles in Greece. From here you will enjoy wonderful views over the Thermaic Gulf.
Dion Archaeological Site
At the foot of the mountain of the gods, 5 km from the shores of Pieria, lies the famed archaeological site of Dion. Dion was an ancient city of strategic importance and one of the most renowned Macedonian city-states. A stroll among the monuments, in a forest of trees and running waters, is delightful.
