The summit of Olympus in Greece cannot but excite the imagination of all, even the most sophisticated travelers. Every year, tourists come here from all over the globe. What attracts all these people? Is there really a place somewhere else that is simply impossible to visit at least once?
This article will introduce its readers to such a stunningly interesting destination for a vacation at any time of the year, like Greece. Olympus in this case will be considered as the main attraction of the ancient country. And this is not surprising, because it is here, according to legend, the gods who ruled the Earth once lived. How can you not visit such a place?
Greece. Olympus. general information
The 2917-meter Olympus is rightfully considered not only the highest point of the state, but also the world-famous national park, which is now with great pleasure both local residents and numerous guests of the state.
The highest peak of Olympus (Greece) is located in the northeast of the historical region called Thessaly. By the way, not everyone knows that in antiquity it was she who served as the natural border between this country and Macedonia.
It should be noted that the excursion to Olympus (Greece) suggests that the traveler will have the opportunity to personally see three peaks at once - Skolio, Stefani and Mitikas. It is because of their presence that this mountain is often called the three-headed.
The eponymous national park and its features
As already 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 towns of Pieria and Larisa-Thessaly.
The national reserve is characterized by a huge variety of species. At the moment, here you can find more than 1700 species of representatives of the flora, and this is about 25% of all that are found in the country. 23 of them are considered endemic, which means that you can only meet them in this region.
From the fauna, it is worth mentioning 8 species of amphibians, 32 species of mammals, not including domestic ones, 136 species of birds and 22 species of reptiles.
Is it possible to rise to the top of such a state as 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 talk endlessly not only about the myths of Greece (“Olympus and his gods”, “Hercules”, “Dionysus” and others), but also about the unique places of their country.
It would not be out of place to note that trying to climb to the very top is not worth it. Why? The fact is that today the British military radar is installed there, so the territory for outsiders is considered closed.
But in its vicinity, of course, you need to visit. Walking here, you can meet real mouflons, rare ruminants. By the way, it is this artiodactyl that is now adorning the emblem of the famous Cypriot Airlines brand. Hunting them, of course, is prohibited. But to make some good photos is quite possible. The main thing is to catch a good shot, because the mouflon is considered a very quick and timid animal.
Professional ascent to Olympus
Those who have the skills to conquer the mountain peaks are recommended to start climbing from a settlement called Litochoron. There is a specialized information center that also provides mountain equipment rental services.
It is recommended to take a taxi to Prionia, 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 are constructed, in which there is an opportunity to even 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 more budget camping. From here, you can easily climb the Rock or go further to other mountain shelters. From the Rock, as a rule, fall on Skolio and Mitikas. By the way, it is worth paying attention to one important point. It is recommended that you not climb the last of the peaks listed above 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 an average student will be able to recall several of them.
This peak is known as the residence of the main Olympic gods. Legends say that it was here that the Cyclops liberated by Zeus from the kingdom of the dead built magnificent palaces. In gratitude, they still awarded him 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 jewelry for all of the above palaces. By the way, the entrance to his monastery was through special gates, reliably guarded by less significant gods, not included in the main category.
Love in the legends of Ancient Hellas
Perhaps, not a single myth about Olympus (Ancient Greece) and its environs is complete without mentioning such an exalted feeling as love.
We all know about the beautiful Aphrodite, whose beauty was truly unearthly. She was born from the blood of titanium 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 the marriage was of little interest to the beauty. She preferred to spend most of her time on Olympus or traveling around the world, desperately falling in love and falling in love with herself.
Aphrodite's most famous hobby was Ares. It was he who managed to arouse jealousy at Hephaestus, and he, without hesitation, forged a special network that caught lovers during one of the meetings. Burning with shame, Aphrodite fled to the island of Crete, subsequently giving birth there two sons - Deimos and Phobos.
The favorite place of the goddess was considered 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 the vicinity, she would be guaranteed a lifetime blessing from the goddess.
Unfortunately, to this day this temple was not destined to survive. But the locals believe that the pebbles found in the form of a heart found during a walk along the coast will give the lucky man great and only love for life.
Ski holidays on Olympus
Olympus is attracted to many travelers by the opportunity to spend time doing what they love. The so-called hot season for skiers and snowboarders begins here from about January to March.
Each visitor will have a unique opportunity to live in one of the small but very comfortable hotels, use the modern lift for a very modest fee and ride down the snowy slope. Equipment rental points will not disappoint even the most seasoned sports enthusiasts.
Most tourists note a high level of service in all, even the most modest hotels. And as an added bonus, absolutely from every balcony you can enjoy amazing views of the snow-capped mountains.
What to do in the vicinity of Olympus?
In fact, none of those who came here on vacation have complained of boredom and the lack of opportunities for an interesting pastime.
In addition to 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 going to comprehend the art of conquering the snowy slopes, Olympus is just the place where you should go first. Local instructors will readily teach you and your kids the basic tricks of this hobby.
Those who are fortunate enough to be in the vicinity of Olympus in the warm season are advised to go with the locals on a regular walk in the mountains. Experienced guides are happy to tell their guests about the local flora and fauna, acquaint themselves with legends and myths, learn to navigate by map and compass, and, finally, organize an amazing outdoor dinner, consisting mainly of dishes and drinks of local cuisine.