Central Greece (Parnassos-Giona-Oiti-Vardousia)

HIGHLIGHTS

Hike Amazing Trails: Trek through lush gorges, ancient forests, and rugged peaks, uncovering hidden waterfalls and breathtaking vistas.
Explore Charming Villages: Wander through traditional mountain villages like Amfikleia, Tithorea, Athanasios Diakos, Pavliani and Vargiani, steeped in history and local culture.
Discover Mystical Landmarks: Visit captivating sites like Neraidospilia (Fairy Cave) and the serene Trypi Waterfall, each with its own unique allure.
Savor Authentic Flavors: Indulge in hearty local cuisine, from savory pies to dishes crafted with fresh, regional ingredients.
Stay in Mountain Retreats: Rest in welcoming guesthouses, enjoying warm hospitality and cozy comforts after each day’s adventure.

OVERVIEW

Start / Finish

Tithorea A.Diakos

Difficulty

Info

3-4

Total Distance

67Km

Daily Ascent

900m

Total Ascent

5700m

Duration

7 days

Reservation

Day 1: Parnassos Mountain, Trypi Waterfall

Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 700m | Distance: 8 km | Walking Time: 5 hours

You will Arrive at Ano Tithorea, a picturesque village nestled at the base of Mount Parnassos. From here, we will embark on a scenic hike to the Trypi Waterfall. The trail winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The sound of cascading water grows louder as we approach Trypi Waterfall, a hidden gem of the region. After enjoying the serene beauty of the area, we will return to Ano Tithorea and transfer to Amfiklia, where we will have dinner and stay overnight.

Day 2: Parnassos Mountain, Hike through Keramidi Gorge

Ascent: 760 m | Descent: 760 m | Distance: 10 km | Walking Time: 4-5 hours

Start the day with a hike beginning in Amfiklia. The trail leads us through the Keramidi Gorge, a breathtaking natural corridor carved by time. Along the way, we will visit Agia Ierousalim and Agios Ioannis, two charming chapels surrounded by pristine nature. The path loops back to Amfiklia, where we will enjoy a hearty meal featuring local delicacies. Overnight stay in Amfiklia.

Day 3: Parnassos Mountain, Vargiani to Neraidospilia (Fairy Cave)

Ascent: 680 m | Descent: 680 m | Distance: 7.4 km | Walking Time: 4-5 hours

Transfer to Vargiani, a traditional mountain village on the slopes of Mount Parnassos. From here, we will hike to Neraidospilia, a mystical cave shrouded in local legends. The trail offers panoramic views of the valley below and takes us through dense forests. After exploring the cave, we will return to Vargiani for a delicious meal and rest for the night.

Day 4: Giona Mountain – Mnimata to Pyramida Peak

Ascent: 1,600 m | Descent: 1,600 m | Distance: 18 km | Walking Time: 10-12 hours

Today’s adventure takes us to Mount Giona, the highest peak in Central Greece. Starting from Mnimata near Kaloskopi, we will follow a challenging trail to Vathia Laka and ascend to Pyramida peak. The views from the summit are breathtaking, offering a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We will descend the same route and transfer to Katafygio Oiti for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5: Oiti National Park – Pavliani’s Playground Trail

Ascent: 330 m | Descent: 330m | Distance: 7 km | Walking Time: 2-3 hours

Head to Oiti National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Today’s hike begins in Pavliani, a village famous for its playful outdoor installations and family-friendly trails. The higher path offers sweeping views and unique natural features. We will spend the day immersed in nature before returning to our accommodation for a relaxing evening.

Day 6: Vardousia mounain, Korakas Peak via Portes

Ascent: 1,600 m | Descent: 1,600 m | Distance: 17 km | Walking Time: 8-10 hours

Our final hike begins in Athanasios Diakos, a charming mountain village. The trail ascends to the Meterizia mountain hut and continues through the Portes pass leading to Korakas Peak. This demanding hike rewards us with stunning alpine landscapes and views from the summit. After descending, we will return to Athanasios Diakos for a well-earned meal and overnight stay.

Day 7: Return to Athens

After breakfast, we will begin our journey back to Athens, reminiscing about the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences of the past week.

Estimated cost per person	Minimum Cost (for 1-2 persons)
Eur 1200	Eur 3000

WHAT IS INCLUDED: PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR
- Guided hikes
- Accommodation in local traditional hotels rooms.
- Breakfast
- Transfer from and to Lamia or Athens and to the various daily starting and ending locations (special arrangements could be made for Thessaloniki)
- Transport of luggage between hotels when necessary.
- Local English-speaking mountain guide
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Travel insurance
- Dinner
- Lunches
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Private rooms can be reserved in advance
- Airport transfer from Thessaloniki is available on request
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES
- Self-guided trip: electronic maps with satellite navigation for your phone (Android or Apple phone required)

TRAVEL TO CENTRAL GREECE MOUNTAIN TRAILS

Your adventure begins in Athens, with easy access to the stunning mountains of Parnassos, Oiti, and Giona. Located approximately 180 km from Athens, the region is reachable by car, taxi, or public transport. We can assist you in planning your route from the airport, provide bus schedules, or arrange private transfers. Please contact us before booking your travel arrangements.

CLOTHING AND GEAR

Proper hiking gear is essential for this trip, as you will traverse diverse terrain, including rocky trails, gorges, and alpine paths. Recommended items include:

Sturdy, worn-in hiking boots with ankle support
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Warm layers like fleece or thermal tops
Lightweight, moisture-wicking t-shirts
Long hiking pants and a cap for sun protection
A rain poncho or pack cover
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A reusable water bottle (minimum 1 liter)
Comfortable footwear for village use

We recommend packing light but ensuring you have all essentials for safety and comfort.

ACCOMMODATION

You will stay in traditional guesthouses or mountain lodges in picturesque villages such as Amfikleia, Vargiani, and Pavliani. Accommodations typically include:

Private or shared rooms with beds (advance booking required)
Hot showers and shared or en-suite bathrooms

Some villages, like Amfikleia, offer small shops for snacks or basic necessities. For specific preferences or detailed information about accommodations, feel free to contact us.

MEALS

Breakfast is provided at your accommodations and typically includes:

Coffee, tea, bread, butter, jam, eggs, and local specialties like pies
Some guesthouses may also offer cheese, ham, and fresh fruit

Lunch can be enjoyed at local taverns or as a packed meal on the trail. Dinner is served in traditional village taverns and features:

A starter salad or soup
Local appetizers (e.g., tzatziki, grilled cheese, or olives)
A hearty main course such as lamb, chicken, or vegetarian dishes
Desserts and drinks, including wine, beer, or herbal teas

SAFETY MATTERS

Guided hikes are led by experienced mountain leaders familiar with the region and trained in emergency response. Self-guided hikes are also available, but participants must:

Wear appropriate clothing and gear
Follow provided maps and safety guidelines
Plan realistic timeframes for daily hikes

Trails are generally well-marked but may not be as maintained as those in Northern Europe or North America. Some exposed sections require careful navigation. Always assess your fitness level and skills before embarking on more challenging routes.

INSURANCE

Comprehensive travel insurance covering hiking activities is essential. While climbing insurance is not required for this itinerary, ensure your policy includes emergency medical evacuation. Note that rescue operations in Greece rely on state services, which may not match the efficiency of other countries.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

The region offers diverse weather conditions based on the season. The best months for hiking are April to November, with:

Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures (20°C-25°C/68°F-77°F), ideal for exploring lush gorges and waterfalls
Summer (June-September): Warmer days (up to 31°C/88°F), with shaded trails providing relief
Autumn (October-November): Cool and crisp weather, perfect for enjoying mountain vistas
Winter: Snow may make higher-altitude routes inaccessible

Always check local weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.

Prepare to embark on a journey through the pristine wilderness of Central Greece, where every step reveals a new wonder! Contact us for further details or assistance.

Embark on an exhilarating 7-day journey through the majestic mountains of Central Greece, exploring the unspoiled wilderness of Parnassos, Oiti, and Giona.

This adventure takes you along diverse trails, from lush gorges and mystical caves to towering peaks, immersing you in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

Over the course of your trek, you will traverse captivating landscapes, including the verdant Keramidi Gorge, serene alpine meadows, and the rugged heights of Pyramida and Korakas peaks. Highlights include the tranquil Trypi Waterfall, the legendary Neraidospilia (Fairy Cave), and panoramic views from some of Greece’s most iconic summits. The trails are well-marked and steeped in history, offering a rewarding hiking experience that blends adventure with environmental preservation.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance challenging hikes with cultural exploration. You’ll visit traditional mountain villages like Amfikleia, Tithorea, Pavliani, Athanasios Diakos and Vargiani, where warm hospitality and authentic local cuisine await. Along the way, discover hidden landmarks, such as centuries-old chapels and picturesque mountain refuges, that add depth to your journey. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, this 7-day adventure promises a harmonious blend of thrilling exploration, cultural encounters, and serene beauty. Prepare to uncover the hidden gems of Central Greece and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you'd like adjustments or additional details, feel free to ask!