2-day hiking trip to Smolikas on Nov. 2-3
Activity Description
Smolikas is the second highest mountain in Greece after Olympus, with an altitude of 2,637 meters. It stands east of the Aoos valley and opposite Tymfi. In contrast to the limestone mountains of Zagori, Smolikas is formed almost entirely in ophiolites, rocks that give it its characteristic less wild form and at the same time "give" it a very special flora.
Smolikas deviates from the core of North Pindos, which with the mountains of Zagorio ends and fades into the Arachthos valley. In this way, it becomes the nodal volume that creates the oreographic continuity of Northern Pindos, which with the complexes of Vasilitsa and Valia Kalda reaches Zygos and the "neck" of Katara, from where it continues to central Pindos.
The entire mountain is an area of incomparable natural beauty in terms of landscape, fauna and flora and for this reason it is included in the network of protected areas Natura 2000 and is part of the North Pindos National Park. The middle altitude zone is covered by black pine, beech and fir forests, while the subalpine meadows are "adorned" by sparse stands of rombolus. The extensive alpine zone is "bare", yet dotted with rare and endemic plants. The fauna includes the country's rarest mammals (bear, wolf, wild goat and deer) and many rare species of birds of prey.
Most of the myths about Smolikas have to do with Drakolimni. So it is said that two dragons lived in the dragon lakes of Smolikas and Tymfis, who fought with each other by throwing stones at each other. Another local legend states that one night a large wild ram emerged from the waters of Smolika's Drakolimni, which bellowed, calling the sheep that grazed on the mountain around the lake. The lake swallowed the herds, and since then ranchers have avoided grazing their livestock near the dragon lakes.
Although the second highest mountain, its summit does not require any special technique or climbing. It is a fairly passable, although demanding and tiring route.
1st day
Our meeting will take place in the village of Konitsa at an altitude of 600m overlooking the plain of Konitsa where the Aoos River meets the Voidomatis River and Sarantaporos
We arrive, get settled in our rooms and get ready for our first hike that will bring us to the Monastery of Panagia Stomio in one of the most impressive locations in our country, in the ravine of Aoos, between the steep slopes of Tymfi (altitude 2497 m. ) and Trapezitsa (alt. 2024 m.)
3 – 4 hours of hiking
2nd day
Breakfast with a view of the Konitsa plain and it's time to visit Drakolimni of Smolika and of course its peak, the second highest after Olympus with an altitude of 2,637 meters.
We head to the village of Pades and from there we will walk along the cobblestones of the village until we reach the climbing area of the area.
We continue on footpaths and dirt roads, climbing up to the last summer paddocks in the area. Our route has several points with a view towards Tymfi and Grammos where we are filled with energy for our demanding hike.
In the summer months we enjoy a dip in Drakolimni but in autumn we settle for a break before continuing our journey to the top of the mountain.
The view all around us is fantastic... To the north stretches the ridge of Grammos on the border with Albania and below Voio. To the southwest is the verdant Trapezitsa, a branch of Smolikas, and to the south the imposing Gamila, a real attraction for all kinds of climbers...
Return to the village full of new experiences and time to organize our next excursion.
9 hours of hiking
Cost 165 euros / person
Read MoreRead Less
Event Dates
Included
Not included
Do nοt forget
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 7 days or more prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are automatically reimbursed for the full activity price.
- Cancellation between 3 and 7 days prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are entitled to a 50% reimbursement.
- Cancellation 3 days or later are what we call last-minute cancellations. No reimbursements will be effected.
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.