3-day at Olympus: Krevatia refuge to Petrostrouga – Muses Plateau to Barbalas ridge

Explore the legendary mountain of the gods, Olympus. Experience the awe felt by pioneers like Daniel-Baud Bovy, Fred Boissonnas, and Christos Kakalos as they first stepped on its mythical paths. Admire breathtaking views of ravines, valleys, and misty landscapes. Capture unforgettable memories and photos that will evoke emotions for years to come.  Immerse yourself in the history and mythology of the gods on Mt Olympus, where the first men arrived after the gods left.

Day 1: Meeting at Krevatia refuge

We are going to meet at the Krevatia refuge, which is located on the northeastern outskirts of Olympus. This location boasts an incredible view of Skourta and the steep northern slopes of Laimos, which are essential for the water supply in the surrounding area’s streams. Our meeting will begin at 19:00, and during this time, we will discuss the adventure, check the gear, and get to know each other in a laid-back setting while enjoying a glass of wine and the lovely evening.

Guests have the option of sleeping on bunks in a mountain refuge or in a tent designed for two people (we provide the tent and the mattress)

• Meals: no meal is included

Day 2: Krevatia to Petrostrouga

Even though we have a significant distance to travel, the beginning of our day will be calm and beautiful because we will be moving through a thick forest on our way to the impressive rombola. The vegetation in this forest will constantly alternate between beech, pine, and fir trees, and it will end at the rombola. Because it travels through a variety of tiny and large streams, including Papa’s most stunning stream, which is located after the Krevatia refuge, it is one of the most scenic routes. It will take us between six and seven hours to go to the Petrostrouga shelter and do everything we set out to do today. At this point, we are going to take in the expansive vista of the Thermaikos Gulf and the Pieriki shore. At the night the lights of Katerini and Thessaloniki give the scene an outstanding appearance.

• Hiking time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 12 km
• Gain altitude: 1465 meters
• Accommodation: in bunk beds in a mountain shelter.
• Meals: breakfast, dinner

Day 3: Petrostrouga-Muses Plateau – Krevatia

After a hearty breakfast, we will begin the trek to the Plateau of the Muses by the classic route, during which the throne of Zeus will unroll in front of us, and the blue Aegean will trail behind us as the sun rises over the horizon. The wide path up in the corridor of “Laimos” is spectacular, and when you reach the Muses’ plateau, you can relax while admiring Zeus’ majestic throne. Here, we’ll rest and get our bearings for about an hour. Then, we’ll take the path that leads to the impressive Barbala ridge, which is very difficult to climb, but we have to go down it, and the only thing we have to remember is to be careful with every step as we move on the first few meters of the loose slope. From the plateau to Krevatia shelter, it’s only 8 km downhill, which runs along the ridge and gives us a clear view of the steep northern slopes of Mount Olympus and the Aegean.

Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on weather and participant skill level.

• Hiking time: 7-8 hours
• Distance: 14.2km
• Gain altitude: 950
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch pack