Thessalian Olympus, the eastern side of the mythical mountain, offers visitors a unique experience of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Access from Elassona is easy, making it an ideal starting point for exploration. The Olympus National Park, the first to be established in Greece in 1938, is home to a rich biodiversity with more than 1,700 plant species, many of which are endemic. The park’s trails lead through forests, gorges, and alpine landscapes, offering unforgettable experiences for hikers and nature lovers. The Olympus area is home to important monasteries of historical and religious significance.
The western side of Mount Olympus, accessible from Elassona, is an ideal destination for mountain activities throughout the year. A landmark is the Christaki Refuge, the starting point for mountaineering routes to the highest peaks of Olympus, such as Mytikas, Skolio, and Agios Antonios. In winter, the unique organized ski center of Olympus, “Vrysopoules,” stands out, where mountaineering skiing and other winter activities take place. The area is also popular for hiking on forest trails, climbing, and paragliding from the location of Tourtofolia, with breathtaking views of the Thessalian plain.The experience is enriched by visits to historic monasteries and activities related to local livestock farming and agricultural production.
The byzantine monastery of Panagia Olympiotissa is the most important of these. The monasteries of Agia Triada Sparmou, Theotokou Kanalon, Agia Triada Livadiou, and Agios Dimitrios Valetsiko are also interesting. Most were built or renovated in the 17th and 18th centuries, a period of flourishing monasticism in the area around Olympus and in Thessaly in general. Also of interest are the Catholic churches (central churches) of several dissolved monasteries, such as Agios Athanasios in Tsaritsani and Agios Antonios in Kokkinogi. The natural landscape of thessalian Olympus is characterized by alternating forests, alpine meadows, and steep peaks, providing refuge for rare species of fauna and flora. The area is also known for its livestock farming tradition, producing renowned local products such as Elassona feta cheese, honey, and aromatic herbs, which are an integral part of the local cuisine. Thessalian Olympus harmoniously combines natural beauty, historical heritage, and traditional life, offering a complete experience for visitors seeking both adventure and cultural discovery.
The Sparmou Monastery is situated on the slopes of Olympus and was built in the 16th century...
Kanalon Monastery is in a panoramic location on the south-east side of Olympus and is only 6km from Karya village...
At the western plateaus of Olympus, close to Pythio village, two small chapels are preserved inside caves which were ascetic dwellings of anchorite monks...
The Olympus National Park, the first to be established in Greece in 1938, is one of the country’s most important natural treasures. It stretches across the southwestern slopes of Mount Olympus, encompassing a unique ecosystem with more than 1,700 plant species, many of which are endemic. The park is characterised by impressive landscape variations – from beech, pine and fir forests to alpine zones and steep peaks. The fauna includes rare species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. The network of marked trails allows visitors to explore the mountain safely and with respect for the environment. Mount Olympus, beyond its mythical status, is a living symbol of natural and cultural heritage.
