A single timed transfer will be provided from Thessaloniki Airport to the group hotel in Kastraki. The scenic journey takes approximately 2.5hrs and we will have views of the mountains, towns and villages along the way. Kastraki is a small town located in the region of West Macedonia, Greece. Meaning "small castle" this small peaceful town has a laid-back feel to it and is the perfect base for our visit to Meteora. From afar the large village looks like an eagle's nest at the bottom of two gigantic rocks! Protected by the Greek government and under a preservation order, Kastraki is famed for traditional houses with roofs of clay tiles local inhabitants who proudly make sure each garden has an abundance of flowers in residence! During dinner this evening our leader will brief us on the week ahead.

Today we visit the amazing area of Meteora and enter two of the spectacular monasteries. We'll walk around western Meteora, following the old paths the monks used to use to wind their way amongst the tall rock-towers. These paths then ascend up these gigantic rocks, taking us up to the cliff top monasteries. We will have enough time to visit two of the most important ones: the Megalo Meteoro, and the Varlaam. A UNESCO world heritage site, Meteora is a mystery of nature as monasteries sit suspended in the air on towering sandstone rocks. Formed approximately 60 million years ago, these amazing structures were shaped by weather and earthquakes over time. Meaning "suspended in the air" or "in the heavens above" the whole area is a magical place containing one of the largest and most important Greek Orthodox Monastery complexes in the whole of Europe. During the 11th century monks originally settled in caves, but legends tell of them climbing higher and higher during the Turkish occupation. The first monasteries were built by bringing materials and people up the enormous rock formations with a series of ladders and baskets. In the past these sacred buildings were closed to the public, however in 1921 Queen Marie of Romania visited Meteora and was the first woman allowed to enter. Today six of them remain religious buildings, 4 for men and 2 for women. We'll visit Megalo Meteoro famed for its library, silverware, wood carvings and beautiful frescoes. Our second visit will be to Varlaam, the second biggest and one of the most beautiful, also with exquisite frescoes. (Please note that modest clothing is required for our visits to the monasteries - no vest tops or short shorts for either men or women. Women are requested to wear skirts, however a sarong is provided at the monasteries).

This morning we'll enjoy a relaxing start to the day. After breakfast we'll explore the village of Kastraki with a short walking tour and morning leg stretcher directly from our accommodation. During the morning there will be time to photograph the traditional houses and colourful gardens that Krastraki is famed for. After lunch we'll transfer (2.5hrs) to the small town of Litochoro. On the way we may have time to stop and swim in the Aegean Sea. Lithochoro is situated only a few kilometres from the sea and known as the gateway to Mount Olympus, this picturesque town is built in traditional Macedonian style. The town is a relaxing place to wander with narrow lanes, small town squares and a quaint Maritime and Folk Museum. After checking-in, there will be some free time to relax. Over dinner, the leader will brief us about the exciting trek through the UNESCO national park and walking days ahead.

Today, we commence our journey with a brief morning transfer to Prionia (770m), the highest accessible point by car. From here, our trekking adventure unfolds as we set forth towards the Spilios Agapitos Refuge, nestled atop a rocky outcrop known as "The Balcony" at 2100m. Our path meanders through beech woodland, offering a serene ambiance as we embark on a section of the renowned E4 European Mountaineer's Path, spanning all the way from Spain to Crete. This remarkable trail traverses the mountain's lower slopes, amidst a transition from deciduous to pine trees as we ascend in altitude. Well-signposted and frequented, we may even encounter mule trains ferrying supplies to the refuges dotting the mountain. Our lodging for the night, also referred to as Refuge 'A', is a spacious and meticulously maintained mountain retreat, boasting panoramic vistas, two dining areas, and a prime location. Basic restroom facilities and a restaurant adorned with vintage photographs depicting early mountain exploits add to the charm. A mere footnote in history, it wasn't until 1913 that the summit of Mytikas was first conquered by local legend Christos Kakalos alongside two Swiss mountaineers. As evening descends, we relish the scenic terrace views and partake in dinner while our leader outlines the next day's objective: the summit of Mount Olympus. The ascent of Olympus is optional, and should you opt out, our leader will tailor the pace to ensure your comfort until the group's return. Rest assured, foregoing the summit does not detract from the joy of the journey, as the trekking experience and mountain refuge stay in itself is a gratifying adventure.

Today, we embark on our journey to Olympus, a majestic mountain boasting three distinct summits - Skala (2866m), Skolio (2912m), and Mytikas (2918m). Initially, our path meanders along a zigzag trail, leading us beneath the towering presence of the mountain's three peaks. It's important to note that various options are available today, and our tour leader will select the most suitable route based on local weather conditions. We may opt to ascend Skala (2866m) before traversing to Skolio (2911m). Alternatively, if weather conditions permit and the mountain remains free of snow, we'll aim for the summit of Mytikas (2917m). Regardless of the chosen route, we are guaranteed to encounter dramatic paths and stunning vistas, particularly as we gaze upon the Cauldron, a breathtaking drop of 500 meters between Mytikas and Skolio. Ascending to the summit involves some scrambling, so a steady head for heights is essential. As the highest peak in Greece, Mount Olympus holds legendary status in Greek mythology as the dwelling place of the gods and the throne of Zeus, offering awe-inspiring views. After capturing ample mountain photographs to cherish, we begin our descent, making our way back to Refuge "A" Please note: A degree of flexibility and patience is required today due to the route being weather, trail, and group dependent. Helmets and harnesses will be provided and carried by each member of the group to ensure additional safety during the scrambling sections.

This morning we'll enjoy a later start and relaxed breakfast before hiking from Refuge A to Refuge C. The trail we take is called “Kofto”, and you may find it slightly rockier underfoot than the previous trails we've walked. After reaching the plateau, we'll explore the surrounding smaller peaks and there may also be the opportunity to walk to a nearby chapel situated on the top of a peak, Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias). With an elevation of 2803 meters, The chapel is the highest ecclesiastical building of the Orthodox Church. Tonight, we'll call the quaint and charming Refuge "C" our home. Upon our arrival, we'll have the chance to unwind and bask in the serene ambiance of the refuge's terrace, accompanied by a well-deserved celebratory beer.

This morning we'll leave the mountains and head down to the valley floor. There are numerous trails and if we're lucky we may spot the birds of prey that live and soar in the national park. Here vultures, eagles and falcons are all residents alongside storks, doves and hoopoe. The park is famed for its abundance of butterflies and reptiles plus chamois, wolf, wild boar, fox, jackel, wild cat and squirrels. One thing is for sure we'll enjoy a walk out of the park before our transfer to Litochoro. After checking-in there will be time to for a stroll before we meet up to enjoy a final group dinner. Tonight there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy a glass or two of the local ouzo, metaxa or retsina.

The holiday ends after breakfast. A single timed transfer from Litochoro to Thessaloniki Airport is provided.