Only a few places in Greece are blessed with so many beautiful mountains. Mt. Parnassos, Mt. Giona, Mt. Vardousia and Mt. Oiti make up the majestic mountain complex of the Delphic land. Lovers of mountain sports and getaways could not enjoy these places of unparalleled beauty in any other way. The ski center, traditional villages, mountain sports, local traditional hospitality and cuisine, or dynamic touring on road or 4Χ4, pervasive historical reality and wealthy nature are just a few of the experiences by which mountain tourism at Delphi can reward you. With the change of the season, the mountain landscape offers a different pleasure. Discovery, adventure, action, and romance are the protagonists. We hand them over to you.
It has an elevation of 2,457m. One of the tallest mountains in Greece. Its mountaintops and slopes carry legends, myths & stories which until today give food to one of the most historical mountains in the country. Over the centuries, its existence has been directly linked with the ancient Oracle of Delphi. A place of worldwide heritage that reigns on its southern slopes at an elevation of 550m and is a large tourist attraction. It hosts the Parnassos Ski Center, which is the largest in Greece. Its rich biodiversity resulted in the foundation of the Parnassos National Park in 1938 that covers an area of 3,513 hectares. Due to its geophysical landscape, it was the epicenter of the Greek Revolution in 1821, while quaint towns and villages "reside" here. So does the unique “paeonia parnassica”.
It has an elevation of 2,510m. It stands imperiously at the end of the backbone of the Mt. Pindos mountain range; it is the tallest mountain in Greece from Mt. Olympos and below and one of the most beautiful Greek mountains. An alpine mountain with streams, deep gorges and steep cliffs, the largest being Sykia that reaches 1,100m. It has a wild, strong beauty as well as wild flora and fauna that find refuge here. It is ideal for mountaineering and it also has a mountaineering shelter. Mt. Giona was yet another Greek mountain that gave refuge during the great historical times in Greek history. Caves, gorges and rocks were resistance hideouts both during the Greek Revolution of 1821 and later during WWII at which time the cave of Stromi was the secret headquarters for blowing up the Gorgopotamos bridge.
They have an elevation of 2,495m. It is a mountain complex spread over three geographic locations. It is an alpine mountain which has breathtaking beauty. Rich foliage, forests, spring waters and mountainous grasslands that come to life in the summer. The mountains are divided by the Morno & Evino rivers that branch out into many tributaries to create an amazing setting. It is ideal for mountaineering and it also has some unique rock climbing locations. It also has two mountaineering shelters. The first which belongs to the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering & Climbing (E.O.O.S.) and is managed by E.O.S. Amphissa is located at Pitimaliko (1,750m) and the second, which belongs to the Athens Hiking Club (POA) is located at Meterizia (1950m). The most southern European site of life of the wild goat rupicapra rupicapra balcanica has been sighted here.
It has an elevation of 2,152m. A unique mountain in Central Greece that carries the history, civilizations and myths over the ages. It has a unique flora and fauna and constitutes the natural border between Fokida and Fthiotida. For centuries it is home to the mythical monument, "Pyra tou Irakleous" (Hercules' Fire) the place where Hercules tragically burnt in a great fire to remove the "chiton” (robe) given to him by his wife Dianeira. Since the Dorians, many great cultural developments have taken place on the mountain, while modern historical activities have also left their mark. This magical mountain is made up of pastures, plateaus, sinkholes, and waterfalls. It is home to the Mt. Oiti National Park since 1966 for the protection of its large biodiversity.
The Delphic land is a place that is blessed by nature as almost all of it (about 70%) is covered in greenery. A tour through our magnificent forests will make you feel how wonderfully oxygen strengthens the mind and the senses. Fir trees forests, national parks, cedar tree forests, alpine landscapes, wild fauna, rare flora, hidden and smooth mountain tops, gorges, waterfalls, springs, caves, plateaus, flatlands, the largest continuous olive grove in Greece, roaring torrents, sinkholes, 100km coastline, wealthy sea bottoms, isolated headlands and small tranquil beaches, mountain lakes monuments of nature, huge cliffs and the fragrant smell of nature throughout the entire land are able to make you describe the Delphic land as one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece all year round.
The perennial plane tree of Mavrolithari
A tree, which over the years, has contributed its shade and view to history and other events only to be characterized and declared a "Monuments of nature, history and national resistance" in 2012. A live reference monument that is a protagonist in the memoirs of General Makrygiannis concerning the fighters' actions in 1821, while Velouchiotis and Zervas shook on their reconciliation and agreement to blow up the Gorgopotamos bridge before this tree during the resistance against the Germans in 1940.
The perennial "Pournara" (Holly Oak) of Kastriotissa.
After having lived a few hundred years, a small holly oak shrub managed to become one of the largest trees-shrubs in Greece. This exceptional story of the Pournara led the Goulandris Foundation regarding Nature to declare it a "Monument of nature" in 2012. This perennial Pournara prevails in the old courtyard area of the old monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Koimisis tis Theotokou) (presently the town square) that dates back to the 16th century and surrounded the castle. Hence the name Kastriotissa.
Possible one of the most beautiful gorges in Greece is at Mt. Giona. A unique geological formation in a wild and breathtaking landscape that invites you in its own way to enter the heart of one of the largest mountains in Greece. Characterized as a "wild life refuge", the gorge of Rekkas dares you to pass through and enjoy it and to lock this memory in your mind forever. Always with the appropriate caution and suitable equipment. Whether ascending or descending the gorge, at the end of the course (about 4-8 hours depending on the starting and finishing points - Viniani or the plateaus and the peaks of Mt. Giona), the beauty of the insurmountable nature of the Delphic land has taken a place in your heart. Forever.
Geographical Longitude:23o 31 27 / Geographical Latitude:38o 33 39
Founded in 1938. It was the second Greek National Park following Olympos. It covers an area of 3,695 hectares. The quality and significance of the area are due to the ecological and aesthetic value of its natural elements, mainly its biodiversity. From an ecological aspect, it has a large variety of vegetation with exceptional structure. There are alpine meadows at high altitudes, bare rocks and an impressive Abies cephalonica (Greek fir) forest. The above characteristics in combination with its interesting geomorphology establish the region extremely rich in flora and fauna. Its core complies with the Special Protection Area (SPA) under the Directive 79/409 on the conservation of wild birds. The area is significant for birds of prey, woodpeckers and other birds. http://www.parnassosnp.gr/
The (Paeonia parnassica) is an extremely beautiful endemic species that belongs to the Paeonia family and genus. It was discovered in 1985 and it can only be found in Greece and specifically on Parnassos. Its flower has a deep maroon red wine color and it blooms in May with its flower lasting 2-3 weeks. The species grows in openings and slopes of the Abies cephalonica forest. It is possible that its beauty and the lepidoptera are the reason that it is listed as a threatened species today. If you ever come across it in a forest, indulge in it and in the magnificence of nature without harming it. The respect or disrespect for nature always returns to its exponents.
A cave full of myths and legends and with findings from the Neolithic Period that is located on the western slopes of Mt. Parnassos, close to Delphi. An area with unique natural architecture that impresses with its amphitheatrical dimensions. Vessels from the Mycenaean period testify the sporadic use of the cave during that period. The abundance of materials from the Archaic, Classic and Roman period are of particular interest. The ankles of animals that are salvaged in large quantities constitute a remarkable finding. Certain researchers interpret the ankles as a child's game while others as items of worship or divination. The second version is consistent with the use of the cave as an oracle. It was also a place of revolutionary activity in 1821. A path leads from the "Paliopanagia" region, close to the National Park entrance, to this unique, natural, and historical cave.
When nature has bestowed you with 4 magnificent mountains and a landscape that changes scenery at every turn, it is impossible to resist the natural balconies that the Delphic land has prepared overlooking the geophysical setting of Roumeli. Here, in the heart of Greece, the human eye can easily feel that it is in an imagined setting, which even the camera has not been able to capture. If you are lucky enough to pass by these beautiful balconies, stop cautiously and allow your gaze and hearing capture moments that will enrich your soul and last for a lifetime.
On the outskirts of the village Vounichora, at the foothills of Mt. Giona, fourteen kilometers from Galaxidi is the gorgeous Cedar Tree Forest of Vounichora. It is a natural monument of unique beauty that is easily accessible to visits via the village. In this unique Cedar Tree Forest on Mt. Giona, you will find trees with large, bulky trunks and irregular branches that will fascinate you. The cedar tree has needle-like leaves and it does not need much water to grow. The aromatic wood of these trees is yet another property of the unique Cedar Tree Forest of Vounichora. A short distance from the Cedar Tree Forest you can visit the cave Vitrina and the neighboring villages Penteoria and Aghia Efthymia.
In the Desphina region you are able to meet one of the wildest, but also most exciting corners of the Delphic land. The large peninsula of Makrynikola (named after the monastery at the end of the cape) is the natural eastern border of the Delphic land. The road is accessible up to a point by car, then by 4X4 only to end up on foot for the rest of the path. The emotions and images of this spectacular peninsula peak at the rocky cape with the old monastery of Makrynikola that was built by the monk Gavriil in 1886. Given that there is also a small pier, the peninsula is also accessible by sea (weather permitting).
With 4 spectacular mountains, mountain sports take center stage. Each mountain has its own thrills, different experiences, and unique enjoyment. The Parnassos Ski Center is the largest ski resort in Greece that offers organized fun in the snow. Here, mountaineering and rock climbing are exhilarating experiences on their own. So is hiking along short or long, breathtaking paths. Here, parapente releases all your emotions, while mountain biking takes you where few have been. The same goes for kayaking at Kallieis. Whether you take a simple walk or you are up for Nordic walking over flatlands and through forests, the enjoyment of the exercise and coming into contact with nature is simply spectacular. And if you avid for 4X4, our mountains are home to the most thrilling routes
The largest ski center in Greece is located on Delphic land. With 19 runs (50m - 4km for all levels), 7 ski routes, 10 paths/trails and 3 mini slopes for beginners totaling approximately 36 kilometers in length, snow sports fans will be thrilled. For adventure seekers there are 12 "black", back country runs with deep snow and lots of adrenaline. The Parnassos Ski Center stands out for the high safety levels at its facilities, its machinery, and its operation in general. There are two cafes-chalet & restaurant in the Center, ski and snowboard schools, rental stores for ski and snowboard equipment and a child minding service with a playground for the younger visitors, while a new ski and snowboard equipment maintenance store has started its operation at "Kelaria 1750". The Parnassos Ski Center ensures medical coverage to all skiers and visitors. http://www.parnassos-ski.gr/
Four spectacular mountains are at your feet for unique mountaineering experiences. Generally, speaking, the mountains of the Delphic land offer the most intense thrills that you can imagine on Greek soil. To truly enjoy our mountains, ideally with good company, you should always have the proper equipment, be cautious, follow safety rules, and naturally have a good knowledge of the routes as well as the prevailing weather conditions for each season, according to circumstance. All we need to do is to recommend the nicest mountaineering routes. Do not hesitate to contact the Greek Mountaineering Association of Amphissa (EOS), which has been at the top of the mountaineering associations in Greece for years.
Mt. Giona
> Kaloskopi – Karkanos – Lazorema – Vathia Lakka - Pyramida
> Sykia – Lazorema – Vathia Lakka - Pyramida
> Kaloskopi – Krya vrysi – Kritharolaka – Platyvouna - Shelter
> Viniani – Gorge of Rekkas – Mylos – Shelter - Pyramida
Mt. Parnassos
> Ε4 International path (Agoriani – Kalania – Kroki – Delphi) [yellow-black]
> Tithorea (Velitsa) - Liakoura - Gerontovrachos - Defner Shelter – Arkoudorema - Kalyvia Livadiou - Korykio Antro - Paliopanagia - Kroki – Delphi [red-white]
> Ano Polydrosso - Kelaria 1750 - Defner Shelter - Stavros - Arachova
[yellow-white]
> National path Ε22 (Polydrosso - Ano Polydrosso - Kelaria 1750 - 1950 - Gerontovrachos - Tsarkos - Hani Zemenou) [red]
Mt. Vardousia
> Athanasios Diakos – Prophet Elias - Pitimaliko (EOS Shelter) – Hikers' Shelter
> Athanasios Diakos – EOS Shelter – Megas Kambos – Lift – Mousounitsa / Ath. Diakos
These majestic mountains offer rock-climbing lovers incredible rocks and enjoyable routes for every level. The two large rock climbing fields of Mt. Giona (Portes) and Mt. Vardousia (Korakas, Gidovouni, Skorda, Pyramida, etc) and more than 100 routes on these mountains offer you the opportunity to become acquainted with the wild beauty of the Delphic land, while enjoying your favorite sport with safety, whether organized or not. The Greek Mountaineering Association of Amphissa (EOS) is always available to assist you with your thoughts, ideas, and intentions.
With a network of modern & ancient paths, the Delphic land looks forward to recharging your hiking batteries that hold onto the memory of nature forever. Choose the route that suits you best according to your physical condition or the geophysical landscape that you prefer. The mountains' beautiful forest complexes meet caves, cultural landmarks and traditional settlements that are the bearers of history & legends. In the end, they will disclose the reasons why nature and history lovers choose the Delphic land each year for their unique journey-getaway in time. Put your boots on, take your stick, hat, water, snack, & windbreaker in your backpack, and experience the magic of hiking in the heart of Greece.
Paths - Hiking routes
> Delphi-Kirra ancient path ßà
> Delphi – Kroki – Parnassos National Park – Korykio Antro ßà
> Path Ε4, Delphi – Kalania – Eptalofos – Kaloskopi – Ath. Diakos (Multi-day) ßà
> Delphi – Pleistos River – Cochran/Desphina Peak ßà
> Delphi – Pleistos – Chrisso – Delphi ßà
> Delphi – Kroki (observation point)
> Polydrosso – Eptalofos ßà
> Polydrosso – Kellaria ßà
> Athanasios Diakos – Mousounitsa ßà
> Kaloskopi – Mnimata - Platyvouna
> Viniani – Gorge of Rekkas - Shelter ßà
> Amphissa – Harmaina – Sotiro – Castle of Oria - Amphissa ßà
> Galaxidi Port – Mylos – Kentri – Port ßà
> Itea – Ag. Anargyri
> Ag. Georgios – "Portes" Field – Prophet Elias
> Vargiani – Gravia ßà
> Vounichora – Kedrodasos (Cedar Tree Forest)
Slaloming in the sky overlooking the beauty of the Delphic land is simply magical. The images and adrenaline rush that is brought on by the paraglider and wind currents stimulate the senses. Whether you take off from the ramp at Aghia Efthymia or from the smooth slopes of Delphi and Stavros, the launch over the Delphic land can only offer you unique thrills. Do not hesitate to contact the Sky Diving Club of Fokida & Central Greece with your needs and thoughts about an exhilarating experience in the heart of Greece. http://afostel.blogspot.gr/
A forest, a slope, a crest, a national park, a valley, or a plateau can offer you the best moments all year round. From the summer or winter descent at the Ski Center, the paths and forest routes of the Parnassos National Park to the olive grove of Amphissa, the slopes of Mt. Giona, Mt. Vardousia and Mt. Oiti, the land beneath the wheels will always be there, so that you can skillfully take control and enjoy yet another favorite sport, here, in the heart of Greece.
You could not enjoy Nordic walking any better. The walking method from Scandinavia that uses poles and has taken the world by storm. This technique allows you to discover amazing places on Delphic land such as the archeological site of Delphi, the Parnassos National Park, the great olive grove of Amphissa, the beachfront of Galaxidi and Itea, our traditional villages and routes through the beautiful wellness forests. Nordic exercising has plenty of benefits that focus on blood circulation and the results of aerobic exercise as well as the metabolism, the strengthening of muscle mass and the general assistance of the human body. Even more so in an environment where exercise is converted into a life experience. http://www.nordicwalkingingreece.gr/
Two kayaking course of exceptional beauty and different difficulty levels are hosted in the Ano Morno River, in the Kallieis region, in the flow/direction towards the artificial lake of Morno. The first begins outside of Stromi and goes up to the bridge towards Mousounitsa; from there a classical course runs until Lefkaditi, the limits of the lake. Two unique courses that need to be added to the yearly schedule of every kayaker that lives or visits Greece.
For lovers of off road touring, there is an abundance of courses that you can enjoy on our magnificent mountains. Other than the classic connecting roads, there are wide dirt roads the run through the entire Delphic territory. This type of tour can be enjoyed all year round, with extra caution being paid during the winter months and the first months of spring when the snow on our mountains demands the appropriate caution, safety, preparation and of course, knowledge of the relative routes. In these cases under such circumstances, the reward is significant and guaranteed.
Emerging from the laced mountain road, whether clearly or unexpectedly, are small traditional villages and settlements, which for Greece and of course for Delphi, are elements of our own life. The central square, the plane tree, the fountain, the balcony within nature, a warm good morning and smile, a coffee, a treat, a lending hand, a meal, a story, a piece of advice, a custom, a moment that makes every visit to a mountainous village unique. And if your heart is asking for more, listen to it. It cannot be wrong.
Agoriani, Lilea, Mariolata, Kastellia, Vargiani, Kaloskopi, Oinochori, Sklithro, Apostolia, Panourgia, Stromi, Pyra, Kastriotissa, Athanasios Diakos, Mousounitsa, Eleonas, Prosilio, Drosochori, Aghia Efthymia, Tritea, Vounichora, Pentoria, Aghii Pantes.
The lady of the northern slopes of Mt. Parnassos. Water, springs, waterfalls, traditional cuisine and the warm atmosphere of a mountainous landscape with an organized hospitality network very close to the Parnassos Ski Center, looks forward to welcoming you all year round. (40’ from Delphi)
Accommodation
A continuation of ancient Lilea; it is nestled in the northern foot of Mt. Parnassos among the vegetable gardens and a view of the Kifissos flatlands. (55’ from Delphi, 5’ from Polydrosso)
Accommodation
An old junction of ancient routes that embraces the main rural road shortly before Gravia. Go up the clock tower-aqueduct for a spectacular panoramic view. (60’ from Delphi, 5’ from Gravia) http://www.mariolata.gr/
Accommodation
The ancient Dorian Tetrapolis is located just 5' from Gravia, 40' from Amphissa and 60' from Delphi. The gardens, the geophysical landscape and the beauty of the land is worth the visit and walk around. http://www.kastellia.gr/loc_ks/default.asp
Accommodation
Characterized as a "remarkable traditional settlement", it is located 890m to the west of Mt. Parnassos with the hue, view, and traditional atmosphere that suits mountain tourism. (45’ from Delphi, 25’ from Amphissa, 15’ from Gravia)
Accommodation
Otherwise known as the "balcony of Mt. Giona" that is located on the northern slope of the mountain. Picturesque and smothered in greenery, it comprises of a unique folklore collection, a base of operation for hiking routes and it is the host of the grand summer musical festival "Sounds of the forest". (60’ from Delphi, 40’ from Amphissa, 20’ from Gravia) http://kaloskopi.gr/
Accommodation
A beautiful and cool village perched on the southwestern slope of Mt. Oiti at an elevation of 870m to offer oxygen to the body and mind. (75’ from Delphi, 55’ from Amphissa, 30’ from Gravia) http://oinoxori.gr/
Accommodation
Situated at an elevation of 850m among the green landscape of Mt. Oiti, the road to Sklithro is extremely breathtaking. (85’ from Delphi, 65’ from Amphissa, 40’ from Gravia).
Accommodation
Only 15' from Gravia, nestled in the foot of Mt. Oiti at an elevation of 520m, is has a spectacular open balcony that looks out over the incredible geophysical landscape of the Kifissos valley. (70’ from Delphi, 50’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
A mountain village that is located at an elevation of 1,060m, with a sensational view of the beautiful wild peaks of Mt. Giona. (70’ from Delphi, 50’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
A historical village is located at an elevation of 880m in the verdant slopes of Mt. Giona surrounded by waterfalls, torrents and caves - like the one in the plan to blow up the Gorgopotamos bridge - in a magnificent landscape.
(80’ from Delphi, 60’ from Amphissa, 30’ from Gravia)
Accommodation
Otherwise known as Pyra Irakleous (Hercules’ Fire) from the homonymous archeological site & myth. It is one of the highest mountain settlements in Greece located at an elevation of 1,160m on the slopes of Mt. Oiti. (80’ from Delphi, 70’ from Amphissa) http://www.pyra.gr/
Accommodation
Located on the slopes of Mt. Oiti at an elevation of 1,160m, this village has a long history that dates back centuries and is home to the perennial "Pournara" (Holly Oak tree) that has been declared a "Monument of Nature". (90’ from Delphi, 80’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
At the birthplace of Athanasios Diakos, the hero of the Greek Revolution of 1821, you will find the "Athanasios Diakos Museum" and the "Athanasios Diakos Academy". It is located at an elevation of 1,050m beneath the steep peaks of Mt. Vardousia and is a mountaineering, rock climbing and hiking center. (100’ from Delphi, 90’ from Amphissa, 45’ from Gravia)
Accommodation
A village that is located at an elevation of 860m smothered in foliage and running water from the eastern slopes of Mt. Vardousia that has spectacular views. (90’ from Delphi, 80’ from Amphissa, 35’ from Gravia) http://mousounitsa.freehostia.com/to_xwrio_mas.html
Accommodation
The northern end of the great olive grove of Amphissa is built on an impressive panoramic setting of rocks and water that runs down to the olive grove from Mt. Parnassos. (30’ from Delphi, 10’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
The cool, chestnut village, which is located on the Mt. Parnassos at an elevation of 910m is also known because of the rally Acropolis special stages. (35’ from Delphi, 15’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
Three settlements beginning at an elevation of 450m (Viniani) to 850m (Prosilio) on the verdant slopes of Mt. Giona, which has spectacular mountaineering and hiking routes and the incredible gorge of Rekkas. (35’ from Delphi, 15’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
A historical and martyr village on the slopes of Mt. Giona at an elevation of 470m. The seat of ancient Myonia, the birthplace of the literary writer Giannis Skarimpas, and the fighters of 1821 has a parapente launching ramp. (35’ from Delphi, 15’ from Amphissa) http://www.agiathimia.com/
Accommodation
Known as Kolopetinitsa until 1927, this village which is located at a distance of 15' from Itea, is hidden in a small verdant plateau. (35’ from Delphi)
Accommodation
Yet another historical and martyr village that is located on the beautiful slopes and grassland of Mt. Giona at an elevation of 680m. Its cedar tree forest is exceptional. (45’ from Delphi, 25’ from Amphissa)
Accommodation
Hidden in the slopes of Mt. Giona at an altitude of 480m with a history that dates back to the Pelasgians, this village is located at a distance of 15' from Galaxidi. (45’ from Delphi).
Accommodation
A cluster of three settlements from the mountain to the sea that makes up the eastern border of the Municipality of Delphi. (50’ from Delphi, 15’ from Galaxidi).
Accommodation