Mount Kithaironas – Winter Hiking on Trail 22

On Sunday, February 1st, we invite you to a winter hiking and mountain trekking experience on Mount Kithaironas, following a beautiful trail through dense fir forest, open ridgelines and panoramic viewpoints.

🔶 What You Will Experience

A complete hiking and mountain trekking adventure on Mount Kithaironas, with terrain that changes from dense fir forest to open alpine scenery and impressive ridge views. From the midpoint of the route up to the summit of Elatia, the trail becomes rockier and requires familiarity with mountain terrain. In case of snow cover, the difficulty increases significantly and extra caution is required.

The route begins at the Vangelis Tsakos Mountain Shelter and follows trail no. 22 through fir forest, with steady ascent and clear waymarking. As we gain altitude, the landscape gradually opens up, revealing stunning views of the surrounding mountains before the terrain becomes steeper and rockier approaching the ridge.

• Beautiful trail through dense forest
• Open alpine plateau with wide mountain views
• Calm winter atmosphere and fresh mountain air
• Striking natural formations and old fir trees
• Photographic spots throughout the route

🔶 Route Highlights

Along the ascent we reach a natural viewpoint overlooking the Plataies plain, followed by a saddle with panoramic views towards the Gulf of Corinth, Porto Germeno, Psatha and the Geraneia Mountains. The final section becomes rockier as we approach the ridge and the Elatia summit (1,409 m), the highest point of Mount Kithaironas.

• Well-formed trail through pristine fir forest
• Elevation gain with rewarding mountain views
• Impressive trees and geological formations
• Alpine plateau revealing the character of Mount Kithaironas
• Ridge section with notable photographic interest

🔶 Why Join This Experience

This route is ideal for hikers seeking a mountain adventure close to Athens, with diverse scenery and well-balanced difficulty.

• Short drive from Athens – perfect for a one-day mountain escape
• A wide variety of landscapes in a single route
• Well-balanced difficulty without technical sections

🔶 Wanderlust Peaks Project

This activity marks the introductory experience of the Wanderlust Peaks Project — a series of mountain ascents to selected peaks across Greece, focusing on immersive outdoor experiences, proper preparation and a safe approach to the mountain environment.

The maximum number of participants for this activity is limited to 35 people, ensuring smooth group flow, high-quality guidance and overall safety throughout the experience.

🔶 Participation Requirements

Essential information for a safe and enjoyable experience. The route includes rocky sections near the summit and requires prior experience in mountain hiking. In snowy conditions, difficulty increases.

• Good physical condition
• Experience in mountain hiking terrain
• Hiking or mountaineering boots with good traction
• Trekking poles
• Winter-appropriate clothing
• Waterproof/windproof jacket
• Hat & gloves

🔶 Practical Information

Useful details before the hike. The terrain gradually shifts from forest to rocky slopes as we approach the summit ridge, requiring stable footing — especially in case of snow or frost.

• Meeting point: Vangelis Tsakos Mountain Shelter, Mount Kithaironas
• Meeting time: 09:30 a.m.
• Transportation by private cars or car pooling
• Booking: required in advance – payment instructions will be sent via email

🔶 After the Hike

Optionally, after the completion of the hike, participants may individually and at their own discretion visit local taverns in the area for a meal.
Wanderlust Outdoor Activities & Travel does not organise, coordinate or take part in any meal arrangement.

🔶 Included

Services provided by Wanderlust Outdoor Activities.

• 80gr cereal bar & 500ml aloe vera juice by Naturals
• Certified hiking guides
• Group first-aid kit
• Professional liability insurance
• Satellite communication system (Iridium)
• VHF radio communication
• Planning and execution of the activity

🔶 Not Included

Anything not clearly mentioned in the program.

• Transportation to and from Mount Kithaironas
• Lunch at the tavern
• Anything not listed above

🔶 Useful Links

Helpful resources before the hike.

Exact Meetup Location / GPS

What to Bring for a Day Hike – Complete Equipment Guide

Hiking Difficulty Grades – Which Route Suits You?