Step onto trails that have carried travellers for centuries. From pilgrims seeking the Oracle of Delphi to merchants and shepherds, every path you hike is steeped in history, belief, and tradition, far from modern tourist routes. Set out on an unforgettable self-guided 6-day trek through historic landscapes, rugged mountain terrain, and lush Mediterranean valleys in central Greece. This unique route blends sections of the European Long-Distance E4 Trail and Path 22, tracing the ancient paths once walked by pilgrims making their way to the sacred sanctuary of Delphi.
Starting high in the northern slopes of Mt. Parnassos, you’ll traverse quiet forest trails, alpine plateaus, and rolling pastoral lands before descending to the famed UNESCO-listed Delphi olive grove and the sparkling Corinthian Gulf coastline in Itea.
If you’re looking for a softer hiking experience, our 4-day Ancient Path hike is a lovely way to explore the region at your own pace.
Arrive in Eptalofos and settle into your hotel. This picturesque Greek mountain village features a small waterfall and a traditional village square shaded by centuries-old plane trees, offering a peaceful and authentic start to your journey.
Hike on the northern side of Mount Parnassos, following Path 22 to Polydrosos, a quiet agricultural village. The area has always been fertile and, in ancient times, was known as “Erochos,” meaning “love for the Earth.”
Today, Polydrosos is home to the Argyriou family winery, which focuses on reviving long-forgotten local grape varieties and produces nine distinctive and high-quality wines.
Polydrosos is surrounded by natural springs and dense fir forests. At the start of the hike, you will notice several large cottages, as the area is popular with families from Athens for winter weekend retreats.
As you ascend, the trail passes through farmland and forested areas with endemic species such as Cephalonian fir and juniper trees. The hiking day ends at the Defner
Mountain Hut, located at an altitude of 1,845 m. This traditional mountain refuge offers simple but comfortable facilities for an overnight stay at altitude. Situated on the border between the alpine zone and the fir forest, it provides a unique setting for rest and relaxation.
After settling in, a hot dinner will be served. In clear weather, the wooden veranda of the hut offers panoramic views of the Corinthian Gulf.
Today’s hike explores the alpine zone of Mount Parnassos. We suggest an ascent to Gerontovrachos Peak (2,396 m), which is accessible on foot without special equipment from spring to autumn.
In the alpine environment, you may encounter rare endemic plant and insect species, as well as shepherds tending flocks of sheep or goats. Please avoid walking through the flocks, as shepherd dogs may become protective. Mount Parnassos is famous throughout Greece for its high-quality feta cheese, produced from the milk of animals grazing in these high-altitude pastures.
Along the way, you will see the circular stone ruins of old shepherd huts that once accommodated large groups during the summer months. The 360-degree panoramic view from the summit of Gerontovrachos is truly spectacular.
Descend to the Livadi Plateau via a local trail and enjoy the evening in the village of Arachova.
Begin by following a local path across the Livadi Plateau at an altitude of 1,200 m, before joining the E4 European Long-Distance Trail. This is a historic and inspiring route that descends the slopes of Mount Parnassos toward Delphi.
The trail follows the ancient footpath once used by worshippers of God Pan, who travelled from the sanctuaries of Delphi to the Corycian Grotto to perform sacred rites. Walking through lush forests, you gradually descend to the Delphi Sanctuary, a magical setting overlooking the vast olive grove of the valley and the Corinthian Gulf, with the mountains of the Peloponnese rising in the distance.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to visit the Temple of Apollo and the archaeological site.
Follow a downhill path and quiet rural road from Delphi to the outskirts of Chrisso village. In antiquity, the city of Crissa welcomed pilgrims visiting the Oracle of Delphi.
Continuing in the footsteps of ancient travellers, you hike through the heart of the Crisaean Olive Grove, a UNESCO-listed landscape of more than 1.5 million olive trees. Enjoy the unique scenery as the silver-green leaves shift colour throughout the day and admire the naturally sculpted trunks of impressive centuries-old trees.
The hike concludes by the sea in Itea, a charming coastal town and small port on the Corinthian Gulf.
2026:
2027:
Optional Single room:
100€/ person
Extra night in Itea:
52€/ person in a double room
80€/ person in a single room
Extra transfer to the tour starts from Athens:
185€/ person for 2-3 participants
122€/ person for 4-7 participants
Extra transfer from the tour finish to Athens:
185€/ person for 2-3 participants
122€/ person for 4-7 participants
Extra transfer from Itea (finish) to Eptalofos (start):
60€/ person for 2-3 participants
40€/ person for 4-7 participants
Urgent on-the-spot car support after calling
195€
Guided services supplement per day (Semi-Guided):
195€
For the self-guided tours, detailed and up-to-date maps and descriptions of the hiking routes are provided based on the latest available information. The aim is to make self-guided adventures safe and enjoyable; however, participants undertake the hikes at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety, navigation, and decision-making during the trip. They are also responsible for assessing their fitness, carrying appropriate equipment, and following local laws and safety guidelines. The company’s liability is limited to the offered services described in the provided section.
Price from €552
DECLARE INTERESTMeeting Point: Your hotel in Polidroso
