Perfect Parnitha: Explore Athens’ most famous mountain escape on a nature and culture hike

Have you heard about the “Great Wall” of Attica? What role did Parnitha play in the holy procession to the legendary Oracle of Delphi (Pythida)? And how did refrigerators work in old Athens? Your destination angel for the day, an experienced scientist and guide, will enrich your experience with answers to these kinds of questions and offer colourful insights about the environmental and historic legacy of this special destination.

 

You will visit the "fortress of democracy", in the West of Parnitha, where General Thrasyvoulos consolidated democracy in 404 BC (get your camera ready for the epic view across the Athenian plain!). Next up is the Monastery of "Κleiston”, clinging to the edge of gorgeous “Giannoula” Gorge. Discover the remarkable trick the resident nuns used to carry the candle across the monastery and through the canyon to the cave of Faneromeni.

 

Now let’s hike on a section of wooded trail built on the ancient aqueduct that once transferred spring water from the Keladan River, supplying the city of Eleusis. If we are lucky, we may meet the most beautiful resident of Parnitha ... the red deer! Finally, we will refuel with a traditional Greek meal at one of Parnitha’s well known tavernas before stopping in briefly at the Ancient wall of Dema.