Gortsia to Petrostrouga and Muses Plateau Hiking Trail

Embark on a 12-kilometer odyssey along the Litochoro–Prionia road, where a narrow trail to the right leads to the enchanting Gortsia. This locale marks the starting point of a wide path that winds its way to the spectacular Muses Plateau, home to the renowned refuges of Christos Kakkalos and Giosos Apostolidis. Immerse yourself in nature as two-thirds of the journey weaves through an enchanting forest, while the remainder unfolds in an alpine landscape adorned with low vegetation.

Prior to the ascent, ensure an ample supply of water as there are no reliable springs along the route. While two springs exist at Strango and within the beech tree forest, reaching them requires a brief 10 to 15-minute diversion from the main path. The initial landmark on this captivating journey is the flat expanse known as Barba.

Continuing through a beech tree forest and ascending along a ridge, hikers encounter a cement water tank. A brief leftward diversion from the tank unveils a cave that was the longtime dwelling of Vasilis Ithakisios, the esteemed artist of Olympus.

Ascending to Alpine Grandeur

Proceeding to Petrostrouga at an elevation of 2,000 meters, behold the impressive age-old Bosnian pine trees. Further ascent leads to Skourta Peak (2,485 m), where an alpine landscape unfolds, treating hikers to breathtaking panoramic views.

From Skourta Peak, a slender ridge named Laimos (neck) commences, guiding adventurers to the awe-inspiring Muses Plateau. The path diverges into two at this juncture. The left fork, a 30-minute hike, leads to Christos Kakkalos Refuge, while the right fork, a 40-minute hike, guides to Giosos Apostolidis Refuge.

Utilize the refuges as a base for short climbs to the peaks of Toumba (2,801 m) and Profitis Ilias (2,803 m). Additionally, they serve as strategic starting points for ascending the high peaks of Mount Olympus by taking the path at the base of Stefani, leading to Zonaria.