A walk Across Athens and up Mount Lycabettus

Hey Friends,

Athens, Greece is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world. The focal point of the city is the Acropolis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But, if you’re looking for a breathtaking view of the city, you should head to Mount Lycabettus.

The views from the top of the mountain are incredible, and it’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.The mountain is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of Athens. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain or take a cable car.

If you’ve ever felt the euphoric high that comes with standing on top of a mountain, you’re not alone. Something deep inside us feels good when we conquer nature’s tallest obstacles. For some, it’s a physical challenge to summit a mountain. For others, it’s a spiritual journey to find their inner peace. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the sense of accomplishment and awe that comes with reaching the summit. So lace up your boots and get ready to feel the wind in your hair as you summit Mount Lycabettus with me today!

I did mess up a little. I left my hotel very close to sunset, meant that I arrived at the mountain after sunset… in this regard, I was a bit disappointed. However, that just means that I will do it again, and take you for a second trip up to the top some time in the future (* I hope that is okay).

Mount Lycabettus

Location : Athens 114 71, Greece
Google Map Link : https://goo.gl/maps/iVXJdj8p5FgfBer89

Mount Lycabettus is a super fun place to hang out! Not only is it the highest point in Athens, but it’s also home to some pine trees that provide shade and make the area really cool! If you’re looking for a great spot to hang out, have a picnic or just take in the view, Mount Lycabettus is definitely the place for you!

My hike started around here, or at least it was when I first saw the top.

At 277 meters high, you can see everything from the top! And with pine trees surrounding it, it’s definitely a beautiful sight.

There I was, all ready to hike to the top of the hill at the base, when I realized the trail got a lot harder. I thought to myself, “This is going to be harder than I thought.” But I kept going, and eventually made it to the top. The view was worth it!

The photo looks quite mellow, but the up hill on this trail was decent. If you want a brisk hike, then yes, this is a good uphill jaunt you could go on.

I was about halfway up the trail when I started to breath heavily. I was sweating a little and my heart was beating solid, I was thinking about turning around, but I saw a sign that said “the end is near.” or at least that is what I wanted it to say (I don’t read Greek), so, I pushed on, and glad I did!!!

The first view I saw was of the city below, the wind blowing hard, the night sky settling in. WOW, YES! Excited to see the top. This is also when the path becomes paved, and a bit steeper of an incline.

Looking back on the path I was walking up, it was in some ways, inspirational. To see the city below, the wind, the night sky.

The last few feet from the top of the hill, I was excited. I could see the summit in front of me, and it looked so close. It was up these stairs that the city of Athens, Greece was reveled to me.

On the top, you find an amazing bell that belongs to the church on top of the hill. While I did not hear it ring, I could imagine what it would sound like.

Looking down, you can see here I started on the hike, proper, up the hill. It looks so far away from here.

The view from the top was incredible. I could see for miles in every direction, and could even see the ocean, and the Acropolis off in the distance. A few days prior, I was on the Acropolis and that view was great. This view… WOW. 10x better.

The church on top, was glowing. The cross on top, lit up the night. While I am not a fan of Neon religious symbols, (*Sorta feels like a nightclub), the glowing cross popped out from the dark blue sky.

Looking at the door of the mountain top church, religious iconography peaked out at me and beckoned me to come in.

Inside the church, you will find a very tight space that is filled with sliver and gold icons, rugs, and an old lady looking at you in a strange way. (*She is not pictured, but to the right, she sat, giving me the squinty eye the whole time). Feeling a little uneasy about the lady looking at me, I left after this photo.

On top of the hill is a little restaurant as well. I was going to get a drink but got into a conversation with another person visiting the top, She was a blogger as well, and we talked about camera phones for a moment. Then I headed back down the mountian.

One last look out over the city or Athens, Greece, fills my mind with inspiration. Just thinking about all the stories out there, the people and places to see… exciting.

On the way down I passed this sight… and then I realized the temple’s name… that of Saint George.

Walking down the hill, the moon was full… I remembered that, lycos in Greek, means wolves. This was Mount Lycabettus… Some popular tails say that Mount Lycabettus is home to wolves… looking at the full moon peering at me through the trees… I woundered if I would be jumped by werewolves.

The air was calm, only my footsteps echoed on the road as I walked down, sure the city was all around me, but I was alone on this mountain of wolves.

Just long empty roads winded down the backside of the mountain. No one was around, just the trees rustling and the sliver moon above me. Magical, yes, a bit worried yes… but adventures are made outside, not inside.

Eventually, I even passed a smashed up micro church… who would do that? Who would break this? Even if you don’t like religion, no excuse to smash things… IDK.

If you were thinking I would be attacked by wolves, sorry, not this time. 😛 After about 30 min of walking, it was back to the city streets and about a 1-hour walk back to my hotel

If you’re looking for a great hike to take in Athens, look no further than Mount Lycabettus. This mountain offers stunning views of the city and is the perfect place to enjoy a day outdoors. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for a mild, strenuous hike. Also, do not fear the wolves, I think they have moved on. Haha, haha…

Thank you for joining me on this hike today, I hope you enjoyed it. Come back tomorrow for another story.

Cheers~

If you enjoyed this story, here is another called ” A Hike up the Acropolis in Athens, Greece.You might enjoy reading it too! 😀