Ten Highest Mountains in Greece

Greece may be better known for its beautiful islands but it is also a country of dramatic mountain landscapes, and here are the ten highest mountains in Greece.

The highest mountain Greece is Mount Olympus, legendary home of the Greek Gods, but here are its ten highest peaks, all of them over 8,000 feet in height (2,438 metres).

Mount Olympus, the Highest Mountain in GreeceMount Olympus, the Highest Mountain in Greece

Ten Highest Mountains in Greece

1. Mount Olympus (2,917 meters / 9,570 feet): Towering above the border of Thessaly and Macedonia, Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in  Greece. In Greek mythology, it served as the throne of Zeus, the king of the gods, and was the home of the Olympian pantheon, the twelve major gods who controlled everyone’s destiny.

Today, Mount Olympus National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting hikers and climbers seeking to conquer its challenging trails, and to enjoy the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. See our full page on Mount Olympus.

The Vikos Gorge in the Pindus Mountains of GreeceThe Vikos Gorge in the Pindus Mountains of Greece

2. Smolikas (2,637 meters / 8,652 feet): Located in the Pindus mountain range, Smolikas, meaning "black peak" in Greek, stands in the Ioannina regional unit. This rugged mountain is a challenge even for experienced hikers, thanks to its steep slopes and unpredictable weather conditions. The Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world, lies at the foot of Smolikas, offering stunning scenery and a wide range of flora and fauna.

3. Voras (Kaimaktsalan) (2,524 meters / 8,281 feet): Straddling the border between Florina and Pella in northern Greece, Voras is also known as Kaimaktsalan. During the winter months, the slopes of Voras transform into a popular ski resort, attracting winter sports enthusiasts. In summer, the mountain offers a network of hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

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4. Grammos (2,520 meters / 8,268 feet): Another peak in the Pindus range, Grammos, meaning "the edge" in Greek, rises to an impressive 2,520 meters (8,268 feet) on the border of Ioannina and Kastoria. The mountain played a significant role during the Greek Civil War and offers a glimpse into the region's tumultuous past. Hikers can explore the mountainous terrain and visit abandoned military outposts.

5. Giona (2,510 meters / 8,235 feet): Giona, also known as Parnassos II, is located in the Phocis region within the Pindus mountain range. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Mount Parnassus, which is actually lower, Giona offers a challenging climb with diverse flora and fauna. The summit rewards climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and all the way to the Gulf of Corinth.

6. Tymfi (Gamila) (2,497 meters / 8,192 feet): Located in the Ioannina region, Tymfi, also known as Gamila, reaches a height of 2,497 meters (8,192 feet). This almost treeless mountain boasts dramatic scenery with steep slopes and deep gorges. The Vikos Gorge, previously mentioned with Smolikas, cuts through the Tymfi massif, offering a unique perspective of the mountain's rugged beauty.

7. Vardousia (Korakas) (2,495 meters / 8,186 feet): Nestled on the border of Phocis and Phthiotis, Vardousia, also known as Korakas (meaning "raven"), stands at 2,495 meters (8,186 feet). This lesser-known peak within the Pindus range offers a challenging climb with varied landscapes, including rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Hikers seeking a more remote adventure can find it on the slopes of Vardousia.

The Parnassus Mountains in GreeceThe Parnassus Mountains in Greece

8. Mount Parnassus (2,457 meters / 8,061 feet): Steeped in myth as the home of Apollo and the Muses, Mount Parnassus, located in Boeotia, Phthiotis, and Fokida, reaches 2,457 meters (8,061 feet). The ancient sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to Apollo, lies on the slopes of Parnassus. Today, the mountain is a popular destination for hikers and skiers, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Gulf of Corinth.

9. Ida (Psiloritis) (2,456 meters / 8,058 feet): Located on Crete, Ida is also known as Psiloritis. This sacred mountain in Greek mythology is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods. Today, Ida offers a unique hiking experience with diverse flora and fauna, including the endemic Kri-Kri wild goat.

The White Mountains in CreteThe White Mountains in Crete

10. White Mountains (Lefka Ori) (2,454 meters / 8,051 feet):  Situated in western Crete, the White Mountains, also known as Lefka Ori, reach a height of 2,454 meters (8,051 feet). This mountain range is known for its dramatic landscapes with deep gorges, stark white limestone peaks, and hidden plateau villages. Hikers can explore ancient Minoan settlements and traditional shepherd paths while enjoying the amazing scenery.

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