Prionia

Prionia is the starting point for hikes in the Olympus massif in Greece, at about 1,100 m and roughly 18 km from Litochoro. It is the highest point on the route that you can reach by car; from here you continue on foot.

From the car park the trail starts to the Spilios Agapitos refuge at 2,100 m, part of the E4 and the most popular path on Olympus. It is about 6 km long, climbs roughly 1,000 m and is rated medium to difficult; walking time is about three hours (the signpost gives less). It runs mostly through pine, beech and fir forest, and the last open, zigzagging section is sunny and can be tiring. Bring extra water and sun protection. Start early, ideally before 8 am, because the summit is often in cloud by midday; the weather can turn quickly, so do not go alone.

Practical notes: at the car park there is free parking, public toilets, a spring for refilling water containers and a simple café or taverna that, according to Rough Guides, is open from May to October. The drive from Litochoro takes between half an hour and an hour, depending on the source, with many bends. Access, opening times and trail conditions depend on the season, so check ahead.