6-day self-guided hiking trip to Delphi: trails 22 and E4

Hike on the north slope of Mount Parnassus, following trail O22 to Polydrosos, a peaceful farming village. A fertile land since time immemorial, the region was once called "Erochos," meaning "Love of the Land." Today, Polydrosos is home to the Argyriou family winery, which showcases ancient local grape varieties and produces several very interesting wines. Overnight in Polydrosos.

Polydrosos is a village surrounded by springs and a dense fir forest. At the start of the hike, you'll see numerous chalets, as the area is now very popular with Athenian families for winter weekend getaways. The trail will lead you through cultivated fields and wooded areas home to endemic species such as the Cephalonian fir and juniper. Your hike will end at the Defner mountain hut, at an altitude of 1,845 meters. This typical, simple, and comfortable hut provides everything you need for an overnight stay at altitude. It is located on the edge of the alpine zone and the fir forest. After settling in, a hot dinner will be served. On a clear day, from the hut's wooden veranda, you can admire a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Corinth.

Today's hike takes you to explore the alpine zone of Mount Parnassus. We propose the ascent of Gerontovrachos (2,396 m), accessible on foot without special equipment from spring to autumn. In the alpine zone, you will discover rare endemic species of plants, insects, and birds. You might even encounter a shepherd with his flock of sheep or goats. Mount Parnassus is renowned throughout Greece for its high-quality feta cheese. You will see the circular ruins of ancient stone sheepfolds that once housed many people during the summer. The 360° panoramic view of the surrounding valley from the summit of Gerontovrachos is magnificent! Descent to the Livadi plateau via a local trail. Overnight stay in Arachova, the traditional and elegant village at the Mount Parnassus ski resort.

You will begin by taking a local trail on the Livadi Plateau, at an altitude of 1,200 meters, before joining the E4 European long-distance path. This historic and inspiring route descends the slopes of Mount Parnassus to the village of Delphi. It is the ancient path used by devotees of the god Pan to travel from the ancient temples of Delphi to the Corycian Cave and perform sacred rites. Your hike starts on the Livadi Plateau, at an altitude of 1,200 meters. Following this ancient path through a lush forest, you will descend to the sanctuary of Delphi. This magical place overlooks the Valley of Olives and the Gulf of Corinth, with the imposing mountains of the Peloponnese as a backdrop. You will have free time in the afternoon to visit the Temple of Apollo. Overnight in Delphi.

From Delphi, follow a descending path and then a country road to the outskirts of the village of Crissa. The ancient city of Crissa welcomed visitors to the oracle. Following in the footsteps of pilgrims of old, you will continue your hike through the heart of the famous Crissa olive grove. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as a unique landscape, it boasts more than 1.5 million olive trees. You will appreciate this exceptional panorama! Observe the silvery-green foliage of the olive trees, whose colors change throughout the day, and admire the trunks sculpted by nature of impressive centuries-old trees. Your hike ends by the sea in the small port town of Itea.