Posted by Nature, Hiking & Wild Landscapes
Greece is more than just sun, sand, and islands: The country boasts a surprisingly diverse natural landscape with rugged mountains, gorges, lakes, and marine reserves. In over ten national parks, you can experience alpine peaks, pelican lakes, turtle beaches, and the most famous gorge in the Mediterranean. Here’s an overview of the most important national parks – with hiking tips, the best time to visit, and helpful guidelines.
Overview: The Most Important National Parks
| National Park | Region | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Olympus National Park | Macedonia | Highest mountain (2,917 m), myths & panoramic trails |
| Northern Pindus (including Vikos-Aoos) | Epirus | brown bears, stone bridges, deep Vikos Gorge |
| Samaria National Park, | Crete (Chania) | Famous gorge, “Iron Gate”, Kri-Kri goats |
| Prespa National Park | Northern Greece | Two high mountain lakes, pelicans, quiet villages |
| Parnassos | Central Greece | Pine forests, caves, near Delphi |
| Ainos (Kefalonia) | Ionian Islands | Black fir trees, wild horses, island panoramas |
| Sounion | Attica | Coastal Park with Temple of Poseidon & Sunsets |
| Zakynthos (Marine Park) | Ionian Sea | Turtle beaches (Caretta caretta), protected areas |
| Oeta / Oiti | Central Greece | Oak forests, orchids, thermal springs |
1) Olympus National Park – The Mountain of the Gods
At 2,917 m, Mount Olympus is the highest peak in Greece. Well-marked trails lead from Prionia via the Spilios Agapitos mountain hut towards the summit of Mytikas. In early summer, snow still lingers in the gullies; in midsummer, the ridges are dry and offer panoramic views. Wildlife: chamois, birds of prey, reptiles.
Best time to visit: June–September. Tip: Staying overnight in a mountain hut saves on elevation gain.
2) Northern Pindus & Vikos-Aoos – Stone Bridges & Deep Gorges
The Epirus region is Greece’s wilderness: forests, limestone cliffs, and rivers. The Vikos Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. Classic hikes start in the Zagori villages of Monodendri or Mikro Papingo. Besides hikers, ornithologists love the park – particularly for its golden eagles and vultures.
3) Samaria National Park (Crete) – The most famous gorge
16 km from Omalos to Agia Roumeli: shade from pines and cypresses, abandoned settlements, and at the end, the spectacularly narrow “Iron Gate.” Entry usually May–October. Return by boat to Chora Sfakion or Sougia.
More Crete: Samaria Gorge
4) Prespa National Park – Pelicans & tranquil lakes
Border region with Albania and North Macedonia. Dalmatian and pink pelicans, herons, and otters inhabit the wetlands. Starting points: Psarades, Agios Germanos. Ideal for photography, nature observation, and peaceful boat trips.
5) Mount Parnassus – Forested mountains above Delphi
Fir forests, karst springs, caves. A small but popular ski resort in winter, shady forest trails in summer. Combine culture and nature: Delphi in the morning, a hike through the Corycian Cave in the afternoon.
6) Ainos (Kefalonia) – Black Firs & Island Views
The only national park in the Ionian Islands. Characteristic features include the endemic Abies cephalonica (black fir) and small herds of semi-wild horses. On a clear day, the view extends to Zakynthos and Ithaca.
7) Sounion – Coastal Park near Athens
Just 70 km south of Athens, the park protects the peninsula surrounding the Temple of Poseidon. Easy coastal paths, swimming coves, and stunning sunsets – ideal for a half-day trip.
8) Zakynthos Marine National Park – Protecting Turtles
The endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest in the Gulf of Laganas. Beaches like Gerakas and Dafni are strictly regulated: marked nests, restricted boat routes, and limited access at night. Please only go out on the water with certified operators.
9) Oeta / Oiti – Orchids & Springs
A little-known park between Lamia and Delphi. Diverse landscape with oak forests, streams, and alpine meadows. Spring is the flowering season – ideal for plant lovers.
Best time to travel & equipment
Spring (April–June): Flowering, plenty of water in rivers/gorges, mild.
Autumn (Sept–Oct): Stable weather, clear visibility, less crowded.
Summer (July–Aug): Hot & dry – start early in the morning, bring plenty of water.
Equipment: Sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat, 2–3 liters of water, light jacket for the mountains, maps/offline GPS.
Behavior in the National Park
Stay on marked trails, do not enter nests/ests.
No littering, no loud music, do not feed the animals.
Fires are strictly prohibited; avoid smoking.
Boats in marine protected areas are only permitted in designated zones.