The Walk
The Olive Trail is a gentle 3km loop that winds through some of the oldest olive groves in the region. Some of these trees are over 500 years old — their gnarled trunks tell stories older than the village itself.
The trail is well-marked with yellow blazes and takes about 1–1.5 hours at a relaxed pace with kids. The terrain is mostly flat with one gentle uphill section that rewards you with a panoramic view of the coast.
Trail Details
| Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distance | 3 km loop | | Difficulty | Easy | | Duration | 1–1.5 hours | | Elevation gain | ~50 meters | | Suitable for | Ages 5+ (stroller-friendly for the first 1km) | | Best season | Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) |
Highlights Along the Way
- The Old Mill (500m) — A restored stone olive mill from the 1800s. Great photo spot.
- The Viewpoint (1.5km) — A wooden bench at the highest point with views across to Mount Olympus on clear days.
- The Giant Olive (2.2km) — The oldest tree on the trail, estimated at 600+ years. Its trunk is 4 meters around.
What to Bring
- Water — there's no fountain along the trail
- Sun protection — parts of the trail are exposed
- Comfortable shoes — the path is dirt and stone, sneakers are fine
- Snacks — the picnic area at the viewpoint is perfect for a break
Getting to the Trailhead
The trail starts behind the village church (Agios Nikolaos). Look for the wooden sign that reads "Μονοπάτι της Ελιάς" (Olive Trail). There's space for 5–6 cars to park near the church.
Safety Notes
- Stay on the marked path — the surrounding brush can be thorny
- In summer, hike in the morning or evening to avoid midday heat
- Carry a phone — there's mobile signal along most of the trail