Mt. Hymettus: A long loop above Profitis Ilias Terpsithea
Mt. Hymettus: Terpsithea
A long loop above Profitis Ilias Terpsithea
Although this route presents some difficulties, it is of particular interest because of the floristic richness and the wild mountain landscapes of the area.
The first section is very easy and pleasant, as it uses the very good path serving the lonely chapel of Profitis Ilias Terpsitheas, nested in a prominent edge above Terpsithea (Ano Glyfada). Near the departure point, the Major Pothole of Profitis Ilias Terpsitheas is found (depth approx. 30m). After a 30 min. walk we reach the chapel. Just behind the building and in front of the huge bell, there is the Lesser Pothole of Profitis Ilias Terpsitheas (depth approx. 10m).
From now on and until we reach the road that leads to the Stroma peak, the path is unclear. Orientation is easy, however, thanks to the two large ravines bordering the ascension zone, both in the west and to the east. During April, in this area we will find many of the most interesting flowers of Mt. Hymettus, such as the characteristic endemic species Viola hymettia and Fritillaria graeca, many orchids (mainly the genus Ophrys), irises etc.
We arrive at Stroma peak by means of dirt road, which we leave shortly after the top to get down to Mavrovouni Pass. From the col starts a good footpath (some attention in the beginning to enter the path, as the marking consists of just a few Blue Dots). The path is obvious and goes down the Varela ravine and will bring us back to Terpsithea. Unfortunately the whole valley was burned in 2011 and many trees have fallen. We arrive in a small neighborhood consisting of farmhouses and a pre-fabricated church dedicated to Panagia. We follow a road and minor paths to return to our starting point.
topoguide Greece
A guide to Mt Hymettus
Mt Hymettus topoguide is available for Android devices as one of the dozens of available region of Greece via the topoguide Greece application. Mt Hymettus topoguide is a member of the Attica group. Get the Mt Hymettus guide as an in-app purchase through the app.
Mt Hymettus topoguide is also available for iOS (iPhone & iPad) devices via the application Topoguide Greece. Get the Mt Hymettus guide as an in-app purchase through the app, found in the Attica group.
topoguide Greece offers active navigation along the trails, as well as a comprehensive guide to the geography, the nature and the culture of the area.