2ήμερη Ανάβαση στη δρακόλιμνη Σμόλικα 2200μ & διαμονή στο καταφύγιο

Summary:

This adventure takes participants to the second highest mountain in Greece, offering breathtaking views along lush and alpine trails. Highlights include a visit to the Alpine Drakolimni at 2,200m and an overnight stay at the unique Smolikas Mountain Refuge, featuring a pizza night and a hot tub. All these experiences await at one of the most beautiful mountains in the country!

Included:

• All transportation to and from Athens via private coach
• Program design and implementation
• Guides & hiking companions trained in first aid
• Accommodation at the refuge or in bell tents, with access to restroom & kitchen facilities
• 3 meals: 2 full lunches & 1 breakfast at the refuge
• Transport of extra gear and backpacks from the bus to the refuge, facilitating an easier ascent
• Group first aid kit
• VAT included

Adventure Description:

Located east of the Aoos Valley and part of the Northern Pindus mountain range, Smolikas is the second highest mountain in Greece. Its slopes are rich in fauna, including black pine, imposing oaks, fir trees, and various deciduous trees. The mountain is home to several roe deer and wild goats, as well as wolves and bears in its more secluded areas. Smolikas is also the habitat of the protected alpine triton, a rare amphibian measuring 8 to 12 cm, reminiscent of a tiny dragon.

The journey begins in Athens on Saturday at 7:00 AM, heading to Palaioseli, a Vlach village at an altitude of 1080 meters, which serves as the starting point for the hike. Here, a farmer's vehicle will collect any extra gear not needed for the walk, ensuring a lighter trek.

The hike starts on a wooded slope along a moderately difficult path that intersects with a forest road several times. After approximately 2 hours and 4.2 km, with an elevation gain of +630m, participants will arrive at the Smolikas Mountain Refuge at an altitude of 1750m.

Once settled, they will enjoy a meal and relax at this lovely refuge overlooking the forest. Later, there will be free time to explore the facilities (hot tub, swings, hammocks). As night falls, the refuge team will prepare for a special pizza night under the starry sky, concluding the evening with a bedtime early enough to ensure rest for the next day.

On Sunday morning, participants will wake at 5:15 AM to eat breakfast and prepare for the ascent to the Drakolimni. Starting with their backpacks at first light, they will embark on a 2.5 hour hike, covering 5 km with an elevation gain of +650m.

The path leads past several springs, through forested slopes, eventually reaching a small plateau where views of Smolikas's peak, Tymfi mountain, and Grammos begin to unfold. The terrain gradually transitions into an alpine landscape. Upon reaching Drakolimni, they will take a substantial break before beginning the descent and returning to the refuge after about 2.5 hours.

After soaking in beautiful sights, participants will have lunch at the refuge, followed by time to pack before heading back to Palaioseli, marking the end of the hike. They will then board the bus back to Athens, filled with magical memories and ready to set new hiking goals.

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Meeting Points Saturday, May 17, 2025:

1. (1): Syntagma (Metro Station on Vasilissis Amalias Avenue) - 07:00
2. (2): Omonia Square (outside Hondos Center) - 07:10
3. (3): Palataki Stop - Haidari - 07:25
4. (4): Viex Stop in front of Praktiker Hellas - Elefsina - 07:40
5. (5): Canal Souvlaki - Isthmus of Corinth - 08:20

Return Time Sunday, May 18, 2025: 22:30 at Syntagma Square, Athens

Hiking Technical Information:

Saturday:

• Duration: 2 hours, including breaks
• Distance: 4.2 km
• Elevation Gain: +630 meters
• Difficulty Level: 2/5 (suitable for those in good shape)
• Route: one-way

Sunday:

• Duration: 7 hours (2.5 hours up to Drakolimni with breaks + 2.5 hours back to the refuge + 2 hours to walk to Palaioseli)
• Total Distance: 14.2 km (5 km from refuge to Drakolimni + 5 km back + 4.2 km to finish at Palaioseli)
• Elevation Gain: +650 meters
• Elevation Loss: -1280 meters
• Difficulty Level: 3/5 (requires good physical fitness)
• Route: return

Participation Requirements:

• Suitable for individuals aged 16 and up (minors must be in good shape & have previous hiking experience, accompanied by an adult)
• Good physical fitness
• Basic Equipment
• Ideal for experienced hikers

Basic Equipment:

• Hiking boots (no regular sports shoes allowed), athletic clothing, windbreaker
• Backpack
• Trekking poles
• Hat, sunglasses
• Water (at least 2-3 liters per person for the hike)
• Spare clothing
• Bedding or sleeping bag (the refuge can provide for a fee of 1.5€ per item)

Essential Equipment for Camping Participants:

• 3-season tent
• sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Warm clothing for sleeping
• Any other useful survival gear for camping is recommended (tent lamp, pillow, etc.)

The refuge has 24 beds in separate rooms with bunk beds. Dining and restroom facilities are on the entrance level.

There are also 2 large bell tents (glamping) accommodating 6 people each, featuring comfortable mattresses.

The refuge is fully equipped with a kitchen, and managers will handle meals for a planned dinner on Saturday and breakfast and lunch after returning from Drakolimni, all included in the total participation fee.

Tickets:

1. Early Bird Ticket with accommodation in the refuge: 185€ (until April 23, 2025, or until sold out)
2. Regular Ticket with accommodation in the refuge: 195€ (until May 9, 2025, or until sold out)
3. Early Bird Ticket with accommodation in a bell tent: 185€ (until April 23, 2025, or until sold out)
4. Regular Ticket with accommodation in a bell tent: 199€ (until May 9, 2025, or until sold out)
5. Early Bird Ticket for camping in the refuge's designated outdoor area: 165€ (until April 23, 2025, or until sold out)
6. Regular Ticket for camping in the refuge's designated outdoor area: 175€ (until May 9, 2025, or until sold out)

For those camping on the mountain, tents and equipment will be transported to and from the refuge and bus by a farmer's vehicle arranged by the team.

How to Purchase Tickets:

Through bank transfer/deposit - just fill out the relevant form on our website or email swenhiking@gmail.com to check availability before completing the transfer/deposit.

Programs and activities may be modified or canceled in case of adverse weather conditions or other technical factors impacting participant safety.

Cancellation/Change Policy:

If a participant cancels up to 21 days before the adventure, they can opt for a credit voucher for future activities within 1 year or a refund. Cancellations made up to 14 days before the adventure receive a 50% refund or credit. Cancellations 10 days before result in a 25% refund or credit. Last-minute cancellations (9 days or less before the adventure) do not qualify for credit or refunds.

Exceptions include Covid-19 illness, where providing a positive test certificate at least 1 day before the activity allows for a credit voucher for a future activity. Upon receiving the certificate, our team verifies it and sends the voucher via email.

Tickets are non-transferable, and changing the name on a ticket incurs a 7€ fee. Name changes must be made at least 1 day before the scheduled adventure (Monday to Friday at 15:00 by emailing swenhiking@gmail.com).

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Remember to check your email!

All ticket holders will receive a detailed email a few days before the adventure for appropriate preparation (weather updates, final details, etc.).

JOIN US! It's time! Experience nature!

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