The Olympus Marathon is not just a sporting event; it is a mythical experience that takes place on the "mountain of the gods" every last weekend of June. The route revives the sacred pilgrimage of antiquity, where believers ascended from the city of Dion to the peaks of Mount Olympus to honor the supreme god, Zeus.
Athletes start from sea level at the archaeological site of Dion and reach an altitude of 2,780 meters, passing in front of the imposing "Throne of Zeus." The ascent is nearly continuous for the first 21 kilometers, offering breathtaking views as it traverses the entire eastern side of the mountain.
The race concludes in picturesque Litochoro, after participants have crossed trails of exceptional natural beauty, making it an internationally renowned institution that attracts runners from every corner of the globe.
In addition to being a National Park, Mount Olympus has been declared by UNESCO as a "World Natural Heritage Monument," making the Olympus Marathon one of the most iconic trail running races worldwide.