Hiking Taygetos 2407m

About The Place

Taygetos Mountain, a rugged sentinel guarding the southern reaches of the Peloponnese in Greece, is a realm where nature’s grandeur and historical resonance converge. Rising with commanding authority to heights of up to 2,407 meters, Taygetos is more than just a mountain; it’s a living tapestry woven with tales of myth, culture, and untamed beauty.

As you venture into the embrace of Taygetos Mountain, a world of diverse landscapes unfolds before you. The lower slopes are blanketed with olive groves and vineyards, a testament to the enduring connection between the land and the people. As you ascend, the scenery transforms, revealing dense forests, alpine meadows, and hidden springs that seem to emerge from the very heart of the earth.

The mountain’s significance stretches back through time, intertwining with the fabric of Greek mythology. According to legend, Taygetos was named after Taygete, one of the Pleiades sisters who was pursued by Zeus. Today, the mountain’s presence still evokes a sense of reverence and wonder, as if the echoes of ancient stories linger in the wind that whispers through its valleys.

Taygetos Mountain isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a playground for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Hiking trails crisscross the landscape, leading to panoramic viewpoints and hidden corners where the soul can find solace. The mountain’s flora and fauna, including rare species like the Taygetos fritillary butterfly, add a touch of wonder to the experience.

For history enthusiasts, Taygetos is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. The ruins of ancient cities and Byzantine monasteries are scattered across its slopes, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who called this mountain home. The monastic community of Prodromos, perched precariously on the mountainside, is a testament to faith’s endurance amidst challenging terrain.

Total Duration

• 2 Days

Full description

An awe-inspiring Hiking  journey to the Holy Mountain of Taygetos! This ascent is undeniably one of the most remarkable experiences you can have. We have carefully selected the perfect season for you to witness the extraordinary Phenomenon of the Pyramid, as the sun rises from the summit of this magnificent 2407-meter mountain.

What is the Phenomenon of the Taygetos Pyramid?

Just moments before sunrise, under a clear sky, a breathtaking sight unfolds: the pyramidal peak of Taygetos casts a precise equilateral triangular shadow upon the Messinian Gulf, painting a mesmerizing scene on the western horizon of Messinia. Throughout history, these sacred mountain summits were revered, as people believed that their proximity to the sun made them ideal places for prayers to be heard.

Taygetos Mountain:

Mount Taygetos proudly stands as the highest peak in the Peloponnese, reaching a soaring height of 2407 meters. Its summit, known as Prophet Elias, is named after the homonymous church perched atop its pinnacle. The ancient traveler Pausanias revealed that the name “Taygetos” traces its mythological origins to Taygeti, one of Atlanta’s daughters who tragically met her demise by falling from a cliff. This incredible landscape boasts lush fir and pine forests, picturesque gorges adorned with shaded plane trees, and an awe-inspiring sub-alpine area. At the mountain’s zenith lies a solid limestone formation, forming an almost perfect pyramid, and has been considered a sacred site since ancient times. Referred to as “Taleton” or “Talton” by the ancients, this peak held great significance as a sacred location dedicated to the Sun.

Legend has it that the summit of this pyramid aligns perfectly with Mount Olympus, serving as a reference point for coordinates across various regions. Pythagoreans speak of it as an energetic place, a gateway where nature infuses the world with light, spirit, and Greek culture. It is no coincidence that in antiquity, Anaximander established an observatory at its summit to observe the movement of stars.

Climbing the Holy Mountain is a monumental achievement, cherished by the ancient Spartans and still embraced by modern-day adventurers. It stands as one of the most thrilling mountaineering experiences that one should undertake at least once in their lifetime!

Accommodation – Shelter/Tents:

At the Varvara location, situated at an altitude of 1,550 meters, you will find the Taygetos Refuge. With a capacity for 22 people, this refuge provides power through a photovoltaic system and features an organized kitchen, restroom facilities outside the shelter, and heating provided by an oil stove. Water is supplied from a reservoir and a nearby source just 200 meters away.

Details of the Two-Day Program:

Saturday :

• 08.00: Departure from Agios Antonios Metro Station. Please arrive 10 minutes early.
• 08.20: Palataki
• 09.10: Isthmus of Corinth
• 12.00: Estimated arrival at Magganiari Springs. Team organization, backpack and equipment arrangement, short break.
• 13.00: Start of the activity, hiking to the refuge/camp at 1550m.
• 16.00: Estimated arrival at the refuge/camp. Settle in rooms or set up tents. Free time for rest, food, and sleep.
• 19.00: Dinner.

Difficulty: 1+ Distance: 3.7km Altitude Difference: 570m Duration: 02.30 (+/-30′) hours

Sunday :

• 02.30: Quick morning coffee and group preparation.
• 03.00: Start of the night hike.
• 06.00: Arrival at the summit.
• 06.15: Witness the captivating “Pyramid Phenomenon” as the sun rises.
• 06.45: Departure and return to the shelter/camp.

Difficulty: 2+ Distance: 7.65km Altitude Difference: 857m Duration: 05.30 (+/-30′) hours

Return: Shelter –  Magganiari Springs

• 09.30: Arrival at the shelter, rest, breakfast, pack up camp/equipment.
• 12.00: Return to the  Magganiari Springs.
• 14.30: Arrival at Magganiari Springs, where the bus will be waiting for us. End of the program, departure for Athens.

Difficulty: 1 Distance: 3.7km Altitude Difference: -570m Duration: 02.00 (+/-30′) hours

Technical Data:

The route follows an uphill and downhill path, with an altitude difference of 1427 meters and a total distance of 15.5 kilometers (spanning two days). The estimated duration of the excursion, including required stops, is approximately 2.30 hours (+/- 30′) from  Magganiari Springs to the shelter and 5.30 hours (+/- 30′) from the shelter to the summit and back. This excursion is suitable for beginners with a good level of physical fitness, provided they have the necessary basic equipment.

Not Included in the Price:

• Drinks and snacks
• Personal expenses
• Anything else not explicitly mentioned in our program
• Camping equipment

Useful Information:

Please note that the program, routes, and activity durations are subject to change based on the group’s abilities, participants’ physical conditions, and prevailing weather conditions. The organizer reserves the right to modify or cancel any outdoor activity due to adverse weather or technical difficulties. This activity is also suitable for beginners with a good level of physical fitness.

What to Bring

• Hiking Boots &  Backpack : Mountaineering Boots (sports are FORBIDDEN) and a mountaineering backpack for the basic 30 ltr. NO bags that come in “cross”. The rest of your things in a small backpack that will be transported by vehicle to the shelter

• Clothing : Waterproof (even disposable), Windproof, Gloves, Hat, Buff (neck scarf), Warm Clothes. Extra second clothes/shoes & deodorant for after the hike to leave on the coach. Hat & Gloves essential for the joy of being at the top. Thermal underwear for sleeping in the shelter or in the tent

• Water & Snack : Water at least 1.5 Ltr for the hike and high-calorie snacks (nuts, chocolate, bars, dried fruits)

• Overnight Stay in Tent : The overnight stay on Saturday night will be camping in a specially designed area near the mount refuge. The campers will have the possibility to use the WC facilities, to get drinks, snacks, water, etc. from the refuge. You can use your own camping equipment. However, we are able to provide camping equipment to those who do not have it. You should have: Tent for up to 2 people / substrate / sleeping bag

• Kitchen in the  refuge : In the shelter there is an organized kitchen, where you serve food, breakfast, drinks and there is also bottled water.

• Other Equipment : Hiking poles essential. Head torch + extra batteries (not mobile and hand torches). Glasses, sun hat, sunscreen, towel

• Personal Hygiene Items : Personal hygiene items, Tissues, Wet wipes, Garbage bag

• First Aid  : Individual personal pharmacy.

• Accomodation in the Refuge : Flip flops for moving inside the shelter, Sleeping bag, sheet or liner, Earplugs. Availability 22 people

• WC & Sanitary facilities : The refuge has a WC which we can use. Bring the necessary hygiene items with you such as: Toilet paper, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, garbage bag

• Equipment Rental : Tent for  2 or 3 People  & Sleeping Mats: €15.00

Includes

• Taxes

• Transfer from / to Athens by modern coach

• Driver Fee / Toll / Accomodation / Nutrition

• Certificate Guides ΗMLA

• All necessary equipment

• Photographic coverage with our own equipment

• Transport the second backpack from the springs to the refuge and back with a 4×4 vehicle

• Evening Food at the shelter (Salad & Main Dish), Breakfast / Snack

• Accommodation at the refuge 1 night / Tents

Itinerary

• Date of Departure : Saturday
• Date of Return: Sunday
• Departure Time: 08.00 (please be 10 minutes earlier at the meeting point)
• Return Time : 21.00 (indicative)
• Point of Departure : Metro Agios Antonios (08.00) / Palataki (08.20) / Isthmus (09.10)
• Time of Return: +/- 21.00 Athens

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds