The way up to Christakis refuge, 2430m is starting from a smooth/rough dirt road from Petra or Kokkinopilos Villages. This ascent is considered one of the easiest routes for ski touring at the mountain Olympus and it may be recommended for beginners during springtime or when there are no recent snowfalls and avalanche risks.
Before you start make sure you have at least these with you:
Map of Olympus Mountain and the details of the route you will follow
Boot crampons
Water & food
First aid kit
Driving the car, we head to Petra village of Olympus Mountain.
At the exit of the village, we follow the road that leads to the forest and therefore to the mountain. There are limited signs on the road so a GPS would help you ensure you are always on the right road. The distance is up to fifty minutes after passing the village of Petra and we will reach, if conditions permit, a large, stone-trough. The snow coverage usually starts there, so that's the place we will leave the car.
We start the ascent to South East towards the mountain. On our left hand, we can see the peaks Christakis, Skolio, and Mytikas.
Once the forest is over, the way we have to follow continues uphill through the large stream of Xerolaki.
As we gain altitude the landscape changes. We come closer to the higher peaks and alpine terrain.
The magic culminates with the view of the peaks (some of them over than 2700m in height) all around and the rejoicing of a no-tiring ascent to the Meghali Gourna area and finally Christakis Refuge.
Tips:
Although there are always woods for the fireplace in the hut, during the winter the hut is 100% buried under the snow. In case of an overnight stay, winter equipment (tent, sleeping bag, clothes, food) is required.
After a quick break in the roof of the hut, it's time to pick a summit!
Skolio, Christakis, Trypes, Hotza...
Descent:
Returning and descending to the car is a ride by following the ascent path through the Xerolaki Stream.
In the stream of Xerolaki the snow coverage remains until late Spring, often up to May!
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