The Project
One mountain, twelve shelters, a 2020 solo journey, and a project tied to volunteer mountain rescue.
Olympus 12 Refuge Trail began as a solo mountain journey in September 2020, linking the best-known organised refuges and emergency shelters of Olympus into one continuous route. The first effort also carried a charity purpose, raising support for Hellenic Rescue Team volunteers, mountain-rescue equipment, and emergency radio communication.
Purpose
The project connects the famous routes of Olympus with quieter paths and emergency shelters that many visitors never reach. It is a challenge, but also a way to make hikers think about preparation, radio communication, rescue volunteers, and every side of the mountain.
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The Trail
A circular 92.5 km Olympus route with 7,650 m of positive elevation, long multi-day pacing, and several sections that deserve real caution.
ChallengeThe 12 Refuge Challenge
One passport, twelve shelters, twelve stamps, and no time limit: complete Olympus in the way your mountain experience allows.
RefugesOlympus Refuges
Olympus has fourteen shelters in total: eight organised refuges with summer services and six emergency shelters for prepared mountain users.
ToursGuided Tours
Four support levels for different hikers: Self-Guided Plus, Semi-Guided, Fully Guided, and All Inclusive.
StoriesStories And History
Project origin, rescue-team purpose, first challengers, interviews, and practical trail lessons.
TrailSafety And Hiker Rules
Twelve practical rules for walking Olympus well: shared dorms, limited water, no showers, pack weight, weather, food, and Leave No Trace.