Mount Hymettus stretches for about 20 km along the entire eastern edge of Athens, a long ridge reaching 1,026 metres at its highest point (Evzonas peak). Unlike the forested Parnitha to the north, Hymettus is largely covered in scrub, maquis, and aromatic herbs -- the landscape is open, sun-baked, and Mediterranean. What it lacks in forest cover it makes up for in views: from the ridgeline, the entire Athens basin is laid out below you, from the Acropolis to the sea.

The ancient Athenians prized Hymettus for its honey (Hymettus honey was considered the finest in the world) and its marble (a blue-grey stone used in building, distinct from the white Pentelic marble of the Parthenon).

Getting There

Hymettus starts at the edge of the Athens suburbs. No long drives needed.

By car: Drive to one of the trailheads on the western slopes. The Kaisariani Monastery area is the most popular starting point -- about 20 minutes from central Athens. Free parking near the monastery.

By bus: Take bus 224 or 223 from central Athens towards Kaisariani. The monastery is a 20-minute uphill walk from the final bus stop.

By taxi: About 10-15 EUR from Syntagma Square to the Kaisariani Monastery trailhead.

Key Starting Points

Kaisariani Monastery (400m) -- The most popular and accessible starting point. The 11th-century Byzantine monastery itself is worth a visit (entrance 3 EUR), with well-preserved frescoes, a courtyard garden, and a sacred spring. Several trails depart from here.

Korakovouni area -- Higher starting point (about 600m), accessible by road from the southern suburbs. Good for shorter walks to the viewpoints.

Pirnari area -- On the northern end of Hymettus, near Holargos. Another entry point for forest walks.

Best Hikes

Kaisariani to the Ridgeline (Moderate)

Distance: 6-8 km round trip | Time: 2.5-3.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Start at Kaisariani Monastery and climb through pine woodland to the open ridgeline. The views expand as you climb -- Athens below, the Saronic Gulf beyond. Several loop options depending on how far you want to go. The best general-purpose hike on Hymettus.

Kaisariani Monastery Loop (Easy)

Distance: 3-4 km | Time: 1-1.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy

A gentle walk through the forested area around the monastery, following marked paths through pine and cypress trees. Shaded, cool, and suitable for families and casual walkers. Pass the monastery's sacred spring and several Byzantine-era remains.

Summit Hike to Evzonas (Challenging)

Distance: 12-14 km round trip | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

The full ridge walk to the highest point (1,026m). Starts from Kaisariani and follows the ridgeline south. Exposed and hot in summer -- start very early. The summit has military installations (radar towers) that detract from the aesthetics, but the views along the way are magnificent.

Cave of Nympholyptos (Moderate)

Distance: 4 km round trip | Time: 1.5-2 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

A shorter hike from Kaisariani to the Cave of Nympholyptos (Cave of the Nymph-Possessed), an ancient cult site with carved reliefs inside. The cave was used for religious purposes from the Classical period. Atmospheric and interesting.

What You'll See

Views of Athens -- The main reward. From the western ridgeline, you can see the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, the Piraeus coast, Salamis island, and the Saronic Gulf. At sunset, the city lights up below you.

Kaisariani Monastery -- 11th-century Byzantine monastery with frescoes and a spring considered sacred since antiquity. Peaceful gardens.

Wild herbs -- Hymettus is covered in wild thyme, oregano, lavender, and sage. In spring, the scent is remarkable. This is why Hymettus honey is famous.

Caves -- Several caves on the mountain have ancient carvings and cult associations.

Birdlife -- Birds of prey, including kestrels and buzzards, are common along the ridgeline.

Practical Tips

  • Shade is limited above the monastery area. The upper slopes and ridgeline are exposed scrub. In summer, hike early morning or late afternoon.
  • Water: Carry at least 1 litre. There's a spring at the monastery but nothing on the trails above.
  • Footwear: Good trainers are fine for the lower walks. Hiking shoes for the ridgeline and summit.
  • Best views at sunset. Hymettus faces west -- the city and sea catch the evening light beautifully. But factor in your return: the trails aren't lit and darkness comes quickly.
  • Fire risk in summer. Parts of Hymettus may be restricted during high-risk fire days (July-August). Check before going.
  • The monastery is worth visiting even if you don't hike. Beautiful setting, interesting history, and a shaded courtyard.
  • Hymettus honey is sold in shops around Kaisariani and in Athens. Look for "Meli Ymittou" -- it's distinctly aromatic due to the wild thyme.

Hymettus vs Parnitha

Both are accessible from Athens, but they offer different experiences:

  • Hymettus: Closer to the city, drier and more open, better views of Athens, less forest. Good for shorter hikes and sunset walks.
  • Parnitha: Further, higher, more forested, more wildlife. Better for full-day hiking and nature immersion.

If you have time for both, do Hymettus for a half-day and Parnitha for a full day.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) -- Wildflowers, aromatic herbs in bloom, green hillsides. The best season.

Autumn (October-November) -- Cool, clear days. Good visibility for city views.

Winter -- Mild enough for hiking. The monastery area is pleasant year-round.

Summer -- Hike before 09:00 or after 17:00. Midday is too hot on the exposed slopes.

Mount Hymettus rises directly from the eastern suburbs of Athens. The Kaisariani Monastery trailhead is about 20 minutes from central Athens.