Reaching The Top Of The Pierian Mountains

Hey everyone! This week has been one of the most festive of the summer here in Greece, as August 15th is one of our most significant national holidays—the Dormition of the Mother of God. This holiday also marks the peak of summer, with many Greeks taking their vacations this week. It’s a time of celebration, especially for those named Maria, Panagiotis, Panagiota, and Despoina, as they celebrate their name days.

I’m currently visiting my summer getaway in a village where I recently bought a house. I love this village for its quiet, simple way of life and the cooler temperatures compared to the city. Today, some friends and I decided to hike to the top of the Pierian Mountains. The highest peak, Flampouro, is a remarkable spot.

A bit about the Pierian Mountains: they are a range located in northern Greece, rich in history and natural beauty. Flampouro, the highest peak, stands at 2,473 meters above sea level. Our village is situated at an altitude of 1,450 meters, so we started our hike early in the morning. The hike to the top takes about three hours.

The trail was amazing, passing through landscapes where cows, calves, and veals are raised free-range. There’s also a beautiful lake at the top of the mountain, which serves as a source of drinking water for the animals and the village. However, due to a lack of rain over the past three months, the water levels in the lake are lower than usual.

Reaching the top was an indescribable experience. Conquering such heights and overcoming your fears gives you a unique sense of achievement and a significant boost in self-confidence.

So if there’s one thing I want you to take away from my post, it’s this: always try and never give in to your fears. When you achieve your goals, it’s like magic—your fears start to fade away!