Trail Running in Athens: Coached Runs on Mount Hymettus

If you run at home, the best way to see the mountains around Athens is at a jog. Our trail running sessions start in Ano Glyfada, on the southern slopes of Mount Hymettus, and follow rocky singletrack past old marble quarries and a natural stone arch to views over the sea. With a certified instructor coaching you along the way, a session takes about 3 hours and costs from €47 per person.

What is trail running on Mount Hymettus like?

The southern end of Hymettus is open, rocky and full of character: limestone paths, low pine and shrubland, wild thyme underfoot and long views over the coast. The trails roll up and down rather than climbing one big hill, which makes them ideal for practising technique. You can see the Saronic Gulf on one side and the plains of Eastern Attica on the other, and on a clear morning the islands appear on the horizon.

Which route should I choose?

We run three routes between 8 and 15 km, with 400 to 850 m of elevation gain:

• Route 1, about 8 km: the shortest option, ideal for road runners trying trails for the first time.
• Route 2, between 8 and 15 km: a middle distance for runners who already enjoy trails and want more climbing.
• Route 3, about 15 km: around 850 m of climbing, built for runners training for long mountain races or ultras.

Tell us your recent running when you book and the instructor will help you pick the right one. The group runs at a pace that suits everyone, with regroup points along the way.

What will I see along the way?

Highlights include the ancient marble quarries of Hymettus, the Trypia Spilia, a natural rock arch in the limestone, and the Byzantine-era chapel of Prophet Elias. The higher sections give wide views over Eastern Attica and the Saronic Gulf, so bring your phone for a few photos at the stops.

What happens on the session?

You meet your instructor in Ano Glyfada for a safety briefing and a short warm-up. On the run, the instructor coaches you on uphill and downhill technique, how to read the terrain, pacing on climbs and basic navigation, so you finish not only tired but faster on trails. At the end there is a stretching and recovery routine and tips you can use on your own runs. Allow about 3 hours in total.

How is it different from a guided hike?

A hike is about the walk and the views; this session is about running well on mountain ground. You cover more distance in less time, and the instructor gives you specific feedback on foot placement, posture on descents and how to spend your energy on the climbs. It is a good choice if you want to keep up your training while travelling, or if you are preparing for your first trail race and want local advice on technique.

Is it right for me?

Trail running here is open to all levels, from beginners to competitive athletes, and no previous trail experience is needed. You should be able to run comfortably for at least an hour on the road, and be happy walking the steeper climbs. The ground is rocky and uneven, so ankle strength and attention matter more than speed. Let us know about any injuries before you book.

What is included and what should I bring?

Included are a certified instructor, route planning, a safety briefing with emergency protocols, coaching throughout and post-run stretching and recovery tips. Bring trail running shoes, a water belt or soft flasks with water or an isotonic drink, an energy bar, a hat and running clothes: shorts and a moisture-wicking shirt in summer, long leggings in cooler months.

When is the best time to go?

Hymettus is runnable all year. October to May has the best conditions, with cool mornings and clear air. In summer we start early, as the southern slopes are exposed and heat up quickly. If the weather turns dangerous, we reschedule or cancel for safety.

How to get there from central Athens

Ano Glyfada is in the south east of Athens at the foot of Hymettus, roughly 30 to 40 minutes from the centre by car or taxi, depending on traffic. We send the exact meeting point after booking.

Good to know

• Three routes from 8 to 15 km, 400 to 850 m of climbing.
• Coaching on technique, pacing and navigation is part of every run.
• Small groups, so everyone gets attention.
• Private sessions available for clubs, teams and friends.