Activities in Attica mountains & Marathon

Attica is the region around Athens. Parnitha, the highest of its mountains, is a national park with fir forest to the north. Penteli is known for the marble used to build the Parthenon, and Hymettus rises on the eastern edge of the city. To the north east lie Marathon, with its long bay and lake, and the quiet east coast at Nea Makri, Vravrona and Porto Rafti.

How far is it from central Athens?

Hymettus is 20 to 30 minutes by car, Penteli and Parnitha about 40 minutes to an hour, and Marathon about 40 km, depending on traffic. Our 4×4 trips include pickup from your hotel.

Which activities happen in Attica and Marathon?

• Hiking: guided hikes on Parnitha, Hymettus or Penteli, a caving and hiking day near Fyli Castle on Parnitha, and a hike to the ancient silver mines of Laurio.
• Via ferrata: fixed cables and rungs on Parnitha, above the Goura gorge.
• Sea kayaking: tours at Vravrona, past the wetland and the area of the Temple of Artemis, and at Porto Rafti.
• Diving and snorkelling: Discover Scuba, dive trips and snorkelling boat trips from Nea Makri to Marathon Cape, Schinias Bay and nearby islands.
• Horse connection experience: a non-riding programme with horses in Marathon.
• Off road trips: 4×4 days around Lake Marathon, from the hills to Marathon beach, across Parnitha to Dervenochoria, and a 4×4 and wine tasting day.
• Air activities: tandem paragliding from Kithaironas or Kandili near Megara, and tandem skydiving at Kopaida.

Can you combine activities in one day?

Yes. Marathon works well for this: a morning dive or snorkelling trip can be followed by the horse experience or an afternoon at the beach. Tell us what you want to do and we suggest a plan.

When is the best time to go?

Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and the via ferrata. In summer we start early or late in the day. Diving and snorkelling from Nea Makri run all year.