Together with a group of local bikers, they created a new mountain bike and hiking trail. Up at 1,000 meters, it runs past the Stavros Refuge down towards Litochoro, connecting with an existing trail, to create a 15 km-long section of trail.

It marks the beginning of what's set to become a network of trails and infrastructure on Olympus, designed to draw active holidaymakers from around the world to enjoy a range of outdoor activities on its slopes, and provide local guides with a sustainable livelihood from conducting guided hikes and mountain biking days.

Side by side in outdoor heaven

The trail-building crew was treated to truly spectacular scenery: the mountain of the gods rises up just shy of 3,000 meters and only a stone's throw from the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. Large swathes of Olympus were declared a national park back in 1938, and so an ascent of Mount Olympus is a definite must for any active holiday in Greece.



Anyone making their way on foot to its lofty heights is rewarded with stunning views across the surrounding peaks and towards the shimmering Aegean Sea. But there are also other outdoor sports that can be enjoyed on Olympus, like mountain biking on its varied trails or ski touring on its snowy flanks. And if you're looking for a real adrenaline hit, the latest trend for canyoning is a great option too.
 

#estutnichtweh (it doesn't hurt) - Say no to litter

As thrilled as the trail-building crew were to be surrounded by the unique natural beauty of Mount Olympus, they were also saddened by the litter they found on the trails. Thankfully, Andrea Hahn was on hand from the deuter Bike Family with a load of 'Keep it Wild' lnfiniti Dirtbags to hand out to the industrious crew, who made quick work of tidying it up.

Andrea shared the backstory of the little upcycled dirtbags with the group on Olympus. If you'd like to find out more about it, and the #estutnichtweh non-profit organization ("es tut nicht weh" literally means "it doesn't hurt"), then follow the link here.



And if the trail-building crew ever wonder why they should collect and carry out other people's trail trash again, all they have to do is remember the simple mantra 'estutnichtweh' (it doesn't hurt) that organization founder Renate Steinacher came up with: Because it doesn't hurt! If everyone contributes in a small way, together we can achieve great things!

The colorful 'Keep it Wild' bags are now destined to accompany the trail builders beyond their Olympus event on all their many adventures throughout Europe.

Find out more about Aegean Trails.

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