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Mount Olympus National Park city with mountain
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About Greece National Parks National Parks

Greece’s national parks are treasures of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems. With over ten national parks spread across the mainland and islands, Greece showcases its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

Each park features unique attractions, from rugged mountains and lush forests to pristine beaches and marine habitats. From the iconic Olympus National Park, home to the mythical Mount Olympus and ancient Greek gods, to the enchanting Samaria Gorge National Park, renowned for its dramatic gorge and endemic flora and fauna, visitors can explore a wide range of ecosystems and outdoor activities.

Greece’s national parks are not only havens for nature lovers but also vital areas for scientific research, environmental education, and cultural heritage preservation, attracting visitors with their natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational opportunities.

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Greece National Parks's National Parks

Mount Olympus National Park city with mountain

Olympus National Park

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Samaria Gorge National Park

Samaria National Park

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Vikos National Park

Vikos-Aoos National Park

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FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are in Greece?

Greece is home to ten national parks, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. These parks encompass diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, providing habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species.

Some of the most renowned national parks in Greece include Olympus National Park, where the mythical Mount Olympus is located; Vikos-Aoos National Park, known for its impressive Vikos Gorge; and Samaria Gorge National Park, famous for its breathtaking gorge and hiking trails.

Other national parks, such as Parnassos National Park, Prespa National Park, and Marine Park of Zakynthos, showcase the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Greece’s national parks play a vital role in conservation efforts, scientific research, and sustainable tourism, attracting visitors with their scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.

2. What is the largest national park in Greece?

The largest national park in Greece is Pindus National Park, also known as Valia-Kalda, located in the northern part of the country. It covers an extensive area of approximately 6,927 square kilometers (about 2,676 square miles), making it the largest protected area in Greece.

Pindus National Park is characterized by its rugged mountain landscapes, deep gorges, dense forests, alpine meadows, and numerous rivers and streams. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species such as the Balkan chamois and the brown bear.

The park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, wildlife watching, and exploring its pristine wilderness areas. Pindus National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, attracting visitors with its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity.

3. What is the smallest national park in Greece?

The smallest national park in Greece is Oeta National Park (also known as Oiti National Park), located in the central part of the country. It covers an area of approximately 60 square kilometers (about 23 square miles).

Despite its smaller size compared to other national parks in Greece, Oeta National Park is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and alpine meadows.

The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of plant and animal species, and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying scenic viewpoints.

Oeta National Park is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing a peaceful escape into Greece’s natural beauty and wilderness.

4. What was the first national park in Greece?

The first national park established in Greece is Mount Olympus National Park (Εθνικός Δρυμός Ολύμπου), designated in 1938. Mount Olympus National Park is located in the northern part of Greece and encompasses the highest peak in the country, Mount Olympus, which stands at 2,917 meters (9,570 feet).

The park covers an area of approximately 238,000 hectares (588,000 acres) and is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity. Mount Olympus is also steeped in mythology, as it was believed by ancient Greeks to be the home of the gods.

The park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, wildlife watching, and exploring its ancient forests, alpine meadows, and scenic trails. Mount Olympus National Park holds cultural and environmental significance, attracting visitors from around the world to experience its natural beauty and mythical charm.