A truly unique experience for alpine climbers in the most remote and isolated part of Agion Oros that is strongly reminiscent of the 1970s. We will attempt in two days to climb the most technical route of the mountain, following the famous and with a handful or repeats, the Western Spur of Mount Athos (Grade: D+)
This complete climbing tour is a definition of solitude and isolation with visits to the Skete of Agia Anna, Mikra Agia Anna, Katounakia, horrible Karoulia, the Holly Monasteries of Dionysiou and Pavlou, as well as the ascent to the highest mountain, Mount Athos (2033m) which overlooks the whole peninsula. According to Greek Mythology, Athos, son of Ouranos and Gaia, was one of the Giants, During the battle between Gods and Giants, Athos threw a huge rock against the Gods but it fell on the edge of Halkidiki and became the peninsula of the same name, the mountain of which took its name from.
DETAILED ITINERARY*
Day 1: Early morning embarkation (06:30) to the ferry to enter the restricted area of Agion Oros. The boat trip to Dionysiou Monastery will take approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival we visit the monastery and hike towards Pavlou monastery. Overnight in Pavlou Monastery. Trekking Hours: 1,5
Day 2-3: Very early start to approach the beginning of the route. This route follows the alpine route Western Spur of Mount Athos. Its a route that has everything from 4-5 pitches ( V/ V+), abseiling, moderate scrambling and exposed sections and a bivouac on the ridge. The end of the route will be on the summit of Mount Athos (2033m) where the church of the Transfiguration of the Savior dominates. We will spend an extra night if required in the entrance of the church.
Day 4: After the sunrise and as we see the shadow of the pyramid of Mount Athos to be reflected in the Aegean Sea we descent to the Skete of Agia Anna. Trekking Hours: 4-5 | Descent: 1700m.
Day 5: Day hiking tour towards the Athonian desert with visits to cells, huts in Mikra Agia Anna, Karoulia and Katounakia. Return to Agia Anna Skete and overnight. Trekking hours: 3-4 | Ascent: 500m
Day 6: After the morning mass and the communal breakfast we will hike to Dionysiou monastery visitng en route Pavlou monastery. In the afternoon we will embark to our ferry towards the exit of Agion Oros to Ouranoupoli. End of services. Trekking Hours: 3
Price: Please Enquire
Included: Guesthouse accommodation in Ouranoupoli the day before our entry. Entrance fees & procedures, guiding in the trails, all land and sea transfers (boat, minivan, bus), 2 times communal food in the monasteries (days of fasting one time), accommodation in the monasteries with shared facilities with hot water.
Not Included: Food for climbing days. Extra expenses due to adverse weather conditions**
Note*: The tours are for male persons only. Maximum number of persons is 3. And minimum 2.
Note**: Although Agion Oros is a peninsula is only accessed by sea. No land crossings of vehicles are permitted. Sometimes due to adverse weather conditions the port authorities issue a prohibitive departure of the maritime transport services