Hiking

There are 12 marked hiking trails, with varying degrees of difficulty, on Mt. Parnitha.

Bafi Refuge. A 2.2-km (1.4-mile) ascent from the church of Agia Triada (takes approximately 40 minutes) leads to the Bafi Refuge, run by the EOS Hellenic Mountaineering Association of Athens, where basic board and lodging are available. The refuge has a fireplace and kitchen; water is piped in from a nearby spring. The refuge remains open all year long. Two-person rooms from €65 (breakfast included). The association is also a good source of information on trails in the area. Parnithos Rd., Mt Parnitha, Attica, 13674. 21032/12355; www.mpafi.gr.

Church of Agios Petros. One of the milder, and most pleasant, hikes on Mt. Parnitha follows a marked trail from the church of Ayia Triada (Church of the Holy Trinity) through the national park to the church of Ayios Petros at Mola Forest. The path leads past the Skipiza spring, providing spectacular views of western Attica and the town of Thebes along the way. The 6-km (4-mile) walk takes about two hours, and you might spot deer darting among the trees. Mola forest, Off Parnithos Rd., Mt Parnitha, Attica, 13673.

Flabouri Refuge. From Bafi, one trail turns south, tracing the fir and pine woods along the Houni ravine, and skirting the craggy Flabouri peak—a favorite nesting place of the park's raptors. This trail intersects with another path leading to the Flabouri Refuge, a basic hikers' hut run by EOS Acharnon Hiking Club. You can stay the night or enjoy their views of Mt. Parnitha and hearty food, before exploring more trails. Beds are just mattresses placed on a wooden floor; €12 per person. Off Parnithos Rd., Acharnés, Attica, 13674. 21024/64666; www.flabouri.gr.