10 Best National Parks In Greece

If you ever wonder about seeing Greece’s most dramatic and wild side, you should visit the national parks in Greece. Greece has a rich variety of landscapes, from wetlands, forests, beaches to high mountains, gorges, and valleys. The islands boast a scenic beauty of their own. The Greek Gods have ordered their nation with absolute flawlessness. Numerous travel destinations are there in Greece that are essentially remarkable. Find delightful scenes with landscapes that will leave you awestruck, a variety of food and drinks which will encourage your foodie soul, and local people who will charm you with their anecdotes and folklore. Discover the country’s first park, Mount Olympus, which was established in 1938.

Facilities in parks are often simple. Walking trails are not quite regularly maintained, and overnight refuges are basic. But to numerous people, the lack of facilities don’t worry as they are compromised by nature’s magnificent backdrop. As a result of this, there are now a total of 10 national parks and two marine parks in Greece. Are you a nature lover? Or do you simply want to discover the other faces of the country besides age-old monuments, temples, and beaches? If yes, then here is a list of the 10 beautiful national parks you can visit in Greece.

Also Read: 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Greece

10 Nationals Parks in Greece

Are you confused about which park to visit? Don’t worry as the solution is very simple. It doesn’t matter which national park in Greece you pick, every spot has something to offer to you, and they all make for an ideal place to click pictures. However, you can opt for the best national park to visit from the below list of 10 national parks in Greece.

1. Mount Olympus National Park
2. Prespa National Park
3. Pindus National Park
4. Vikos-Aoos National Park
5. Parnitha National Park
6. Zakynthos National Marine Park
7. Alonissos National Marine Park
8. Oeti National Park
9. Samaria National Park
10. Parnassos National Park

1. Mount Olympus National Park

Greece’s first national park and the highest mountain in Greece, Mount Olympus, was established in 1938. Olympus is also one of Greece’s most famous national parks. The country’s biggest mountain is located on the east coast of mainland Greece. Legend considers it as the home to the Greek Gods. Many hikers challenge each other to summit the park’s namesake peak, Pantheon. It is also known as Mytikas, which means “nose”, and rises to 2,919 metres (9,577 ft). Not only the highest peak in Greece but also it is one of the highest peaks in Europe in terms of topographic prominence. If you are planning to climb this mountain on a day trip, you’ll need to set aside two to three days. Moreover, it’s worth enjoying the views.

Do you love wildlife spotting? If yes, then there is a good chance that you’ll spot some outstanding wildlife in Olympus National Park. It is home to more than 1700 plant species, some rare and endemic, as well as wolves, foxes, jackals, deers, and more than 100 bird species. You may also witness rare woodpeckers and golden eagles. The park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981 and now boasts its deep gorges, thick forests, and over 50 peaks. Also, it features a network of refuges that can accommodate a dozen of people at once.

Also Read: Hidden Gems of Greece

2. Prespa National Park

Home to the captivating pools of “Mikri and Megali Prespa”, the National Park of Prespa was built in 1974 to ensure the biodiversity of the two lakes. Prespa is isolated by an islet and mountains, the lakes shared between Greece, Albania, and FYROM are the natural surroundings for a variety of plant and animal life. Did you know the two lakes are the breeding ground for aquatic birds? Many native and foreign visitors come to reconnect with nature and watch various creatures flying by. Explore the few fascinating landmarks that are there. You can likewise visit nearby villages that have long been abandoned. Prespa National Park is one of the best national parks in Greece and it truly deserves a visit.

Prespa National Park is renowned for its distinguished landscapes, rich natural environments, and quaint villages. If you are a wildlife lover, love the vast amount of animals that live there. It is home to half of Greece’s birds, mammals, amphibians, and over 1,800 plant species. You’ll also get to see over a thousand pairs of Dalmatian pelicans, the largest colony in the world. 

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3. Pindus National Park

Located in northwest Greece, Pindus National Park was established in 1966. It remains a popular national park among locals but is a hidden gem among tourists. It’s close to the Albanian border where very few tourists ever go. Ignored by many tourists, this is one of the least known national parks in Europe. However, it covers an area of 17,120 acres with a principal area of 8,300 acres. This undisturbed area ranges in height from 1076 to 2177 metres. Also called the ‘Valia Calda’ valley, the park has a system of mountain lakes, springs, and waterways dotting with thick forests. It offers adequate hiking chances and highlights a climbing resort close to the Mavrovouni peak. As a result of its less popularity, visitors can appreciate nature in peace here.

The national park is home to a small population of Eurasian bears, as well as wildcats, lynx and otters, and over 80 bird species. If you are very much into camping, camp outside the park as kayaking requires special permission. Moreover, Prespa is accessible from the small village of Perivoli.

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4. Vikos-Aoos National Park

Situated in northwest Greece and 30 kilometres from Ioannina, Vikos – Aoös National Park was built up in 1973. It houses more than 12,600 hectares of gorges and canyons, caverns, lakes and streams, and thick forests. The massive park is home to wolves, dark-coloured bears and deers, and is most loved among local people for open-air exercises. It is also enlisted as a UNESCO Geopark because of the vast assortment of natural living spaces within its borders.

Did you know this place is also well known for ecotourism activities? This region is perfect for any event you are searching for, from climbing to ascending and mountain biking to boating. Get lost in its charming nature, truly flawless mountain towns, and adrenaline-pumping activities.

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5. Parnitha National Park

Established in 1961, Parnitha National Park covers an area of 3,812 hectares and is located 30 kilometres from Athens. This national park is perfect for trekking, hiking, birdwatching, canyoning, and mountain biking. For its geographical location, this area is a natural habitat for pine and fir trees, as well as diverse wildlife including several sites of archaeological interest such as the Tatoi Palace and a few remnants of fortresses.

The park has a collection of hiking trails, cave systems, and hiking lodges. Did you know there is a cave named after the Greek God Panas? These hiking lodges provide sufficient facilities, from serving food to a cable car ride, which was built to serve the hilltop Mont Parnes Regency Casino. Have the best time of your life in one of these national parks in Greece.

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6. Zakynthos National Marine Park

Positioned in the south of the island of Zakynthos and established in 1999, Zakynthos National Marine Park covers a territory of 52 square miles. It is the third-largest island in the Ionian Sea and includes the “Bay of Lagana” and the wetland of “Keri Lake”. Also, the two little islands of Strofadia is a part of this marine park.

Did you know Zakynthos National Marine Park was built for protecting one of Europe’s most endangered marine species, the loggerhead turtle? If you are lucky, you may be able to spot a turtle on a snorkelling trip around the island. Zakynthos’ beautiful island, commonly known as Zante, harbours pristine white beaches with superb spots to take a swim or go underwater diving.

Also Read: 10 Best Greek Islands to Visit For a Spectacular Vacation

7. Alonissos National Marine Park

Founded in 1992, Alonissos National Marine Park is the largest of Greece’s national parks and one of the largest marine protected areas in all of Europe. Additionally, to protect the sea, this park also includes 6 little islands and 22 isles. Breathe in this national park as you encounter a few rare types of greenery, including 300 fish species, 80 bird species, wild goats of Gioura, red corals, Audouin’s gulls, and Eleonora’s hawks.

Did you know this area has lots of shipwrecks, churches, and monasteries, all dating back to prehistoric times? Indulge in scuba diving or swimming as you may even spot a couple of Mediterranean monk seals. Moreover, other basic activities here are sightseeing, strolling, and fishing. However, fishing is only permitted in limited areas. 

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8. Oeti National Park

Located in the central region, Oeti National Park was established in 1966 and now covers a vast part of “Mount Oeta”. Being the third biggest national park in the nation, this park covers an expanse of 7,000 hectares. It also encompasses one of the tallest mountains in Greece, Mount Oeta, which has a peak of 2,152 metres. It is one of the most successful ecological national parks in the country. Did you know there was a sanctuary dedicated to the half-god Hercules on the peak of this mountain?

This national park is home to over 40 endemic animals and 50 endemic plant species, including several untamed birds, the roe deer, wild hog, rabbit, and additionally brown bears, wolves, wildcats, and endemic and Kefalonia fir. You will fall in love with the vegetation here. Experience a fantastic bird watching opportunity, explore caves and look at the historical centre in the Agathonos Monastery.

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9. Samaria National Park

Recognised in 1962, Samaria National Park is located in the southern part of Crete, Greece’s largest island. Declared as a “World Biosphere Reserve”, the “Samaria Gorge” in southern Crete is the longest in Europe. Running about 10 miles long, it starts at 4,100 feet in height down to the little seaside village of Agia Roumeli.

Did you know the Kri-kri, an endangered wild goat, is found only in this park? Additionally, the park is a natural habitat for more than 450 plant species. It is an excellent place to hike, relax, and have a picnic. From the coast, you can take a ferry ride to the neighbouring towns of Sougia and Hora Sfakion. 

Also Read: 10 Best Things to Do in Crete On Your Greece Vacation

10. Parnassos National Park

Created in 1938 and the first national park is the Parnassos National Park that is located near Delphi on the Greek mainland. It boasts three peaks more than 2,300 metres high – Parnassos (2,457 metres), Tsarkos (2,416 metres), and Gerondovrachos (2,396 metres). Also, it is the second-largest national park in the whole of Greece. The slopes of this mountain support Kefalonian fir, spruce and juniper, scattered with yellow-flowered shrubs, plum trees and the rare purple-flowered Daphne jasminea.

Indulge in hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and exploring the ruins of Delphi. If you are fortunate, you’ll catch a glimpse of some of the best wildlife in the national park, including golden eagles, harriers, and vultures.

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Tips for Your Greece Vacation

1. Try to visit Greece outside the peak season (late July to the end of August). The adventurous hikers among you should consider visiting in May – when warmer weather is on its way.
2. Learn a little bit of lingo. Before travelling to Greece, it’s better to catch up with some of the common Greek languages.
3. Meander the mainland. If you are a nature or an outdoor adventure lover, don’t forget to check out the best hiking locations in Greece.
4. Do eat and drink like a local. Rather than sticking to three square meals a day, eat more often.
5. Embrace Greek culture. Seek out the likes of local festivals, feasts, crafts, and food markets during your stay.

Also Read: Is Greece Open for Indian Tourists? – Read through to know more.

Frequently Asked Questions for Your Greece Tour

If you are a person who loves peace and calmness above anything else, head straight to the 10 best national parks in Greece to run into something astonishing. Go, visit Pickyourtrail where you can customise your Greece itinerary. Also, find our packaged Greece tour packages and choose which package suits you the most.