FILL YOUR LUNGS WITH THE UNEXPECTED GREEN SPACES OF ATHENS
Right in the heart of Athens stands the famous National Garden, a picturesque green lung filled with flowers, shrubs, ancient trees and green meadows. Among its most famous sights a small pond, which is home to numerous water birds, a botanical garden and even a small zoo.
Lycabettus Hill
At nearly 300 meters, Lycabettus Hill is nearly twice as high as the Acropolis offering a unique view of Athens’ most treasured monument. Right above the houses and city streets there is a fragrant pine forest, and above this, lots of gorgeous plants.
Pedion tou Areos
The park Pedion tou Areos is the largest in the capital, covering an area of about 114 acres. It’s the perfect space to amble or jog amongst plane and olive trees as well as Mediterranean shrubs and other greenery.
Attiko Alsos
The main reason to come to the forest of Attiko Alsos is to marvel at the views of the whole city from some of Athens’ highest hills, which reach up to 1,000 feet. It takes about two hours to explore this natural habitat in the northern suburbs of Athens.
Hymettus
Known in Ancient Greece as the sanctuary of Zeus the rain god, this forested mountain is a favourite with Athenians, who come here to hike or cycle along one of the trails, look at the rare birds that nest in the lofty pines or stop off to light a candle at the 11th-century Kaisariani Monastery.
Stavros Niarchos Park
Home to the Greek National Opera and the National Library, this cultural hub is surrounded by tree-lined paths perfect for jogging and cycling. These trails lead to a vast central park that is ideal for picnicking or doing some yoga stretches.
Parnitha National Park
A 25-minute drive from the capital, this fauna and flora filled national park centred in Mount Parnitha, Attica’s highest mountain which is, according to mythology, haunted by cloven-hoofed god Pan is a great place to get in touch with your inner self.
