Asterope Multi Pitch Climbing Route Pleiades Crag Katafyki Ermioni 6b+ 5 pitches 130 meters

Asterope – 5 Pitches, 6b+ 130 m. | Multi Pitch Climb in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni

Asterope, one of the seven celestial sisters of the Pleiades constellation, lends her name to one of the most captivating multi-pitch routes of Katafyki Gorge in Ermioni. Just as the mythical Asterope was transformed into a star by Zeus, this route invites climbers to rise skyward , from the rugged limestone walls of the gorge to the open blue above the Peloponnese.

From a climber’s perspective, the Asterope route is both a challenge and a revelation. Technical slab climbing, exposed pitches, and rewarding views that unfold with every meter gained.

Reaching the top of Pleiades Crag through Asterope feels like touching the heavens themselves. The rock is solid yet demanding, the movement elegant yet precise. A perfect balance of strength, focus, and serenity amid the mythic landscape of Ermionida.

Asterope, 6b+ 5 pitches, 130 m. | Multi Pitch Climbing in Pleiades Crag (Katafyki) – Ermioni
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Pleiades Crag MultiPitch Climbing Ermioni

Climbing in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni – 2025 Edition

With this post we invite you to embark on an extraordinary expedition through the captivating Katafyki Ravine in Ermioni, Greece. Within this majestic setting, we will uncover the exhilarating challenges and natural wonders that await you on three remarkable multi-pitch climbing routes: Asterope, Electra, Maia, Taygete, and Alcyone.

Each ascent presents its own distinct characteristics, offering a diverse range of difficulties and rewards. Prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring journey as we delve into the details of these unforgettable routes.

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View of Pleiades crag
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Electra Trad Climbing Multipitch Pleiades Crag Katafyki Ermioni

Electra VI UIAA 4 Pitches – 145 m. | Trad Multi Pitch Climbing in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni

The Pleiades crag is a magnificent formation in the heavens, named after the seven shining stars that make up the Taurus constellation. These stars, known as the Pleiades sisters, were transformed into celestial bodies by the divine hand of Zeus, according to mythology.

From a climber’s perspective, the Pleiades crag represents a unique challenge and an opportunity for adventure. The crag is said to be a gateway to the heavens, a place where mortals can access the realm of the gods. But getting there is no easy feat.

The path to the Pleiades crag is treacherous and requires a high level of skill and experience. The terrain is rugged, with steep cliffs and sharp rocks.

We took some time to scout out the route and assess the rock quality. We discussed the type of protection we’d need to place as we climbed, and I felt reassured that we were all experienced and knowledgeable about trad climbing techniques.

Electra Trad Climbing Multipitch Pleiades Crag Katafyki Ermioni
Electra VI UIAA, 4 pitches, 145m. | Trad Climbing in Pleiades Crag (Katafyki) – Ermioni
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Simond Rock 20 Climbing Backpack Review

For avid readers of the Olympus Mountaineering Blog, it’s no secret that I’m deeply immersed in various outdoor pursuits, with a particular fondness for general mountaineering activities ranging from Trad and multi-pitch climbing up to Winter Mountaineering ascents. Engaging in such adventures demands gear that effortlessly combines functionality, durability, and a lightweight design.

Having previously owned and reviewed the Simond Alpinism 22 and The North Face Verto 27 Summit Series, my recent experiences led me to reconsider my gear choices. Unfortunately, the latter, The North Face Verto 27, proved to be unreliable with numerous manufacturing faults, prompting the need for a reliable and budget-friendly replacement.

Simond Rock 20
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La Vita è Bella VI- UIAA 60 m. – Trad Climbing in Arma – Mt. Parnitha – Attica

Regularly, I make it a point to explore some of my favorite outdoor spots in Greece, with Mt. Parnitha topping the list. This stunning mountain is conveniently just 30 minutes away from the heart of Athens. Situated in the Attiki province, approximately 25km north of Athens, Mt. Parnitha is part of the quartet of mountains—Immitos, Penteli, and Poikilo—encircling the plain upon which the city is built. Among these peaks, Mt. Parnitha stands as the tallest and most awe-inspiring.

In my past visits to Parnitha, I’ve had the pleasure of climbing in the Flabouri area. However, this time around, my sights are set on exploring and climbing a second route in the captivating region of Arma.

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Tamilthi Peak – View towards Arma
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Eternity and a Day VII- 250 m. 7 pitches | Alpine Climbing on Mount Xerovouni, Evia

On a blissful summer Saturday morning, with the sun casting its warm glow upon the rugged slopes of Mount Xerovouni, a group of intrepid climbers set out on a quest to conquer the legendary Eternity and a Day (in greek: Αιωνιότητα και μία μέρα) route UIAA VII-, 7 pitches, 250m. With the weather playing its part perfectly, offering clear skies and gentle breezes, the stage was set for an extraordinary adventure.

This iconic route, known for its awe-inspiring chimney, intricate dihedrals, and breathtaking panoramic vistas, promised a day of exhilarating challenges and unforgettable memories. In this post, I invite you to join me as I delve into the intricacies of each pitch, recount the triumphs and tribulations of our ascent, and immerse ourselves in the sheer magnificence of climbing the Eternity and a Day route on Mount Xerovouni,

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Majestic view from R07

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Climbing in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni

With this post we invite you to embark on an extraordinary expedition through the captivating Katafyki Ravine in Ermioni, Greece. Within this majestic setting, we will uncover the exhilarating challenges and natural wonders that await you on three remarkable multi-pitch climbing routes: Maia, Taygete, and Alcyone.

Each ascent presents its own distinct characteristics, offering a diverse range of difficulties and rewards. Prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring journey as we delve into the details of these unforgettable routes.

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View of Pleiades crag

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The Ultimate Guide of Trad Climbing in Nafplio – Karathona & Asini (Greece)

Nafplio is a charming coastal town located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, surrounded by the Argolic gulg and stunning cliffs that offer a variety of rock climbing opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner, Nafplio has something for everyone.

One of the most popular climbing areas in Nafplio is the Palamidi fortress, a massive Venetian castle that overlooks the town. The fortress is known for its challenging routes, that range from easy to difficult. The limestone cliffs offer a mix of technical face climbing and steep overhangs, and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

Another great climbing spot in Nafplio is at Karathona beach, located just outside the town. This area features cliffs that offer a mix of sport and trad climbing. The routes here are generally shorter than those at Palamidi, but they offer a more diverse range of climbing styles, including slab, face, and crack climbing.

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My Essential Climbing Gear for 2023: Current Favourites

As an outdoor enthusiast and a climber, I’m constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest climbing gear to help me push my limits and elevate my performance. Over the years, I’ve tried out several pieces of gear, and through trial and error, I’ve found the gear that works best for me. Lately, I’ve been receiving a lot of emails and comments from fellow climbers asking me about my personal choices for climbing gear. So, I decided to write this post and share my favourite pieces of climbing gear that I’m currently using in 2023. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, I hope that my personal recommendations will help you make informed decisions about the gear you choose to use on your next climb.

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Ek Tou Anasfalous VI UIAA 90 m. | Trad Climbing in Karathona beach – Nafplio

I woke up early on Sunday, feeling excited about the day ahead. I was going trad climbing with a few friends, and I couldn’t wait to get out to the crag and test my skills on the rock face.

After packing all my gear and double-checking my equipment, I hopped into my car and drove out to the crag. As we arrived, I could feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins. I was ready for the challenge.

We took some time to scout out the route and assess the rock quality. We discussed the type of protection we’d need to place as we climbed, and I felt reassured that we were all experienced and knowledgeable about trad climbing techniques.

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Topping up the route

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