Mount Parnitha, Bafi Refuge & Lake Beletsi Half-Day Private Tour

Athens , Greece

Mount Parnitha, Bafi Refuge & Lake Beletsi Half-Day Private Tour

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(1 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a refreshing escape into the mountains with the Mount Parnitha, Bafi Refuge & Lake Beletsi Half-Day Private Tour, an ideal nature break just outside Athens. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable tour driver, and explore the serene landscapes of Mount Parnitha National Park, known for its dense pine forests, red deer, and clean mountain air. Visit the Bafi Refuge, a peaceful alpine lodge perfect for a short break, coffee, or light snack with panoramic forest views. Continue to the tranquil Lake Beletsi, a hidden alpine lake ideal for nature walks, photography, or quiet relaxation. This tour is perfect for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts looking to experience Athens beyond the city. With flexible scheduling and convenient pick-up/drop-off, this private tour offers a half-day of serenity and scenic beauty.

Available options

Mount Parnitha & Lake Beletsi

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Pickup transfer from Athens, Piraeus, Airport, Port, or Suburbs (included in reservation's duration)

WiFi on board

Charge your devices with our 4 USB quick chargers (Type C & Apple)

Drop-off transfer to Athens, Piraeus, Airport, Port, or Suburbs (included in reservation's duration)

Mercedes Premium A/C vehicle with cool bottled water and refreshments

English-speaking tour driver with extensive knowledge of each location's history and significance

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Pickup from your hotel, apartment, Airbnb, Athens airport, or Piraeus port.

Enjoy a comfortable and picturesque drive through the National Park of Mount Parnitha, the largest protected green area of Attica and Athens’ natural escape. As the city fades behind you, dense fir and pine forests take over, with cooler temperatures and mountain air year-round. Short scenic pauses allow you to take in wide views, breathe properly again, and understand why Athenians consider Parnitha the city’s lungs.

Head to the historic Greek Orthodox Monastery of Moni Koimiseos Theotokou Kliston, also known as the Assumption of Virgin Mary Monastery, one of Attica’s most secluded monasteries. Founded in Byzantine times, its remote setting gives it a timeless, almost forgotten character. This stop is calm and contemplative—ideal for photos and a quiet moment surrounded by nature, far from touristic routes. (Official visiting hours: 09:30–12:00 and 16:00–17:30).

(Optional, upon availability) Take the exciting teleferik (cable car) round ride from Casino Mont Parnes, enjoying stunning aerial views of the forested landscape below. Please note that its availability is not guaranteed. It is operated by a private company (the casino) and follows irregular operating timelines and random availability. Additionally, it is often affected by weather conditions such as strong winds, resulting in unexpected closures.

A short drive away stands the abandoned Parnitha Sanatorium, built in the early 20th century to treat tuberculosis patients. Today, it remains a haunting yet fascinating landmark, slowly reclaimed by the forest. We stop strictly outside for photos and context—an evocative contrast between human history and nature’s return. There are many myths for this place.

Reach Bafi Refuge at 1,161 meters altitude. This traditional mountain refuge offers panoramic views across Attica on clear days. Enjoy a coffee or light meal (optional), relax on the terrace, or take a short, easy walk around the area. This is the heart of the mountain experience—unhurried, fresh, and authentic.

Descend toward Lake Beletsi, a peaceful freshwater lake framed by low hills. A gentle finale to the tour, perfect for lakeside photos, a short stroll, or a relaxed café stop by the water. Quiet, simple, and restorative—no crowds, no noise.

Stop 8

Drop-off at your hotel, apartment, Airbnb, Athens airport, or Piraeus port.

What's not included

(We will schedule stop for lunch upon request)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EL EN

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

1 reviews

5★

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Special Requests: If you have any special requests or needs, please let us know when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate them.

For families with younger children, we offer child safety seats upon request.

We provide assistance to people with movement disability for boarding and alighting from the vehicle. However, it is advisable to inform us in advance if any special arrangements are required.

Our tour drivers will provide engaging commentary in fluent English, sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history. As you journey through the lush landscapes of Mount Parnitha and visit the serene Lake Beletsi, they will highlight key landmarks, scenic spots, and fascinating local stories, ensuring a memorable and informative experience.

The transfer time to/from Athens is already included in your reserved tour duration and price. The reservation's duration cannot be exceeded, except upon availability, in which case an extra per hour charge applies.

Important notes

Efcharistó (Thank you in Greek) for choosing Athenaos Travel & Tours. We look forward to making your experience in Greece truly memorable.
As part of your tour, we will provide you with your tour driver’s details the day before your tour.
If you need any assistance or have any special requirements (e.g. itinerary preferences, etc.), please don’t hesitate to contact us.

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion

65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi

180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora

350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals