Greece is known for its historic ruins, cities, idyllic beaches and wonderful islands, but the country also offers some truly wild and wonderful national parks. For those seeking nature in the raw, taking a hike through Greece’s national parks is a dramatic and great experience.

Unlike in the US, facilities in Greece’s national parks are often basic. Meanwhile, hiking trails are not always maintained and only very simple overnight refuges are available. However, seeing nature’s magnificence in all its glory makes it all worthwhile.

Mount Olympus was Greece’s first national park and was established in 1938. However, since then, a total of 10 national parks have been established in Greece. Meanwhile, their aim is to protect their unique flora and fauna. Here we look at four best national parks in Greece for wildlife and solitude.

1. Mount Olympus National Park, Greece

Mount Olympus is a focal point of ancient Greek mythology and was said to be the home of the Greek gods. However, as a national park, Mount Olympus is awe-inspiring and spectacular. Established in 1938, Mount Olympus was the first national park in Greece and hosts deer, jackals, wolves, and more than 100 bird species. It also features more than 1,700 plant species of which some are rare and endemic.

With the myths surrounding the mountain, many hikers are drawn to climbing what is the highest peak in the country. Meanwhile, hikers overnight in one of 15 refuges, dotted around the forested hillsides along the way.

2. National Marine Park of Alonnisos

For those who prefer marine life, the National Marine Park of Alonnisos was first established in 1992. It was established primarily to protect the endangered Mediterranean monk seal and a number of rare seabirds. When visiting Greece in summer, boats run from Alonnisos and Skopelos, both in the Sporades island chain to offer day trips through the pristine park.

Meanwhile, the seafloor in the marine national park is carpeted with oxygen-producing posidonia. However, while the shy monk seal is rarely seen, visitors can often spot turtles, three species of dolphins, migrating whales and Eleonora’s falcons.

3. Mount Parnitha National Park, Greece

For those with limited time and visiting Athens, Mount Parnitha National Park is an hour’s drive north of the city. This makes the wooded parkland a popular escape for locals and visitors seeking nature.

Meanwhile, this national park is ideal for rock climbing, trekking, canyoning and biking. In fact, a number of hiking trails criss-cross the park taking visitors to forest areas and several cave systems. Meanwhile, along the way, a significant number of rare red deer can be seen. Rather than staying is rustic refuges, Parnitha has two large hiking lodges within the park, serving food.

4. National Marine Park of Zakynthos

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos covers the marine area of the Bay of Laganos on the southern end of the island. This important marine park was established to protect the loggerhead turtle, one of the most endangered marine species in Europe. In fact, the marine park has the largest density of loggerhead nests, with around 1,300 recorded some years along the bay.

Meanwhile, snorkeling with the loggerhead turtles is a popular activity. It should be noted, however, that during the breeding season (May to October) visitors are barred from the nesting beaches. Visitors can learn more about protecting the iconic species at the Mediterranean Marine Life Centre in Zakynthos.

Experience the beautiful national parks of Greece this year, spending time in nature, while spotting wildlife and marine life.