A getaway in nature, very close to the centre of Athens
On the eastern outskirts of Athens, where the city meets nature, lies the Aesthetic Forest of Mt. Ymittos, one of the most beautiful and historic natural landscapes of Attica. With dense vegetation, small streams and paths leading to ancient ruins, it is an ideal getaway for walks and cycling, just half an hour from the city center.
Thanks to its unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the area has been designated as a Historic Garden & Aesthetic Forest by the independent international organization Council of Europe.
In the heart of the forest lies the Kaisariani Monastery, one of the most important Byzantine monasteries in Attica. Built in the 11th century on the ruins of an ancient sanctuary of Demeter and Athena, it is associated with the worship of nature and the long history of Ymittos.
The church of the Monastery, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, is a typical example of Byzantine architecture, with excellent frescoes of the 17th century. The courtyard with the cypresses, the old olive press and the stone fountain compose an environment of serenity that unites the monumental past with the landscape.
The Aesthetic Forest extends over approximately 460 hectares and is home to a multitude of fauna species (birds, squirrels, turtles and rare insects) that make it one of the most important habitats in Attica. Its paths lead to places with magnificent views of Athens, the Saronic Gulf and the islands of the Argosaronic Gulf.
Start the tour from the Kaisariani Monastery and follow the path to the hilltop, where the forest opens to a natural balcony to gaze at the whole city. On the path of Neromylos you will see bridges and springs, while in spring the route is filled with the smell of thyme and sage. At the end of the hike, you can sit on the benches around the Monastery or in the small outdoor cafeteria and enjoy the quietness of the mountain.
Thanks to its unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the area has been designated as a Historic Garden & Aesthetic Forest by the independent international organization Council of Europe.
In the heart of the forest lies the Kaisariani Monastery, one of the most important Byzantine monasteries in Attica. Built in the 11th century on the ruins of an ancient sanctuary of Demeter and Athena, it is associated with the worship of nature and the long history of Ymittos.
The church of the Monastery, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, is a typical example of Byzantine architecture, with excellent frescoes of the 17th century. The courtyard with the cypresses, the old olive press and the stone fountain compose an environment of serenity that unites the monumental past with the landscape.
The Aesthetic Forest extends over approximately 460 hectares and is home to a multitude of fauna species (birds, squirrels, turtles and rare insects) that make it one of the most important habitats in Attica. Its paths lead to places with magnificent views of Athens, the Saronic Gulf and the islands of the Argosaronic Gulf.
Start the tour from the Kaisariani Monastery and follow the path to the hilltop, where the forest opens to a natural balcony to gaze at the whole city. On the path of Neromylos you will see bridges and springs, while in spring the route is filled with the smell of thyme and sage. At the end of the hike, you can sit on the benches around the Monastery or in the small outdoor cafeteria and enjoy the quietness of the mountain.
