Travel Guide

Αττική Επαρχιακή Οδός 1 (Αθήνα Πάρνηθα)

By Robert Potschka
Route Type: Scenic Routes
Published on 2025-09-09 03:26:51

The Attiki Eparchiaki Odos 1 (Athens - Parnitha) is a scenic mountain road offering a rapid escape from the urban sprawl into the heart of Mount Parnitha National Park. While primarily a functional route, a closer look at the map reveals a few noteworthy stops that serve as gateways to the park's natural beauty. This guide points out these accessible gems along the roadway.

Interactive Map

Αττική Επαρχιακή Οδός 1 (αθήνα Πάρνηθα)

Hidden Gems

Αττική Επαρχιακή Οδός 1 (Αθήνα Πάρνηθα)

Bafi Refuge (Καταφύγιο Μπαφί) 🔎 View Source

Best for: Hikers and families seeking a starting point for forest walks and refuge amenities.

Hidden Gem For You:

This mountain refuge is a well-known gem within the hiking community but a delightful surprise for casual drivers, offering warmth, food, and trail information just a short distance from the road.

Visitor Review:

"A perfect base for exploring Parnitha. The refuge is cozy and the staff is very helpful with trail conditions. The food is simple but delicious after a long hike."
- Nikos Trekker (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
"Easy to access by car. Great place to stop for a coffee with an amazing view of the forest. The starting point for many beautiful paths."
- Maria K. (⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Best Season or Time of Day to Visit:

Spring and Autumn for pleasant hiking temperatures. Open year-round, but access may be difficult in winter due to snow.

Personal Tips & Local Insights:

Call ahead in winter to confirm the road and refuge are accessible. It can get crowded on weekends, so aim for a weekday visit.

Safety and Accessibility:

The refuge itself is accessible by car via a paved road. Hiking trails vary in difficulty; always check weather conditions before setting out as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

Suggested Itineraries:

Combine a visit here with a hike to the Flabouri Fortress or the Karavola Springs. A perfect day trip from Athens.

Packing Suggestions:

Sturdy hiking shoes, water, windproof jacket, and a map of the Parnitha trails. In winter, carry snow chains for your car.

Cultural or Historical Context:

The refuge provides shelter and support for mountaineers and is part of the network of shelters maintained by the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering & Climbing.

Unique Photo Spots:

The terrace of the refuge offers panoramic views of the surrounding fir forest. The nearby clearing is perfect for capturing the scale of the mountain.

Fun Facts or Trivia:

Mount Parnitha is the tallest mountain in the Attica region and is a designated National Park.

Mont Parnes Casino Complex 🔎 View Source

Best for: Travelers looking for entertainment, dining, and panoramic city views from a high altitude.

Hidden Gem For You:

While the casino is its main draw, the complex is a hidden gem for its breathtaking observation decks, which offer unparalleled views of the Athens basin and the Saronic Gulf, especially at night.

Visitor Review:

"The view from up here is absolutely spectacular, day or night. Even if you don't gamble, it's worth the drive for the scenery and the nice restaurants."
- Alexandra Viewseeker (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
"A unique experience to be on a mountain top with a full luxury complex. The road up is an adventure in itself with great turns and views."
- Thomas W. (⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Best Season or Time of Day to Visit:

Clear days or evenings for the best views. Sunset is particularly magical as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Personal Tips & Local Insights:

Dress code is smart casual in the casino and some restaurants. The outdoor terraces are free to access and provide the best photo opportunities.

Safety and Accessibility:

The complex is fully accessible. The drive up the mountain road requires attention, especially in foggy or icy conditions.

Suggested Itineraries:

Perfect for a sophisticated evening out. Combine a late afternoon drive up with dinner and views of the illuminated Acropolis from afar.

Packing Suggestions:

A camera for the views and a jacket as it can be windy and much cooler than in the city below.

Cultural or Historical Context:

The casino has been a landmark of Athens' entertainment scene since the 1960s, representing a period of modernist architecture and post-war luxury.

Unique Photo Spots:

The terraces on the south side of the complex offer a direct, unobstructed view of the Athens urban sprawl and the Acropolis in the distance. A telephoto lens is recommended.

Fun Facts or Trivia:

The casino is one of the highest in Europe, located at an altitude of 1,013 meters (3,323 feet) above sea level.

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