Hike Greece: Explore Mount Chelmos & The Mythical Styx Valley
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Loading... - Luna Alfaro
- 27 Jun 2022
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Picturing Greece probably brings to mind a seaside escape such as Mykonos, with its pristine beaches and party atmosphere. However, this is not all Greece has to offer - for those who fancy themselves mythology buffs, we know the perfect hike: Mount Chelmos.
This mountain, also known as Helmos or Aroania, is part of a range of mountains that can be found in Achaea, Greece. The summit of Mount Chelmos is 7,726 feet, but it's not the alpine mountaintop that keeps hikers coming back to its incredibly biodiverse trails. Rather, it's the Styx Valley and, within it, the mythical Styx Waterfall. Hiking the mountain leads to the River Krathi, which has long been part of Greece's mythical history for millions of years, and it's just as breathtaking to see in person as it is fascinating to learn about.
The Ancient Myth Of The River Styx, Thetis, And Achilles
Before heading out on this hike up Mount Chelmos, one should know the history behind the Valley of the Styx. According to Greek mythology, the Styx was the Titan Goddess of Oaths and Personification of Hatred. The river sharing the same name was once believed to be the waterway between Gaia (earth) and Hades (the underworld). It was believed that Charon, the ferryman, would bring the souls from earth to Hades via this waterway, thus giving it a reputation for being a gateway.
- Fact: The literal translation of 'Styx' means 'the hateful.'
As such, it was said that the waters of the River Styx would be poisonous or unfit for human consumption. The only way to safely consume the water was via the hooves of horses since it was believed by the gods that these animals were immune to its immense powers. It was also a known fact, according to Greek mythology, that the river had unique powers, thus the tale of Thetis and her son, Achilles. In an attempt to make her son immortal and absorb some of the powers of the River Styx, Thetis held Achilles in the water by his ankle. However, since this part of his body was exposed and not held underwater at the time, it became his only vulnerability. Thus, the term 'Achilles heel' came to be as an expression of someone's ultimate weakness.
Today, it's still believed by some that the water boasts magical properties and may bestow upon a person similar benefits. That is if one doesn't believe the myth of the River Styx being harmful to the average human.
What To Know: Hiking To The Styx Waterfall Via Mount Chelmos
The first thing hikers should know is that this hike is no cakewalk, and it's not for the inexperienced - not without a local guide, at least. AllTrails describes the hike as 'hard,' with 12.7 miles round-trip for those who trek the entire route to the waterfall and back. On average, it takes roughly seven hours to finish but could take longer depending on one's level of fitness. It is a highly trafficked trail so chances are that hikers will not be alone during their journey. Read More...
