Prophet Elias Chapel: Driving one of the highest roads in Greece
Perched at an elevation of 2,232m (7,322ft) above sea level, the Prophet Elias Chapel (Profitis Ilias) is a high-altitude landmark located in central Greece. Situated within the rugged landscape of Mount Parnassus, the track leading to this chapel is recognized as one of the highest roads in the country, offering a raw and technical driving experience far above the tree line.
| Road facts: Prophet Elias Chapel | |
|---|---|
| Location | Mount Parnassus, Central Greece |
| Elevation | 2,232 m (7,322 ft) |
| Coordinates | 38.53905, 22.59939 |
| Length | 7.7 km (4.8 miles) |
| Average Gradient | 8.41% |
Is the road to Prophet Elias Chapel unpaved?
Yes, the road to the chapel is totally unpaved and consists of loose limestone rocks and gravel. This is a wild 4x4 track that serves as a service road for the ski lifts of the Parnassos Ski Resort. The terrain is demanding; a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is mandatory to navigate the deep ruts and the steep, rocky inclines. The chapel is located at the very top of the lifts, to the west of the main Mount Parnassus summit. Because there are no guardrails and the track is narrow, drivers must have a steady hand and a good head for heights, as the drops into the limestone valleys are significant.
How long is the road to Prophet Elias Chapel?
Starting from the paved road that accesses the Parnassos Ski Center, the climb to the chapel is 7.7 km (4.8 miles) long. Over this distance, you will tackle a substantial elevation gain of 648 meters. This results in an average gradient of 8.41%, though the reality on the ground is much tougher, with several ramps that are considerably steeper. The high-altitude environment means your engine will experience a noticeable loss of power. The track winds upwards through a lunar-like landscape, where the wind can be extremely strong and visibility can drop to zero in seconds if clouds move in.
Is the road to Prophet Elias Chapel open in winter?
No, the road is completely impassable in winter for conventional vehicles. As it is located in the heart of Greece's largest ski resort, the track is buried under meters of snow and becomes part of the active ski runs from December through April. It typically only becomes accessible for 4x4 vehicles from late June to October. Even in summer, the weather at 2,232m is unpredictable; sudden storms can turn the dry limestone dust into a slippery, treacherous surface. Always check the mountain forecast and ensure your vehicle's cooling system and tires are in top condition before attempting this high-altitude Greek ascent.
Pic: Irek M