Last Updated on October 8, 2022 by Celeste.
Update March 2022: We visited Tatoi in March 2022. Unfortunately, the area has been largely destroyed by the 2021 summer wild fires and it’s not recommended for a visit until nature rejuvenates itself.
Updated blog post: February 2021
It was announced in February 2021 that the Tatoi Estate in Mount Parnitha will be developed into a museum, heritage hotel and holistic spa for luxury stays and agro-tourism escapes. The Greek Ministry of Culture plans to turn the former Royal property into a luxury hospitality venture and a year-round national and international travel destination.
Tatoi Park in Athens
Tatoi King Estate in Athens is the (now empty) summer residence of the former Greek Royal Family. It is also the birthplace of King George II of Greece. It’s ancient and current official name is Dekelea. It can be found on the east-facing slopes of Mount Parnitha at 27 km distance from the Athens city centre. The mountain is densely wooded and there are many walking and riding paths in the woods as well as large open grass areas. These open areas have picnic tables and swings!
Our experience at Tatoi King Estate
Here’s how you can visit the Tatoi Park in Athens. Take the highway towards Lamia and turn at the exit Parnitha. Follow the road until the road signs for the Tatoi Estate on the Tatoiou Ave.
We parked our car next to the road and climbed up the hills towards the first main open area. This walk up the hill was an adventure full of nature’s treasures. At the open grass area near the stables and service houses, we admired the cows, and we had a picnic stop.
We continued our walk towards the main palace and stopped for the swings. At some parts of the park, we felt that we were in Switzerland instead of in Greece. The landscape is amazingly unspoiled and inviting for all sorts of activities.
The abandoned royal buildings are still fascinating. Watching the former landscaped gardens with the statues and fountain, we imagined fairy tale like garden parties and festive summer nights happening.
There is plenty to learn on Tatoi King Estate. You can follow the walking routes finding your own way. There are special plants and trees along the walking paths with signs explaining what species they are. There are also some farm animals that walk around freely. Some parts of the park are accessible by bike. My 3-year-old walked the whole estate for hours. But you can also use a stroller on the walking paths.
Tatoi King Estate offers a free family quality day out for all ages in exciting outdoor surroundings.
