This is the area round Athens and probably most cyclists will merely pass through it on their way to other regions. However, there is at least one impressive mountain area which is worth visiting; this is the Parnitha region north of Athens. Mt Parnitha itself is at 1413m, but the actual summit is closed because of the radar station. However, there is a pass nearby which is at 1260 m. The approach through the outlying suburbs is dreary but once you start the climb traffic is light on weekdays and views are rewarding. The best way of going is via Varibobi (Varibombi) and Thrakomakedones; then there are numerous hairpins as the road goes up the mountainside. The gradient on the climb is about 8% most of the way. There is a hotel on top and a cafe but the general atmosphere is rural, and it is possible to make a pleasant circuit of the mountain top.

Parnitha is part of a larger mountainous area and rough roads lead away down gorges from close to the summit. Another climb in the same mountain chain, a little to the west of Parnitha, goes via the village of Fili to Stefani and upwards to a quiet pass at about 500m. The road ends here despite what most maps say but it is possible to continue on roughstuff paths; eventually you reach quite reasonable unsurfaced roads and this affords an alternative route to Thebes cutting out some fairly dull country to the E.