Pavlos Zitakis

Route: The Vikos Gorge

“I  was born in Thessaloniki, the second largest city of Greece. Currently I split my time between the Halkidiki Peninsula during the summer season and Thessaloniki during the wintertime. My parents originally come from the island of Crete so I consider myself to be Cretan.

“I studied business administration and entrepreneurship getting my MBA degree in 2004 from the City University of New York. I spent two full years in the ‘urban jungle’, travelling around as much as possible.

“I have always been a fan of the outdoors, skiing the Alps from the age of six, loving almost any sport that comes to mind. I knew that the corporate way was not my way and sooner or later I would follow my urge. Exploring Mt Olympus and the Zagori region was my pure inspiration for what would follow.

“In 2012 I founded with my best friend ‘ExploreTheOutside’, an adventure travel company currently expanding in water sports and leisure activities. I enjoy adventure trips and the relaxed happiness away from crowded cities.  I have a passion for ultra running, mountain biking, skiing, sea kayaking and most importantly, for spending time with my young son, Dimitris.”

Visit: www.exploretheoutside.com