Lonely Planet presents 10 of the most distinctive hiking trails across the Greek mainland and islands for travelers who want to become one with nature
One of the most fascinating ways to get to know a place is to walk itand our countryboasts a wide variety of hiking trails across thrilling landscapes to explore. From the mountains of mainland Greece to the islandsof ours,there arehundreds of paths that pass through lush forests, olive groves and gorges, beside waterfalls, riversand historic monuments, ending at gorgeous beaches with azure waters as well as traditional villages, offering unique experiences for hiking lovers.
Let’s take a look at the 10 hiking routes in Greece highlighted and presented by the famous travel guide Lonely Planet. Some of the routes below are easy and suitable for everyone, while others require good physical condition and proper preparation.But, however tough the challenge, the reward is an experience you’ll never forget.
Read also:
10 hiking routesworth doing in Greece
Samaria Gorge, Crete
It is the most famous of Crete’s gorges and the longest gorge in Europe, with a total length reaching 18 km. A unique natural monument with rich flora and fauna, the Samaria Gorge (also known as "Faraggas") has been declared a protected National Park, and crossing it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and hikers who flock here by the thousands from early May to late October. The descent begins at Xyloskalo, on the Omalos plateau, and the first kilometers unfold in a lush, cool landscape. You’ll need athletic shoes, a hat, water and plenty of patience, as it will take at least 4-5hours to cross. The trail ends at the beach of Agia Roumeli. A refreshing dip in the waters of the Libyan Sea will reward you.
- Route length: 16 km. (4-5 hours)
Mount Ochi, Evia
Hiking and adventure enthusiasts will find their paradise on the verdant Mount Ochi, which dominates the southernmost part of Evia and stretches from Karystos to Cape Kafireas (Cavo Doro). Ochi isknown for the enigmatic Drakospita, the strange structures with unique masonry and an unknown, even today, purpose, which have stood for thousands of years across southern Evia. The most famous and best-preserved drakospito is at the summit of ProfitisIlias, at an altitude of 1,365 m, in an idyllic setting with mesmerizing views. The usual route to ascend Ochi starts from the village of Myloi.
- Route length: 8 km. (3-4 hours)
Ancient Kirra–Delphi Path, Central Greece
Walking the ancient Kirra–Delphi path makes you feel part of the land’s history, following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims. Kirra was the port of Delphi and the landing place for those who chose to approach Delphi via its harbor. This is a routeof historical interest and unique shifts in scenery that gives you the chance to explore the sacred site of Delphi.
- Route length: 14 km. (3-4 hours)
Hike to the Tomb of Cleobulus, Lindos, Rhodes
If you find yourself in the traditional settlement of Lindos on Rhodes, it’s worth taking this lovely and easy two-hour route to reach the tomb of Cleobulus, at the edge of the bare, flat headland to the north. Starting alongside the car park above the main beach, the path ends on arocky hill crowned by the circular tomb built during the 2nd century BC. Cleobulus was the tyrant of Lindos, a poet and one of the Seven Sages of antiquity.
- Route length: 5 km.(2 hours)
Hike on the volcano, Nisyros
The most important attraction of Nisyros is without a doubt its volcano, which you can visit. Some 25,000 and 15,000 years ago, two eruptions of the volcano “gave birth” to today’s caldera. Hikingin the lunar landscape of Nisyros’ volcano is like stepping into a science fiction film. You can walk into the heart of the Stefanos crater after a hike of about two and a half hoursthat starts from Mandraki, the island’s capital. It’s best to be there by 11 in the morning to avoid the buses withday-trippers.
- Route length: 8 km. (2-3 hours)
Kritsa Gorge, Crete
In an area of outstanding natural beauty in Lasithilies the Kritsa Gorge.The gorge begins on the northeastern side of the village of the same name, 9kmsouthwest of Agios Nikolaos, and ends, after about 10km of hiking,at the village of Tapes.The gorge impresses from the very first steps, as the entrance is lush with leafy trees and shrubs. Be aware that thewalls narrowat several points along the route, witha width that does notexceed 1.5 m.
- Route length: 11 km. (5-6 hours)
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese
Greece’s largest organized trail, the Menalon Trail, extends for 75 km, passingthrough historic settlements of Arcadia, such as Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Zygovisti, Elati, Vytina, Nymfasia, Magouliana, Valtessiniko and Lagkadia. The path takes in all the historic and cultural sights of these areas while also interconnecting with an endless side network. The trail is divided into eight sections of varying difficulty. TheStemnitsa–Dimitsana section is the most popular for a one-day hike.
- Route length: 75 km. (5-8 days)
Melinta–Palaiochori Path, Lesvos
On Lesvos, hiking lovers can enjoy the olive trails of southern Lesvos, which include paths and old local roads that crisscross the island. A short yet particularly picturesque route is the Melinta–Palaiochori path (1.2 km, 30 minutes), which follows the Selanda River for 200 m before climbing to Palaiochori, passing a spring with drinking water on the way. The trail ends at the village olive press. Another appealing option is the Palaiochori–Rachidi path (1 km, about 30 minutes), which is paved with white stone and passes springs and vineyards.
- Route length: 1.2 km. (30 minutes)
Vikos Gorge, Zagorochoria
Vikos Gorge is the ultimate attraction in the Zagorochoria. It is one of the most celebrated gorges in Greece and holds a place in the Guinness Book as the gorge with the narrowest opening in the world. The best way to get to know it is, of course, by crossing it (with experienced guidance) along the area’s marked trails. You’ll work for it, but you’ll be rewarded with scenes of unbelievable beauty. Alternatively, you can simply gaze at the ravine from above—the best viewpoints are at Monodendri, at Oxia and at the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, as well as at Beloi near the village of Vradeto.
- Route length: 12 km. (6-7 hours)
Agia Paraskevi–Damouchari Path, Pelion
The beautiful trails of Pelion are a nature lover’s paradise. Dozens of marked paths link the villages with each other and with the beaches. A must is the superb route that starts from Tsagarada, specifically from the central square of the settlement of Agia Paraskevi with its thousand-year-old plane tree. A serpentine, downhill cobbled path threads through the rich forest of broadleaf trees. The views over the Aegean are unforgettable. After about one and a half hours of hiking you’ll reach the village of Damouchari with its pretty natural little harbor.
- Route length: 5.5 km. (1-2 hours)
Read also:
One of the most fascinating ways to get to know a place is to walk itand our countryboasts a wide variety of hiking trails across thrilling landscapes to explore. From the mountains of mainland Greece to the islandsof ours,there arehundreds of paths that pass through lush forests, olive groves and gorges, beside waterfalls, riversand historic monuments, ending at gorgeous beaches with azure waters as well as traditional villages, offering unique experiences for hiking lovers.
Let’s take a look at the 10 hiking routes in Greece highlighted and presented by the famous travel guide Lonely Planet. Some of the routes below are easy and suitable for everyone, while others require good physical condition and proper preparation.But, however tough the challenge, the reward is an experience you’ll never forget.
Read also:
10 hiking routesworth doing in Greece
Samaria Gorge, Crete
It is the most famous of Crete’s gorges and the longest gorge in Europe, with a total length reaching 18 km. A unique natural monument with rich flora and fauna, the Samaria Gorge (also known as "Faraggas") has been declared a protected National Park, and crossing it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and hikers who flock here by the thousands from early May to late October. The descent begins at Xyloskalo, on the Omalos plateau, and the first kilometers unfold in a lush, cool landscape. You’ll need athletic shoes, a hat, water and plenty of patience, as it will take at least 4-5hours to cross. The trail ends at the beach of Agia Roumeli. A refreshing dip in the waters of the Libyan Sea will reward you.
- Route length: 16 km. (4-5 hours)
Mount Ochi, Evia
Hiking and adventure enthusiasts will find their paradise on the verdant Mount Ochi, which dominates the southernmost part of Evia and stretches from Karystos to Cape Kafireas (Cavo Doro). Ochi isknown for the enigmatic Drakospita, the strange structures with unique masonry and an unknown, even today, purpose, which have stood for thousands of years across southern Evia. The most famous and best-preserved drakospito is at the summit of ProfitisIlias, at an altitude of 1,365 m, in an idyllic setting with mesmerizing views. The usual route to ascend Ochi starts from the village of Myloi.
- Route length: 8 km. (3-4 hours)
Ancient Kirra–Delphi Path, Central Greece
Walking the ancient Kirra–Delphi path makes you feel part of the land’s history, following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims. Kirra was the port of Delphi and the landing place for those who chose to approach Delphi via its harbor. This is a routeof historical interest and unique shifts in scenery that gives you the chance to explore the sacred site of Delphi.
- Route length: 14 km. (3-4 hours)
Hike to the Tomb of Cleobulus, Lindos, Rhodes
If you find yourself in the traditional settlement of Lindos on Rhodes, it’s worth taking this lovely and easy two-hour route to reach the tomb of Cleobulus, at the edge of the bare, flat headland to the north. Starting alongside the car park above the main beach, the path ends on arocky hill crowned by the circular tomb built during the 2nd century BC. Cleobulus was the tyrant of Lindos, a poet and one of the Seven Sages of antiquity.
- Route length: 5 km.(2 hours)
Hike on the volcano, Nisyros
The most important attraction of Nisyros is without a doubt its volcano, which you can visit. Some 25,000 and 15,000 years ago, two eruptions of the volcano “gave birth” to today’s caldera. Hikingin the lunar landscape of Nisyros’ volcano is like stepping into a science fiction film. You can walk into the heart of the Stefanos crater after a hike of about two and a half hoursthat starts from Mandraki, the island’s capital. It’s best to be there by 11 in the morning to avoid the buses withday-trippers.
- Route length: 8 km. (2-3 hours)
Kritsa Gorge, Crete
In an area of outstanding natural beauty in Lasithilies the Kritsa Gorge.The gorge begins on the northeastern side of the village of the same name, 9kmsouthwest of Agios Nikolaos, and ends, after about 10km of hiking,at the village of Tapes.The gorge impresses from the very first steps, as the entrance is lush with leafy trees and shrubs. Be aware that thewalls narrowat several points along the route, witha width that does notexceed 1.5 m.
- Route length: 11 km. (5-6 hours)
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese
Greece’s largest organized trail, the Menalon Trail, extends for 75 km, passingthrough historic settlements of Arcadia, such as Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Zygovisti, Elati, Vytina, Nymfasia, Magouliana, Valtessiniko and Lagkadia. The path takes in all the historic and cultural sights of these areas while also interconnecting with an endless side network. The trail is divided into eight sections of varying difficulty. TheStemnitsa–Dimitsana section is the most popular for a one-day hike.
- Route length: 75 km. (5-8 days)
Melinta–Palaiochori Path, Lesvos
On Lesvos, hiking lovers can enjoy the olive trails of southern Lesvos, which include paths and old local roads that crisscross the island. A short yet particularly picturesque route is the Melinta–Palaiochori path (1.2 km, 30 minutes), which follows the Selanda River for 200 m before climbing to Palaiochori, passing a spring with drinking water on the way. The trail ends at the village olive press. Another appealing option is the Palaiochori–Rachidi path (1 km, about 30 minutes), which is paved with white stone and passes springs and vineyards.
- Route length: 1.2 km. (30 minutes)
Vikos Gorge, Zagorochoria
Vikos Gorge is the ultimate attraction in the Zagorochoria. It is one of the most celebrated gorges in Greece and holds a place in the Guinness Book as the gorge with the narrowest opening in the world. The best way to get to know it is, of course, by crossing it (with experienced guidance) along the area’s marked trails. You’ll work for it, but you’ll be rewarded with scenes of unbelievable beauty. Alternatively, you can simply gaze at the ravine from above—the best viewpoints are at Monodendri, at Oxia and at the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, as well as at Beloi near the village of Vradeto.
- Route length: 12 km. (6-7 hours)
Agia Paraskevi–Damouchari Path, Pelion
The beautiful trails of Pelion are a nature lover’s paradise. Dozens of marked paths link the villages with each other and with the beaches. A must is the superb route that starts from Tsagarada, specifically from the central square of the settlement of Agia Paraskevi with its thousand-year-old plane tree. A serpentine, downhill cobbled path threads through the rich forest of broadleaf trees. The views over the Aegean are unforgettable. After about one and a half hours of hiking you’ll reach the village of Damouchari with its pretty natural little harbor.
- Route length: 5.5 km. (1-2 hours)
Read also:
One of the most fascinating ways to get to know a place is to walk itand our countryboasts a wide variety of hiking trails across thrilling landscapes to explore. From the mountains of mainland Greece to the islandsof ours,there arehundreds of paths that pass through lush forests, olive groves and gorges, beside waterfalls, riversand historic monuments, ending at gorgeous beaches with azure waters as well as traditional villages, offering unique experiences for hiking lovers.
Let’s take a look at the 10 hiking routes in Greece highlighted and presented by the famous travel guide Lonely Planet. Some of the routes below are easy and suitable for everyone, while others require good physical condition and proper preparation.But, however tough the challenge, the reward is an experience you’ll never forget.
Read also:
10 hiking routesworth doing in Greece
Samaria Gorge, Crete
It is the most famous of Crete’s gorges and the longest gorge in Europe, with a total length reaching 18 km. A unique natural monument with rich flora and fauna, the Samaria Gorge (also known as "Faraggas") has been declared a protected National Park, and crossing it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and hikers who flock here by the thousands from early May to late October. The descent begins at Xyloskalo, on the Omalos plateau, and the first kilometers unfold in a lush, cool landscape. You’ll need athletic shoes, a hat, water and plenty of patience, as it will take at least 4-5hours to cross. The trail ends at the beach of Agia Roumeli. A refreshing dip in the waters of the Libyan Sea will reward you.
- Route length: 16 km. (4-5 hours)
Mount Ochi, Evia
Hiking and adventure enthusiasts will find their paradise on the verdant Mount Ochi, which dominates the southernmost part of Evia and stretches from Karystos to Cape Kafireas (Cavo Doro). Ochi isknown for the enigmatic Drakospita, the strange structures with unique masonry and an unknown, even today, purpose, which have stood for thousands of years across southern Evia. The most famous and best-preserved drakospito is at the summit of ProfitisIlias, at an altitude of 1,365 m, in an idyllic setting with mesmerizing views. The usual route to ascend Ochi starts from the village of Myloi.
- Route length: 8 km. (3-4 hours)
Ancient Kirra–Delphi Path, Central Greece
Walking the ancient Kirra–Delphi path makes you feel part of the land’s history, following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims. Kirra was the port of Delphi and the landing place for those who chose to approach Delphi via its harbor. This is a routeof historical interest and unique shifts in scenery that gives you the chance to explore the sacred site of Delphi.
- Route length: 14 km. (3-4 hours)
Hike to the Tomb of Cleobulus, Lindos, Rhodes
If you find yourself in the traditional settlement of Lindos on Rhodes, it’s worth taking this lovely and easy two-hour route to reach the tomb of Cleobulus, at the edge of the bare, flat headland to the north. Starting alongside the car park above the main beach, the path ends on arocky hill crowned by the circular tomb built during the 2nd century BC. Cleobulus was the tyrant of Lindos, a poet and one of the Seven Sages of antiquity.
- Route length: 5 km.(2 hours)
Hike on the volcano, Nisyros
The most important attraction of Nisyros is without a doubt its volcano, which you can visit. Some 25,000 and 15,000 years ago, two eruptions of the volcano “gave birth” to today’s caldera. Hikingin the lunar landscape of Nisyros’ volcano is like stepping into a science fiction film. You can walk into the heart of the Stefanos crater after a hike of about two and a half hoursthat starts from Mandraki, the island’s capital. It’s best to be there by 11 in the morning to avoid the buses withday-trippers.
- Route length: 8 km. (2-3 hours)
Kritsa Gorge, Crete
In an area of outstanding natural beauty in Lasithilies the Kritsa Gorge.The gorge begins on the northeastern side of the village of the same name, 9kmsouthwest of Agios Nikolaos, and ends, after about 10km of hiking,at the village of Tapes.The gorge impresses from the very first steps, as the entrance is lush with leafy trees and shrubs. Be aware that thewalls narrowat several points along the route, witha width that does notexceed 1.5 m.
- Route length: 11 km. (5-6 hours)
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese
Greece’s largest organized trail, the Menalon Trail, extends for 75 km, passingthrough historic settlements of Arcadia, such as Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Zygovisti, Elati, Vytina, Nymfasia, Magouliana, Valtessiniko and Lagkadia. The path takes in all the historic and cultural sights of these areas while also interconnecting with an endless side network. The trail is divided into eight sections of varying difficulty. TheStemnitsa–Dimitsana section is the most popular for a one-day hike.
- Route length: 75 km. (5-8 days)
Melinta–Palaiochori Path, Lesvos
On Lesvos, hiking lovers can enjoy the olive trails of southern Lesvos, which include paths and old local roads that crisscross the island. A short yet particularly picturesque route is the Melinta–Palaiochori path (1.2 km, 30 minutes), which follows the Selanda River for 200 m before climbing to Palaiochori, passing a spring with drinking water on the way. The trail ends at the village olive press. Another appealing option is the Palaiochori–Rachidi path (1 km, about 30 minutes), which is paved with white stone and passes springs and vineyards.
- Route length: 1.2 km. (30 minutes)
Vikos Gorge, Zagorochoria
Vikos Gorge is the ultimate attraction in the Zagorochoria. It is one of the most celebrated gorges in Greece and holds a place in the Guinness Book as the gorge with the narrowest opening in the world. The best way to get to know it is, of course, by crossing it (with experienced guidance) along the area’s marked trails. You’ll work for it, but you’ll be rewarded with scenes of unbelievable beauty. Alternatively, you can simply gaze at the ravine from above—the best viewpoints are at Monodendri, at Oxia and at the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, as well as at Beloi near the village of Vradeto.
- Route length: 12 km. (6-7 hours)
Agia Paraskevi–Damouchari Path, Pelion
The beautiful trails of Pelion are a nature lover’s paradise. Dozens of marked paths link the villages with each other and with the beaches. A must is the superb route that starts from Tsagarada, specifically from the central square of the settlement of Agia Paraskevi with its thousand-year-old plane tree. A serpentine, downhill cobbled path threads through the rich forest of broadleaf trees. The views over the Aegean are unforgettable. After about one and a half hours of hiking you’ll reach the village of Damouchari with its pretty natural little harbor.
- Route length: 5.5 km. (1-2 hours)
Read also:
