Hiking the Greek Islands Tour

• Day 1: 

  Arrival in Athens
  Today we arrive in Athens, off-and-on the capital of Greece in its many incarnations over several thousand years. Athens pulses with the eclectic, restless--and sometimes chaotic--life of a southeastern European capital. The city's diverse neighbourhoods are vibrant places with lively squares, shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes, many new and thriving businesses, artistic and theatrical happenings.
  
  Overnight in Athens.

   

  Included Meal(s): Dinner
• Day 2: 

  Athens: Walking Tour
  The best way to explore a city is on foot, and this is especially true of Athens, which has a number of sites located in close proximity to each other. From our hotel we will enter Plaka, the old town of Athens. Standing on a small square is the Lysicrates Monument, a cyclical tower from the 4th century BC. From here, it is just a brief walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street to the southern slope of the Acropolis -- the site of the Dionysos Theatre. Constructed in the 6th century BC, it is one of the world's oldest theatres and the place where the great works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes were first performed. Walking down the street towards the entrance of the Acropolis, we will come across a more recent theatre, the Odeon of Herod Atticus from the second century AD, which is still used for concerts and performances.
  
  The highlight of this tour is the ascent to the Acropolis with its architectural masterpieces dating back to the 5th century BC. We reach the top of this hill by entering through the monumental Propylea in order to admire the magnificent Parthenon and the graceful Caryatid statues at the Erechthion Temple.
  
  Turning right at the exit of the Acropolis, we will come to Arios Pagos -- a small hill or a large rock, depending on how you look at it -- which was used as the seat of court during the 5th century BC. This is the place were the Apostle Paul preached to the citizens of Athens 2,000 years ago. The stairs next to the Arios Pagos take us down to the Ancient Agora marketplace. Among the numerous sights in this archaeological park is the well-preserved Temple of Hephaistos and the reconstructed Stoa Attalou. A short stroll away is the more recent Roman Agora from the first century BC and the landmark Tower of the Winds.
  
  The balance of the day is yours to explore independently. Although it is not included on our morning walking tour of central Athens, we recommend a visit to the Acropolis Museum on your own this afternoon, which is located quite close to where we will end our guided walking tour at lunchtime.
  
  Overnight in Athens.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 3: 

  Athens - Ferry to Tinos
  Today we travel by ferry to the island of Tinos.* On arrival, we can have a leisurely stroll about Tinos town, taking in the Panagia Church, Greece's most important pilgrimage centre for Orthodox pilgrims. Note the carpeted strip along the main road leading to the church, put in place for pilgrims who demonstrate their piety by crawling the distance from the main waterfront square, up the hill to the church.
  
  According to mythology, Tinos was the home of Aeolus, God of the Winds. The Ionians came to Tinos around 1000 BC; in the 6th century BC Tinos was ruled by Eretria, while in 490 BC the island was seized by the Persians, regaining its freedom after the battle of Marathon. In 1207 Tinos was conquered by the Venetians. Venetian rule in Tinos island lasted longer than on any other island of the Cyclades. In 1715, Tinos was taken by the Turks, to be liberated by the Greeks in the War of Independence of 1821. The year 1822 was an important one for Tinos, for it was then that the famous icon of the Blessed Virgin was discovered, after a nun in the Kechrovouni convent saw it in a dream.
  
  This evening we have our first chance to sample authentic local cuisine in a typical taverna; Tinos is renowned for its homemade cheeses, wild thyme honey, and distinctive local sausages flavoured with island herbs.
  
  * Due to frequently changing ferry schedules, the actual order of islands visited may vary from this itinerary. If given ample warning, we will update the version specific to your chosen date of departure.
  
  Overnight on Tinos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 4: 

  Tinos: Volax & Agapi
  After breakfast we go by taxi to the village of Falatados where our first proper hiking adventure begins.
  
  We head uphill through traditional terraced landscapes to the ruined fortress of Exombourgo to admire a stunning panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and surrounding islands. Mount Exombourgo is a steep-sided granite cone rising 553m (1,814 ft) high that features the atmospheric ruins of a Venetian castle and the remains of three ancient churches and a fountain-house. This was the medieval capital of Tinos until it was abandoned after repeated Ottoman attacks.
  
  We continue to the extraordinary village of Volax, almost hidden in the middle of rounded granite boulders—a unique geological phenomenon that sets it apart from anywhere else in Greece. These massive stones, some as large as houses, create an otherworldly landscape that feels like walking through a giant's playground. Volax is also noted for its traditional handmade woven baskets, crafted using techniques passed down through generations.
  
  We pause for a break for lunch Volax, where there are a couple of small bar/café/restaurants that serve excellent dishes. Make sure you have some free time to wander around and visit a basket weaver to see these ancient crafts being made.
  
  Our afternoon hike features a scenic footpath winds down the valley to Agapi, the finishing point of today's hike. Along the way, look for examples of the island's famous "dovecotes"—elaborate stone towers built long ago for pigeons but today considered masterpieces of folk architecture and art. The last part of this walk is mostly downhill and very scenic through granite landscapes unique to Tinos.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: 3-4 hours leisurely walking over 8-10km/5-6 mi on undulating, mostly unshaded terrain with uneven cobbled surfaces and unique granite boulder landscapes.
  
  Overnight on Tinos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 5: 

  Tinos - Ferry to Amorgos
  Today we travel by ferry to the island of Amorgos, connecting through Naxos. This journey itself offers spectacular views as we navigate between the scattered Cycladic islands, each a white jewel set in the deep blue Aegean.
  
  Amorgos's timeless monastery, scattered churches, and pristine beaches offer both respite from tourists on other islands and a taste of traditional Greece. For many, Amorgos becomes the highlight of the tour, accurately described as "the soul of Greece." The locals are extremely friendly, the mountains surrounding the port majestic, and the sunsets stunning. This remote island has been the location of several films, including "The Big Blue," and remains refreshingly uncommercial.
  
  Upon arrival at Aegiali port, we'll transfer to our accommodation in this charming northern harbour town. Aegiali sits in a spectacular natural amphitheater, surrounded by dramatic mountains and overlooking a beautiful sandy bay. The evening is perfect for an exploratory stroll around the port area with its traditional tavernas, fishing boats, and cafes where locals gather to play backgammon. The pace of life here is noticeably slower, and the absence of mass tourism means authentic encounters with island culture.
  
  From our base, we can see the three traditional villages—Tholaria, Langada, and Potamos—perched on the mountainsides above us.
  
  Overnight on Amorgos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 6: 

  Amorgos: Tholaria & Langada
  This hike is one of the most beautiful on Amorgos, featuring magnificent ancient trails through the paleis (terraced mountainsides) above Aegiali. The panoramic views and traditional villages make this day an unforgettable experience. Aegiali is an area consisting of three traditional villages: Langada, Tholaria, and Potamos, which sit on the slope of the highest mountain on Amorgos, Krikellos (821m/2,709 ft).
  
  We begin this morning's hike at the mountain village of Tholaria, perched dramatically on the hillside. Our route follows a cobbled donkey path that connected the surrounding villages before there were any paved roads in the area. This first stretch is a traverse that affords spectacular views of the steep slopes and wide, well-watered valley of Aegiali, spreading to the sweeping sandy bay beneath Mount Krikellos.
  
  From here we descend towards the white village of Langada, passing the half-ruined settlement of Stroumbos, where in recent years foreigners have restored several of the old stone houses. This village has no road and no electricity, offering a glimpse into how life was lived here for centuries.
  
  Descending from Langada towards the coast, we make a brief ascent to the tiny cliff-side church of Agia Triada, once a stronghold to which villagers retreated when pirates threatened. Our morning's hike ends at the water-side settlement of Aegiali, where there are several good restaurants for lunch and a beautiful sandy beach for an afternoon swim.
  
  This evening we enjoy a Greek cooking class, with emphasis on traditional, family-style island dishes using local ingredients like capers, honey, and fresh herbs.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: The hike takes a little over four hours (real walking time - walking distance +/- 6.5 kms/4 miles). Terrain is undulating with loose stones and cobbled surfaces.
  
  Overnight on Amorgos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 7: 

  Amorgos: Chora & Chozoviotissa Monastery
  This morning we travel by scenic road to Chora, the capital of the island. We'll pause here to stroll about this remarkable village, set high above the sea and originally positioned to be protected from pirates of bygone days. The village is a maze of narrow streets, traditional Cycladic houses, and small churches, with stunning views over the surrounding countryside and distant islands.
  
  From the edge of Chora, we follow a well-marked path that descends toward the sea for approximately 30 minutes (1.5km) to reach the Monastery of Chozoviotissa. This spectacular approach offers increasingly dramatic views as we near one of the most remarkable sights in all of Greece.
  
  The monastery is truly extraordinary—this dazzling white building, founded in the 9th century and renovated in 1088 AD, clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 300 meters above the sea. The monastery houses the revered icon of the Virgin Mary and fascinating religious artifacts. Access to the monastery requires climbing 271 stone steps built into the cliff face, offering breathtaking views from the narrow balconies. DRESS CODE NOTE: Women must wear a long loose-fitting skirt or sarong over shorts/pants for the monastery visit. Men should wear long pants.
  
  Following our monastery visit, where the monks traditionally offer visitors raki and loukoumi, we face the more challenging return journey—a steep 45-minute uphill walk back to Chora via the same path. This ascent rewards us with spectacular views of the monastery from above, perfectly framed against the dramatic coastline.
  
  Back in Chora, we have time to explore this beautiful Cycladic village more thoroughly, wandering through its narrow streets, visiting traditional cafes, and perhaps exploring the ancient windmills and ruined Venetian castle that crown the hill above the village. The afternoon provides opportunities to see traditional Cycladic architecture, old stone walls, and small Byzantine churches that dot the village.
  
  Depending on our day's timing, we may be able to pay a visit to Katapoloa, Amorgos's other port, before heading back to Aegiali.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: Approximately 3 hours moderate walking. Descent to monastery (30 min), monastery visit with 271-step climb, steep return ascent (45 min), plus village exploration. Stunning coastal and architectural views throughout.
  
  Overnight on Amorgos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 8: 

  Ferry to Naxos: Chora Walking Tour
  This morning we travel by ferry to the island of Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands. Green, fertile, and largely self-sufficient, Naxos has not needed to go all out to attract tourists. This wealthy agricultural island exports an abundant harvest of olives, grapes, and potatoes throughout the Aegean, and only recently has begun to cater to tourists. The island's prosperity shows in its well-maintained villages and excellent local cuisine.
  
  On arrival we will have a comprehensive walking tour of Naxos Chora, the main town and capital of the island. On our stroll you will note the architecture of Naxos, distinct from that of any other Cycladic isle. The Venetians ruled this island from 1207 until it fell to the Turks in 1566, and their influence is obvious in the Kastro (castle area) and the fortified Venetian towers scattered across the landscape.
  
  Also specific to Naxos is the remarkable abundance of small Byzantine chapels, many of which contain exceptional frescoes dating from the 9th to the 13th centuries. We'll visit several of these hidden gems during our exploration of the old town's winding streets.
  
  Our walk culminates at the Portara, the big marble gate that stands majestically on a small islet connected to the harbor by a causeway. This is the remains of the ancient temple of Apollo from the 6th century BC. The legend says that Theseus abandoned Ariadne here when he passed through Naxos after slaying the mythical minotaur on Crete. The Portara is perfectly positioned to frame the sunset, making it one of the most photographed monuments in Greece.
  
  Overnight on Naxos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 9: 

  Naxos: The Kouroi & Villages Hike
  Today's hike combines ancient marble paths, traditional villages, and fascinating archaeological treasures that showcase Naxos's remarkable sculptural heritage dating back over 2,500 years.
  
  We begin with a taxi ride to the historic village of Melanes, where ancient aqueducts once transported spring water to Chora. From the village's lower section, we follow a well-preserved cobbled donkey path through fertile terraced fields dotted with wildflowers and traditional stone houses.
  
  Our route leads to the charming hamlet of Mili, where we'll visit its lovely waterfall and small chapel—a perfect spot for photos and a brief rest. Continuing along the marked trail, we encounter the first of two remarkable treasures: the Kouros of Flerio, a massive 6th-century BC statue that was abandoned due to a crack discovered in the marble. This 5-meter giant lies peacefully in a beautiful garden setting maintained by the local Kondili family.
  
  A scenic walk through olive groves brings us to the Kouros of Faragi, situated dramatically within the remnants of an ancient quarry. These unfinished colossal statues provide fascinating insights into ancient Greek sculptural techniques and the island's marble-working heritage that made Naxos famous throughout the ancient world.
  
  Our path continues on ancient marble walkways to the triple village of Ano Potamia, perched on mountainside terraces with stunning valley views. Here we'll enjoy fresh lemonade and explore the village's traditional Cycladic architecture before completing our loop back to Melanes.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: 8-10km moderate hiking over 3.5-4 hours on ancient marble paths, cobbled surfaces, and dirt trails. Mixed terrain through villages, olive groves, and archaeological sites.
  
  Overnight on Naxos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 10: 

  Naxos: Apiranthos - Fanari - Chalki
  We begin the day by driving up into the mountains where we'll experience two distinct hikes showcasing Naxos's remarkable interior landscapes. The island's mountainous heart reveals a different character from the coastal areas—ancient villages, terraced hillsides, and panoramic vistas that stretch across the entire Cyclades.
  
  Our first hike starts at the picturesque village of Apiranthos, built entirely of marble and considered one of Greece's most beautiful mountain settlements. Depending on weather and group interest, from the main square at 650 meters elevation, we ascend on a narrow mountain footpath for about 30 minutes to reach the peak of Mount Fanari (883m) and the tiny church of Panagia Fanariou. This rewarding climb offers expansive views towards Mount Zas (1,003m), the island's highest peak, as well as sweeping vistas down into the fertile valley of Tragea, where we'll be hiking later today.
  
  After lunch in Apiranthos, where we can explore the village's marble-paved streets and traditional architecture, our bus takes us to the village of Moni. Here we visit the ancient church of Panagia Drosiani, the "Virgin of Cool Breezes," one of the most important early Christian monuments in Greece with remarkable frescoes dating from the 7th century.
  
  Our second hike begins from this historic church, taking us on an undulating, often shaded path through ancient olive groves. The trees here are remarkable—some with trunks of impressive girth that are hundreds of years old, their gnarled branches creating natural archways over the traditional stone paths. This peaceful walk through the valley's agricultural heart leads us through Byzantine churches and traditional villages to Chalki, once the island's capital and center of the marble trade.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: Two separate hikes totaling 10km over 4 hours 10 minutes walking time. Morning ascent to Mount Fanari (5km, 2 hours including summit time), afternoon valley walk through olive groves (5km, 2h 10min gentle terrain). Mixed surfaces from mountain paths to traditional stone walkways.
  
  Overnight on Naxos.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 11: 

  Naxos - Ferry to Crete (Chania)
  This morning we bid farewell to the Cyclades and embark on our ferry journey to western Crete, arriving at the port of Chania (Souda). This longer ferry crossing (+/- 6 hours) offers spectacular views as we leave the scattered islands behind and approach the dramatic mountains of Crete rising from the sea.
  
  Chania is widely considered one of Greece's most beautiful towns, and our first glimpse of its stunning Venetian harbor confirms this reputation. The lighthouse, one of the most photographed landmarks in Greece, stands sentinel at the harbor entrance, while the maze of narrow cobblestone streets radiates from the waterfront. The old town perfectly blends Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architectural influences, creating a unique atmosphere that reflects Crete's complex and fascinating history.
  
  Upon arrival, we'll have time to explore Chania's atmospheric old quarter with its waterfront restaurants, artisan workshops, and boutique hotels housed in restored Venetian mansions. The covered municipal market, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, is perfect for sampling local specialties like Cretan honey (some of the world's finest), aromatic olive oil, wild mountain herbs, and traditional cheeses.
  
  This afternoon offers options for gentle exploration: stroll along the famous harbour promenade where fishing boats bob alongside expensive yachts, explore the narrow streets of the Turkish quarter with its distinctive wooden balconies. The evening comes alive as the waterfront tavernas fill with locals and the setting sun bathes the Venetian buildings in golden light.
  
  Our base in Chania provides the perfect launching point for exploring western Crete's most spectacular hiking destinations over the next two days.
  
  Overnight in Chania.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 12: 

  Western Crete: Imbros Gorge & Traditional Villages
  Today we explore the spectacular Imbros Gorge, a hidden gem that offers all the dramatic beauty of the famous Samaria Gorge without the overwhelming crowds. This 8km gorge walk ranks among Crete's most beautiful and accessible hiking experiences, showcasing the island's remarkable geological diversity.
  
  We drive through scenic mountain landscapes to the village of Imbros, where our descent begins through a narrow limestone canyon. The gorge walls tower up to 300 meters high on either side, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere as we follow the ancient path that has connected mountain and coast for millennia. The well-maintained trail winds through the gorge past ancient stone bridges, seasonal waterfalls, wild herbs, and spectacular wildflowers (especially beautiful in spring).
  
  The geological formations are stunning—dramatic rock walls carved by thousands of years of water flow, natural archways, and towering limestone cliffs that change colour throughout the day. The trail is less technical than Samaria but equally impressive, taking us through a landscape that feels primeval and untouched.
  
  The gorge emerges near the coastal village of Komitades, where we'll enjoy a traditional lunch at a family taverna featuring authentic Cretan specialties like lamb with wild greens, local cheeses, and village wine.
  
  After lunch, we visit the picturesque mountain village of Askifou, set in a high plateau surrounded by dramatic peaks. This traditional village offers stunning panoramic views across the White Mountains and provides insight into authentic Cretan mountain life that has changed little over centuries. We'll stop for traditional Greek coffee and local sweets like kalitsounia (cheese pastries) before returning to Chania through landscapes of olive groves and ancient villages. Due t our sizeable lunch and length of our day, dinner on your own this evening.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: 8km moderate descent (3-4 hours) through well-marked paths with some rocky sections.
  
  Overnight in Chania.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Day 13: 

  Western Crete: Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Island
  Today we embark on one of Crete's most spectacular coastal adventures, visiting locations that regularly appear on "world's most beautiful beaches" lists. We drive to the port of Kissamos and board our boat for the legendary Balos Lagoon, a natural wonder that has captured imaginations for generations.
  
  Our boat first stops at Gramvousa Island, a dramatic rocky outcrop dominated by a 16th-century Venetian fortress perched 137 meters above the crystalline sea. We hike up through Mediterranean scrubland—fragrant with wild thyme, sage, and oregano—to explore the fortress ruins. The climb takes about 20 minutes and rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views over the Cretan Sea, nearby islands, and the approach to Balos Lagoon. The fortress offers insights into Crete's turbulent history of piracy, rebellion, and strategic maritime importance.
  
  Continuing by boat, we arrive at Balos Lagoon, often described as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. This pristine lagoon features an extraordinary palette of blues and turquoises, with pink-hued shallow waters created by crushed shells mixing with white sand. The lagoon is surrounded by dramatic white limestone cliffs and connected to the sea by a narrow channel, creating an almost tropical paradise in the Mediterranean.
  
  We have ample time to swim in the incredibly clear, shallow waters, relax on the unique multi-coloured sand beach, and for the more adventurous, explore hiking trails around the lagoon's perimeter that offer elevated viewpoints perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
  
  We return to Kissamos by boat, enjoying the coastal scenery from a different perspective, then drive back to Chania for our farewell dinner featuring authentic Cretan specialties.
  
  DAY SUMMARY: Moderate 20-minute uphill hike on Gramvousa, plus optional lagoon perimeter walks.
  
  Overnight in Chania.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 14: 

  Departure from Chania
  As we transfer to Chania Airport, we carry with us memories of ancient trails, timeless villages, dramatic coastlines, and the warm hospitality that makes Greece unforgettable.
  
  KALO TAXIDI!!

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.