Last Updated on October 20, 2021 by admin
For those who like to be active on holiday, hiking is a great way to get out and explore. Not only do you get to see everything from vast landscapes to small, charming villages, but you can also smell the flora of your destination and in the case of the Greek Islands, feel the warmth of the air on your skin, even in the autumn months. It’s not just about getting to your destination but enjoying the journey along the way as part of the experience.
I personally love hiking as it is an interesting way to know the landscape of the place one is traveling to. My personal favorite hike in India is the Triund Rhododendron Trek and internationally it is Nong Khiaw Viewpoint.
For all hikers, I recommend that you make sure you’re well prepared. You should be aware of the difference in climate from your home and adjust your expectations for your abilities accordingly, and make sure you’re dressed appropriately. The emergency number in Greece is 112, but make sure that you’ve checked the weather forecast before setting off and carry basic first aid supplies with you, as well as food and water. If you’re unsure, or a novice hiker, there are plenty of routes available that have marshalls along the way for reassurance.
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Best walks in the Greek Islands
While it is difficult to come up with just three walks in the Greek Islands, these are some of the best that I have come across.
Samaria Gorge, Crete
Samaria Gorge, in southwest Crete, takes around four to eight hours to complete and is 16km long. It forms part of the E4 trail across Europe, which is more than 10,000 km long, and starts in Spain, winding its way across multiple countries to finish up in Cyprus. The Samaria Gorge section is primarily downhill and the terrain is rocky, so make sure to wear the correct footwear.
This is a good hike for those who want an adventure with a bit of reassurance. There are plenty of water sports and places to stop, and marshals along the route in case you feel unwell or have an accident. You can even dive into the sea at the end of the route, so make sure to pack a swimsuit and a towel.
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese
This is an adventure for those who have several days, and a good level of physical fitness. Whilst the trail is a slightly daunting 75km, it is recognized as one of the best hiking trails in Europe, and is divided into eight sections. There are plenty of places to stay on the way, as well, so you can rest and reflect on the sights that you’ve seen in the day.
You can find the map in local shops, or purchase it online for around €7, and there are signs along the route to guide you, giving you the choice of varying degrees of difficulty. This is definitely a route that requires preparation, so make sure that you have hiking boots, hiking poles, and a suitable backpack before you set off, as well as letting someone know where you are going if you’re hiking solo.
Fira to Oia, Santorini
This is the perfect hike for those who want to combine walking and exploring pretty little towns. It measures 10km, and as with a lot of Greek Island hiking trails, is a little hilly, so make sure that you’re well prepared. You should consider getting an early start or start later in the afternoon in order to keep out of the hot midday sun. The hike works both ways, but Fira sits higher up than Oia, so it can be better to start in Fira so that you walk primarily downhill. The route has marker signs posted along the way to help you check you’re going in the right direction.
On the way, you will go through the towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli. Firostefani merges with Fira, so it can feel like you are still in the same town, but it is much quieter and has a relaxed atmosphere. Whilst there, you can take a look at the Three Bells of Thira, a traditional whitewashed church with a blue roof that is set against the backdrop of the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Are walks in the Greek Islands worth it?
The Greek Islands offer beautiful landscapes that are just waiting to be explored. The warm temperatures throughout the year mean that those who want to escape from the searing heat and busy tourist areas of the summer can choose to come in autumn and get just as good an experience.
Sustainable tips for walks in Greek Islands
- Walking is a great way to see a country sustainably, and contribute financially to a range of local towns.
- Make sure to buy your hiking snacks in local shops, and leave no trace that you’ve been there.
- Invest in good walking shoes. Loom Footwear is one of the sustainable footwear options that is perfect for walking and hiking.
- Carry your waste with you, don’t pick the flowers, and take care where you walk.
Have you been on such walking/hiking trips in Greece or any other country in Europe? Tell in about your experience in the comments below.
