12 Unforgettable Hiking Trails on the Greek Islands Every Hiker Must Explore
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For centuries, the Greek Islands have been known for offering the best coastal escapes. But beyond the azure waters and pristine beaches lie many hiking trails waiting to be explored. We get it: the coastal adventures on the Greek Islands are magical, and anyone could easily spend a month-long vacation hopping from one beach to another.
However, if you want to explore more than beaches or if you like hiking, the Greek Islands will not disappoint you, as they have trails of varied difficulties.
Looking for more activities to add to your Greek islands itineraries? We have got you covered on this list. Whether you are looking to actively explore the best nature has to offer or enjoy the best panoramic views of the Greek islands, these trails promise the best outdoor adventures.
Fira Oia Hiking Trail, Santorini
One of the best ways to explore Santorini on foot is by hitting the Fira Oia Trail. Stretching 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers), this trail gives adventurers amazing views of the postcard-perfect Greek villages of Imerovigli, Fira, Firostefani, and Oia.
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At the border between Fira and Firostefani lies a lengthy stretch of white balcony that offers magnificent views of the Aegean Sea, a perfect spot for Instagram photos. Depending on how fast you walk and how often you stop, this hike can take 3 to 5 hours. If you must hit this trail during summer, try leaving early, as it often gets scorching by 11 a.m.
Read also: Must-Visit Greek Islands
Skopos Trail, Zakynthos
With a length of 7.9 miles (12.7 kilometers), Skopos Trail in Zakynthos starts at the village of Kalamaki and ends at Laganas Bay. This moderately challenging trail takes approximately 4 hours to complete, depending on one’s fitness level.
Hiking Skopos Trail offers opportunities to explore Skopos’s low mountain, which is characterized by lush Mediterranean vegetation and Ionian scrublands.
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At the top of the trail, you will be treated to stunning views of the rebuilt temple of Panagia Skopiotissa, which also offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the Zakynthos National Marine Park.
Read also: Incredible Secret Spots on Greek Islands
Erimitis Beaches Hiking Trail, Corfu Island
Erimitis Beaches Trail in Corfu starts from Agios Stefanos (in Sinies) and ends at Avlaki Beach, passing through dense Mediterranean vegetation. Along the trail, you will come across six secluded beaches, three lakes, shelters for rare birds, and major wetlands; it is a perfect day hike for any nature enthusiast.
This 4.9-mile (7.9-kilometer) hike can be completed in about 2 hours.
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This hiking trail is popular with locals for morning jogs. If you’re in Corfu and looking to keep up with your fitness, this trail would be a perfect place to do your morning runs.
Read also: Best Greek Islands for Beaches
Mount Akramitis Hiking Trail, Rhodes
While Mount Akramitis might not be the highest mountain in Rhodes, hiking it will leave you with an experience like no other. Covering a distance of 5.6 miles (9 kilometers), Mount Akramitis Trail allows you to explore the overlooked side of Rhodes, which comprises a dense forest (consisting of tall pine trees), rocky paths, and a hidden cave.
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Reaching the summit can be challenging, but the views will be worth the sweat and effort. At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Inland Rhodes and other Dodecanese Islands like Tilos, Halki, Alimia, and Karpathos.
Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in Greece
Byzantine Road Hiking Trail, Paros Island
Known as the oldest trail on Paros Island, Byzantine Road is paved with Parian marble and connects Lefkes to Prodromos. This 2–mile (3.5-kilometer) hiking trail takes approximately 2 hours to complete. It is also an ideal spot for running and mountain biking.
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The Byzantine Road Hiking Trail allows you to enjoy the beauty of olive groves and the surrounding landscapes of the Mountains of Ikaria. At the trail’s highest point, you will be treated to views of the neighboring Naxos and the sea.
When descending towards Prodromos, catch views of the stunning Molos Beach and spectacular hills such as Antikefalos and Kefalos.
Read also: Amazing Hiking Trails Around the World
Sikia Cave Trail, Milos
As the name suggests, this trail leads to Sikia Cave, the largest sea cave in Milos Island. With a length of 2.7 miles (4.3 kilometers), this trail is considered moderately challenging and can take just under two hours to complete. Close to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Siderianos is where this trail starts and ends at the opening of Sikia cave, which is a must-see when in Milos.
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Located on the southwest part of Milos Island, this cave has incredible stalagmite and stalactite formations that took hundreds of years to form. The collapsed roof of the cave gives unrivaled views of the blue sky, creating a scenery perfect for your Instagram snaps.
Read also: Best Scenic Hikes in the US
Samaria Gorge Hiking Trail, Crete Island
Popularly known as the Grand Canyon of Crete, Samaria Gorge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. To immerse yourself in its full glory, consider hiking the Samaria Gorge Hiking Trail, the accomplishment and views will be worth it.
The 10-mile (16-kilometer) trail takes hikers through rocky riverbeds, pine-scented forests, and soaring cliffs, which are sceneries any outdoor enthusiast will appreciate.
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The hike starts from the settlement of Omalos and ends at the village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. Spare at least 5-7 hours to complete this moderately strenuous hike.
Read also: Majestic Canyons to Hike
Mount Zas Hiking Trail, Naxos Island
Mount Zas is Naxos’s highest mountain, towering at 3290 feet. Hiking it allows you to claim two victories: reaching the highest peak in the Cyclades and passing through one of the vital landscapes in Greek Mythology. The trek, which is 5.7 miles (9.2 kilometers) long, starts in Filotio (a small traditional Greek village) and is mainly characterized by bumpy roads full of boulders and rocks.
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While hiking this trail, enjoy the signature Cyclades vegetation graced by wild goats. At the summit, you can marvel at outstanding views of Naxos Island, the Aegean Sea, Zeus Cave and the Aria Spring. This challenging trail takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
Read also: Breathtaking Hiking Trails in the Caribbean
Platys Gialos-Paradise Beach-Cavo Paradiso Hiking Trail, Mykonos
Ideal for beginners, the Platys Gialos-Paradise Beach-Cavo Paradiso Trail is 5 miles (8 kilometers) long and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. This coastal route starts at the settlement of Platys Gialos and passes through 2 stunning beaches: Platys Gialos and Paradise Beach.
Between these two most touristic beaches lies Paraga Beach and Agia Anna Beach, two smaller beaches in Café Cape. These are perfect for anyone who loves the serenity and charm of secluded beaches.
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This trail ends at the popular Cavo Paradiso. Although you can hike this trail any time of the year, it is recommended to do so during late October, when the paths are relatively dry and easier to walk.
Read also: Greek Islands With Airport
The Round of Kanapitsa Trail, Skiathos Island
Skiathos Island is a hiker’s paradise, thanks to its 25 mapped-out trails, key among them being The Round of Kanapitsa Trail. Estimated to be 3.6 miles (5.8 kilometers) long, this trail is the longest in Kanapitsa and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
The beauty of trekking on this trail is that you can enjoy some solitude during certain hours of the day, making it ideal for those who want to meditate as they hike or jog.
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This trek passes through popular beaches such as Kanapitsa, Vromolimnos, and Kolios, where you can take breaks. Some spots offer superb panoramic views of the sea and the neighboring islands.
Read more: Best Time to Visit Greece
Potami-Mikro Seitani-Megalo Seitani Hiking Trail, Samos
For beach hike enthusiasts, the adventure that awaits you at the Mikro Seitani-Megalo Seitani Trail is one you will remember. This 4.8-mile (7.7-kilometer) hiking trail begins near the Potami area, passes through Mikro Beach, and ends at Megalo Seitani.
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The moderately challenging hike takes around 2.5 hours to complete. This route offers sweeping views of the sea, rocky slopes, and olive groves.
An unmissable highlight of this trail is a quick swim at Mikto Beach, which offers much-needed cooling after trekking under the sun.
Read also: Amazing Landmarks in Greece
Gialos – Fanari Cape Lighthouse Hiking Trail, Ios
Perfect for amateurs, the Gialos—Fanari Cape Lighthouse Trail is 3.2 miles (5.1 kilometers) long and best for hiking and mountain biking. This hike can be done in under 1.5 hours. Besides being short, you will love how under-the-radar it is. Not many people choose to explore it.
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The trail starts from Gialos Beach and is characterized by asphalt in some sections and dirt in others. A dirt road and path go all the way to Cape Fanari, marked by a stunning lighthouse. Upon reaching the summit, you will have amazing views of the bay, Chora, and the Gialos harbor.
Read also: Best Greek Islands for Sunset Watching
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
