Greece

Walking holidays in Greece

Greece has always been a dealbreaker, not least for its sandy and pebbly beaches, rugged mountains, glittering lakes, lush forests, blissful blue skies, and ancient masterpieces galore. And then, of course, there’s the magnificent seas sprinkled with over 200 inhabited islands – the Mediterranean to the south, the Ionian to the west, and the Aegean to the east. 

Climb the mystic Mount Ochi 

A picture-perfect town on the south coast of Evia, Karystos is the perfect base for climbing the 1,398-metre-high Mount Ochi – the rocky stunner towering proudly over the Aegean Sea. Most fascinating here is the drakospita (dragon houses) – over 20 megalithic structures buried deep in the mountains and first discovered by British geologist John Hawkins in 1797 (their origins remain a true archaeological mystery). You’ll also get to visit Dimosari Gorge, one of the most beautiful Greek hiking spots cherished for its waterfalls, rocky ravines, lush green slopes, ancient mountain paths, and peaceful vibe.  

Explore Greece’s largest island 

Credited as the birthplace of Zeus in Greek mythology, Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands. And while it may get all the love for its hillside villages, cosmopolitan towns, pink-sand beaches, and interesting historical sites, it’s the UNESCO-listed Gorge of Samaria Biosphere Reserve in the White Mountains that undeniably steals the show. Here you’ll find eyebrow-arching views of soaring cliffs, wildflowers, and Cretan wild goats known as Kri Kri. You can also spend time in Chania, the fortified Venetian city best known for its harbour, lighthouse, tavernas, mansions, and numerous sandy beaches. 

Discover the perfect Pelion Peninsula 

When it comes to walking holidays, Greece has earned its credentials. One place of timeless perfection is the Pelion Peninsula – the region located halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Sticking out like a finger into the Aegean Sea, it rewards with deserted beaches, wild olive groves, and forests of beech and chestnut – all with the 1,624-metre-high Mount Pelion as a backdrop. Highlights include walking on the network of kalderimi (cobbled paths), soaking up views of the Pagasetic Gulf, and spending time in the surrounding villages. Also visit-worthy is Volos for its grand buildings, museums, churches, and links to Jason and the Argonauts (in Greek mythology, the city was the starting point of the expedition to retrieve the Golden Fleece).