On Foot on the Island of Evia

The beach Galida of Karystos in Evia, Greece
Duration: 7 nights
Type: European walking holidays
Walking Grade: 2 & 4
from £1,429pp

It may be Greece’s second-largest island after Crete, but Evia’s charms are much lesser known. Separated from the mainland by little more than a sliver of Aegean Sea, this island stunner rewards with superb archaeological finds, lovely vineyards, and glittering beaches where you may not see another soul. Walkers will love Dimosari Gorge for its waterfalls, rocky ravines, and mysterious Dragon Houses – a collection of megalithic structures buried deep in the mountains. Equally standout is the south coast town of Karystos - an ideal base for climbing the rocky slopes of the 1,398-metre-high Mount Ochi.

What you’ll love

  • Exploring the historic coastal town of Karystos
  • Following old tracks and cobbled mule paths
  • Climbing Mount Ochi for dramatic views
  • Discovering the island’s unique Dragon Houses
  • Admiring the waterfalls of Dimosari Gorge
  • Sampling local wine 

What’s included

  • Return flights from London Heathrow, including baggage and transfers
  • A choice of 2 guided walks per day with local leaders (on walking days)
  • 7 nights' accommodation in Karystos
  • 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners
  • All in-destination transport

Trip Notes

Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Welcome to Hotel Anastasia. Unpack and settle in.


Today’s walks introduce the rich history of the island. Both options are in the vicinity of Castello Rosso. The ‘Red Castle’ is perched on top of Montofoli Hill overlooking the Bay of Karystos. This 13th century castle was built on top of Byzantine foundations and was then developed further by the Franks, Venetians and Turks. 

Option 1 - Walking through time: Myli and Castello Rosso

Distance: 5 miles (8km) 

Total ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)

In summary: The walk meanders through the villages occupying the lower slopes of the Mt Ochi Range that dominates the northern skyline. Ascending to the Castello Rosso, dating from the Byzantine period, via the pedestrian gateway of ancient times to offer extensive views back toward the Greek mainland. The route descends through the village of Myli.

Highlight: The extensive views from the Castello Rosso.

Option 2 - Ancient Quarries

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Total ascent: 1,500 feet (450m)

In summary: The walk begins in the village of Myli, ascending to the Roman Kylindroi quarry to marvel at the enormous columns left behind in the 2nd century AD. Stand in the footsteps of those masons and admire the views down to the Castello below and Karystos Bay beyond. 

Highlight: Spectacular views of Castello and Karystos.


Mount Ochi (1,398m) is the highest peak in southern Evia. On its slopes is an excellent specimen of a Dragon House. Built with large slabs of inter-locking stone, these buildings are something of a mystery. It is not certain how old they are or why they were built. The other building of note here is the church of the Prophet Elias, a pretty chapel built in traditional style.

Option 1 - Mt Ochi environs and the Chestnut Forest

Distance: 4 miles (6½km) 

Total ascent: 1,300 feet (390m) 

In summary: Our journey, one of the longest of the week, offers not only great views, but provides an opportunity for the easier walk to reach a very remote location. Our walk follows a section of the old road, before heading eastward to ascend to a shepherd’s hut. A sense of remoteness is achieved, with little evidence of human habitation to be seen. The track passes through the ancient chestnut forest of Kastanolongos, the only remaining chestnut forest in south Evia and a place for quiet contemplation before rejoining the awaiting bus at the foot of Mount Ochi.

Highlight: The ancient chestnut forest of Kastanolongos.

Option 2 - The Dragon House of Mt Ochi

Distance: 6 miles (9½km)

Total ascent: 1,400 feet (420m)

In summary: The walk begins at the road terminus below the higher slopes of Mount Ochi, soon to pass the mountain refuge. Our ascent is steady, and the final stages are on the rock slabs that surround the summit. The chapel of Profitis Ilias is discovered in the final approach to an imposing Dragon House. The summit lies beyond, and the views are ample reward for those last few steep steps. The return is to the south via open tracks with extensive views to the village of Myli encountered earlier in the week.

Highlight: Breathtaking views.


Your free day offers the chance to explore the waterfront, shops and harbourside cafés in Karystos. Have a lazy day relaxing by the pool or walk to the main beach and have a swim and then take lunch at one of the many restaurants/cafés in Karystos. Later this afternoon, for those wishing to join us, we will meet at the hotel and walk with our guide to the Montofoli winery to enjoy a tour and tasting, returning in time for dinner this evening.

You could also join an optional boat trip, which takes in views of Karystos Bay and the nearby Petali Islands towards Marmari. This exhilarating excursion offers a mixture of sightseeing and a short stop on a secluded beach. It may be possible to enjoy a short introduction to snorkelling too. Please ask your leader for further details


Styra is 25km northwest of the hotel, but soon reached via the newly constructed highway. Ships left from this city-state to aid the rescue of Helen of Troy. This region contains a number of ‘Dragon’ Houses; the walks explore three of these and nearby quarries before descending to Styra and its main square where there are several tavernas.

Option 1 - The Dragon Houses of Styra

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Total ascent: 1,300 feet (390m)

In summary: The walk starts in the village of Zoodochos ascending on tracks and Kalderimi (paved mule tracks) to the Dragon houses and quarries beyond. There is time to explore this area, and add to the speculation of origin and purpose of these structures before descending on good tracks to Styra.

Highlight: Discover the ancient Dragon houses.

Option 2 - Dragon Houses and the Castle of Armena

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Total ascent: 2,200 feet (660m)

In summary: The walk ascends from the outskirts of Styra to explore the Dragon houses before continuing upwards through the nearby quarries to the little church of Ag. Nikolas below the Mount Kliosi fortifications. Leaving the church to explore the ruins above, we then descend through the majestic limestone framed portal down to disused ancient quarries and on to the square of Styra.

Highlight: Discover the theories behind the construction of the Dragon houses.


The Petrokanalo Pass marks the start point of a walk through the beautiful and diverse Dimosari Gorge. This richly vegetated opening in the rocks leads downhill to the small village of Lenosei and then on to the beach. It is thought that people have been walking here since before the Middle Ages; the remains of an old cobbled surface can be seen in places.

Option 1 - Dimosari Gorge

Distance: 4½ miles (7km)

Total ascent: 250 feet (80m)

Total descent: 2,700 feet (810m)

In summary: From the Petrokanalo pass, the entrance gate to the Dimosari Gorge path is soon found. The route through the gorge was the only route from the north of the island peninsula to the port of Karystos, and today sections of the original stone cobbles can still be seen. The path descends steeply, sometimes with made steps, to meet the stream, soon to become a river. Even in the height of summer, water continues to flow. The path follows the gorge beneath chestnut and plain trees, passing majestic waterfalls through to the small hamlet of Lenosei and its church.

Highlight: One of the most beautiful trails in Greece.

Option 2 - Dimosari Gorge

Distance: 6 miles (9½km)

Total ascent: 600 feet (180m)

Total descent: 3,800 feet (1,140m)

In summary: After following the same route as the easier group, the route continues on Lenosei's access track then descends to an abandoned mill on the bankside, and follows the river bed to the sea.

Highlight: Discover the impressive Dimosari Gorge with its majestic waterfalls.


Today we will explore the eastern shores with the chance to enjoy a communal meal at a delightful beachside tavern with stunning views.

Option 1 - Poseidon’s Temple and Riverside Paths

Distance: 4 miles (6½km)

Total ascent: 500 feet (150m)

In summary: Starting in the village of Platanistos we descend to the restored packhorse bridge, featured in most postcards, crossing the stream whose source is in the ancient chestnut forests explored earlier in the week. The descent is interspersed with an exploration for the remains of Poseidon’s temple, before descending through the river meadows and olive groves behind Potami beach.

Highlight: Opportunity for a swim or a wander along the seashore.

Option 2 - Waterfalls, Bridges, and Artefacts

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Total ascent: 600 feet (190m)

Total descent: 1,300 feet (400m)

In summary: From Platanistos we continue inland to visit one of the few waterfalls of the area, before continuing downstream to join the route of the easier walk from the packhorse bridge.

Highlight: Picture-postcard scenery on our route.


We hope to see you again soon.


Itinerary map for Evia

Hotel Anastasia - Evia

The 4-star Hotel Anastasia enjoys a beachfront location in the charming coastal town of Karystos and is a winner of several HF Holidays Hotel Awards for its fantastic staff, abundant breakfast and mouth-watering evening meals. It's conveniently situated just 300m from the town centre, allowing you to explore the local shops and culture, enjoy the harbourside cafés, or hire a bicycle to explore deserted nearby bays.

 

Rooms

There are 29 stylish and spacious en-suites bedrooms all with:

  • King size or twin beds
  • Air conditioning
  • Private balcony
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (free of charge)
  • Hairdryer
  • Room safe
  • Mini-bar
  • Non-smoking rooms available

About your stay

This hotel has:

  • Outdoor pool
  • Pool/Lounge bar
  • Restaurant with delightful Aegean Sea views

Beauty and massage facilities are also on offer for guests.

Food & drink

Holidays on Evia are half-board and the hotel is proud to serve a specially recognised 'Greek Breakfast' as well as a 3-course evening meal.

Breakfast

This hotel offers a self-service buffet that includes fruit juices, cereals, fruit, cold meat and cheeses, home-made preserves, some traditional Greek items and Greek coffee and teas are available.

Lunch (payable locally)

This hotel offers picnic lunches at a small additional cost. Alternatively, ingredients can be purchased from the local shops and on certain days it may be possible to eat in local cafés, your leaders will advise you of these options.

Evening meal

A 3-course evening meal is served with a combination of local specialitites and international cuisine. Vegetarian and special diets are catered for, we ask you to speak to the management of the hotel on arrival.

Drinks

The hotel has a well-stocked bar serving beer, wine and spirits.

Your evenings

The friendly atmosphere of our Guided Walking holidays continue into the evening.

Enjoy a glass of wine or local beer whilst listening to our leaders outlining the next day's walks.

After dinner, you can join your group in a walk into the resort for a coffee or just have a relaxed conversation with your fellow guests.

Your leaders will be checking for local events going on nearby.

Essential information

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 
  • Waterproof jacket 
  • Waterproof trousers 
  • Insulated jacket/top 
  • Walking clothing  
  • Walking socks (plus spares)  
  • Sunhat 
  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat
  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  
  • Headtorch 
  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  
  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 
  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  
  • Mobile phone 
  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 
  • Passport 
  • Visa (if applicable) 
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 
  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 
  • Swimwear and travel towel
  • Snacks
  • Dry bags
  • Rubbish bags
  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 
  • Sit mat
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box
  • Gaiters 
  • GPS device 

Guest reviews

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

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If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.

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2025

22 Apr - 29 Apr 2025

7 nights

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29 Apr - 06 May 2025

7 nights

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06 May - 13 May 2025

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30 Sep - 07 Oct 2025

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22 Apr - 29 Apr 2025

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29 Apr - 06 May 2025

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13 May - 20 May 2025

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£1,529 pp

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09 Sep - 16 Sep 2025

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23 Sep - 30 Sep 2025

7 nights

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£1,854

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£1,579 pp

from

£1,854

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30 Sep - 07 Oct 2025

7 nights

Itinerary

Single from

£1,804

Double from

£1,529 pp

from

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Important information

  • With flights holidays: Price includes return flights to Athens Airport, hold baggage and airport transfers
  • Independent travellers can join our airport transfers from Athens Airport- please contact us for prices

*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.

Duration:
7 nights
Type:
European walking holidays
Walking Grade:
2 & 4

7 nights from £1,429pp

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Carbon Footprint 1050Kg of CO₂e

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