Got questions about hiking in Greece? This FAQ page has all the answers for conquering Greek trails, whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just dipping your toes. From timing your hikes just right to packing like a pro and uncovering epic routes, get ready to explore, and fall in love with Greece’s stunning landscapes!
When is the best time for hiking in Greece?
You may have already read in other similar blogs that the best time for hiking in Greece is typically in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush. However, I hike throughout the year, except on days when it rains or is very windy. Some areas, such as Olympus, are too dangerous to hike during the winter, anyway.
What are the 5 best trails in Greece?
- Prionia, Skala, Mytikas, Olympus Mountain
- Vikos Gorge, Monodendri to Vikos
- Samaria Gorge, Crete
- Menalon Trail Peloponnese
- Fira to Oia, Santorini
Which Greek island is the most walkable?
There are quite a few but to narrow it down, some of the most impressive and wild islands to experience impressive hiking are:
Amorgos, Folegandros, Nisyros, Andros, Sifnos, Karpathos, Evia, Crete.
What is the difficulty level of hiking trails in Greece?
Hiking trails in Greece vary in difficulty, from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents. You should research the specific trail’s difficulty level before setting out on your hike. For instance, Parnitha, the mountain that is close to my place in Athens, has hundreds of trails but the vast majority are easy to moderate difficulty (1 to 3/5). However, the Kopsi peak in Parnitha is a 3.5 or even 4/5.
Is there any long-distance hiking in Greece?
The largest hiking routes in Greece are mainly the sections of the European Trails E4 and E6. Some of them are:
- The Epirus Trail is a 370 km trail.
- The Corfu Trail, a 220 km long route
- Long Pelion Trail has a length that exceeds 100 km.
- 75km Menalon Trail.
Is it illegal to wild camp in Greece?
Wild camping and bivouacking away from official campsites is strictly prohibited in Greece. However, it may be tolerated by locals if the location is not overwhelmed by people and they respect the environment and the hygiene (no littering).
Is Samaria Gorge free?
To enter the Gorge of Samaria there is an entrance fee that costs five (5) euros. Children under 15 years old have a free pass. The entrance fee is the same regardless you wish to enter the Gorge only for a few kilometers or for the entire route.
Is Naxos or Paros better for hiking?
Paros isn’t considered the best island for hiking primarily because it has fewer and less diverse trails compared to other islands like Naxos and because of its lower mountains (763 meters in Paros, 1004 meters in Naxos).
Are there any guided hiking tours available in Greece?
Yes, there are plenty of available guided hiking tours in Greece, ranging from day trips to multi-day excursions. You can find a short list of guided tours in Greece on my dedicated page here.
Are there any dangerous animals to watch out for while hiking in Greece?
You might spot some cool wildlife on your hikes, but most of the encounters are usually peaceful. Brown bears, a protected species with a population of around 400, roam the Rodopi and Pindus mountains in the north. Other common wild animals include grey wolves (also protected), wild boars, and vipers, alongside a variety of smaller mammals like foxes and squirrels. Thankfully, attacks by any of these animals are extremely rare but caution is always advised!
Which Greek island has waterfalls?
Some Greek islands aren’t just about beaches and sunshine but they’ve got some pretty sweet waterfalls too! The largest waterfalls on Greek islands are:
- The Fonias waterfall is on the southern side of the island of Samothrace.
- Nydri waterfall in Lefkada, on the road towards Rachi.
- The Fonissa waterfall near the Mylopotamos of Kythira.
- On the northern side of Samos, you’ll find the remarkable waterfalls of Ampelos.
Is it safe to hike alone in Greece?
While hiking alone can be safe, I always recommended to hike with a companion, especially in remote areas or during extreme weather such as in winter or heatwave. Visitors from colder climates always underestimate the dehydration caused by Greece’s hot weather during summer and I often hear terrible news about tourists.
What amenities are available along hiking trails in Greece?
Along popular hiking trails, you can find amenities such as water sources, picnic areas, mountain refuges or shelters, and occasionally tavernas or cafes serving refreshments.
What are the essential items to pack for a day hike in Greece?
Essential items to pack for a day hike in Greece include water, salty snacks, a map, and compass or GPS device, a first aid kit, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), rain gear, and a fully charged phone. I also never go anywhere without my Go Pro Hero11 Black.
Are there day hikes suitable for families with children in Greece?
Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly day hikes in Greece, such as easy coastal paths or gentle walks through olive groves and villages. Look for trails with minimal elevation gain and shorter distances. In Athens, Parnitha, the trails to the refuges of Bafi and Flabouri are suitable for children. There are also great short trails on Hemettus Mountain in Athens.
The most family-friendly trails in Mainalo are found around Valtessiniko. Among these are the “Paths of the Arcadian Shepherds,” where organized hikes occur each autumn. Particularly noteworthy is the trail originating from the Mother’s Sanatorium and tracing the Ellas Stream, along with the route leading to the “Old Woman’s Stone” spring. These paths wind through pine forests adorned with charming bridges and abundant foliage. Explore further about the “Paths of the Arcadian Shepherds.