Hiking in Greece
Including Corfu Trail (North Section), Menalon Trail, and Mount Idi (Psiloritis). On the map.
The vibe
Hiking here feels like traversing a living history book where ancient stone paths connect mountain villages to rugged coastlines. Spring is the ideal window, as the hillsides burst into wildflower color before the intense heat of summer sets in. You will find a mix of well-marked paths and overgrown goat tracks, often leaving you to navigate the quiet, sun-drenched landscape entirely on your own.

Corfu Trail (North Section)
Ioanian Islands
Marc Ryckaert ( MJJR ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
The northern section of the Corfu Trail traverses the rugged Pantokrator mountain range and traditional stone villages. It offers a mix of coastal vistas and inland mountain paths, providing a diverse trekking experience across the island's varied topography.
Access. The trail is well-marked and can be joined at various points, with the northern segment typically starting near Kassiopi or Old Perithia.
Notes. The trail is best hiked in spring or autumn to avoid the intense summer heat.

Menalon Trail, Arcadia
Peloponnese Region
G Da / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A certified long-distance trail that traverses the rugged mountains and deep river canyons of the Peloponnese. It connects historic stone villages, offering a multi-day trekking experience through the heart of Greek history and nature.
Access. The trail starts in Stemnitsa or Dimitsana; accessible by bus or car from Athens.
Notes. Best hiked in spring or autumn to avoid the summer heat.

Mount Idi (Psiloritis), Crete
Region of Crete
Pavel Špindler / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
As the highest peak on Crete, Mount Idi offers a rugged, high-altitude challenge with lunar-like landscapes and sweeping views across the island. The ascent is a demanding day hike that rewards trekkers with a sense of isolation and the chance to visit the legendary Ideon Cave.
Access. Accessible via the village of Anogeia or the Nida Plateau, where the main trailheads begin. A rental car is essential for reaching the remote start points.
Notes. Snow can linger on the summit until late spring; ensure proper mountain gear and navigation skills.

Mount Oiti, Central Greece
Thessaly and Central Greece
Ferengi / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mount Oiti is a massive, wild mountain range featuring alpine meadows, dense forests, and the dramatic Kremastos Waterfall. It is a paradise for hikers seeking solitude and untouched nature far from the typical tourist routes.
Access. The main access point is near the village of Ypati. Trails are marked, but the area is remote and requires good preparation.
Notes. The area is part of a National Park; check for seasonal hunting or forestry closures.

Mount Olympus National Park
Thessaly
kallerna / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The legendary home of the Greek gods offers dramatic alpine peaks and deep, forested valleys. Hikers can tackle the challenging ascent to Mytikas peak or enjoy lower-altitude trails through the Enipeas Gorge.
Access. Accessible via the town of Litochoro; most hikers start from Prionia, reachable by car or taxi.
Notes. Best from June to September; weather can change rapidly at high altitudes.
Mount Pelion Peninsula Trails
Thessaly
Konstantinos Stampoulis ( Geraki / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 gr)
A network of ancient stone-paved paths known as 'kalderimia' crisscrosses this lush, mountainous peninsula. The trails wind through chestnut forests, traditional villages, and down to hidden coastal coves.
Access. Best accessed from the city of Volos; the village of Tsagarada serves as a central hub.

Nisiros Volcano Trails
Aegean
Robert Powell / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Nisiros is a unique volcanic island where hikers can walk directly into the Stefanos Crater, a massive hydrothermal field filled with bubbling fumaroles and sulfur vents. The surrounding trails offer dramatic views of the caldera rim and the Aegean Sea.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Kos to Mandraki, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the volcano rim. The crater floor is a short, easy walk from the parking area.
Notes. Strong sulfur fumes can be overwhelming; avoid if you have respiratory issues. The ground can be hot.

Samaria Gorge, Crete
Region of Crete
Lapplaender / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 de)
This iconic 16-kilometer trek descends from the White Mountains to the Libyan Sea through a narrow, towering limestone canyon. The route ends at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where hikers can reward themselves with a swim.
Access. Accessible via bus from Chania to Omalos; return from Agia Roumeli is by ferry.
Notes. Open seasonally from May to October; requires an entrance fee.

Santorini Caldera Rim Walk
South Aegean
Norbert Nagel / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A world-famous coastal walk connecting the villages of Fira and Oia along the edge of the volcanic caldera. The trail offers unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea and the submerged volcanic crater.
Access. Starts in Fira; the path is well-marked and easily accessible from any point in the town.
Notes. Very little shade; best done early in the morning or late afternoon.

Taigetos Mountain Summit
Peloponnese Region
Siga / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The highest peak in the Peloponnese, offering a challenging ascent through alpine meadows and rocky ridges. The summit provides panoramic views across the entire southern peninsula.
Access. Trailheads are located near the mountain refuge of Taygetos, reachable from Sparta.
Notes. Requires good physical condition; snow can persist on the summit until late spring.

Vikos Gorge, Pindus Mountains
Epirus
Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Known as one of the deepest gorges in the world relative to its width, this trail offers a spectacular trek through limestone cliffs and lush riverbeds. It is a bucket-list destination for hikers seeking dramatic geological formations and remote wilderness.
Access. Trailheads are located near the villages of Monodendri or Vikos; accessible by car from Ioannina.
Notes. The full traverse is a strenuous day hike; carry plenty of water as sources are scarce.
