It’s that time of year again. Schools are out, temperatures are rising, and if you’re anything like me, whatever emotional stamina you had left vanished with the latest round of headlines.
For those working in tourism, the next reprieve won’t come until October. But for the fortunate ones, the coming weeks might offer a brief window to sneak away and recharge body and mind.
The only question is: where to go?
While Greece remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, its growing popularity means that prices are rising and overtourism is slowly creeping into even the lesser-known islands.
But alas one last stronghold remains. A place where nature still leads the way, locals are more relaxed, prices are reasonable, and Greek is the language of the land. Where the environment is treated with the respect it deserves, and the experience offers peace, beauty, and something meaningful for every age and skill level: Greece’s hiking trails.
Image of hiker admiring Zeus’ throne, atop Mount Olympus. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to explore dozens of these trails—some iconic, like Samaria gorge on Crete, others almost completely unknown, like the Cave of Fairies (Neraidospilia) at Parnassos. One thing is certain: with Greece now investing €30.2 million in new hiking infrastructure, exploring the country on foot is about to get even easier. But with that visibility, some of the quietest, most untouched corners may not remain so for long.
So, before the trails fill up and even these peaceful paths become popular, here’s a look at the hikes I return to again and again—routes I recommend to friends, family, and anyone needing a true connection to the land. What follows are a few of my favorite trails, some practical advice, and photos from the journeys that have grounded me, inspired me, and deepened my love for Greece.
Panta Vrechi Gorge, Karpenisi
Central Greece | Difficulty: Easy| Best: May–Sept
A gorge where it quite literally “always rains,” thanks to freezing mountain springs that cascade in curtain-like waterfalls from high above. Wade through streams, gaze up at vertical cliffs, and marvel at this fairytale landscape. This is a magical river trekking hike for the entire family.
Image of cascading water along the Panta Vrechi river-trekking trail. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Pro tip: Stay in nearby Karpenisi, and pack water shoes and a bathing suit. Opt for a local guide with a jeep to take you to the trail—there’s no signage and the road to the start of the hike is usually in poor condition.
River trekking along the Panta Vrechi trail in Karpenissi. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Drakolimni of Tymfi, near Mikro Papingo
Epirus | Medium | Best: June–October
This alpine “Dragon Lake” sits at 2,050 meters in the Pindus Mountains. According to local lore, dragons once hurled rocks and pines at each other here—shaping the landscape and earning the lake its mythical name. Reach it after a steep climb from UNESCO heritage village Mikro Papingo and take in views of the wildflower meadows filled with frogs and alpine newts known as ‘drakakia’, or little dragons.
Image of an alpine newt from Drakolimni, which are known locally as ‘drakakia’, or little dragons. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Stay the night in Mikro Papingo or Papingo for strenuous one-day hike, or sleep at the Astraka Refuge to break the hike into two manageable days.
An image of the traditional streets of Mikro Papingo, a UNESCO heritage site. Credit: Shutterstock
Mt. Olympus (Petrostrounga to Muses Plateau to Mytikas Peak)
Thessaly & Macedonia | Hard | Best: June–September
The ultimate Greek hike on the mountain home of Zeus and the gods offers steep ascents, shaded forests, varied topography and breathtaking views at 2,918m. If you sleep in a tent at Christos Kakalos refuge just below Mytikas, the stars feel close enough to reach out and touch them.
Image of a mule atop Mount Olympus, on Muses Plateau. The mules can be seen sniffing around campsites, so keep your tent zipped and food stored away. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Not up for the summit? No problem. You can skip the final ascent and still enjoy an unforgettable experience. If you opt for Mytikas, be sure to wear a helmet, beware of falling rocks, and consider heading up in the late afternoon, after the crowds are gone. Even experienced hikers have been lost on this part of the trail. Gear and tents can be delivered by mule if you want to camp under the stars. Plan on 2-3 nights total and reserve your place at the shelters in advance via olympusview.gr.
View of the sea below Mount Olympus, on the trail from Petrostrouga refuge to Muses Plateau. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Corfu Trail (Arkoudilas Forest to Issos Beach)
Corfu, Ionian Islands | Moderate | Year-round
Lush forest trails, sand dunes, and lagoon views make this Ionian gem perfect for a coastal escape in which you can combine hiking and swimming in the same day.
Arkoudilas beach, Corfu island.
Avoid in peak summer due to heat- the path is best in late spring and fall. Note the road to the path is often in poor condition, so check with local hiking organizations before setting out.
Vikos Gorge Trail, Epirus
Zagori, Epirus | Moderate | May–October
Hike through the world’s deepest gorge (by width-to-depth ratio), along cool alpine rivers, at the foot of vertical limestone cliffs. A dip in the Voidomatis River is the perfect way to refresh in the summer.
An image of Voidomatis River, and an old stone bridge in the Epirus region. Credit: Cheryl Novak
Combine with a stay in one of the traditional stone-built villages of Zagorohoria. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider the hike to Drakolimni as well for the full mountain-to-lake experience.
After hiking Vikos Gorge opt for a gentle rafting ride down the Voidomatis River in Epirus, which offers ample opportunities for some easy rock-climbing and cliff jumping into the freezing river below. Credit: Cheryl Novak.
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese
Arcadia, Peloponnese | Moderate–Hard | All year
A certified Leading Quality Trail, this 75 km route connects mountain villages, monasteries, and dramatic stone paths carved into gorges. Hike it in sections or over multiple days.
Don’t miss Dimitsana and the region’s precariously perched cliff-side monasteries such as the Old Monastery of Filosofou and the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist (Moni Agiou Ioannou Prodromou). Be sure to check local forecasts in the summer for heat and fire warnings.
the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist (Moni Agiou Ioannou Prodromou).
Top of My List for Summer 2025
Katsiki Canyon Trail, Tzoumerka
Epirus | Moderate | Best: May–October
This trail promises the dramatic scenery of Vikos Gorge but without the crowds—think waterfalls, wooden bridges, and rugged serenity.
I will stay in Pramanta or Kalarrites to sample the locals’ warm hospitality and easy trail access.
Key Resources
Trekking Hellas offers professionally guided hikes across Greece—from alpine treks to family-friendly trails. Trekking.gr
Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering and Climbing offers info (in Greek) on all shelters in Greece eooa.gr
Emergency and Safety Info for Hikers in Greece
- Emergency (EU-wide): 112
- Forest Fires: 199
- Hellenic Rescue Team: +30 2310 310649
Hike smart
- Let someone know your route and return time
- Check for weather warnings and wildlife risks. Be alert for: rockslides, wildfires, bears, wolves, wild boar, shepherd dogs, vipers, and scorpions. That said, as in many places, humans are the most deadly creatures.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Water (at least 2L)
- Layers (weather changes fast)
- Sunscreen + hat
- Offline maps (Gaia GPS, Wikiloc)
- Trekking poles
- First aid kit + electrolytes
- Whistle and flashlight
- PV power bank
When to Go?
- Best seasons: April–June & September–October
- Avoid low-altitude hikes in July–August due to heat
- High-altitude routes can be perfect mid-summer
Hiking Greece: Fast Facts
Trail Network: Greece boasts 9,000 km+ of marked trails, including ancient footpaths—many form part of long-distance European routes like the E4 or E6.
Leading Quality Trail: The Menalon Trail (75 km, Peloponnese) is one of only 19 certified “Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe”.
Mountainous Terrain: About 80% of Greece is mountainous or hilly, with ranges like Pindus, Taygetos, Olympus (2,918 m) and the Lefka Ori dominating the landscape.
Refugees and Shelters: There are well over 100 mountain refuges across Greek mountains, maintained by the federation of local mountaineering clubs (EOS).
Protected Nature: Greek hiking trails traverse several national parks, including Mount Olympus National Park (established 1938, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) and Vikos–Aoös National Park in Epirus, home to rich biodiversity.
Cheryl Novak is Deputy Chief Editor at tovima.com
