10 Best Hiking Spots in Greece: Exploring the Trails of a Timeless Land

Greece is renowned for its history, culture, and stunning beaches, but it’s also a paradise for hikers.

Last year, I embarked on an adventure across Greece and discovered that its diverse landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Europe.

From rugged mountains to serene coastal paths, each trail provides a unique experience. Here are the best hiking spots in Greece that I had the pleasure of exploring.

1. Mount Olympus – The Home of the Gods

Mount Olympus is arguably Greece’s most iconic hiking destination. Known as the home of the ancient Greek gods, this mountain has a mystical aura that attracted me immediately.

I started my hike from the village of Litochoro, a picturesque base at the foot of the mountain. The trail is well-marked but challenging, and I found myself in awe as I ascended through forests and past waterfalls.

As I climbed higher, the trees thinned out, revealing sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. I reached the mountain’s refuge, a great resting point for those wanting to split the hike over two days. The summit, Mytikas, is Greece’s highest peak at 2,918 meters. Standing at the top, I understood why the gods were said to reside here—the view is nothing short of divine.

2. Samaria Gorge – Crete’s Natural Wonder

While visiting Crete, I made sure to hike the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest and most famous gorges in Europe. This 16-kilometer trail is located in the White Mountains and takes you through a stunning landscape of towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

The hike begins at Xyloskalo, where a steep descent into the gorge sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

The trail follows a riverbed, crossing it several times over wooden bridges. The narrowest point, known as the “Iron Gates,” was one of the most exciting sections, with sheer rock walls towering above me.

The gorge eventually opens up to the village of Agia Roumeli, where the trail ends at the Libyan Sea. A refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters was the perfect way to end the hike.

3. Vikos Gorge – The Deepest Gorge in the World

Nestled in the Zagori region of northern Greece, Vikos Gorge is an awe-inspiring place to hike. The gorge is part of the Vikos-Aoos National Park, and according to the Guinness World Records, it’s the deepest gorge in the world in relation to its width.

As I began my hike from the village of Monodendri, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The trail follows the edge of the gorge, offering breathtaking views of the canyon below. The lush greenery contrasts with the rugged cliffs, creating a dramatic scene.

The hike took me down to the Voidomatis River, where I stopped to enjoy the tranquility of the riverbank. The cool, turquoise waters were inviting, and it was easy to lose track of time in this peaceful setting.

4. The Corfu Trail – A Journey Across the Ionian Island

Corfu, one of Greece’s most beautiful islands, offers a unique hiking experience with the Corfu Trail. This 220-kilometer trail spans the entire length of the island, taking you through olive groves, vineyards, and along stunning coastal cliffs.

I decided to hike a section of the trail near the village of Paleokastritsa, a popular starting point for those who want to experience the island’s diverse landscapes.

The trail took me past secluded beaches and through traditional villages, where time seemed to stand still. I particularly loved the hike up to Angelokastro, a Byzantine castle perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the island and the Ionian Sea.

The Corfu Trail offers something for everyone, from challenging climbs to leisurely coastal walks.

5. Mount Taygetus – Spartan Terrain

Mount Taygetus, located in the Peloponnese, is the highest mountain in southern Greece and offers an unforgettable hiking experience. I started my hike from the village of Sparta, famous for its ancient warriors.

The trail to the summit of Profitis Ilias, Taygetus’s highest peak, is challenging but incredibly rewarding.

The landscape is rugged, with steep ascents and rocky terrain. Along the way, I encountered stunning alpine scenery, with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and the occasional mountain goat crossing my path.

The views from the summit are absolutely breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the Peloponnese and the surrounding sea.

6. The Menalon Trail – Arcadian Bliss

The Menalon Trail in the Arcadia region of the Peloponnese is one of Greece’s most beautiful and accessible long-distance hiking routes. The 75-kilometer trail is divided into eight sections, making it easy to tailor the hike to your fitness level or time constraints. I opted to hike the section from Dimitsana to Stemnitsa, a lovely trail that winds through traditional villages and dense forests.

The highlight of this hike was the Lousios Gorge, where the trail follows the river and passes by ancient monasteries clinging to the cliffs. I visited the Prodromos Monastery, which is perched dramatically above the gorge, offering spectacular views. The Menalon Trail is a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural history.

7. Mount Parnitha – Athens’ Wilderness Escape

Just a short drive from Athens, Mount Parnitha offers an excellent hiking escape from the bustling city. The mountain is part of a national park and features numerous trails of varying difficulty. I chose the trail to the Bafi Refuge, which is a moderate hike through pine forests and rocky terrain.

The hike was peaceful, and I found myself surrounded by nature, with occasional sightings of red deer and wild boar. The view from the refuge over Athens and the surrounding plains was worth every step. If you’re staying in Athens and crave some time in nature, Mount Parnitha is the perfect spot for a day hike.

8. The Cyclades – A Hiker’s Island Dream

The Cyclades islands are famous for their whitewashed villages and azure seas, but they also offer fantastic hiking opportunities. I explored the island of Naxos, which boasts an extensive network of trails. One of my favorite hikes was from the village of Filoti to the summit of Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades.

The trail is relatively short but steep, and the panoramic views from the top are incredible. From the summit, I could see the surrounding islands, the Aegean Sea, and the fertile valleys of Naxos. The island’s rural charm and rich history made this hike particularly memorable.

9. Meteora – Hiking Amidst Monasteries in the Sky

Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its monasteries perched atop massive rock pillars. While many visitors come to see the monasteries, the hiking trails around Meteora are equally stunning. I hiked a loop trail that took me from the town of Kalambaka to the base of the rock formations and then up to the monasteries.

The hike offers fantastic views of the valley below and the monasteries clinging to the cliffs. The landscape is surreal, and the combination of nature and spiritual history makes Meteora one of the most unique hiking destinations in Greece.

10. Andros Route – The Green Island’s Hidden Gem

Andros, one of the northernmost Cyclades islands, is a hiker’s paradise. The Andros Route is a 100-kilometer network of trails that traverse the island’s diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to rocky coastlines. I hiked a section from the village of Chora to the monastery of Panachrantos, a trail that winds through terraced hillsides and olive groves.

The hike was peaceful, with only the sound of birds and the occasional goat bell accompanying me. The monastery, perched on a hill, offers sweeping views of the island and the sea. Andros is often overlooked by tourists, but its natural beauty and tranquil trails make it a hidden gem for hikers.

Final Thoughts

Greece’s hiking trails offer more than just a physical challenge—they provide a journey through the country’s rich history, mythology, and stunning natural beauty. Each trail I explored was unique, from the towering peaks of Mount Olympus to the serene beaches of Corfu. If you’re a hiking enthusiast or simply want to experience Greece’s landscapes beyond its cities and beaches, these hiking spots are sure to leave you in awe.