With white toy-like houses cluttered along dramatic shorelines, ancient ruins erupting out of its bustling capital city and a scattering of surrounding islands, Greece is a mixed bag of Mediterranean treats.
Such a diverse land has an equally varied selection of activities. Make the most out of everything Greece has to offer by making an itinerary using these ideas for inspiration.
Sea kayaking on the Cyclades Islands
The Greek islands (Mykonos, Sifnos, Santorini, Ios, Paros and many others) each have a distinct landscape, cultural history and European influence. There are many hotels with sea views that are absolutely beautiful. Ios has stunning white buildings and Sifnos is great for trekking holidays. One thing they all have in common is brilliant sea kayaking facilities! You can book single day or multi-day courses that take you around the tranquil waters. Kayak from one island to the next and take in the sights of caves, greenery and ruins. Multi-day kayakers will even get to camp over in groups. Prepare to really work out your arms and take in the beautiful rewards.
Take a hike up Mount Pantokrator
Greece has the kind of landscape that’s calling to be scaled by foot. There are a lot of walking paths and routes that you can follow to discover the unspoiled Greece: from ancient city ruins to remote coves. One option is to hike up Mount Pantokrator (which means ‘The Almighty’). This is the highest mountain in Corfu, measuring almost 1,000 metres. If you don’t fancy walking to the top, a car drive will take roughly only 40 minutes. Along the way you will spot around 600 species of flowers and an old monastery.
Explore Samaria Gorge
Another popular hiking trail is the Samaria Gorge: the longest in Europe! It demands serious effort, as it takes around five to six hours to complete, starting from the Xyloskalo staircase, twining 700 ft down the gorge. Sights you will encounter include tiny chapels, wild kri-kri goats and dramatic rockery. The biggest draw of the hike is the Iron Gates, which is the narrowest section where 1,000 ft walls stand three metres apart. You will likely reach the seaside town of Agia Roumeli where you can at last relax and have a drink or swim.
Whether you want to put yourself to the test in water or on high, mountainous land, you can do it all in Greece. No matter what island draws you in, there will be an abundance of things to do. Anyway, you can always hop, kayak, swim or take a boat out to the next island if you get itchy feet.