Current as of: April 19, 2024 - 01:19
Walking on the Greek Islands Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Greece
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
1 out of 7 - Leisurely
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TEJ
- Carbon Footprint: 22kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Enjoy walks on Santorini, Naxos and Paros
The Greek islands have much to offer: archeological treasures, history, culture, dramatic landscapes, azure seas, and, of course, delicious food. Our week starts on the beautiful island of Santorini, before heading to Naxos and Paros. Exploring the irresistible island of Santorini on foot will certainly be the highlight of our week. Hopping from one wonderful island to the other, we enjoy a relaxed week of gentle walks through picturesque villages, lush valleys and sandy beaches.
At a Glance
- Seven nights in three-star hotels
- Three full days and two half days walking on three islands
- Travel by public transport, boat/ferry, and coach
- Low altitude throughout
Highlights
- Discover the three islands of Naxos, Santorini and Paros
- Gentle walks through idyllic scenery and remote villages
- Enjoy delicious local Greek cuisine
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 1 (Leisurely). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
This trip offers the chance to discover three wonderful islands with gentle walks. Routes have been chosen to showcase the best of the natural and historic sites on each island. Terrain will include footpaths and mountain terrain, which can be rocky and loose in places with some sloped ascents and descents (walking poles can be useful).
There are three day walks in our itinerary and two half days. Walking time is between two and five hours including lunch breaks, and an average level of fitness is required. All walks are optional.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Rafina
- End City: Athens
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Athens; to Rafina and overnight
The group flight usually arrives into Athens in the early evening and will be met and transferred to the start hotel. Land Only clients should aim to arrive at the hotel this afternoon. In the evening, our guide holds a short meeting at 8pm to discuss the plan for the following day, to give advice on the local area and to answer any questions.
Accommodation: Avra Hotel (or similar)
Start Athens; to Rafina and overnight
We gather at our hotel and have our first meeting as a group at 8pm – a good chance to get to know your leader and fellow group members. Rest well tonight; tomorrow we wake early to catch a ferry.
Accommodation: Avra Hotel (or similar)
Morning ferry to Santorini; then explore the town of Fira
In the morning, we take the ferry to Santorini (approximately eight hours). There’s a selection of restaurants and cafes on board, serving food and drinks throughout the journey. Santorini (known locally as Thira) is one of the most famous islands in the world. Known mainly for its beautiful beaches, it is a remnant of a volcanic cone whose top was blown off. A huge eruption (estimated 1650 BCE) gave it its crescent shape and many speculate that it was the location of the legendary lost Atlantis. This beautiful island has a lot to offer to walkers, including magnificent views of the Mediterranean. In the late afternoon, we walk around the town of Fira on a flat paved path to enjoy the stunning views of the caldera.
Accommodation: Hotel Golden Star (or similar)
Walk along the caldera from Fira to Oia
The 6mi (10km) Cliff Trail is a spectacular walk 1,310ft (400m) high above the volcanic caldera, a photographer’s delight and not too challenging. Half the path is pathed, while the other is a mix of volcanic soil, pumice and lava. Views of the Aegean are virtually ever present as we wind gently up and down to the pretty village of Oia, home to artists, galleries, boutiques and cafes. There’s time to explore, relax and soak up the culture before we transfer back to Fira.
Accommodation: Hotel Golden Star (or similar)
Free time in Santorini; afternoon ferry to Naxos
This morning, we have free time in Santorini. Optional extras include a visit by bus to the buried city of Acrotiri, time at the black beaches of Kamari and/or a visit to the prehistoric museum of Thero in town. Leaving Santorini in the afternoon, we board the ferry to Naxos, the journey is approximately two hours.
Accommodation: Hotel Aeolis (or similar)
Walk the ravine of Potamia villages in Tragea Valley, visiting the ancient statue of Kouros
Today we transfer for one hour to trek the lush valley of Tragea, best known for its ancient olive and citrus groves. It is a great opportunity to discover the most authentic part of Naxos, where picturesque villages and churches punctuate our walk. We wander along the ancient stoney path in the middle of the Naxian marble quarries until we reach Kouros, a gigantic statue from the fifth century BCE, which was damaged during transportation and then abandoned ever since, lying under trees in the Melanes Valley. Our transfer back is approximately one hour.
Accommodation: Hotel Aeolis (or similar)
Morning ferry to Paros; hike the 1000 years old Byzantine path from Lefkes; evening ferry back to Naxos
In the morning, we take a one-hour ferry to Paros, then a 20-minute bus to the heart of the island and Lefkes village, where we join an Old Byzantine path that runs all the way to the east coast of Paros. The route, which is on paved path and over small hills, is believed to be about 1,000 years old and used to traverse the entire island. Today’s trail passes through beautiful Cycladic villages and medieval villages. Then we explore the town, the castle and Byzantine Cathedral of Ekatontapyliani before we take a ferry back to Naxos in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Aeolis (or similar)
Explore the town and visit the Temple of Apollo
Today, we take a walk to explore the main town, Hora, a Venetian Castello town. The market area is a delight to wander through, with its craft shops, chapels and quaint restaurants. On the islet of Palatia stands the impressive Portara, an ancient marble gateway and the entrance to the remains of the Temple of Apollo.
Accommodation: Hotel Aeolis (or similar)
Ferry transfer to Piraeus; end Athens
We take a ferry back to Piraeus or Rafina (approximately six hours) and transfer to Athens airport where the trip ends. Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport for the return flight to London.
Please note: the ferry port can change depending on the season and you might return to Rafina.
Ferry transfer to Piraeus; end Athens
We take the ferry back to Piraeus or Rafina (approximately six hours) and transfer to Athens airport where the trip ends. Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport for the return flight to London.
Please note: the ferry port can change depending on the season and you might return to Rafina.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
A selection of three-star hotels
We spend seven nights in three-star hotels on this walking trip. On the islands, we use family-run hotels, ensuring our visit benefits the local communities. We also have one night in a standard hotel in Rafina. Below are the accommodations we typically use.
Rafina: Avra Hotel (night 1)
Right by the port, Avra Hotel is ideally placed for our early morning ferry on Day 2. It also means we can enjoy sea views from the hotel and we’re within a short walk of the whitewashed Agios Nikolas Chapel. There’s also a modern restaurant (with floor-to-ceiling windows over the port), which serves a Cretan-Mediterranean menu.
Santorini: Hotel Golden Star (nights 2-3)
Our two nights in Santorini are spent at the 24-room Golden Star, which sits just outside the main town of Thira. There’s a pool area with sun loungers (a great place to watch the sunrise) and plenty of seating spaces to gather as a group.
Naxos: Hotel Aeolis (nights 4-7)
Just a three-minute walk from the main town square and a five-minute walk from the sandy Agios Georgios Beach, Hotel Aeolis is in the right place for our adventures. When you’re not out exploring the island, relax at the hotel pool or grab a sun lounger.
Worth knowing
- The hotel bathrooms can sometimes be a little small and old fashioned.
- The swimming pools are open seasonally (May to October).
Single supplement from USD 450
Food & Drink
All breakfasts included. In Santorini it is a basket breakfast in the room. Simple buffet-style Greek breakfast consists of bread/toast, butter, jam, fresh juice, milk, local yoghurt, eggs and honey, and coffee/tea. For lunch and dinner, we normally go to different local tavernas and restaurants (at times, picnics of locally sourced food will be suggested for lunch instead), where we can sample some typical Greek meze dishes, olives, fresh fish, vegetables and much more.
Transport
We will be using a mixture of public transport, bus, ferry and local taxis. Occasionally the ferry schedules in the Cyclades are changed at the last minute and this can affect your itinerary. Whenever this happens, we will try our best to limit the impact this has and find the most suitable alternative.
Weather & Seasonality
The Cyclades enjoy typical Mediterranean weather with mild winters and hot dry summers.
March and November: cooler daytime temperatures of 10C-15C (50F-59F) and nights of 5C-8C (41F-46F), a chance of some rain.
April, May and October: pleasant daytime temperatures 12C-22C (53F-71F) nights of 5C-13C (41F-55F), a chance of some rain.
June and September: daytime temperatures 20C-35C (68F-95F), nights of 15C-20C (59F-68F); very dry.
In July and August, the temperature can get hot (normally around 35C/95F) but there is always a sea breeze.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: 5pm at the start hotel
Airport: Athens International Airport (AIA)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 25-minute drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily by public transport. Take the KTEL Attikis bus service from the airport to Rafina. The hotel is on the waterfront, 1,300ft (400m) from the bus station.
The hotel also runs a free shuttle bus; this must be pre-arranged directly with the hotel. If you prefer to travel in more comfort, speak to your sales representative to arrange a private arrival transfer for €63.
Occasionally, we may need to change the start hotel for logistical reasons. For more information, please refer to the Final Joining Instructions (sent two weeks before departure) or speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales consultant if you wish to join.
If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales consultant to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Rafina
Location end: Athens
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- A two-/three-season jacket for April and May departures
- Light waterproof jacket (just in case)
- Sunhat
- Water bottle
- Lightweight but sturdy boots with ankle support
- Rucksack
- Swimwear
- Sandals or old trainers for swimming
- Comfortable shoes or trainers for sightseeing outside of the day walks
- Walking poles
- The temperatures can sometimes be very high during the day in the summer (June to September); comfortable light clothing, sunhats, sunglasses, and a high-factor sunblock are highly recommended at this time of the year
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Greece
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Greece. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/greece
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/greece
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Greece.html
Vaccinations and Health
There are no required vaccinations. However, ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/general-travel-health-advice/insect-bite-avoidance#Ticks.
Local Time
Greece's time zone: Europe/Athens (UTC +03:00)
Electricity
Greece's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Greece's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
There are some ATM machines that can take Visa/MasterCard or Switch with your normal PIN, but it is still recommended to travel with some cash. Major credit cards are accepted in most places.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
We suggest you allow approximately €250-€300 for food and drink throughout the week.
Tourist tax of €25 for 7 nights per room. €25 per person per week in single accommodation and €12.50 per person per week in twin/double accommodation. This will be collected by the Tour Leader at the welcome meeting on Day 1.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus; however, most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides and in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. If you feel you would like to leave a tip, as a guide we would suggest a total of approximately €20 per person for the leader. You may wish to leave a couple of euros in your room for hotel staff at the end of your stay in each hotel.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible. All hotels used are family owned by Islanders. We visit remote villages and have lunches at locally owned Tavernas.
- Read more about our other initiatives here.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for re–usable bottles.
- A high importance is placed on the separation and recycling of rubbish and waste on the Islands.
- We rewild 100 square metres per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- All of the hotels we use have solar panels installed to provide hot water.
- Public transport is used widely while on the Islands to and from the start and end of our walks.
- Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: please bring a re–usable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.