The Pilgrim's Path to Delphi
On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the trail to Delphi is more than a hike; it is a pilgrimage. For centuries, ancient Greeks walked this path to consult the famed Oracle of Apollo, believing the sanctuary to be the centre of the world. Today, hikers can
follow sections of the European Long-Distance Path E4, which incorporates parts of this ancient route. The trail descends from the alpine heights of Parnassus, through dense fir forests once thought to be home to nymphs, and into the sun-drenched valley below. The journey offers breathtaking views over a vast olive grove—one of the largest in Greece—and the shimmering Corinthian Gulf. Along the way, you can almost feel the anticipation of the ancient pilgrims as they approached the sacred precinct, making this one of Greece’s most spiritually resonant walks.
Arcadia's Mythical Menalon Trail
Deep in the Peloponnese peninsula lies Arcadia, a region so synonymous with pastoral beauty that it became a mythical paradise in European art. The 75-kilometer Menalon Trail brings this legend to life. As the first Greek trail to be certified by the European Ramblers' Association, its eight sections are well-marked, linking stone villages, deep gorges, and lush river valleys. The paths themselves are historic, following ancient mule tracks that for centuries were the only connection between remote mountain communities. Hikers traverse the dramatic Lousios Gorge, where monasteries cling precariously to cliff faces. You can visit the 17th-century New Philosophou Monastery and the ruins of the older 10th-century monastery, which was carved directly into the rock. This trail is a journey into a landscape where mythology and history are inseparable, once home to Pan, the goat-legged god of the wild.
Crete's E4 Path and Samaria Gorge
The island of Crete offers some of Europe's most dramatic hiking, defined by its rugged mountains and stunning coastline. The E4 European path extends across the island, covering roughly 500 kilometers from west to east. This trail connects diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to the towering White Mountains (Lefka Ori). A highlight for many is the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest canyons in Europe. The 16-kilometer trek descends through the gorge, passing the abandoned village of Samaria and winding through the 'Iron Gates,' a point where the canyon walls narrow to just a few meters apart. The gorge served as a refuge for Cretan rebels during the Ottoman era, adding a layer of historical resilience to its staggering natural beauty. Hiking here connects you to both the island's wild heart and its long history of resistance.
The Corfu Trail: From Coast to Summit
Stretching the entire length of the island, the 200-kilometer Corfu Trail offers a comprehensive journey through the island's varied landscapes. Established in 2001, it winds from the southern tip near Kavos to the northernmost point of the island. Far from the busy tourist resorts, the trail delves into the island's quiet interior, traversing ancient olive groves, dense woodlands, and bucolic plains. Hikers will encounter ruined monasteries, picturesque old villages like Old Perithia, and the Byzantine fortress of Angelokastro perched on a dramatic cliff. The path also ascends to the summit of Mount Pantokrator, Corfu's highest peak, which provides panoramic views across to Albania and the Greek mainland. It’s a route that reveals a quieter, more historic side of this popular Ionian island.
