The Menalon Trail, Arcadia
Deep in the Peloponnese region lies the Menalon Trail, a 75-kilometre route that was the first in Greece to receive 'Leading Quality Trail' certification from the European Ramblers Association. This network of old mule paths connects nine historic mountain
villages, winding through the dramatic Lousios River gorge and past incredible monasteries built directly into cliff faces. One of the most stunning sections takes you to the 10th-century Old Philosophou Monastery, a ruin carved into a cliffside that once served as a secret school, and the still-active Prodromos Monastery, which appears to cling impossibly to the rock face. The trail is a journey into a mythical landscape, once believed to be the home of the god Pan, offering a perfect blend of challenging hikes, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ancient Path from Delphi to Kirra
Imagine walking the same route ancient pilgrims once took to receive prophecies from the Oracle of Delphi. This historic path descends from the world-famous archaeological site of Delphi to the ancient port of Kirra on the Corinthian Gulf. The approximately 11-kilometre trail offers magnificent panoramic views across what is considered one of Greece's most beautiful olive groves, the Amfissa olive grove, which UNESCO has described as a unique landscape. As you walk, you are following a segment of the much longer E4 European path. The route is a journey back in time, connecting the spiritual heart of the ancient world with the sea, through a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The Corfu Trail, Ionian Islands
Stretching for more than 200 kilometres from south to north, the Corfu Trail reveals a side of the popular island that few tourists ever see. Established in 2001, the trail guides hikers through an incredible diversity of landscapes, from juniper-covered dunes and olive groves to the island's highest peaks. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic sites that tell the story of Corfu's layered past. Highlights include the abandoned Byzantine village of Old Perithia, nestled high on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, and the 13th-century Angelokastro castle, which offers stunning views over the west coast. The trail also passes through Corfu's UNESCO-listed Old Town, a maze of Venetian architecture. It’s a perfect route for those who want to combine coastal beauty with deep dives into local history and culture.
Ancient Paths of Crete
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is crisscrossed with ancient paths that traverse its rugged mountains and dramatic gorges. The famous Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe, is not just a natural wonder but a place of historical refuge for Cretan rebels. For history buffs, hiking portions of the E4 European Path in southwestern Crete offers the chance to discover the ruins of ancient city-states like Lissos and Hyrtakina. These trails lead through remote mountain villages, past frescoed Byzantine chapels, and along coastal routes that connected communities for thousands of years. Walking here allows you to explore the legacy of the Minoan civilization, Roman influence, and the island's fierce spirit of independence, all while surrounded by spectacular natural landscapes.
