Tips for hiking in Greece

Spring (April to May) is the best time for hiking. The countryside is green and fresh from the winter rains, and carpeted with wildflowers. Autumn (September to October) is also a good time.

Several companies run organized treks. The biggest is Trekking Hellas which offers a variety of hikes ranging from a four-hour stroll through the Lousios Gorge in the Peloponnese to a four-day hike around Mt Olympus.

If you’re venturing off the beaten track, a good map is essential. Most tourist maps are inadequate; the best hiking maps for the islands are produced by Anavasi and Terrain, both Greece-based companies. Be realistic about your abilities and always inform your guesthouse or local hiking association of your planned route before setting out.