- Packing Tips:
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- A daypack for water, snacks, and personal items
- Lightweight, breathable clothing and layers for cooler evenings
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel for beach stops
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle (hydration is essential during walks)
- Currency: Euros (€) are used throughout Greece. While most restaurants and shops accept cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small, local establishments.
- Local Transportation: Taxis and local buses are available on both islands, but transfers for guided hikes are included in your package with a private transfer
- Language: While Greek is the official language, English is widely spoken on the islands.
- Meals: Meals are not included (except breakfast), but you’ll have the chance to dine at traditional taverns offering fresh, locally produced dishes. Your guides will recommend the best options.
- Transportation: We travel by private cars, taxis, or minivans.
- Accommodation: We stay in family-run hotels or studios/apartments in the main towns (all with private facilities). The tour prices are based on double occupancy with breakfast.
An island hopping walking holiday in Greece
Embark on a captivating 9-day walking holiday exploring the Cycladic islands of Andros and Tinos. Renowned for their natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique architecture, these two islands offer an unparalleled hiking experience. Andros, known as the greenest of the Cyclades, boasts European-certified hiking trails and diverse landscapes. Tinos, famous for its picturesque dovecotes, authentic villages, and spiritual significance, completes this incredible journey.
Andros stands out for its lush greenery, rich flora, and diverse landscapes, offering endless opportunities for exploration. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first island in Europe to receive the prestigious European Certification for Hiking Trails, «Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe».
Highlights of Andros:
- European-certified hiking trails with stunning natural diversity.
- Landmarks like the Pythara Waterfalls, Dipotamata Gorge, and Panachrados Monastery.
- Rich naval tradition and cultural history.
Tinos, often referred to as the “hidden gem” of the Cyclades, invites visitors to uncover its ancient, walking paths. Marvel at the island’s unique architecture, including picturesque dovecotes, traditional windmills, countless churches, intricate stone walls, charming fountains, and strikingly shaped giant rocks.
Highlights of Tinos:
- Unique architectural gems, including dovecotes and traditional windmills.
- Scenic trails connecting charming villages to serene beaches.
- Panoramic views from Xobourgo Castle and Volax’s granite boulders.
Your journey will be guided by experienced, certified hiking guides who will introduce you to the wonders of these islands. From verdant valleys and dramatic gorges to ancient dovecotes and medieval castles, every step unveils a new treasure.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Why Choose This Trip?
- Unique Itinerary: Experience the European-certified “Leading Quality Trail – Best of Europe” on Andros and the hidden treasures of Tinos.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with locals, taste Cycladic delicacies, and uncover the history behind iconic landmarks.
- Unparalleled Support: From ferry tickets to accommodations, our team provides seamless support throughout your journey.
- Guided Excellence: Benefit from the expertise of certified hiking guides, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
- Picturesque Landscapes: Marvel at lush valleys, intricate stone walls, dovecotes, and dramatic coastal views
Day 1 : Arrival on Andros
Arrival on Andros in the morning or the evening (How to get to Andros). You are picked up and transferred to your accommodation. Meet your guide, and in the evening get a briefing on the program while you are having dinner with an introduction to Andros’ cuisine.
Day 2: Explore the Naval Tradition of Andros
Hiking tour: Andros Town – Apikia – Andros Town (12 km, 4-4.5 hrs walking)
Starting from Hora (Andros Town) and heading to Gialia Beach, where the river creates a unique natural environment, the trail ascends parallel to the Pythara ravine. The route takes you through charming settlements and leads to Apikia Village, a hub of rural life. On the return journey, a different cobbled path offers magnificent views of the town and the sea.
- Highlights:
- Fabrica Pasta Factory Watermill
- Leontos Stone Bridge
- Bistis-Mouvelas Tower
- Agadaki’s Tower
- Pythara Waterfalls
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 3: The impressive gorge of Dipotamata and the medieval Upper Castle
Hiking tour: Andros town to Korthi Bay (12 km, 4.5 hrs walking)
Following the ancient trail that connects the two medieval castles of Hora and Korthi, you will traverse the impressive Dipotamata gorge. The gorge’s historic watermills form an open-air eco-museum. The route continues to the traditional village of Kochylou, where a local café offers a rest stop with breathtaking views before descending to Korthi Bay for swimming and lunch.
- Highlights:
- Dipotamata Gorge’s watermills
- Upper Castle (Pano Kastro)
- Village of Kochylou
- Korthi Bay
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 4: Visit a living historical monument
Hiking tour: Menites – Panachrados Monastery – Livadia – Andros Town (11 km, 4.5 hrs walking)
Starting from Menites, a lush village, the trail passes through the Byzantine-era settlement of Messaria. Crossing the haunted arched bridge (Stichiomeni), the path ascends to the Panachrados Monastery, an active religious site showcasing Cycladic architecture. After a rest and picnic, the descent leads through the Potamos stream and ends in Hora-Andros Town.
- Highlights:
- Byzantine Messaria
- Haunted Bridge (Stichiomeni)
- Petrias abandoned village
- Panachrados Monastery
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 5: Ferry to Tinos
Today we leave Andros to Tinos. Transfer to the port for the morning ferry. After one hour and a half, we will arrive in Tinos. You will get a transfer to your accommodation where we will have time to relax, swim or have lunch. You will meet your guide in the evening to explore the old city and visit the Cathedral.
Highlights:
- Afternoon free for relaxation and exploring the old town.
- Guided Visit to the famous Church of Panagia Evangelistria.
- Dinner introduction to Tinos’ gastronomy
Overnight: Tinos Town
Day 6: Tinos’ Dovecotes and Villages
Hiking tour: Kwmi – Tarabados –Kampos – Ktikados – Kionia Beach – Tinos Town (12 km, 4.5 hrs walking)
Begin your day with a transfer to the picturesque village of Kόmi, the starting point of this enchanting hike. From here, follow the trail through Tarabados, famous for its stunning pigeon towers, a hallmark of Tinos’ architectural heritage. Continue to the charming villages of Hatzirados and Ktikados, each offering a glimpse into traditional island life, with their narrow alleys and timeless beauty. As the trail descends, you’ll reach the serene Kionia Beach, perfect for a refreshing pause. Finally, stroll along the seaside path to Tinos Town, where the journey concludes with views of the Aegean Sea and the vibrant port town.
- Highlights:
- Traditional dovecotes and terraces
- Authentic Villages of Tarabados, Kampos, Ktikados
- Swim at Kionia Beach
Overnight: Tinos Town
Day 7: The Road of the Water and the Castle
Hiking tour: Agapi – Volax – Xobourgo – Hora (10 km, 4 hrs walking)
Starting in the village of Agapi, the trail winds through watermills and dovecotes before reaching Volax, known for its striking granite formations. The hike ascends to Xobourgo Castle, offering panoramic views of the Aegean, and ends in Hora.
- Highlights:
- The unique village of Agapi (Love)
- Granite boulders at Volax
- Xobourgo Castle and ancient fortifications
- Scenic views of the Aegean Sea
Overnight: Tinos Town
Day 8: The alley of the mills
Hiking tour: Pyrgos – Panormos – Platia – Pyrgos (6 km, 3 hrs walking)
Today we explore the North of Tinos. After a short drive, we arrive at Pyrgos the most picturesque village on the island. After visiting the Museum of Marble Art we start our walking tour to the Mills of Pyrgos. Follow the coastal path to Panormos, enjoy a refreshing swim at Rochari Beach, and ascend through the Platia ravine back to Pyrgos.
- Highlights:
- Marble Art Museum in Pyrgos
- Mills of Pyrgos
- Coastal walk to Rochari Beach
- Ravine trail to Platia
Overnight: Tinos Town
Day 9: End of Program
This is the end of your walking holiday in Cyclades! Get a transfer to the port at your preferred time or extend your holidays in Tinos.
Know before you go :
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- Best Time to Visit: This walking holiday is ideal in the spring and autumn months (April–June, September–October) when the weather is mild, and the islands are at their most beautiful.
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- Fitness Level: Moderate – the walks range between 4–10 km daily with some uneven terrain and coastal trails. A good level of physical fitness is required.
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- Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, cancellations, and trip interruptions.
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- Children over 15 years old can book when accompanied by an adult
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- Getting There: Ferries are available from Athens (Rafina Port) to Andros (2 hours).
Batsi
Starting location
Chora
Chora – Andros
Apikia
Apikia village
Korthi
Korthi
Panachrantos monastery
Panachrantos monastery
Tinos
Tinos
Ktikados
Ktikados
Chatzirados
Chatzirados
Tarampados
Tarampados
Xobourgo
Xobourgo
Koumaros
Koumaros
Volax
Volax
Falatados
Falatados
Inclusions
- Ferry Tickets Rafina to Andros -Andros to Tinos – Tinos to Rafina or Pireaus
- 8-night accommodation with breakfast shared in a twin/double room.
- 6 guided hikes
- 6 Picnic on the route.
- Experienced local guide.
- Welcome dinner
- All necessary local transfers.
- 24-hour support on the islands for any troubleshooting or advice.
- English-French-Italian-speaking guide with local knowledge.
Exclusions
- Flight Tickets
- Other than the mentioned meals/beverages
- Airport Transfers (upon request)
- Travel Medical Insurance * Travel insurance is not covered in the tour price. You can organize travel insurance with your preferred insurance company.
