The Spirit of Our Walking Holidays
Preparing for Your Walking Holiday in Greece
Get ready to embrace a week of exploration, camaraderie, delicious food, and unforgettable moments across some of Greece’s most stunning regions. Led by Jonathan and Myriam Peat, our carefully curated 8-day walking holidays are designed to immerse you in the authentic charm of Greece’s landscapes, history, and culture.
Our walking holidays offer a unique opportunity for those seeking a week of rejuvenation through movement, connection, and discovery. Designed for small, intimate groups of 6 to 12 participants (occasionally up to 15), these journeys invite you to reconnect—with nature, with yourself, and with others. Guided by an Anglo-Greek mountain leader who deeply understands and cherishes both cultures, you’ll experience Greece at a rhythm that respects every participant, blending gentle exploration with moments of introspection and shared joy.
Walking is at the heart of the experience. Over 3 to 4 hours each day, you’ll traverse stunning landscapes, from rugged gorges to tranquil coastal paths, while pausing to meet local people, absorb the beauty around you, and listen to captivating stories, philosophy, or poetry shared by your guide. The group supports one another during challenging stretches, creating a sense of camaraderie—especially on the more rugged trails of Crete, where paths may have faded into nature. For those who seek more physical activity, additional options may be available after the main walks, depending on the day.
Beyond the physical journey, these holidays are about embracing the Greek way of life. Meals are a highlight, with dishes placed in the center of the table to share—a beautiful tradition that fosters connection and allows you to savor a variety of local flavors. You’ll discover not just breathtaking views, but also the rhythms of Greek culture, encouraging a slower pace and a deeper appreciation for the moment.
These trips are ideal for those who value balance, adventure, and the joy of shared experiences. With the right preparation and a love for discovery, you’ll leave not just having walked through Greece, but feeling truly connected to its spirit.
A Typical Day on Our Walking Holidays
Our days begin with a delicious breakfast at the accommodation, after which we set off for the day’s adventure. If there’s a transfer involved, Jonathan takes the opportunity to share an overview of the day ahead, offering interesting insights into the region and even reading a short story to inspire the group. The bus ride is a great time for everyone to relax, chat, and get to know each other better.
Once we arrive at the starting point, the hike begins at a gentle pace. We take regular breaks, allowing everyone to keep up comfortably while offering plenty of opportunities for conversation and interaction within the group. There’s a natural sense of camaraderie that builds as we walk together, with kindness and support flowing easily among participants. Jonathan, with his deep knowledge of both Greek and British cultures, acts as a bridge between the two, ensuring smooth communication and a deeper understanding when we meet locals along the way.
After 2 to 3 hours of walking in the morning, we gather at a local taverna for a well-earned break. The emphasis is on discovering the true flavours of Greece, beyond the typical Greek salad, tzatziki, and moussaka. We introduce you to regional dishes that showcase the rich and varied culinary heritage of the country.
Following the meal, there’s the option to continue the hike for another 1 to 2 hours, depending on the group’s energy levels and preferences. Afterward, we board the bus for a comfortable journey back to the accommodation, where you can relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
This gentle, inclusive pace ensures everyone feels welcome and engaged, with plenty of opportunities to connect with the landscape, the people, and each other.
Destinations We Offer
Our walking holidays take you to some of Greece’s most breathtaking regions:
- Western Crete: Discover dramatic gorges, secluded beaches, and timeless mountain villages in this rugged and unspoiled part of the island.
- Eastern Crete: Wander through olive groves, ancient ruins, and picturesque coastal trails, revealing the softer side of Crete.
- Epirus and Preveza: Venture into mainland Greece, exploring lush valleys, stone-built villages, and the pristine coastline of the Ionian Sea.
- The Peloponnese: Step into the cradle of Greek mythology and history, walking through ancient cities, vineyards, and mountain landscapes.
- The Cyclades (starting May 2026): Experience the iconic whitewashed villages, turquoise seas, and scenic island trails of Greece’s most famous archipelago.
Our trips are available in March, April, May, June, September, and October, taking advantage of the mild and pleasant weather these months offer.
What to Expect on a Tour
Each day begins with a hearty breakfast before setting out to uncover the hidden treasures of the region. Walks are unhurried, focusing on the joy of discovery rather than endurance. Expect 3 to 4 hours of walking each day, with plenty of stops to soak in the scenery, connect with locals, and share moments with your fellow travelers. Jonathan will guide you every step of the way, sharing fascinating insights into the landscape, history, and culture.
The journey includes visits to charming villages, pristine beaches, and ancient ruins. Meals are a highlight, with local delicacies served in welcoming tavernas, where sharing dishes creates a relaxed and sociable atmosphere.
Who Are These Trips For?
Our walking holidays are perfect for those with moderate fitness, and we keep group sizes intimate—typically 6 to 12 participants, with occasional groups of up to 15. To ensure you’re prepared, we recommend starting a light fitness regimen a month or two in advance, including regular walking, stair climbing, or aerobic activities like swimming or running.
Here are some simple descriptions about how we grade the tours. We use the system of one, two or three boots. One boot is the easiest and three is the most difficult.
Descriptions are as follows:
One boot –
Distance walked up to 5km per day. Time up to 2 hours.
Mostly on flat or undulating ground. Wherever possible on good surfaces – dirt or concrete roads, cleared paths, and across fields. Plenty of stops
Slow pace.
Two boots –
Occasional exposed ground. We stop at least once every hour. Regular pace.
This is the level of our majority of walking tours.
Three boots –
We can encounter rocky and uneven surfaces and some exposed terrain (sometimes difficult if you haven’t got a head for heights). Some scrambling. Some mountain walking experience is essential. Regular pace.
We suggest that anyone wanting to get the most out of their walking holiday should be reasonably fit. This might mean that people need to do a bit of preparatory training. Things like going to the gym once a week, walking up stairs as opposed to taking the lift, swimming once a week, bicycling etc.. The fitter you are the more you will be able to enjoy the difficult walks!
Your Guide’s Discretion
This is an approximate itinerary, designed to make the most of Crete’s beauty and culture. However, daily activities will be adjusted by your guide to suit the weather and group preferences, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Packing Essentials
Here’s what to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Sturdy walking boots or shoes with Vibram soles
A windproof jacket and light fleece for cooler evenings
Moisture-wicking t-shirts for comfort during walks
A day backpack (20–40L) for essentials
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Swimwear and beach shoes for refreshing dips
Weather and Seasons
Spring and autumn in Greece offer ideal walking conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20–25°C and cooler evenings around 15°C. Occasional warm showers add to the charm, especially in higher altitudes, so a light waterproof jacket is a good idea.
A Taste of Greece
Greek cuisine is central to every journey. Enjoy a variety of fresh, healthy dishes, including stuffed vine leaves, seafood, slow-cooked meats, and vegetable dishes like wild greens with potatoes. Meals are complemented by excellent wines from local vineyards, creating a culinary experience as memorable as the scenery.
We look forward to welcoming you on one of our walking holidays, where small, intimate groups and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure an experience that’s as enriching as it is relaxing. Join us and discover Greece on foot, one unforgettable step at a time.