Greek Walking Adventure
Hiking, Culture and Cuisine on Santorini and Crete
Overview
Our enduring love affair with Greece began in the 1970s when we roamed the islands as backpackers. While much has changed since then, the original Greek joie-de-vivre and hospitality are alive and well, especially in the hidden places that we discover during this new trip.
We explore Santorini and Crete when there are fewer tourists, and the weather is cool enough to make walking a pleasure. And this 11-day trip has an added flexibility: if you are short of time there is the option of joining us in Crete for our 8 days there.
The adventure begins in Santorini, an island of mythic landscapes. Traditional white houses cling to dark, sheer volcanic cliffs, and with each stunning sunset the waters of its vast caldera turn gold. Our home for three nights is a family run hotel that has been beautifully restored from ancient cave houses, with awesome sea views from each room. We hike to little-visited medieval villages, take a boat to Thirasia Island to explore ancient Greek ruins, swim from a black sand beach, and sample wine at a renowned local vineyard.
Next we take the fast ferry to Crete. Here, people still live close to the land, and are immensely passionate and proud of their culture, their food and their history. The island boasts rugged mountains cut through by stunning gorges, one of which we follow to a stunning beach. Ancient Minoan and Roman roads lead us past spectacular ruins and to picturesque villages where traditional crafts are still practiced. We hike to vantage points to gaze over stunning tapestries of meadows, ancient olive groves and vineyards.
The mysterious Minoan culture dates back 5000 years, and we visit its impressive palaces and cities, as well as Classic Greek and Roman ruins, Crusaders’ castles, grandiose public buildings from the Italian era, and hilltop villages where time stands still.
This is a Signature Trip: The founders of Hidden Places, Dag and Maria, will be accompanying you on this fabulous adventure.
Our carefully crafted itinerary includes daily walks of varying lengths and on a variety of terrains. Each morning our guide will share detailed information about the day’s walks. If on any day you decide not to walk, there will be other options that you will enjoy. For most of the walks, it is possible to ‘exit’ partway through and meet our vehicle.
Day 1 Arrive in Santorini
At the airport, meet our driver and transfer to our family-run heritage hotel, which has stunning views of Santorini’s Caldera. We gather with the other Hidden Places guests for sundowners and a trip briefing, followed by a welcome dinner.
Meals: D
Day 2 Santorini’s Hidden Villages
After breakfast we step out of our hotel and onto the scenic Caldera Path, following it through whitewashed villages to the town of Fira. Here there is free time to wander on our own or visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera.
A short drive takes us inland, to explore three medieval villages. We have lunch in the first, then follow a track to the ‘hidden gem’, which is picture-perfect and largely untouched by tourism.
Our hike continues to a final beautiful village, where we stroll past its charming old mansions and stop for a coffee or an apéritif in one of its tavernas. We transfer back to our hotel and get ready to go out for dinner on a patio with a stunning sunset view over the caldera.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3 Oia & Thirasia
We walk on the Caldera Path in the opposite direction, to join a track along a wild stretch of the caldera cliffs. Arriving in the famous village of Oia, we explore at our own pace before hiking down to the small port of Ammoudi, from where a boat takes us to the ‘little sister’ of Santorini, Thirasia Island.
We explore Thirasia on foot, from its abandoned village with traditional cave houses, to its peak, where there are amazing visas, and down to a beach for a swim, stopping for late morning snacks along the way.
Finally we visit a small winery, for a tasting of quality wines reflecting the unique volcanic ‘terroir, and for a delicious late lunch. By early evening we return to Santorini. Dinner is on your own (though we doubt you’ll be hungry!) either at the hotel for tapas and small plates, or at a nearby restaurant.
Meals: B, L
Day 4 Eastern Santorini & ferry to Crete
After a leisurely breakfast, we set off to explore the archeological site of ancient Thera, on the ridge of the Mesa Vouno Mountain. Dating back to the 8th Century BC, Thera was considered the religious and commercial centre of Santorini, and its high, windy ruins are atmospheric. From the imposing rock where ancient Thera stands, we hike down to a black sand beach, where we have time for a swim before lunch at a local tavern.
In the afternoon we transfer to the port and take a high-speed ferry to Crete.
Arriving in Heraklion, Crete’s largest city, we check into our five-star hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, with ingredients from its own farm.
Meals: B, L,D
Day 5 Knossos and the Minoans
Today we journey through the world of the Minoans. As we follow ancient paths to the top of their sacred mountain, our expert local guide shares stories of this mysterious Bronze Age culture.
After lunch in a small town nestled below the sacred peaks, she continues the story when we visit Knossos, the most important Minoan palace. This was the centre of a commercial empire extending throughout the Aegean until a massive earthquake led to its demise.
In late afternoon we transfer to a hilltop village with some beautifully restored houses on the southern edge of the Heraklion region – our home for the next two days. We meet our genial hosts and enjoy an authentic Cretan dinner.
Meals: B, L,D
Day 6: Farm Visit & Coastal Hike
Breakfast is on a patio with endless sea views, then we walk to the farm run by our hosts. We meet – and maybe help feed – their sheep, goats and horses, learn about their traditional farming, and have an olive oil tasting session.
After lunch on the farm, we set off in 4×4 vehicles for a scenic (and somewhat bumpy) ride down to the coast, and the start point of our hike. We follow a rugged cliff top path to a remote 14th Century monastery surrounded by caves once inhabited by hermits.
On the way back, there’s the option of a bracing swim before driving up the mountain for another delicious dinner.
Meals: B, L,D
Day 7 Ancient paths & Traditional Ceramics
We transfer to a small hidden valley in an area of Crete that is almost untouched by tourism. Our walk begins in the ruins of an ancient city dating back 3000 years, then follows a path to where we explore massive cisterns cut into the rock. From there we continue on foot to a village with a centuries-old ceramic-making tradition.
In the afternoon we visit a workshop for an impressive demonstration from a skilled and artful potter who uses technologies and designs of the Minoans.
By the evening we reach the Venetian harbourside town of Rethymno and settle into our charming boutique hotel in the picturesque old center.
Meals: B, L,D
Day 8 Rethymno and Hike
This relaxed day starts with a walking tour of the ancient Venetian town of Rethymno and it’s fortress, followed by lunch in one of the scenic squares.
In the afternoon we take a gentle hike in the countryside not far from the city, through an area renowned for its old water mills.
The rest of the day is free to explore and have dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants in this lovely part of town.
Meals: B, L
Day 9 Aradena Gorge Hike
Making an early start, we transfer to the southern side of the island for the stunning Aradena Gorge hike. The gorge leads us to lovely Marmara beach, where we can have a refreshing swim before lunch at a local tavern –the owner is opening up especially for our group!
From Marmara beach, we take a water taxi to Loutro – a fishing village with no road access. For anyone in the group with energy to spare, there is the option of hiking to Loutro along the coastal path.
Finally we relax in Loutro, enjoying the vibe of this remote settlement and having dinner in a harbourside restaurant.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 10 Coastal Walk & Chania
Our last walk takes us along a cliffside path from Loutro – with some swimming options en route – to the next coastal village where we have lunch. In the afternoon we transfer to Chania, the final stop of this journey.
After settling into our historic, harbour-front hotel, there is free time to roam around the enchanting old town of Chania, which features Byzantian, Venetian, and Ancient Greek architecture.
At our favourite restaurant on the harbour, we meet for a farewell dinner, to celebrate our wonderful adventure.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 11 Departure from Chania
We transfer to Chania airport to start our journey home, or to our next destination.
Meals: B
End of services
Please note: The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions and other factors beyond our control.
We think of our itineraries as melodies: they have a beginning and an end, a certain arc, dramatic highlights and a few surprises. We like to improvise, to adapt to the mood of our guests or to circumstances that arise — an invitation to a traditional wedding, say, or a local ethnic festival…
Crafting beautiful, harmonious trips with delightful twists is our trade mark and passion.
FAQ
How do I get there?
You fly to Santorini Airport (JTR), which you can reach from Athens and other European hubs.
What level of fitness do I need for this trip?
A reasonable level of fitness is required and the ability to walk a couple of hours at a time. Some of the trails are steep and rugged. For those who wish to opt out of some of the more strenous walks, transportation is available to the meet up with the group at the destination.
I'm a vegetarian, is that a problem?
Not at all, but please let us know in advance, and advise us on your dietary preferences so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
Do I need a visa?
No, but please ensure your passport is valid for 6 months after your entry date.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Medical insurance, including emergency evacuation, is mandatory on all our trips. We also strongly advise you to purchase trip cancellation insurance: make sure it will cover the Land Cost, not just the airfare in case you do have to cancel before the trip starts.
Do I need vaccinations?
Your routine vaccinations (tetanus/diphtheria, polio, etc.) should be up to date.
Are bugs a problem?
In general, not at all, however, it’s always worth having some insect repellent along.
What does the trip price cover?
Airport transfers on the first and last days of the trip, ferry tickets, all cultural tour guiding and entrance fees, all accommodation, instruction and equipment, bottled water and meals as shown on the itinerary.
What does the trip price not cover?
International and domestic flights, beverages apart from bottled drinking water, personal insurance and gratuities, and two evening meals.
How can I access cash when I’m on the trip?
ATMs are readily available in towns of Santorini and Crete.
What clothes and equipment will I need?
When you sign up for the trip, we will provide you with a comprehensive clothes and equipment list.
I’m travelling alone, is that a problem?
Absolutely not. We have many guests who travel with us on their own. They appreciate the camaraderie of our Hidden Places groups, and usually go home with new-found friends. You can opt to share hotel rooms or you can request a single room for a Single Supplement. On board the mothership single accommodation is subject to availability and will require a separate supplement.
Can I talk to someone who has previously travelled with you?
This will be our first trip on Crete however we can put you in touch with travellers who have been with us on other Hidden Places trips.
‘Crete Only’ Option
If you don’t have time for the full Santorini/Crete walking trip you can join us for only the Crete portion. The price will be adjusted accordingly. Please inquire!
‘Hidden Athens’ Extension
If this is your first time to Athens, we’d be happy to arrange a private pre- or post-trip extension that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions. This can include an airport pick up or drop-off.
Trip Details
Land Cost
Depends on group size.
From US $6950 pp (group of 11 or 12)
Single Supplement
US $1490
Length
11 days
Dates
Scheduled: Apr 06 – 16, 2025
Private: Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Accommodation
8 nights boutique and heritage hotels
2 nights restored traditional village houses
Group size
12 guests maximum
Begins
Santorini, Greece
Ends
Chania, Crete
Activities
Hikes, archeological excursions, wine and olive oil tasting, traditional food preparation
In Greece, sharing food is sharing love. It’s celebrating family, friendship and tradition. It’s the heart of ‘philoxenia’ which means hospitality and welcome. It’s an opportunity to tell stories, to laugh and sing. It creates a sense of belonging. It is a ritual that runs deep in Greek society. Above all, it is a joy.
Our Greek Walking Adventure next April takes us deep into the food cultures of Crete and Santorini, from simple picnics to blow out meals - always sharing,
always delightful!
#sharingfoodexperiences #philoxenia #foodislove❤ #greece #walkinggreece
Greece in springtime is a riot of wild flowers. And spring is exactly when we’ll be there - in April 2025- on our Greek Walking Adventure.
We’ll explore wild parts of Santorini and Crete - with time to smell the blossoms and soak in the gorgeousness!
#greece #greeceinspring #wildgreece
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