The Aegean Trail

8 days, Guided Group, Fixed Departure

Come and experience the unhurried pace of Greek Island life in the peaceful Aegean on our twin centred trip to Andros and Evia. These two islands, although conveniently close to Athens, are still yet to be discovered by mass tourism and offer pretty mountain and coastal villages, picturesque terraced hillsides, an unrivalled network of easy graded walking paths and safe, sandy beaches. Designed in conjunction with an enthusiastic Greek walker this takes you through some of the most undeveloped wild areas of Greece. Evia is known for its stunning mountains and sea landscapes, secluded beaches and crystal clear waters.

Andros is one of the greenest of the Greek Islands, full of very attractive traditional villages with a fortified capital which combines Venetian and Cycladic architecture. From rocky cliff top walks to mountainous ascents along ancient Roman trails, this trip offers a superb opportunity to visit areas well away from the usual tourist trails. Accompanied throughout by a local expert this new trip will surely become a firm favourite as word begins to spread. Come and experience the unhurried pace of Greek Island life in the peaceful Aegean with us.

Days 1 and 2. Outbound to Andros

Fly to Athens and take the short road transfer to Rafina to overnight before continuing the next day by ferry to the island of Andros. Andros offers mountainous terrain, white and blue windmills amidst villages perched on steep slopes, numerous historical churches and monasteries replete with byzantine art, pine-shaded coves and verdant valleys of vineyards and olive orchards. It has plenty of safe, beautiful sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. Your first day on the island will be spent walking to Gialia Bay and Andros Town.

Day 3. Panahrantos Monastery

Drive to the famous Byzantine monastery of Panahrantos, high up in the mountains with one of the best views on the island. Descend by foot to the Messaria Plain and the villages of mid-Andros and then continue to the east coast of the island for time by the blue Aegean Sea

Day 4. From Andros to Evia

Walk the mountainous spine of Andros before hopping on the ferry to Evia. Surrounded by mountain forests and rivers, vineyards and orchards, dramatic coastline and endless beaches this provides the perfect setting for the Evia Trail, an ancient network of paths connecting all the main villages on the island.

Days 5 to 7. Evian Trails

Follow the famous 'Eagle Drive' to Karystos before embarking along the ancient trail of Mount Ohi with its mysterious Megalithic structure known as the Dragon House, perched atop the peak. The following day you will descend the famous 'Grand Via' of Roman times. From mountain to sea, you will walk through the stunning gorge of Demosaris to Kalliani, a hamlet next to the sparkling Aegean Sea, offering some of the best beaches in the country. Tonight you will enjoy friendly hospitality at a taverna run by a family of ancient Albanian descent. Travel to the beautiful Styra valley for an ascent of Mount Kliosi, site of one of the oldest classical acropolis in Greece. The views from the top are stunning having the open Aegean on one side and the world famous Bay of Marathon. Descend to Karystos. Here the waterfront is the scene of the evening volta or promenade, full of lively tavernas and bars. Fishermen land their catch right in the harbour and it is by far the most popular spot for locals to come and relax in.

Day 8. Athens and Homeward

Take the ferry to Rafina on the mainland and back to the hustle and bustle of Athens to fly home. Options to extend your time in this famous city are available. Please contact us for details.