Discover the authentic heart of the Cyclades on a self-guided walking adventure across Naxos, Iraklia and Amorgos. Explore ancient pathways, mountain landscapes, whitewashed villages, hidden beaches and spectacular coastal scenery.
- Explore the Cave of Agios Ioannis
- Visit cliffside Hozoviotissa Monastery
- Summit Mount Zas, the highest Cycladic peak
- Discover secluded beaches & coves
- Visit three Cycladic islands
- Walk between traditional island villages
Beginning on picturesque Naxos, walk through traditional villages, archaeological sites and ascend Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. Continue to peaceful Iraklia, where quiet trails lead to remote coves and the vast Cave of Agios Ioannis. Finish on dramatic Amorgos, following historic stone paths between timeless settlements and to the spectacular cliffside Monastery of Hozoviotissa, with breathtaking views across the Aegean Sea.
Travelling between islands by ferry adds to the sense of adventure, revealing a different side of the Cyclades beyond the well-known tourist hotspots. With time to relax beside crystal-clear waters, enjoy traditional tavernas and immerse yourself in local island life, this journey perfectly balances rewarding walks with authentic Greek hospitality and culture.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival in Naxos
Make your own way to the hotel in Naxos.
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Day 2: Circular Trail through Traditional Villages
Beginning in Apeiranthos, today's walk follows ancient routes through rugged hills and striking rock formations. Continue to the peaceful village of Moni, before following historic paths lined with Byzantine churches to Chalki, one of the island's most elegant villages where traditional architecture and local culture thrive.
Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 520 m
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Day 3: Hike Through Villages & Archaeological Sights
Today's route leads through some of Naxos' most historic landscapes. Walk via the Byzantine church of Agios Mamas, old watermills and fertile valleys, before visiting ancient marble quarries and the island's famous unfinished kouros statues. Continue through Myloi and Kourounochori before finishing in Melanes.
Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 260 m | Descent: 340 m
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Day 4: Trek to Mount Zas Peak
Beginning in Filoti, follow a mountain trail towards Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. Pass a natural spring and the legendary Cave of Zeus before reaching the summit, where panoramic views stretch across neighbouring islands and the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 615 m
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Day 5: Explore Remote Trails & Beaches
Beginning in the mountain villages of Skado and Koronos, today's walk explores a quieter side of Naxos shaped by its emery mining heritage. Follow rural trails through orchards and open landscapes before descending to the peaceful beach at Lyonas, where clear waters provide the perfect finish to the day.
Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 75 m | Descent: 600 m
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Day 6: Free Morning, Ferry to Iraklia & Sunset Hike
The morning is free to relax or explore at leisure, before an afternoon ferry to the unspoilt island of Iraklia.
In the evening, from your accommodation, follow a trail that leads to the highest point of the island. Here you can stop and enjoy the sunset, before returning to the accommodation before dark.
Walking distance: 4 km | Ascent: 230 m | Descent: 230 m
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Day 7: Hike Through Villages to Caves
Follow an ancient path across the islands, passing deserted villages until you reach Agios Ioannis Cave, the largest cave in the Cyclades. Take some time to explore the cave and see its magnificent stalactite formations.
Continue to a secluded bay, which is only accessible via boat or on foot. Take some time to relax and have a swim, before the final stretch of the hike.
Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 615 m
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Day 8: Travel to Amorgos
The morning is free until you take a ferry to Amorgos island. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore independently.
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Day 9: Walk Circular Ancient Pathways
Today the trail is along an ancient path which links the villages of Aegiali, Lagada, Stroumbos and Tholaria. The route passes these traditional, picturesque villages, where you can stop and enjoy the authentic atmosphere. It's also possible to take a detour to see the Panagia Epanochoriani Church.
Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 375 m | Descent: 375 m
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Day 10: Hike to Amorgos Ridge & Hozoviotissa Monastery
Your final hike is along the spine of Amorgos, to the quaint village of Chora with its narrow streets and windmills, castles and traditional white-washed houses. You then continue to the Hozoviotissa Monastery, which is built into the cliff face overlooking the sea. Continue along the trail for fantastic views across the sea, until the bay of Aegiali.
Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 980 m | Descent: 800 m
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Day 11: Departure Day
Take a ferry to Santorini or Naxos for your onward travel arrangements, or in time for your return flight.
Please note: We can offer extra nights in Naxos or the other islands. Alternatively, enjoy a 3-day extension in Athens, or a night in Santorini if you choose to fly out from there. When looking at flights, please ensure that they arrive with ample time to allow for travel to Naxos from Santorini or Athens. For further guidance, contact our friendly team.
As well as our three Greek island holiday, we also offer a Santorini & Naxos Discovery, a two-island adventure, and a single island adventure exploring Naxos Island.
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 11 days from £799 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 11 days from £1,119 per person
- Single room supplement: From £339
- Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
- Guiding: Self-Guided
- Max alt: Low
- Min people: 2
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotel x 10 nights
- 10 breakfasts
- Ferries to Iraklia, Amorgos & back to Naxos
- Transfers
- Detailed route notes with maps & GPX tracks
Next Steps
| Year | Daily Departures† | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| All prices are per person. † Daily departures subject to availability. | |||
| 2027 | From 1 Apr to 30 Apr | £845 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 1 May to 30 Jun | £875 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 1 Jul to 30 Sep | £1,005 | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | From 1 Oct to 31 Oct | £845 | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
