A one-week break offering a complete change of scene. Hike picturesque paths in the beautiful Cyclades, caressed by a cool breeze perfumed with the aroma of wild herbs. Sip an ouzo under a gnarled plane tree at the end of a day's hike through olive groves and sunny villages.
Folk Art of Tinos
Arriving on Tinos by ferry, we head straight out on foot to enjoy the same inspirational views that have attracted artists and sculptors to this island for generations. We'll hike stony mule tracks through wild hill-country to remote villages and admire marvellous views over the Aegean from the ruined Venetian castle on craggy Exobourgo peak. There are dozens of peaceful hamlets tucked into the folds of terraced hills, remarkable for their tiled medieval dovecotes, whilst wonderful beaches offer the perfect relaxation opportunity. Tinos' particular attraction amongst the Greeks is as a place of pilgrimage which makes for a bustling atmosphere in the main town, Chora. From Tinos, it is possible to take a daytrip by boat to the sanctuary of Delos, one of ancient Greece's most sacred sites.
Andros - Blessed by Water
We catch the ferry to beautiful, but little-visited Andros. Streams criss-cross the fertile valleys which often appear as a textured mosaic of orange groves, vineyards and mulberry forests. Tall cypress trees line the roads and there is an air of quiet exclusivity here. We take the high route to the marvellous cliff-top monastery at Panachrantos, where the skull of a local saint is preserved, before walking down the ancient monk's path to reach the coastal town of Andros and its marble-paved main street. Our final walk is via ruined watermills and threshing floors to the Venetian hilltop fortress of Paliokastro before we descend through paths lined with fig trees and freshwater springs to the town of Korthi on the coast for a last dip in the Aegean and a well-earned beer.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Join to Rafina. 2 Ferry Tinos; afternoon walk to Mt Tsiknias. 3 Full day walk via Exobourgo to Kolymbithra Bay. Transfer to Tinos town. 4 Optional day trips by bus or boat trip to Delos. 5 Walk to Kionia & swim at Aghios Markos. Ferry Andros; bus Andros town. 6 Walk to Korthi via villages and watermills. 7 On Andros; walk to Panachrantos Monastery; ferry to Rafina. 8 Tour ends Athens airport.
Accommodation: 7 nts hotel/pension; 7 breakfasts included.
Transport: Ferry/On foot/Bus/Taxi.
Comment: Easy to moderate trail walking 5-6 hours max per day. Bring walking boots and a daysac. We aim to spend time walking ancient local trails to typical Greek villages to experience something of the local way of life.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader.
Trip Reference: GH
