1. Arcadia: The Lousios Gorge 

Although the first section of the Menalon Trail (Stemnitsa–Dimitsana) is currently inaccessible due to winter damage, an equally rewarding route through the Lousios Gorge begins at the impressive Prodromos Monastery and descends to ancient Gortys.

Walking alongside the rushing river and accompanied by birdsong, the trail leads through narrow gorge walls before opening out into meadows. Along the way, take time to observe the wildflowers and, as locals do, gather fruit and herbs responsibly. After about three hours, you reach the archaeological site and the stone Kokkoris bridge, with a riverside swimming spot nearby. Weather awareness is essential, as spring conditions can cause rivers to swell suddenly.

2. Phocis: On the Ancient Path of Delphi 

Blending mountain and sea, this evocative route follows the ancient path once taken by pilgrims to Delphi and now forms part of the E4 European long-distance path. Beginning at Livadi Parnassou, the trail crosses fragrant fir forests and the alpine slopes of Mount Parnassus before descending towards the Corinthian Gulf. Along the way, sweeping views open over the archaeological site and the famed Delphic landscape, including the historic olive grove that, together with Delphi, forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route is entirely downhill, covering either 6 or 8 km depending on the finishing point.

3. Messinia: A Circular Route Around Kardamyli 

This 10-km circular route unfolds through wildflower-filled landscapes with constant views of the Taygetos range – often still snow-capped in spring – and the shimmering Messenian Gulf.

Following an old cobbled path once used by Maniots travelling between Kardamyli and the mountain villages, the trail passes through lush ravines, rocky outcrops, and olive groves. Highlights include the village of Exochori, the chapel of Aghia Sophia with its panoramic outlook, and Old Kardamyli, home to the historic Mourtzinos-Troupakis tower complex and the church of Aghios Spyridon. Late afternoon light adds a golden glow to the entire landscape.

4. Evia: Through the Dimosaris Gorge 

An exhilarating 10-km downhill hike of striking contrasts, this route begins in the barren landscape of Mount Ochi, at an altitude of 950 metres, and descends into the lush greenery of the Dimosaris Gorge before reaching the Aegean Sea. In spring, the gorge is at its most vibrant, with rare plant species in bloom and abundant running waters forming small waterfalls and natural pools. Towards the end, the trail passes through Lenosaii and its Skala, the old cobbled path that once connected the villages of Cape Doro with Karystos. The route finishes at Kallianoi beach, with its crystal-clear waters. Caution is advised, as fog is common and the gorge should be avoided in unstable weather conditions.

5. Zagori: On the Vitsa Steps 

Evoking a landscape reminiscent of Tolkien’s Middle-earth, the Vitsa Steps in Zagori offer a truly atmospheric walk through dense vegetation that forms natural tunnels. Built in 1868, these “skales” are elaborate cobbled paths that once connected the villages before roads were introduced. Carefully designed with gentle gradients and sufficient width for pack animals, they descend into the valley of the Xiro Potamos. After about half an hour, you reach and cross the elegant two-arched Misios Bridge (1748). From here, the route continues either towards the stone-built village of Koukouli or to the equally impressive Kokkoris Bridge.

6. Pilio: From Pouri to Horefto 

This two-hour route offers a condensed version of Pelion’s diverse landscape. Starting in the mountain village of Pouri, it follows a cobbled path through the settlement, then continues through mixed forest, plane trees, apple orchards, and streams before reaching the sea at Elitsa beach.

From there, the trail follows the coastline over sand and rocks, passing Analipsi beach – whose character changes from year to year – and Tourkopigi beach. It then climbs slightly above the coast, where a narrow path winds through lush vegetation for 20-30 minutes before reaching Parisaina beach, just next to Horefto. A first swim of the season here is hard to resist.

7. Laconia: Cape Tainaron 

One of the Peloponnese’s most striking walks – though so short it feels more like a stroll – this 2-km route begins at Kokkinogeia and crosses a stark, rocky landscape dotted with asphodels, the plants associated with the Underworld. Along the way, you pass the chapel of Asomatos, built from ancient materials, as well as a Roman mosaic from the Sanctuary of Tainarian Poseidon. The path leads to the lighthouse at Cape Tainaron, built in 1882, marking the southernmost point of mainland Greece and the Balkans. According to myth, this was one of the entrances to Hades: Orpheus passed through it in search of Eurydice, and Heracles came here in pursuit of Cerberus during his final labor. This was the place where the ferryman awaited the souls of the dead, where the psychopompeion once stood, and where the sanctuary of Poseidon, god of the Underworld, was located.

8. Kavala: The Water Route 

An unexpected and rewarding route on the outskirts of the city, this 12-km hike follows the natural flow of water through a varied landscape. It begins in Palia Kavala, passing a watermill and a seasonal waterfall that forms natural pools.

The trail continues through a ravine shaded by towering plane trees, later opening to views of Mount Pangaio and the Philippi wetlands. After 6 km, it reaches the spring known as Mana tou Nerou. From there, the route continues along sections of a 16th-century aqueduct, including the iconic Kamares, passing old fountains and five impressive water bridges before finishing in the peri-urban forest at the chapel of Aghios Konstantinos. If preferred, the route can be divided into two shorter sections, as Mana tou Nerou is also accessible via dirt road.

9. Xanthi: Through the Nestos Gorge 

Widely considered one of Greece’s most exciting hiking routes, this trail follows the Nestos River alongside railway tracks, passing picturesque stations, stone galleries and bridges. Along the way, dramatic cliffs inhabited by vultures, riverside forests, wild horses, old cobbled paths, and quiet villages create a constantly shifting landscape. The full route from Stavroupoli to Toxotes stretches 20 km, but its flexibility allows you to walk shorter sections, as several points are accessible by car. Many hikers choose to finish at Galani, where a riverside beach and rest area await. The highlight is the Nestos Gorge itself, with its spectacular meanders, easily reached within a short walk from Galani.

10. Kissavos: From Anatoli to Metaxochori 

This 6-km route connects two of the most picturesque villages on Mount Kissavos, following an old cobbled path that forms part of the national O2 path linking Mount Olympus with Pelion. Starting from Anatoli makes for an easier, downhill walk. The village itself is quieter and more mountainous, at 950 metres altitude, while Metaxochori offers a lively finish, with elegant mansions, a large plane tree–shaded square, and a stream running through it. Along the route, you cross small bridges, pass resting kiosks, and are accompanied by flowing water, butterflies, birds, and blooming flowers. Just before reaching Metaxochori, a short detour leads to the 18th-century Kamaras aqueduct.

Most of these routes are not circular, so it is important to arrange transport to and from the starting and finishing points. Spring conditions can also be unpredictable – especially in mountainous areas and gorges – so always check the weather forecast before setting out.