Walking the Road Less Travelled: Generalites sur les Cyclades for the Adventure Seeker

Nestled within the azure embrace of the Aegean Sea, southeast of Athens, the Cyclades archipelago stands as one of Greece's most captivating treasures. This collection of islands offers far more than just picture-perfect scenes of whitewashed buildings against deep blue waters – it presents a tapestry of unique experiences for those willing to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

The enchanting archipelago: discovering the cyclades

The Cyclades derive their name from the Greek word 'kyklos', meaning circle, as they form a roughly circular arrangement around the sacred island of Delos. This geographical quirk is just the beginning of what makes these islands so fascinating for adventure seekers and walking enthusiasts. Beyond their stunning coastlines lie networks of ancient paths, mountainous terrain, and hidden valleys waiting to be explored on foot.

Origins and Geography of the Circular Islands

This breathtaking archipelago comprises numerous islands, each with a distinctive personality and landscape. From the volcanic formations of Santorini to the fertile plains of Naxos (the largest of the group), the Cyclades offer incredible diversity within a relatively compact area. Other significant islands include Mykonos, Paros, Milos, Andros, Tinos, Amorgos, Syros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Ios, Kea, Kythnos, Anafi, Donoussa, and Antiparos. The variety of terrains creates perfect conditions for walking holidays, with routes ranging from gentle coastal paths to more challenging mountain trails.

From ancient civilisations to modern day charm

The historical significance of the Cyclades stretches back to the third millennium BC with the rise of the Cycladic civilisation, whose distinctive marble figurines have influenced modern art. These islands later fell under the Duchy of the Archipelago and witnessed the influence of Ottoman fleets, creating a rich historical tapestry that walkers can experience first-hand as they traverse ancient pathways and visit archaeological sites. Today, the islands maintain their timeless appeal while offering modern comforts for travellers seeking authentic Greek experiences.

Beyond the Postcard: Unique Character of Each Island

While many visitors to Greece may be familiar with the iconic images of the Cyclades, experiencing these islands through walking tours reveals their true depth and character. Cicerone Press offers an invaluable guidebook, 'Walking on the Greek Islands – the Cyclades', which details 35 walks ranging from 4 to 17km across Naxos, Paros, Amorgos, and Santorini, allowing adventurers to discover hidden aspects of these islands that casual tourists might miss.

Iconic destinations: santorini, mykonos and naxos

Santorini, with its dramatic caldera views and striking architecture, offers walks among vineyards and along volcanic ridges. Naxos, beyond being the largest island, features the ambitious 50km Naxos Strada route that traverses much of the island's diverse landscape. Mykonos may be known for its nightlife, but inland walking routes reveal traditional villages and peaceful countryside that feels worlds away from the bustling beaches. The guidebook, available as a printed book or eBook for £14.95 (or both formats together for £22.43), serves as the perfect companion for explorers seeking to understand these famous islands beyond their popular reputations.

Hidden gems: lesser-known islands worth exploring

Some of the most rewarding walking experiences can be found on the Cyclades' less visited islands. Amorgos offers dramatic coastal paths and mountain routes, while Tinos provides pilgrim trails and traditional villages. Specialized walking holidays, such as the 9-day Andros Trail from €689 or the 10-day Serifos and Sifnos Island Hopping from €840, allow travellers to immerse themselves in these quieter islands. These less frequented destinations often preserve a more authentic Greek atmosphere, with traditional customs and ways of life continuing largely unchanged by mass tourism.

Island-hopping adventures: navigating the cyclades

One of the greatest appeals of the Cyclades is the ability to create a personalized island-hopping adventure. The well-established ferry network makes it possible to combine multiple islands into a single walking holiday, experiencing the distinct character of each location. Carefully planned itineraries can take advantage of the varied walking opportunities across different islands, from coastal paths to mountain trails.

Ferry connections and travel tips

The ferry system connecting the Cyclades islands is extensive, though schedules vary significantly between the high summer season and quieter winter months. When planning a walking holiday, it's wise to build some flexibility into your itinerary to account for potential weather-related ferry disruptions. The first edition of the Cicerone guidebook includes practical advice for travellers, and at 256 pages with dimensions of 17.20 x 11.60 x 1.45cm weighing just 280g, it's compact enough to carry while hiking. For those purchasing the guidebook, UK delivery is free via Royal Mail 48, while European postage costs £3.50 per item, and worldwide shipping is available for £5.50 per item.

Seasonal considerations for your journey

Timing your visit to the Cyclades is crucial for an optimal walking experience. According to expert recommendations, April-May or September to early November offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking. During these periods, the scorching summer heat has subsided, yet the weather remains reliably sunny. Additionally, these shoulder seasons see fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate experience of the islands. The Cicerone guidebook includes updated route information as of June 2023, ensuring walkers have access to current trail conditions and any recent changes.

Authentic experiences: escaping the tourist trail

While the Cyclades have undeniably become a popular tourist destination, walking holidays provide an opportunity to step away from crowded resorts and discover the authentic heart of these islands. By venturing inland on foot, travellers can encounter local life in ways that conventional tourists rarely experience.

Embracing local culture and traditions

Walking through remote villages offers chances to interact with local residents, sample traditional cuisine, and witness age-old customs. Many islands maintain distinct cultural practices, from religious festivals to traditional crafts. Tour operators offer specialized experiences such as the 8-day Athens & Kea Island adventure from €875 or the immersive 7-day Amorgos Island experience from €460. These walking holidays focus not just on the physical journey but on cultural immersion. Downloadable GPX files available with the guidebook ensure that independent travellers can navigate with confidence while exploring these cultural landscapes.

Secluded beaches and untouched landscapes

Many of the most spectacular beaches and coastlines in the Cyclades remain accessible only on foot or by boat, rewarding walkers with pristine swimming spots away from the crowds. Inland, ancient donkey paths lead through olive groves, past Byzantine churches, and across dramatic mountain landscapes largely unchanged for centuries. These routes reveal the natural beauty of the Cyclades that has inspired travellers since ancient times. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the 10-day Naxos Strada from €950 offers an extensive exploration of diverse landscapes within a single island.

Walking Paradise: Trails and Routes Across the Cyclades

The Cyclades, a stunning Greek archipelago in the Aegean Sea southeast of Athens, offer some of the most breathtaking walking opportunities in Europe. This collection of islands, each with its distinctive character, forms a circle ('kyklos') around the sacred island of Delos. From the whitewashed villages and golden beaches of Mykonos to the volcanic landscapes of Santorini and the rugged terrain of Naxos (the largest island), the Cyclades present diverse walking experiences for all levels of adventure seekers.

Top walking routes from cicerone guidebooks

For those keen to explore the Cyclades on foot, Cicerone Press offers an excellent resource in their guidebook 'Walking on the Greek Islands – the Cyclades'. Released in May 2020, this first edition guidebook specifically covers Naxos, Paros, Amorgos and Santorini, featuring 35 walks ranging from 4 to 17km in length. A standout route is the Naxos Strada, a magnificent 50km path that showcases the island's varied landscapes. The guidebook, available as a printed book or eBook for £14.95 each (or both formats for £22.43), includes the latest route changes as of 2023 and provides downloadable GPX files for easier navigation. The best times for walking these routes are April-May or September to early November, when temperatures are milder and tourist crowds are thinner.

Essential Gear and Preparation for Cycladic Hikes

Proper preparation is vital for enjoying the Cycladic trails safely. Pack sturdy walking boots with ankle support for the often rocky and uneven terrain. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, along with a hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sun cream to protect against the strong Mediterranean sun. Carry at least two litres of water per person, as many routes have limited access to fresh water sources. A small first aid kit, mobile phone, and the relevant sections of your guidebook or downloaded GPX routes are must-haves. For those wanting a more structured experience, organised walking holidays are available across the islands, ranging from the £420 seven-day Amorgos Island trip to the more extensive £950 ten-day Naxos Strada adventure. These holidays can be combined with island hopping to experience multiple Cycladic destinations in one trip, providing a perfect balance of guided walks and independent exploration of these historically rich islands with their fascinating archaeological sites dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.