The Greek islands are famous for beaches, whitewashed villages and endless blue seas, but some of their most memorable places are best discovered on foot. Beyond the busy resorts, old paths still cross mountains, olive groves, volcanic landscapes and tiny villages where life moves at a completely different pace.
Some islands are particularly rewarding for travelers who enjoy walking. And while several famous Cycladic islands immediately come to mind, one of Greece’s greenest islands offers a walking network that can take you across almost the entire island.
6Nisyros – Walk Across a Volcano
There aren’t many Greek islands where you can spend the morning walking through a volcanic landscape and the afternoon swimming in the Aegean.
Nisyros offers exactly that combination.
The island’s volcanic origins dominate its scenery, particularly around the enormous caldera in its interior.
Walking here feels completely different from hiking through the forests of Corfu or the mountains of Crete.
The unusual geology, traditional settlements and views across the Dodecanese create a landscape that sometimes appears almost otherworldly.
The picturesque village of Nikia, overlooking the caldera, is another highlight and can be combined with exploration of the volcanic interior.
During the hottest summer days, however, exposed routes can become extremely demanding. Cooler months and early starts are far more comfortable.
