
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Athens, Greece
1. Mt. Parnitha National Park
A protected nature reserve offering diverse flora and fauna, with the highest peak in Athens reachable by a well-marked trail.
- Rich Biodiversity: Home to over 1,400 plant species and various wildlife.
- Close Proximity: Located just a short drive from the city center, making it easily accessible.
- Varied Trails: Catering to hikers of all levels with trails ranging from easy to challenging.
2. Agiotiri Trail (Agioi Anargyroi)
An invigorating hike through a lush forest leading to a picturesque chapel and stunning views of the Saronic Gulf.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking vistas of the sea and surrounding hills.
- Historical Significance: Passes by a historic chapel with a fascinating history dating back to the Byzantine era.
- Moderate Difficulty: A medium-length hike suitable for intermediate level hikers.
3. Hymettus Mountain Trails
Hiking trails in the verdant slopes of Mount Hymettus offering panoramic views of Athens and the Saronic Gulf.
- Urban Panorama: Provides an exceptional view of Athens cityscape, combining nature with urban sightseeing.
- Accessible Trails: Well-marked paths and multiple trail options cater to hikers of various skill levels.
- Natural Springs: Features several natural springs along the trails, offering a refreshing break during the hike.
4. Penteli Mountain Trails
A rugged, forested mountain offering challenging hikes with panoramic views of Athens and the Aegean Sea.
- Challenging Hike: Offers more strenuous trails for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
- Historical Sites: Home to historical sites such as the Temple of Artemis and the Delphic Sanctuary.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Known for its diverse birdlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers.
5. Livadia-Melissokomos Trail
A challenging hike along the Attica countryside with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and ancient sites.
- Scenic Coastal Views: Provides panoramic vistas of the Saronic Gulf along its length.
- Archaeological Wonders: Passes by ancient sites like the Temple of Poseidon and the Old Phaleron Cemetery.
- Advanced Hiking Skills Required: Requires advanced hiking skills due to its length and challenging terrain.
6. Keratea-Varres Trails
A network of trails through the scenic town of Keratea leading to picturesque villages and ancient sites.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows hikers to experience traditional Greek villages and culture.
- Historical Significance: Passes by ancient sites like the Temple of Poseidon and Mycenaean tombs.
- Moderate to Challenging Trails: Offers a variety of trails suitable for hikers of varying skill levels.
7. Oros Kapandritis
A mountain trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and ancient sites.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning vistas of the Attica countryside and nearby islands.
- Historical Sites: Passes by ancient sites like the Temple of Apollo and the sanctuary of Daphne.
- Varied Terrain: Features a variety of terrain, including forested paths, open hillsides, and rocky outcrops.
8. Parnitha-Mt. Penteli Loop Trail
A challenging loop trail connecting Mount Parnitha and Mount Penteli, offering diverse landscapes and stunning views.
- Scenic Beauty: Showcases the beauty of both Mount Parnitha and Mount Penteli.
- Challenging Hike: Requires advanced hiking skills due to its length and challenging terrain.
- Diverse Landscapes: Takes hikers through forests, open hillsides, and rocky terrain, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Athens.
9. Ano Liosia Forest
An urban forest offering easy trails for city dwellers seeking a nature escape.
- Urban Escape: Offers an urban escape within the city limits.
- Easy Trails: Features easy trails suitable for beginners and families.
- Rich Biodiversity: Boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
10. Sounio Peninsula Trails
A network of trails along the scenic Sounio Peninsula leading to the Temple of Poseidon and stunning coastal views.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands.
- Historical Significance: Passes by the iconic Temple of Poseidon, an ancient monument overlooking the sea.
- Varied Trails: Offers trails suitable for hikers of various skill levels, from easy to challenging.
11. Loutsa-Melagavros Trail
A challenging trail through the hills and forests of the Attica countryside, offering panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning vistas of the Saronic Gulf along its length.
- Challenging Hike: Requires advanced hiking skills due to its length and challenging terrain.
- Natural Beauty: Showcases the natural beauty of the Attica countryside.
12. Machnea-Agios Georgios Trails
A network of trails leading through picturesque villages and scenic landscapes in the Attica countryside.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows hikers to experience traditional Greek villages and culture.
- Scenic Beauty: Showcases the beauty of the Attica countryside, with rolling hills, forests, and vineyards.
- Moderate to Challenging Trails: Offers trails suitable for hikers of varying skill levels, from moderate to challenging.
13. Agios Woskopulos-Psahna Trails
A network of trails through the scenic landscape of the Attica countryside, leading to picturesque villages and ancient sites.
- Scenic Beauty: Showcases the beauty of the Attica countryside, with rolling hills, forests, and vineyards.
- Historical Significance: Passes by ancient sites like the Temple of Poseidon and Mycenaean tombs.
- Moderate Trails: Offers moderate trails suitable for intermediate level hikers.
14. Loutsa-Kapodistria Trail
A challenging trail through the hills and forests of the Attica countryside, offering panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning vistas of the Saronic Gulf along its length.
- Challenging Hike: Requires advanced hiking skills due to its length and challenging terrain.
- Natural Beauty: Showcases the natural beauty of the Attica countryside.
15. Oropos-Evrostini Trails
A network of trails through the scenic landscape of the Attica countryside, leading to ancient sites and charming villages.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows hikers to experience traditional Greek villages and culture.
- Historical Significance: Passes by ancient sites like the Temple of Poseidon and Mycenaean tombs.
- Moderate Trails: Offers moderate trails suitable for intermediate level hikers.