When it comes to choosing Greece as a holiday destination, many will be automatically drawn to the iconic Greek islands, however, Greece also offers lovers of nature, countless, all year-round activities in some outstandingly beautiful outdoor locations. Besides its status as a top destination for sun and sea holidays, visitors to Greece can certainly opt for alternative experiences for active adventures across both the mainland and the idyllic islands. For those who love being outdoors, you can pick your favourite activity or maybe try something new and immerse yourself in truly breath-taking scenery, unique gastronomic traditions and the country’s rich cultural heritage.  

CYCLING IN KOS & KALAMATA

Exploring Kos maybe the idea of heaven, particularly with cyclists as this island is a bicycle friendly destination, even earning itself the nickname “the cycling island” as a result of its exceptional conditions for cyclists of all skill levels. Another gem of a destination for road cyclists of all ages and abilities is Kalamata. So much so, that Kalamata hosted the “Jeroboam Kalamata Gravel Challenge” in 2020, sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism. This cycling challenge is all about discovering new places, having fun along the journey and meeting new people. Kalamata is the perfect place to explore on two wheels whether its participating in the challenge, or simply enjoying the roads at your own leisure.  

CLIMBING METEORA & KALYMNOS

Malymnos has become something of a mecca over the last few decades, particularly with climbers as its home to thousands of routes for everyone to enjoy, providing sensational Aegean views. On the Greek mainland, the unmissable stunning form formation, Meterora, can be found, one of the largest and most hastily constructed Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Not only is Meteora classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is also a world-class destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. For those visiting Meteora and want to participate in lesser-known activities, can take part in a unique experience – truffle hunting!  

MUSHROOM HUNTING IN ZAGORI & GREVENA

For those who want to search for something slightly different, should visit Zagori and Grevena, two of the best places to visit for mushroom hunting! Zagori is a remarkably unspoilt area in Greece, boasting prolific landscapes and excellent architecture. The finest season for mushroom hunting is either autumn or spring as the rain and mild temperatures favour their growth. As a result of this, you will be treated to an abundance of mushroom varieties of excellent quality, thanks to Zagori’s large natural forest and its diversity of its vegetation. Considered by many as not only the “mushroom capital of Greece”, but also a hotspot for mushroom lovers from all over the world is Grevena. Home to mushrooms foraging in the rich and wild nature of Grevena is a truly unique experience, combining use of knowledge, recreation and physical activity in the great outdoors.  

MOUNT PELION & SAMARIA GORGE

Hikers won’t be able to resist the exceptional views and fantastic trails up Mount Pelion, the mountain of mythical centaurs in Thessaly, northern Greece. With its soft slopes and easily accessible peaks, Mount Pelion is a popular destination for both climbers and hikers as well as plenty of other routes and trails, ideal for horseback riding and mountain biking. The incredible network of hiking trails at Mount Pelion can only be compared to the sensational Samaria Gorge in Crete, undoubtedly one of the longest and most epic hikes in all of Europe. The Samaria Gorge has a spectacular and unique ecology due to its isolated mountainous terrain, surrounded by the Samaria National Park. The park itself was created in 1962 in order to protect endangered species such as the Cretan Mountain goat, also known as Kri-Kri as well as their sustaining ecosystems.  

WATER SPORTS

It is no surprising that Greece offers exceptional opportunities for water sports, particularly with its miles of spectacular coastline. Visitors to both the islands and the mainland can indulge in excellent diving in the pristine Aegean waters. When it comes to unmissable Greek diving spots, Alonissos and Amorgos are guaranteed to be at the top of the list. Alonissos, in the northern Sporades, is home to the largest natural marine park in the Mediterranean, providing first-class diving experiences and a trip to Greece’s first underwater museum on the island of Peristera. A visit here may also give you the possibility of spotting resident monk seals amongst plenty of other fascinating marine life! As Greece is renowned for its tradition of sponge divers, Amorgos became the ideal backdrop for the movie “The Big Blue” by director Luc Besson. Since then, its enchanting waters have been a major attraction. Saying that, it doesn’t stop at diving. Arachthos and Voidomatis have fantastic river rafting routes, accessible to both beginners and practised rafters, where you will find plenty of challenging and exhilarating white-knuckle rides. Nestor river and the calm coastal waters around Samos are perfect for kayaking and Lefkada has excellent conditions for surfing and windsurfing. Seasoned windsurfers especially will love Vasiliki beach, the ultimate windsurfing playground. You can also find a windsurfing club on the beach offering tuition and kit hire.  

SPAS AND THERMAL BATHS

A stroll through Chios Islands world-famous citrus orchards and medieval villages makes for a dream break away from the water, particularly during the spring. With such a serene setting, like a majority of Greece, it is not surprising that the country has a long tradition in health and well-being practises. Home to hundreds of medicinal spas, Aidipsos and Pozar are amongst some of the top favourite. Aidipsos, situated in northern Evia, is perhaps the best-known spa town in Greece and blessed with 81 thermal springs. Thermal baths of Loutra Pozar are unusual since they have a cold stream and waterfall running adjacent to the hot springs.  

FIND OUT MORE

We hope we have shown there is so much more to Greece, particularly for outdoor activities and all year-round adventures. Contact us today to discuss further and start planning your trip to see and experience the hidden side of Greece.