When most people think of Greece, they picture the famous beautiful beaches, white villages and ancient ruins. While these images capture Greece’s essence, we believe they barely scratch the surface of what this country offers for an adventure. Beyond the postcard islands, from the sacred paths of Mount Olympus to the gem of the White Mountains, active holidays in Greece supply a fix for both adventure and history enthusiasts. Read on to find out why Greece is the perfect choice for an adventure that blends the outdoor excitement with a rich, unique culture.

From the breathtaking views standing from Zeus’ supposed throne to the gravity-defying monastery of the Megalo Meteroa, impossibly perched atop towering rock pillars, Greece creates a lasting impressions that extend far beyond trekking. Mount Olympus stands on the Macedonian border as Greece’s highest peak, Europe’s second highest and the legendary throne of the ancient gods. Standing at 2,918m, this sacred mountain offers adventurers the extraordinary opportunity to climb where Zeus is said to have ruled, recapturing imaginations as you journey back thousands of years. Our Sacred Summits of Olympus and Meteora adventure merges the physical challenge of Mount Olympus with history, culture and architecture of Meteora.

The Greek islands offer significant outdoor experiences that goes beyond its beautiful beaches. While these much loved islands attract many tourists, it’s entirely possible to discover their authentic character away from the tourist crowds. For example, Santorini is widely known for its whitewashed buildings, yet beyond there are rugged mountain trails and ancient Greek sites waiting to be discovered. Walking on Santorini and Naxos shows the different side to the island and showcases a real taste of traditional life in the countryside.

Another adventure that goes off the mainstream tourist trail is Cycling on Rhodes. Exploring the popular island on two wheels, you can discover the contrasting landscapes of this beloved island from its endless beaches and turquoise coves to its green interior, as well as uncovering relics of Rhodian history spanning millennia.

Greece’s network of ancient trails offer some of the world’s most historically significant trekking routes. The renowned Menalon Trail winds through 75km of the central Peloponnese mountains, connecting hidden monasteries, caves, museums and remote stone villages untouched by time. This certified European trail showcases a side of Greece that will surprise and defy what you think you may already know of Greece from green forests, crystal clear water and an abundance of flora and fauna.

Alternatively, The Corfu Trail presents one of Greece’s most enchanting island walking experiences, weaving through towns bursting with culture over rugged mountains to hilltop traditional villages and over the highest mountain on the island, Mount Pantokrator (906m). This is an opportunity to experience a much-loved island for an alternative perspective.

Greece’s extraordinary geography creates the perfect fusion of mountains and coastlines that can be combined in one journey. The island’s terrain varies dramatically within short distances, which allows a transition from navigating rocky terrain to hidden coves and dramatic gorges. The Walking the White Mountains of Crete adventure demonstrates this perfectly by exploring the White Mountains before descending through the renowned Samaria Gorge and along sun-drenched coastlines. For those seeking an independent adventure, our self-guided Walking on Crete allows travellers to base themselves in remote seaside communities that provide a real taste of Cretan identity and hospitality.