From the heady heights of the mountains to the glorious depths of the gorges, walking in Greece affords the chance to see some spectacular scenery. Whether you are gazing out over the ocean from the top of an ancient volcano, or traipsing through the rocky terrain of a gorge, the views are breathtaking. The Cyclades Archipelago features some of the most dramatic landscapes in Greece. Here are the highlights:
Climb a Crater
The island of Santorini, part of the Cyclades Archipelago, is in fact what is known as a caldera – an ancient rim of a once active volcano. This volcano is particularly significant as it is thought by many to be responsible for the destruction of Minoan Crete. Much of the original island became what is today, the harbour, following the enormous eruption, as the crust of volcanic ash that formed over the hollow centre of the island caved in and flooded. However, the towns and villages of Santorini lie on the eastern side of the once circular island, and offer fantastic rambles along coastal paths and outstanding views over the ocean of neighbouring islands. Walking in Greece around her most infamous caldera, you will cover some truly sensational terrain, with dark cliffs leading to sandy beaches covered in warm volcanic sand.
Go Through a Gorge
The gorge of Samaria, found in the Samaria National Park, is one of the most rewarding places to go walking in Greece. Both the gorge and the small abandoned village lying just inside, take their names from Ossa Maria – or Saint Mary. The gorge itself stretches a distance of 16km, starting at an altitude of 1250m and winding up in Agia Roumeli on the shores of the Libyan Sea. Well maintained paths and fresh water springs make the gorge a very pleasant place to walk, though it is advisable to start early on in the day should you wish to experience it in its entirety. Be sure to leave time to reward yourself with a swim to soothe the aching muscles in the warm waters at Agia Roumeli.
Nip Over To Naxos
The island of Naxos, also part of the Cyclades Archipelago, provides an enormous contrast to the Island of Santorini. Compared to the darkened cliffs and volcanic terrain of Santorini, Naxos is home to lush greenery and softer scenery. Rugged mountains are an impressive juxtaposition to the fertile valleys and the inviting sandy beaches, whilst also offering an array of walks that are both gratifying and highly enjoyable. Enjoy sensational views of the archipelago from the top of the Naxos Mountains, before descending via an extensive network of footpaths and mule tracks. You will pass through villages, alongside towers and past fortified buildings that give you a real taste for life on the island. Wind up on the idyllic sands of the beach, where you can lie back, relax and digest the dramatic scenery you will have etched into your memory whilst walking in Greece.
The Cyclades Archipelago is a melee of various views, dramatic landscapes and extensive picture perfect panoramic prospects. Undoubtedly one of the most rewarding places to go walking in Greece, this archipelago will see you navigating the magnificent mountains and gorgeous gorges that the Grecian world has to offer.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://articlesabroad.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Tony Maniscalco's Author Feed - http://articlesabroad.com/articles/author-rss-feed.php?rss=749
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://articlesabroad.com/articles/images/rss.jpg "XML Feed For RSS")
