Greece is a country that offers a variety of experiences for travelers of all kinds. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in this beautiful Mediterranean destination. In this blog post, we will focus on some of the best activities and sports to do in Greece, such as hiking, sailing, skiing, or surfing, and where to do them.
Hiking
One of the best ways to explore the diverse landscapes of Greece is by hiking. You can choose from many trails that range from easy to challenging, and enjoy the scenic views of mountains, valleys, forests, gorges, lakes, and islands. Some of the most popular hiking destinations in Greece are:
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Meteora
: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning rock formations and monasteries perched on top of them. You can hike along the paths that connect the monasteries and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also visit the nearby town of Kalambaka and learn more about the history and culture of this region. -
Santorini
: This volcanic island is one of the most visited places in Greece, and for a good reason. Its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets are a sight to behold. You can hike along the caldera rim from Fira to Oia and enjoy the spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and the volcano. You can also hike to the ancient site of Akrotiri or the highest point of the island at Profitis Ilias. -
Crete
: The largest island in Greece is a paradise for hikers, as it offers a variety of terrain and scenery. You can hike through the impressive Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, and see rare flora and fauna along the way. You can also hike to the summit of Mount Psiloritis, the highest mountain in Crete, or explore the coastal paths and beaches of Elafonisi, Balos, or Falassarna.
Sailing
Greece has a long maritime tradition and a coastline that stretches for thousands of kilometers. Sailing is one of the best activities to do in Greece, as it allows you to discover the hidden gems of its islands and mainland. You can rent a boat or join a cruise and enjoy the crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, picturesque ports, and charming villages. Some of the best sailing destinations in Greece are:
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Cyclades
: This island group is the most popular one in Greece, and it consists of 24 inhabited islands, each with its own character and beauty. You can sail from island to island and visit places like Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Milos, or Santorini. You can also stop at smaller islands like Delos, Koufonisia, or Anafi and experience their authentic atmosphere. -
Ionian
: This island group is located on the west coast of Greece and it is known for its lush greenery, turquoise waters, and Venetian influence. You can sail from Corfu to Zakynthos and explore places like Paxos, Lefkada, Kefalonia, or Ithaca. You can also visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, such as Navagio (Shipwreck), Porto Katsiki, or Myrtos. -
Dodecanese
: This island group is located on the southeast edge of Greece and it is close to Turkey. It has a rich history and culture that reflects its diverse past. You can sail from Rhodes to Kos and visit places like Symi, Patmos, Leros, or Kalymnos. You can also admire the medieval architecture, ancient ruins, monasteries, and castles that dot these islands.
Skiing
Greece may be famous for its sunny weather and sandy beaches, but it also has some excellent ski resorts that operate during the winter months. Skiing is one of the best sports to do in Greece if you want to enjoy some snow and adrenaline. You can find ski slopes for all levels of difficulty and facilities for snowboarding, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. Some of the best skiing destinations in Greece are:
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Parnassos
: This ski resort is located on Mount Parnassus near Delphi and it is one of the largest and most modern ones in Greece. It has 23 ski runs, 13 ski lifts, and a snow park. It is also close to the archaeological site of Delphi, the picturesque town of Arachova, and the thermal springs of Itea. -
Kalavrita
: This ski resort is located on Mount Helmos in the Peloponnese and it is one of the most scenic ones in Greece. It has 12 ski runs, 7 ski lifts, and a snow park. It is also close to the historic town of Kalavrita, the Cave of the Lakes, and the Monastery of Agia Lavra. -
Kaimaktsalan
: This ski resort is located on Mount Voras near the border with North Macedonia and it is one of the highest ones in Greece. It has 13 ski runs, 6 ski lifts, and a snow park. It is also close to the Lake Vegoritida, the Pozar thermal springs, and the town of Edessa.
Surfing
Greece has some great spots for surfing, especially for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The strong winds that blow during the summer create ideal conditions for these sports, and the warm water and sunny weather make them even more enjoyable. You can find surf schools, equipment rentals, and campsites at many locations along the coast. Some of the best surfing destinations in Greece are:
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Naxos
: This island in the Cyclades is one of the best places for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Greece. It has several beaches that offer different wind directions and wave sizes, such as Mikri Vigla, Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, or Plaka. You can also visit the main town of Naxos and see its castle, portara, and old market. -
Paros
: This island in the Cyclades is another hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Greece. It has two main beaches that attract surfers from all over the world: Golden Beach and New Golden Beach. You can also visit the picturesque villages of Naoussa, Lefkes, or Marpissa and enjoy their traditional architecture and cuisine. -
Rhodes
: This island in the Dodecanese is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and it also has some great spots for surfing. The west coast of the island is exposed to the meltemi wind that creates perfect waves for windsurfing and kitesurfing. You can surf at places like Prasonisi, Ixia, or Theologos. You can also visit the medieval town of Rhodes, the Valley of the Butterflies, or Lindos.
Conclusion
Greece is a country that offers a wide range of activities and sports for travelers who want to have fun and adventure. You can hike through its stunning natural landscapes, sail around its beautiful islands, ski on its snowy mountains, or surf on its windy waves. No matter what you choose to do, you will have an unforgettable experience in this amazing country.
