Walking the Greek Cyclades: Milos & Santorini In Style
- Ferry-hop between the enchanting Cyclades islands of Milos and Santorini, in style
- A guided tour of Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world and the birthplace of democracy
- Indulge in local Greek delicacies such as moussaka, spanakopita and taramasalata
- Stay in gorgeous hand-picked hotels in fantastic locations with views to die for
- Sip a cocktail as you overlook Santorini's caldera and watch the most colourful of sunsets
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Athens, transfer to hotel and overnightArrive into Athens. A private transfer (approx 40 minutes depending on traffic) brings you to your well-located hotel in Athens. If you arrive early enough, you can spend time touring this vibrant capital city. Full of ancient history, amazing architecture and restaurants offering delicious cuisine, this city really packs a punch. Treat yourself to dinner in the Plaka, which is like a small village within the city.
This hotel is a 3-storey neoclassical building which has been lovingly restored and has 36 rooms. It has a rich history and previously housed fabric-makers and a bank. It has a stone-walled exterior and vaulted high ceilings. The decor is modern and sleek.
All rooms at this hip hotel have sound-proof windows and offer a unique feel-at-home experience. It's a combination of characterful and contemporary. Breakfast is all made in-house including, sauces and jams, to breads and pastries.
Today presents the chance to further explore Athens, both with a guide in the morning and a free afternoon. In, what was once the "Cradle of Civilization" both Greece and in particular Athens offer amazing historical architecture and artifacts. The guide will meet you at your accommodation and take you on a walking tour of the city. They will show you the incredible Acropolis which sits on a flat outcrop over the city and was first built in the 5th century BC by Pericles. The word "acropolis" in Greek means highest point. It is one of several ancient buildings in this area, the most famous of course being the Parthenon. Because this is an "overview" tour of the city and you will want to cover as much as possible, you will not go into any sites but perhaps this afternoon you can explore further and even go into the sites if you wish.
Also why not take a tour on a hop-on hop-off bus which allows you to discover this city at your own pace?
This hotel is a 3-storey neoclassical building which has been lovingly restored and has 36 rooms. It has a rich history and previously housed fabric-makers and a bank. It has a stone-walled exterior and vaulted high ceilings. The decor is modern and sleek.
All rooms at this hip hotel have sound-proof windows and offer a unique feel-at-home experience. It's a combination of characterful and contemporary. Breakfast is all made in-house including, sauces and jams, to breads and pastries.
An included transfer brings you to the port of Piraeus, where you board a ferry (approx 3H25) to the volcanic island of Milos and arrive in the pretty harbour of Adamantas. Later embark on your first walk here which takes you through lush countryside before dropping down to the coast. Here you see colouful beach houses before ascending up to the hilltop town of Plaka. The walk finishes on the square and if you wish you can make your way up to the Venetian Fortess built in the 13th century. From here and in fact throughout your walk, there are fantastic views over Milos and its coast. Plaka and Trypiti are delightful villages to amble through, stop for a beer or a glass of wine, before making your way back to Adamantas and tonight's lovely accommodation.
Treat yourself to a traditional Greek dinner in a seaside taverna overlooking the bay where the little boats bob on the waves.
A 15 minute walk to the port of Adamantas and set high up over the town with gorgeous sea views. Enjoy a breakfast of Greek organic products or a cocktail by the pool and enjoy staying in the tastefully decorated rooms.
Have an unforgettable stay at the Thalassitra Village Hotel located just 300m from the centre of Adamantas but on the edge of the countryside. It is built in the traditional Greek style and has a courtyard where you can enjoy breakfast.
Take a full day sailing boat tour around Milos island. The tour begins at 9:30am from Adamantas port and during the tour it takes several stops to beaches and sea caves that are only accessible by sea (including the incredible Kleftiko Caves). Lunch of traditional Greek food which is cooked in front of you is also included. Return is at 7:30pm.
A 15 minute walk to the port of Adamantas and set high up over the town with gorgeous sea views. Enjoy a breakfast of Greek organic products or a cocktail by the pool and enjoy staying in the tastefully decorated rooms.
Have an unforgettable stay at the Thalassitra Village Hotel located just 300m from the centre of Adamantas but on the edge of the countryside. It is built in the traditional Greek style and has a courtyard where you can enjoy breakfast.
Today a short transfer (15mins) brings you to the harbour of Pollonia where you board a ferry to the island of Kimolos, only a 20 minute ride away. Called "Argenteria" by the Venetians its name comes from the Greek word for chalk, kimolia, as it has white rocks. Arrive into the port of Psathi from where you start your walk. Head along the coast first where the locals have little beach houses, before heading inland and up a rocky path which leads you to a hilltop that has stone and traditional windmills on top, all in a row. Then take the route to Skiadi where you will find an unusual mushroom-shaped rock formation and from where you can enjoy views back to Milos. Head back down and encounter the hilltop village of Chorio, or Kimolos town. Explore the labyrinth of tiny paved little streets and say "kalimera" to the locals. Perhaps have a locally made gelato before heading back to the port to take the ferry back to Milos.
Today you can shorten the walk by 2.6km if you wish.
A 15 minute walk to the port of Adamantas and set high up over the town with gorgeous sea views. Enjoy a breakfast of Greek organic products or a cocktail by the pool and enjoy staying in the tastefully decorated rooms.
Have an unforgettable stay at the Thalassitra Village Hotel located just 300m from the centre of Adamantas but on the edge of the countryside. It is built in the traditional Greek style and has a courtyard where you can enjoy breakfast.
This morning board a ferry to Santorini (2H), where the views will astound you. Why why not spend some time in Fira, the island's capital. It's located on its western edge with spectacular views to the two volcanic islands of Palaia meni and Nea Kammeni and also east to Oia where you will walk from tomorrow. Find a secluded traditional taverna perhaps down a side street and away from the crowds, or overlooking the caldera. Wherever you to choose to eat it will be delicious local cuisine. Try the avocado ice cream...trust us, it's scrumptious!
Hotel Galini is situated on the caldera and therefore has fantastic views. The warm hospitality, bright spacious interiors, tasteful decor and delicious breakfasts will make your stay here on to remember.
This modern, yet traditionally Greek white and cubic hotel offers a combination of beautiful Cycladic architecture, open spaces and proximity to interesting sites. It is located in Firostefani and away from the hustle and bustle of central Fira which gives it a relaxed vibe. All rooms have a balcony or terrace and are bright and nicely furnished. Also enjoy time by the large outdoor pool.
This morning after breakfast an included transfer brings you to Oia, a town best known for it's amazing sunsets and situated on the northern part of the caldera. It is in an even more stunning location than Fira (as if that was possible!) with its labyrinthine cobbled alleyways and typical Cyladic houses. Here, there are even cave houses built into the cliffs. It is so picturesque. Since the walk today is just 11km, why not spend some time in Oia exploring on foot here before embarking on your walk which takes you back to Fira. Even without the amazing villages at the beginning and end of the walk, this hike would still be noteworthy; you’re walking on the rim of a volcano!
Hotel Galini is situated on the caldera and therefore has fantastic views. The warm hospitality, bright spacious interiors, tasteful decor and delicious breakfasts will make your stay here on to remember.
This modern, yet traditionally Greek white and cubic hotel offers a combination of beautiful Cycladic architecture, open spaces and proximity to interesting sites. It is located in Firostefani and away from the hustle and bustle of central Fira which gives it a relaxed vibe. All rooms have a balcony or terrace and are bright and nicely furnished. Also enjoy time by the large outdoor pool.
An included transfer brings you to Santorini Airport for your onward travel. Or, if you wish to explore some more islands, we can transfer you to the port instead.
Other Information
Is it for me?On this "in style" tour you will stay in gorgeous accommodations that only serve to enchance your experience. This is a slow adventure type of tour where you discover not only the history and culture of these islands, but also their incredible scenery. On Milos you will be immersed in the traditional and relaxed Greek way of life, especially in Kimolos Island and on Santorini you will be in awe of the views over the caldera. The walks are relaxing and chilled.
In Style | After a day of exciting adventures and soaking up unbeatable scenery, retreat to stylish accommodations and unwind with fine food and wine. This trip type is for those who like sophisticated places to stay and are looking for active routes but still want the holiday to feel special.
Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.
Solo Travellers, Families with Teens
The minimum age for this tour is: 9 Years
Since this is a Slower Adventure tour the distances on the walks will not be challenging and can be anywhere between 10km and 15km. However, as is typical in the Mediterranean do not underestimate the fact that the trails can at times be quite rocky and you will need to be sure-footed. Take it slow and you will be rewarded with stunning views, both coastal and otherwise. The walks will be on a combination of gravel tracks, countryside trails and at times on quieter minor roads.
The hotels on this tour are hand-picked and superior. Where necessary we have upgraded the room-types to deluxe, executive or suites, so you can be sure that the rooms will be spacious and something special.
Solo Walkers & Single Rooms
This trip is available to solo walkers, although there is a supplement due to the fact that some of the costs (such as transfers) are not shared. Single rooms are available on request and a supplement is payable.
Meals
Daily breakfasts will be included at your accommodation every morning. In some places the breakfasts are buffet-style or continental, but occasionally you will be able to pick from a menu. Dinners are not included, however there are options to dine out either at your accommodation (if they have a restaurant) or in the villages and towns in which your accommodation is situated. Lunch is also not included, but you can find small stores in which to purchase items for a picnic lunch or stop at a local cafe if there is one en route.
Some of the walks on these islands are sign-posted and some are not. You'll find that the walks on Santorini and Kimolos will be signposted but not on Milos. We provide navigation in the Macs Adventure Smartphone App which you can download for use off-line. See your information pack on how to do this. You will need to use the app to navigate. Simply follow the little blue line (you are the dot) to ensure that you won't get lost.
- Overnights in hand-picked superior hotels using upgraded rooms
- Daily breakfasts
- Ferries from Piraeus to Milos and Milos to Santorini
- Transfer Athens Airport to Athens hotel
- Transfer Athens hotel to Piraeus port
- Transfer from Santorini hotel to Santorini Airport or port
- Transfers to walks/ferry ports as detailed in the itinerary
- Access to maps, GPX tracks, and daily route information with the Macs Adventure app
- 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our UK & US offices
- Travel insurance (required)
- Lunches, dinners, drinks and snacks
- Travel to Athens and from Santorini
- Return local ferry to Kimolos
- Personal Equipment
- Extra Night(s)
- Single Room Supplement
- Solo Traveller Supplement
The best times to visit the islands of Milos and Santorini is when we have them available to book, which is in the spring, beginning in mid-April to the end of June and in the autumn in September and October. July and August are too hot and will be much busier too. At the beginning of the season things on these islands generally tend to open slowly, so for example there may not be as many restaurants open at this time and the frequency of buses, should you need to take one, will also not be as great. Ferries may also be more limited, so please be prepared for less availability on these too. This can also be said for the end of the season. If you book during these times you will need to be prepared for this and accept that this is the case on these small islands. On the other hand, the colourful spring flowers are wonderful to see at this time! In June you will be able to smell the aroma of growing herbs and in October crocuses will be in bloom and the ferries will be crowd-free.
If you wish to travel in September, this is the busiest month so we recommend that you book at least 6 months or more in advance. These islands get very busy, so it is better to book in advance generally in order to avoid disappointment.
This tour can be booked up to the first week in October only due to end of season hotel closures.
This tour begins in Athens. It has a large international airport which is served by many airlines from Europe and North America. There may not always be direct flights but you can connect at larger hubs, such as London, Munich and Paris. Upon arrival you will be transferred from the airport to your accommodation in Athens, which is an approximate 45 minute drive.
This tour finishes in Santorini, which has an airport. There are flights from Santorini direct from Athens and from other gateways, such as Milan, Zurich and from some UK hubs, such as Bristol and Birmingham. An included transfer will bring you from your hotel in Fira to the airport. However, we can also arrange a transfer to Santorini port as an alternative if you are carrying on with your travels.
Since you will be taking ferries on this tour and will be expected to carry your luggage onto it and off it, we therefore highly recommend that you pack as lightly as you can, as there will be slopes and possibly stairs to negotiate. On all other included transfers your luggage will be taken with you and all transfers are included from airports and ports. Please limit your luggage weight to 20kg or less.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, sun hat and sunscreen, plus rain gear should it be necessary. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
A word about ferries....
On this tour you will be island hopping by ferry. Included ferries are from Piraeus to Milos and Milos to Santorini. We will provide you with an e-ticket with a QR code which you can use to board the ferry. Some ferrylines have not yet got the technology to issue QR codes so in these cases you will be given a booking number and you will need to go to the ferry port 30 mins before the ferry departures to pick up a paper ticket. You will be expected to carry your own luggage on and off the ferries, which why we encourage you to pack light. At times there are ramps and stairs to negotiate, so if your luggage is heavy that will make the travel more difficult. There is another local ferry that you will take to Kimolos Island but that one you can buy on the ferry itself for around €2.00. Please note that in low season (April and October) ferries may not run as frequently and therefore you may have to take earlier or later ferries than usual if the ones we would ideally use are not available. Your schedule may have to be adjusted to suit.
Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
It is a condition of booking with us that you have suitable travel insurance that covers you for cancellation, curtailment, illness or injury.
On this tour all the walks are optional. This is because they are either loop walks or walks where you will get a transfer or a bus to and you are not walking from inn to inn. If you don;t want to walk on one day, you don't have to! Obviously though we would encourage you to do all the walks as they really give you a great taste of what these islands have to offer.
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