The Cyclades comprise about 220 islands, the major ones being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Thira or Santoríni. There are also many smaller uninhabited islands that you can reach by chartering a private boat or on organised excursions. The islands are of stunning natural beauty, and there is a lot of variation between them, some are barren and others more vegetated. 

The Cyclades have an incredible geological history in this part of the world, most of the islands are peaks of a submerged mountainous terrain, except for Milos and Santorini, which are volcanic. There are plenty of natural attractions from beaches, caves to rock formations and hiking trails. Today we explore some of the best hiking trails for those in search of breathtaking views and tranquillity. Hiking around the islands is the best way to immerse yourself in the landscape fully, do something healthy and avoid the crowds. 

The Fira-Oia trail, Santorini 

This is the most famous hiking trail on the island of Santorini, and it climbs higher and higher through the sister villages of Fira, Firostefani and Imerovigli. It then continues in a northern direction, finally reaching Oia along a magnificent path. There are some excellent views on the volcano, sea and the caldera on this trail and it takes two hours and a half of actual walking time, but the total time can reach 4 or 5 hours. The best plan is to leave Firà at about 10 am so you arrive into Oia between 1 and 2 pm, in time for lunch. 

The trail from Varvarousa beach to Delphini Beach, Syros 

There is an excellent hiking route over the mountain, between these two bays and there is nothing more rewarding than reaching a stunning beach. This route is through steep scrub and takes about an hour each way. We suggest that you take precautions by wearing proper hiking boots or sandals as there are some loose stones and steep sections, particularly the descent to Varvarousa. There are lovely tavernas on both beaches so that you can take a break at each, and the views are stunning. Take all the usual precautions; don’t attempt this hike in the heat of the day and take plenty of water.

Sifnos Trails, Sifnos 

Sifnos Trails is the name of the hiking trails network of the island of Sifnos in the Aegean Sea, Greece. The network has a total length over 100 km, divided into 19 beautiful trails. This beautiful set of super organised hiking trails, with coloured arrows for each path, which make it very difficult to get lost. There are also GPS maps that you can download before setting off, which will track your progress. Many routes head through pastures, olive plantations and the coastline along ancient pathways that transport your mind into a different dimension, relaxing the body and soul. 

Andros Trails, Andros 

The island of Andros also has a vast network of hiking trails; there are easy to follow maps available as well as local ecotourism groups who will guide you around. The island has lots to see, for example, route two leads you from Andros town to the waterfalls. There is a range of routes, from long hikes to shorter, more manageable ones and a network of volunteers fully signposts all of the trails. 

Ferries to the Cyclades 

You can find loads of ferries to the Cyclades Islands on the NetFerry website! Visit the site now to see all of the information you need to book your ticket. We have the most up to date information on everything from prices, seasonal deals, timetables and information on ports and destinations. 

NetFerry: find your ferry!