Kea island:
The Cycladic hiker's paradise
Certain things can’t be compromised, however, on this tour you will definitely lose track of time. “Land” on Cyclades islands and rediscover this feeling of “childhood” mixed with a new sense of liberty. Kea (or Tzia) island, just an hour away from Athens by ferry, is a paradise for hikers and Greek-summer lovers.
Itinerary
- Starting from a small white chapel, we descend a cobbled path into the Natura protected oak forest. Submerge yourself in the scent of fresh thyme and oregano- Wild anemones, old windmills, traditional fonts and dry-stone walls conspire to make Poseidon’s Nereids dance among us.
- Explore the old threshing floor or rest under the huge oak trees. Wherever you may turn your eyesight meets with the Aegean Sea.
- The trail ends at the beach setting your heart on a dive into the crystal water.
- Explore the sandy ruins of Athena’s Temple and relax into the bright blue sea or under your shadowy private tent. Watermelon, wild cherries, juicy peaches and sips of wonderful whites immerse you in the taste of the Greek summer.
- If you wish to stay longer in this private coastal paradise, you can taste stunning Kean cuisine just where you are. Otherwise, an old-time-classic little taverna or restaurant under mulberry trees awaits you at the fairytale-like hamlet of Ioulida. Loza (the kean prosciutto), rabbit in beer, fresh seafood or shrimp pasta? The choice is yours.
Tip: Before you leave Tzia, our friends -local producers and craftsmen- have prepared farewell gifts for you and your beloved ones. Try the local sesame bars, the traditional liquors and the oak biscuits, or let your children explore the beehives and taste the Kean thyme honey.
What's Included
- Full- time services of a certified professional mountain leader and interpretive guide.
- Visit to the local farm and its vineyards.
- Ferry tickets from and to Kea Island.
- Hotel pick- up and drop off (minivan).
- Transport by minivan & private services of a driver during the tour.
- Private set-up for a picnic, including wine and local delicacies (full meal).
Price & Group Size
Our tours are designed to be implemented by a small, friendly group of 4-12 people. Of course we can personalize the tour for 1 traveler, 2 companions or a larger group of people.
This is a private tour. Prices vary according to group size.
Activity Level
All of our tours include some physical activity- it is an essential part of the Pace Odyssey experience. This is a moderately active tour. However, we can tailor it to your ideal activity level.
Hiking distance: 6.5 km.
Hiking duration: 3 hours
Elevation gain: 200 m.
Elevation loss: 605 m.
Suggested Equipment
The following list informs you about the suggested equipment in order to enjoy a pleasant and safe hike.
Feel free to adapt it to your personal needs.
- Backpack (to carry a bottle of water, your camera, an extra T-shirt, snacks etc.).
- Clothing: T- shirt, shorts or Bermuda shorts.
- Casual shoes, snickers or hiking shoes (we suggest hiking shoes that hold the ankle securely- vibram type sole).
- Sun hat or cap.
- Sunglasses, sun cream and lipstick.
- Swimsuit.
- Bottle of water (1.5 liters minimum).
- Beach towel.
- Trekking poles (optional).
*A first aid kit is provided by us and placed under the responsibility of the guide, who is certified in first aid and CPR.
When to go & Wheather
Greece has a typical Mediterranean climate, which lends itself to mild and often wet winters and dry summers. The country is mostly sunny throughout the year.
Spring is pleasant and sunny in most of the country. The days with some rainfall become less and less frequent. Temperatures are gradually warming up but light layers are still recommended for the cooler nights.
Summer in Greece is hot and sunny. The Meltemi, a northerly wind typical of the warmest months (July and August), often blows, making the hot days smoother. Pack a bathing suit and lighter clothing, especially if you’re visiting Greece during the peak months of July and August.
Fall is warm, making it a great time to visit. Similarly to summer, bring lighter clothing, a swimsuit, and good sunscreen. If you visit later in the season, a sweater will be useful for increasingly chilly nights.
“Down the dank moldering paths and past the Ocean’s streams they went and past the White Rock and the Sun’s Western Gates and past the Land of Dreams, and soon they reached the fields of asphodel…”
Homer, The Odyssey