Hiking on Kythira
Kythira stands out as an ideal destination for those seeking a hiking retreat, thanks to the absence of mass tourism and its captivating blend of diverse nature and architecture. Embarking on a hiking journey across Kythera involves traversing a vast network of country roads and ancient trails. You will be guided through historic villages, encounter ancient churches, explore caves, discover secluded beaches, follow streams, and come across waterfalls. Along the way, you can indulge in mesmerizing vistas of lush valleys, dramatic gorges, and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Nestled at the island’s core, traditional Xenonas Fos ke Choros guesthouse serves as an ideal launchpad for your explorations. Its central location ensures easy access, allowing you to reach the starting point of your walks anywhere on the island within a brief 30-minute car ride, facilitating a seamless and immersive exploration of Kythera’s natural and cultural wonders.
Self-Guided hiking in the vicinity of the guesthouse
Exclusively designed for Xenonas Fos ke Choros guests who enjoy self-guided hiking in Greece, we offer several trails, all conveniently starting and concluding at the guesthouse. These hikes showcase the most picturesque routes in the region, ranging from brief exploratory strolls through historic settlements to more extensive journeys across secluded valleys.
Each hike is detailed in English and is accessible through our comprehensive information map provided in your room. A perfect way to discover the enchanting traditional heart of the island at your leisure, whenever the mood strikes.
Hiking around Chousti Diakofti
Chousti Diakofti is the perfect base to explore some of the most beautiful hiking trails of Kythira. Discover various routes that start and end in Diakofti, such as:
– a circular walk along Viglatoria through an ancient agricultural landscape;
– a long hike to Agia Pelagia via the abandoned hamlet of Freatsi;
– a coastal walk to Avlemonas along unique rock formations;
– a short evening walk around the small island of Makri Kythira;
– other routes such as a trek along the religious sanctuaries of Agios Giorgos and Agia Moni.
Combine different walks for an unforgettable hiking holiday!
Download the Kythera Trails app on Google Play for detailed information about the routes and the surroundings.
Kythera Trails Project
In 2011, the ‘Kythera Trails’ project was initiated, aiming to restore and mark hundreds of kilometers of ancient walking trails. The project team is dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism on the islands of Kythira and Antikythera.
The M44, the Architectural tour, passes by the guesthouse and connects seven traditional settlements, two of which are listed due to their unspoiled architectural character. The siting and architecture of these settlements reveal the needs and the lifestyle of the residents in the past. Most of these villages were built to provide protection from the strong winds as well as the frequent pirate raids which plagued the island during the Middle Ages.
All the trails are signposted, but you can also download the Kythera Trails app from Google Play. This app provides detailed descriptions of each hike, trail data, background information, maps and photos.
As of now (2024), 11 scenic trails have been marked. For more information please visit the website www.kytheratrails.gr.
Playlist
Walking booklet
A fantastic booklet titled “Kythira on Foot” is accessible, featuring 32 walks spanning the entire island. The majority of these walks are circular, beginning and ending at the same point, allowing for convenient parking and immediate hiking initiation. The booklet is not only available in English but also in Italian, French, Greek, and Dutch.
It costs € 12,50 and is for sale at several shops throughout the island.
