SELF-GUIDED

Hiking Poros and Hydra: The Saronic Islands

A journey through emerald pine forests and the noble stone paths of the Saronic Gulf

Hiking Poros and Hydra: A Journey Through Maritime History

Poros, Hydra, Saronic Gulf
Discover the soul of the Saronic with our premium Hiking Poros and Hydra self-guided tour. Experience the lush, aromatic pine forests of Poros before crossing to the car-free, architectural sanctuary of Hydra. This trek through the most elegant Greek islands combines ancient heritage with pristine Mediterranean environments.
  • Walk aromatic pine ridges
  • Embrace car-free peace
  • Explore Poseidon’s ancient sanctuary
  • Summit Mount Eros peaks
  • Admire noble captain’s mansions
  • Discover secluded maritime paths
View of Poros bay and town from the hiking trails of Poros and Hydra Hiking self-guided tour.
1

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Summary: Relax and explore the vibrant surroundings near Piraeus Port, or opt for a guided tour of Athens’ historic center (optional). Settle into your hotel and prepare for your journey to the islands of the Saronic Gulf.

Today’s Journey:

  • Private transfer from Athens International Airport to your hotel near Piraeus Port
  • Free time to explore the Piraeus waterfront or Athens city center

Overnight: Athens (Piraeus Area)

2

Day 2: Discovering Poros

Summary: Take your time to explore Poros Town’s quaint alleys, charming squares, and iconic landmarks like the Clock Tower. In the afternoon, enjoy a hike on the Sfairia trail with stunning views of the strait and surrounding areas.

Hike: 4.2 km | Elevation: 84 m | Duration: 1h 30′

Today’s Journey:

  • 5′ walk to the port
  • Morning ferry to Poros
  • Check in at your hotel and explore Poros Town
  • Afternoon hike on the Sfairia trail

Overnight: Poros

3

Day 3: Pine Forest Trails and Ancient Ruins

Summary: Begin your day with a hike through Poros’ pine forests, passing the abandoned settlement of “Samouil” and the Sanctuary of Poseidon. Reach Vigla, Poros’ highest peak, for breathtaking views, and visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi.

Hike: 8.7 km | Elevation: 310 m | Duration: 3h 30′

Today’s Journey:

  • Private transfer to the trailhead
  • Hike through Poros’ pine forests passing the Sanctuary of Poseidon
  • Visit Vigla peak and the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi
  • Private transfer back to your hotel

Overnight: Poros

4

Day 4: Coastal Beauty and Transition to Hydra

Summary: Explore Kalavria, hiking through forest trails to Dana Lighthouse. After the morning trek, enjoy a scenic ferry ride to the car-free island of Hydra, where porters will assist with your luggage upon arrival.

Hike: 9.3 km | Elevation: 190 m | Duration: 3h 30′

Today’s Journey:

  • Private transfer to the trailhead
  • Hike through forest trails to Dana Lighthouse in Kalavria
  • Private transfer back to your hotel
  • Afternoon ferry ride to Hydra
  • Luggage transport by porters to your hotel in Hydra

Overnight: Hydra

5

Day 5: Hydra’s Summit – Mount Eros

Summary: Hike through the historic neighborhoods of Hydra Town and ascend to Prophet Elias Monastery. Reach Mount Eros, Hydra’s highest peak, for panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding Saronic islands.

Hike: 10.6 km | Elevation: 690 m | Duration: 5h

Today’s Journey:

  • Walk through the historic neighborhoods of Hydra Town
  • Ascend to the Prophet Elias Monastery
  • Reach the summit of Mount Eros for 360-degree views

Overnight: Hydra

6

Day 6: Coastal Trek from Zourvas Lighthouse

Summary: Travel by water taxi to Zourvas Lighthouse at Hydra’s easternmost point. Hike back along a scenic coastal trail, passing monasteries and chapels, and enjoying spectacular sea views across the Aegean.

Hike: 12.5 km | Elevation: 515 m | Duration: 5h

Today’s Journey:

  • Travel by water taxi to Zourvas Lighthouse
  • Hike back along the scenic coastal trail toward Hydra Town
  • Visit various monasteries and chapels along the route

Overnight: Hydra

7

Day 7: Farewell to Hydra

Summary: Spend your final morning exploring Hydra Town or enjoying a short hike to Mandraki Bay. In the afternoon, board the ferry for your return journey to Piraeus and your final transfer.

Hike: 5.8 km | Elevation: 130 m | Duration: 2h 30′

Today’s Journey:

  • Explore Hydra Town or opt for a short hike to Mandraki Bay
  • Afternoon ferry to Piraeus
  • Private transfer to Piraeus, Athens city center, or the airport

Overnight: Departure

  • 6 nights in hand-picked heritage boutique hotels
  • Daily traditional breakfast featuring local products
  • Private transfers to and from Athens International Airport
  • All internal ground transfers on the islands as detailed in the itinerary
  • High-precision hiking maps and in-depth digital route descriptions
  • All required ferry crossings between Piraeus, Poros, and Hydra
  • Curated restaurant recommendations for every stop of your journey

Not Included

  • Lunches, dinners, and personal beverages
  • Personal expenses and bespoke optional activities
  • Entrance fees to archaeological sites, museums, or cultural landmarks
  • Ground transfers not explicitly detailed in the itinerary
  • Personal travel insurance (mandatory)

The Saronic islands are best visited from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is perfect for Hiking Poros and Hydra, and the trails are lined with wildflowers or bathed in soft autumnal light.

Learn more about the best time to visit Greece in our article “Best Time to Hike in Greece: A Seasonal Guide“.

The trails are generally well-defined, but Hydra’s limestone terrain can be rocky and involves significant climbs. A good physical condition is recommended for these island paths.

More about the difficulty levels of trails in Greece as well as about our grading system to be found on our dedicated article “Understanding Trail Difficulty in Greece: A Hiker’s Guide“.

Starting from €1090 per person (based on double occupancy). Seasonal surcharges may apply during July and August. Single supplements are available upon request.

We select boutique, heritage-focused stays that reflect the local character. From neoclassical gems on the Poros waterfront to restored captain’s mansions on Hydra, your stay is an integral part of the Hiking Poros and Hydra experience.

Learn more about the accommodation that we carefully select on our trips in our Journal article “Beyond the Buffet: Authentic & Boutique Hotels in Rural Greece“.

Looking for a private guide or an extended stay in a specific mansion? We can customize this itinerary across the Saronic islands to match your specific preferences.

Price

from 1090 €

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Price from 1090 €