Eco-Hikes the Trails of Samos
These sustainable trails invite you to explore the island at a slower pace, offering everything from gentle valley walks to summit ascents with sweeping Aegean views. Whether you’re tracing bird-song through the Nightingale Valley or climbing the dramatic ridges of Mount Kerkis, each hike connects nature, culture, and conservation supporting local communities while preserving the island’s rich biodiversity.
A scenic village-to-village hike through pine forests and terraced vineyards.
📍Manolates to Vourliotes Trail, Northern Samos
This 6 km trail connects two of the most picturesque mountain villages in Samos: Manolates and Vourliotes. The path weaves through lush pine forests, terraced vineyards, and ancient cobblestone paths that have been used for centuries. Along the way, you’ll pass small chapels, traditional wells, and wild herbs that enrich both the natural and cultural landscape. At various stops, panoramic viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea, making it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
What to expect:
• Village to Village: A 6 km moderate trail, perfect for half-day exploration.
• Nature & Culture: Pass by small chapels, traditional wells, and wild herbs.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy panoramic rest points above the sea.
Why it’s sustainable:
• The trail is part of a restored traditional network used by locals for centuries.
• Encourages car-free exploration.
• Supports small businesses in both villages along the route.
A challenging ascent to the highest point of Mount Kerkis with breathtaking views.
📍Votsalakia – Vigla Peak (Mount Kerkis), Western Samos
This challenging hike begins in the coastal village of Votsalakia and ascends to Vigla, the highest accessible point on Mount Kerkis (1,433 m). The 10-12 km route is known for its dramatic beauty, passing through pine forests, limestone cliffs, and alpine meadows where the cool air offers a refreshing reward after the exertion. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view that stretches from Ikaria to Turkey, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts.
What to expect:
• Challenging Ascent: A strenuous 10–12 km round trip with steep elevation gain (around 900 m).
• Wild Beauty: Traverse pine forests, limestone cliffs, and high-altitude meadows.
• Summit Reward: Panoramic views stretching from Ikaria to Turkey on clear days.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Vigla is located within a protected Natura 2000 zone, with an unpaved, unspoiled trail accessible only on foot.
• Local guides offer tours focusing on endemic species, geology, and Leave No Trace principles.
• Trekking supports rural tourism while preserving the natural equilibrium of the Kerkis massif.
A gentle hike through a bird-filled valley leading to a charming mountain village.
📍Nightingale Valley – Agios Konstantinos to Vourliotes, Northern Samos
This 5-6 km trail follows the peaceful stream of the Platanakia River, winding through dense forest and shaded groves, especially vibrant in spring when the nightingales sing. The hike takes you from the coastal village of Agios Konstantinos to the traditional mountain village of Vourliotes, passing through one of Samos’ most beloved green corridors, rich in biodiversity. The birds, wild herbs, butterflies, and the varied vegetation will accompany you throughout, with beautiful landscapes unfolding at every turn.
What to expect:
• Gentle Ascent: A 5–6 km walk (one-way) of low to moderate difficulty, suitable for most levels.
• Rich Biodiversity: Cool microclimate, plane trees, wild herbs, butterflies, and the famous nightingales from April to June.
• Village Charm: End your hike with a coffee or meze under the giant plane trees in Vourliotes’ central square.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Promotes slow, car-free travel on centuries-old footpaths used by locals.
• Maintained by local initiatives, with small-scale hospitality supporting a sustainable economy.
• Signs along the trail encourage respectful interaction with nature, emphasizing no littering, loud noises, or off-trail wandering.