Hiking and beaches you can call your own for the summer
Summer is the perfect time to escape to one of Greece’s remote islands for beaches, hiking trails, and beautiful scenery you’ll have mostly to yourself. The Greek islands offer an idyllic summer getaway with stunning natural beauty at every turn. Lesser-visited islands provide a unique opportunity to truly unwind and enjoy a Mediterranean island holiday without the crowds.
What Makes a Greek Island “Remote”?
Before diving into island highlights, it’s helpful to define what qualifies a Greek island as truly “remote.” Remote islands in Greece have relatively small permanent populations, limited tourist infrastructure, and fewer amenities compared to highly developed islands like Mykonos or Santorini, which attract millions of visitors each summer.
- Population: Remote Greek islands typically have populations under 3,000 residents, with some having only a few hundred. This means you’ll encounter more locals than tourists.
- Connectivity: Ferries may only run once or twice per week during summer months. Flights are unavailable, so the only way to reach remote islands is by boat. Internet access and phone coverage are limited in some areas.
- Amenities: Expect fewer hotels, restaurants, shops, and developed beaches. Basic amenities like ATMs, English menus, and hospitals with emergency medical facilities may be limited or nonexistent.
- Accessibility: Reaching remote islands requires more effort but provides a true escape from mass tourism. Check schedules carefully, as boat/ferry availability is limited.
By understanding these defining factors, you can ensure a Greek island trip that truly gets you away from it all with few other visitors in paradise. The remote Greek islands offer an unparalleled cultural immersion and natural beauty experience.
Hiking Through History on Alonissos
Nestled in the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea lies the remote island of Alonissos. With a population of just 2,600 inhabitants, Alonissos is one of Greece’s least populated islands and boasts some of the country’s best hiking trails with varied scenery.
One of the most popular hikes on the island is the 2-hour Archaeological Walking Trail. Starting from Patitiri, this clearly marked trail takes you through remnants of ancient settlements dating back over 2,500 years. Along the way, you’ll pass the foundations of homes, olive presses, and a small acropolis offering stunning sea views. Educational signs explain the historical significance of each site.
On the east coast, the acclaimed 4-hour Vyzitsa Trail showcases the island’s unique coastal and mountain scenery. After passing through pine forests and small hamlets, the trail culminates at beautiful Vyzitsa Beach. Swim breaks in the crystal clear waters make this a perfect summer hike.
For advanced hikers, the multi-day Alonissos Circular Trail circumnavigates the entire island, taking 5-7 days to complete at a leisurely pace and camping overnight. This 50km route passes agricultural landscapes, seaside cliffs, fishing villages, and monasteries – a true cultural immersion into rural Greek island life. Great effort has been made by local authorities to mark trails clearly with maps and reinforce fragile paths, making Alonissos hiking accessible to all skill levels.
After hiking, reward your efforts with a swim at Hohlakas Beach – considered one of Greece’s finest and awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for clean waters. The beach is surrounded by hills thickly covered in pine trees and boasts calm emerald waters for relaxing. Nearby tavernas serve traditional Greek seafood like grilled octopus to refuel before your next hike.
Scenic Trails and Remote Beaches on Symi
A short boat ride from Rhodes and Turkey lies the scenic island of Symi, with well-preserved Neoclassical architecture, historic walking streets, and secluded coves. As Greece’s third smallest inhabited island with just 800 inhabitants, Symi retains an authentic connection to Greek island culture and lifestyle away from mass tourism.
One of the most scenic hikes on Symi is the moderate 2-3 hour trail along the East Coast Trail. Starting at Nimborio, the route hugs the coastline past tiny beaches, rocks formations, and small agricultural terraces before emerging at the picturesque fishing village of Marathounda. Take a swim break at pristine Glyfoneri Beach along the way.
For more advanced hikers, the Panormitis Trail is a full-day 7-hour hike through pine forests and mountain slopes with sweeping sea views as your reward. You’ll pass ancient stone shelters along the way before descending to the 11th century monastery of Panormitis, built into a cliff overlooking the sea. Swim in the secluded waters or relax with a coffee at the monastery’s taverna after taking in the awe-inspiring views.
After hiking, relax on Symi’s powdery white beaches like Agios Georgios, which are accessible only by boat. This remote cove features turquoise waters and is rarely crowded, even in the peak summer season. Picnic lunches with fresh seafood bought from local fishermen complete the authentic Greek island experience.
Symi offers the perfect balance of charming villages, historic sites, and natural beauty that is accessible on scenic coastal and mountain hiking trails. Its remote beaches and small population guarantee an uncrowded Greek island escape all summer long.
Secluded Coves and Lush Landscapes on Kastellorizo
One of Greece’s farthest flung eastern islands located just 2km from the Turkish coast is idyllic Kastellorizo (Megisti). Reaching just 5 square km in size, Kastellorizo has a population of about 300 and is surrounded by azure waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.
Kastellorizo’s best attributes are its isolated white pebble beaches only reachable on foot. The moderate 2-hour circular Blue Lagoon Hike takes you past secluded coves and succulent Mediterranean flora along coastal cliffs. Swim stops at paradisiacal Vrisi Beach and the shallow turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon feel like your own private slice of Greece.
For a more adventurous full-day excursion, the strenuous 10km Manolas Ridge Trail rewards hikers with unparalleled panoramic views stretching to Turkey. Wildflowers and herbs carpet the landscape on this nature lovers’ hike taking 5-6 hours at a steady pace. Afterward, cool off with homemade loukoumades at a seaside cafe in whitewashed Megisti Hora town.
Other scenic trails, like the 6km coastal route from Kastellorizo to the deserted islet of Strongili, make for leisurely afternoon options to escape the summer heat. With no crowds and pristine natural scenery, Kastellorizo transforms you back to a simpler island pace of life. Truly rugged and remote, it’s the hidden gem of the Dodecanese.
Secluded Hiking and Swimming on Antiparos
While neighboring Paros sees high tourist numbers each summer, Antiparos next door remains a lesser-visited paradise perfect for escaping crowds. With a population of just 2,000, Antiparos has managed to protect its natural environment and traditional way of life.
The highlight activity on Antiparos is hiking its network of trails winding through rugged landscapes dotted with wildflowers, olive groves, and archaeological remains. Opt for the scenic coastal 3-4 hour Apantesis Christou circular route passing remote sandy coves for perfect swimming stops like Vagia Beach.
For a challenging full-day adventure, tackle the demanding 10km circuit of Profitis Ilias. Hike through pine forests and steep mountain slopes with rewarding vistas stretching to Paros, Naxos, and beyond at the peak. You’ll likely have the entire panoramic vista to yourself, even in peak summer.
After hiking, unwind on the island’s most beautiful beaches, like the secluded white sands of Golden Beach, accessible only by a caique boat. Relax undisturbed and swim in crystal clear waters in a true escape from tourism’s reach.
With limited development and tourism infrastructure, Antiparos retains its authenticity and charm. Its natural scenery, seclusion, and relaxed pace make it an idyllic Greek island escape well off the beaten path.
Getting to Remote Greek Islands
Flight and Ferry Options
While remoteness is what draws many visitors, it also means more effort to reach these Greek island gems. The majority can only be accessed by regular ferry or hydrofoil services from nearby island ports or the Greek mainland. Flight options exist for some larger remote islands like Alonissos, which has an airport served by Aegean Airlines.
Most ferries and hydrofoils operate daily or several times per week only during the peak summer season from June through August. Outside this window, sailings decrease significantly to just once or twice weekly. Always check schedules well in advance to avoid missed connections that could potentially strand you.
Major ports serving remote islands include:
- Piraeus (Athens): Large ferries and fast catamarans connect the largest Greek ports to many islands daily.
- Heraklion (Crete): Ferries access the most easterly islands like Kastellorizo and Symi.
- Rhodes: Ferries and catamarans provide connections to Symi and nearby isles.
- Santorini: Summer connections on larger ferries access Antiparos and other Western Cyclades.
- Thessaloniki: Serves as a gateway for ferries to remote Sporades islands, including Alonissos.
When traveling by ferry, be prepared for fluctuating schedules due to factors like weather conditions. Overnight travel may be required between certain islands and ports. Always build in additional time for potential delays and aim to arrive at ports early to secure tickets for limited summer sailings. A single ferry or connection missed can upend your entire island-hopping itinerary.
Island-Hopping Options and Multi-Day Trips
A rewarding option is embarking on a multi-island journey by organizing Island-hopping trips between Greece’s remote gems. Scheduled itineraries departing from departure hubs allow stringing together visits to different isolated islands.
Popular multi-day options include:
- Alonissos and the Northern Sporades: Spend 3-4 days between Alonissos, Skiathos and Skopelos, visiting beaches, UNESCO monasteries, and hiking.
- Antiparos and Western Cyclades: 5 days exploring Antiparos and nearby Paros, Naxos and tiny islets accessible only by boat.
- Symi and the Dodecanese: 7 days of cruising Symi, Kastellorizo, Rhodes, and secluded beaches.
- Kastellorizo Flyer: Fast regular ferries connect this remote eastern isle with Rhodes in 4 hours, perfect as part of a 1-week Dodecanese itinerary.
When island hopping, reserve flexible transport tickets and accommodation rather than strict packages. This allows deviating from schedules to fully appreciate each destination at your own pace, whether an extra beach day or an afternoon hike. Multi-day trips are ideal for true cultural immersion and exploration of Greece’s undiscovered gems.
Things to Know Before You Visit Remote Greek Islands
Rural Island Infrastructure
Visiting remote regions requires adjustments to limited infrastructure compared to popular destinations. Amenities are basic as these islands prioritize traditional island life over mass tourism.
- Electricity: While modern in main villages, electricity is sourced from generators in rural homes. Power cuts are common.
- Water: Cisterns harvest rainwater for most use, with desalination providing drinking water. Conserve this precious resource.
- Food: Fresh seafood, meat/produce are purchased daily from farms/markets. Large supermarkets are nonexistent.
- WiFi/Mobile: Most islands have spotty public WiFi in main towns with no coverage elsewhere. Get comfortable disconnecting.
- Fuel: Gas stations may operate at limited hours, especially outside peak season. Plan refueling stops in advance.
- Medical Facilities: Basic first aid is available, but serious conditions require travel to a major island or mainland.
With basic infrastructure, these islands reward visitors who travel flexibly and come prepared for a slower, traditional lifestyle focusing on cultural connections and stunning natural scenery.
Seasonality and Crowds
Summer tourism seasons peak between June and August when temperatures are hot but reliably sunny, and ferries operate their most schedules. Islands become busier at this time, with up to 10x summer populations, including seasonal residents returning home.
Shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October see much smaller crowds enjoying mild Mediterranean weather. However, infrastructure, such as restaurants and transport options, are limited. Many property owners also close for winter from November to March.
During the summer high season, book accommodations months in advance and reserve ferry seats to guarantee passage. Be prepared for European tourists and higher prices island-wide during these peak weeks. Consider visiting in spring or fall for a calmer island pace with fewer crowds. Weather remains reliably pleasant through early June and late September.
Planning Ahead for Activities and Supplies
Proper preparation makes all the difference for enjoying remote island escapes. While commodities are available, options will be more limited than popular destinations. Plan activities, pack essential supplies, and purchase additional provisions before departing.
- Confirm hiking trails and beaches are accessible as conditions vary seasonally
- Pack raingear, hat, and sunscreen as the weather changes suddenly
- Bring first aid, insect repellent, and any needed medications
- Purchase non-perishable snacks, water, and spare batteries/chargers
- Fill prescriptions and bring copies of insurance/medical documents
- Check ferry timetables and book tickets in advance online or by phone
- Notify travel partners of your plans in case delayed returns
- Research accommodations and reserve well ahead, especially in peak summer
With adequate planning, visiting remote Greek islands becomes achievable with worry-free exploration of stunning natural beauty without the crowds. Get away from it all while respecting island life and pace.