Kythera: The island of Love (Self-Guided)

8 Days

Duration

Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct

Availability

Moderate

Difficulty

Embark on an 8-day self-guided hiking adventure across the enchanting island of Kythera, a place where nature, history, and myth converge. Located between the Peloponnese and Crete, this untouched gem offers diverse landscapes, medieval castles, ancient villages, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches.

Follow scenic trails through lush gorges, abandoned Byzantine settlements, waterfalls, and Venetian fortresses. This itinerary is designed for those seeking an immersive experience, blending hiking with cultural discoveries and local gastronomy.

Enjoy seamless luggage transfers, comfortable accommodations in traditional guesthouses, and an authentic taste of Kytherian life.

Day 1: Arrival & First Exploration

Arrival at Kythera Airport and transfer to the accommodation
Optional circular hike around Livadi, through olive groves and charming stone houses
- Hike: 6.3 km / 3.9 mi | Ascent: 80 m / 262 ft | Descent: 80 m / 262 ft | Duration: ~1h40min
Optional visit to a Byzantine Art Collection and a local ceramics workshop
Dinner in a traditional family-run taverna at Livadi
Overnight stay in the central village of Livadi

Day 2: Hiking from the Highlands to the Coast

Hike from Livadi to Kapsali, following scenic paths through old chapels and the historic town of Chora
- Hike: 12.5 km / 7.8 mi | Ascent: 329 m / 1079 ft | Descent: 555 m / 1820 ft | Duration: ~4h
Luggage transfer from Livadi to Kapsali
Optional circular hike around Kapsali, with breathtaking sea views
- Hike#2: 5.3 km / 3.3 mi | Ascent: 180 m / 590 ft | Descent: 180 m / 590 ft | Duration: ~2h
Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant
Overnight stay in the coastal village of Kapsali

Day 3: Exploring Chora & The Venetian Castle

Hike from Kapsali to Chora & back, with stops at the Venetian Castle and the old town’s alleys
- Hike: 5.8 km / 3.6 mi | Ascent: 196 m / 643 ft | Descent: 196 m / 643 ft | Duration: ~2h
Lunch in Chora, at the halfway point of your hike, enjoying Kytherian specialties
Return via a scenic trail overlooking the coastline
Overnight stay in the coastal village of Kapsali

Day 4: The Hidden Fortress & Forgotten Villages

Check-out and transfer to the mountain village of Potamos
Visit the local Sunday fair in Potamos
Hike Potamos to Paliochora, an abandoned Byzantine city built on a dramatic cliffside
- Hike: 16.6 km / 10.3 mi | Ascent: 282 m / 925 ft | Descent: 282 m / 925 ft | Duration: ~4h45min
Lunch stop in a traditional village kafenio (coffee shop), at the halfway point of your hike
Return to Potamos, passing historic chapels and panoramic viewpoints
Overnight stay in Potamos, a charming mountain village

Day 5: Secluded Beaches & Coastal Trails

Breakfast at a historic bakery, famous for its traditional Kytherian rusks
Hike from Karavas to Platia Ammos, a serene beach on the island’s northern coast
- Hike: 9.8 km / 6 mi | Ascent: 194 m / 636 ft | Descent: 348 m / 1141 ft | Duration: ~3h
Free time for swimming and relaxation
Small picnic lunch on the beach
Transfer to the next accommodation in the seaside village of Agia Pelagia
Dinner with sunset views over the Aegean
Overnight stay at Agia Pelagia

Day 6: Waterfalls & Medieval Settlements

Check-out and transfer to the lush inland village of Mylopotamos
Hike through a scenic gorge, passing abandoned watermills and hidden waterfalls
- Hike: 4.7 km / 2.9 mi | Ascent: 162 m / 531 ft | Descent: 162 m / 531 ft | Duration: ~1:30h
Visit the castle of Kato Chora, a medieval settlement with Venetian ruins
Lunch at a local taverna under plane trees
Transfer to the picturesque harbor village of Avlemonas
Overnight stay in the harbor village of Avlemonas

Day 7: The Old Pilgrimage Route

Hike along a coastal trail, connecting scenic fishing villages
- Hike: 15.7 km / 9.8 mi | Ascent: 728 m / 2388 ft | Descent: 728 m / 2388 ft | Duration: ~5h30min
Lunch in a seaside tavern at Diakofti, at the halfway point of the hike, enjoying fresh seafood
Return hike to Avlemonas, with time to relax by the water
Overnight stay in the harbor village of Avlemonas

Day 8: Departure from Kythera

Check-out and transfer to the airport
End of the tour

Highlights

⭐ Explore one of Greece’s most unspoiled islands, where nature, history, and mythology come alive

⭐ Hike through abandoned Byzantine villages, Venetian fortresses, and breathtaking gorges

⭐ Visit hidden beaches and remote mountain trails, far from the crowds

⭐ Discover Kytherian traditions, local cuisine, and authentic village life

What’s Included

✅ 7 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected guesthouses

✅ Daily breakfast

✅ Luggage transfers between accommodations

✅ Detailed hiking maps & route descriptions

✅ Transfers within Kythera mentioned in the itinerary

✅ Restaurant suggestions in all places you will visit throughout your tour

Not Included

❌ Lunches, dinners, and drinks

❌ Personal expenses & optional activities

❌ Entrance fees to archaeological sites or museums

❌ Transfers that are not mentioned

❌ Travel insurance

Best Time to Visit

This tour is ideal from April to June and September to October, offering mild weather and crystal-clear skies. The summer months are not recommended due to high temperatures and sun exposure.

Difficulty Level

Moderate – Suitable for active travelers with some hiking experience. Daily hikes range from 4 km to 16 km (2.5 – 10 mi), with moderate elevation gains.