Although Cycladic islands are most famous for their mesmerizing beaches and authentic architecture, these islands also offer gorgeous nature and breathtaking landscapes to discover. If you are someone who loves spending time outdoors, you might wonder, is hiking better in Santorini or Mykonos? Both of these islands offer some interesting trails for exploring, and this short guide will help you make the final verdict.
Both of These Greek Islands Are Blessed With Gorgeous Nature
Even though these popular Cycladic islands in Greece are mostly famous for incredible beaches, the most fantastic beach clubs, whitewashed architecture, and some of the best restaurants serving delicious Greek cuisine, they actually have much more to offer.
These small islands in the Aegean Sea have beautiful nature that is definitely worth exploring while you are on your vacation in Mykonos or Santorini. Spend half of your day discovering local trails and enjoying breathtaking views, just don’t forget to bring some comfortable shoes and water.
What Is the Best Time to Visit an Island in Greece for Hiking?
If your main goal is to visit some of these two destinations in Greece to explore nature and enjoy its beautiful surroundings, you might want to avoid the season’s peak in July and August. These months are usually very crowded in Greece, it is super hot during the day, and accommodation is pricier.
If you are interested in hiking, the best time to visit them would be before the season starts, sometime in May or at the end of the season, during September and October. These months are still warm and pleasant, so you will be able to enjoy swimming, relaxing on the beach, and also comfortably explore hiking trails on each island during the day.
Is Hiking Better in Santorini or Mykonos?
Both of these islands are some of the most popular destinations on the entire Mediterranean coast, and their reputations are very high. They might seem very similar at first glance, but in reality, they are very different and unique in their own ways. Each island is great for hiking adventures, and it is hard to make the final verdict and decide which one is the best for such fun activities.
Santorini Has a Bigger Offer of Different Hiking Trails
Regarding trails and interesting hiking routes, Santorini has a bigger offer than Mykonos in Greece. Despite being relatively small, its interesting landscape and mountain scenery are quite impressive.
Such adventures are very popular on this island, and there are already numerous routes traced out, optimal for people who love exploring nature. Some of the most popular routes you should check out are:
- The Oia to Fira route is very accessible and has easy terrain. It is 10 kilometers long and has a few places along the trail where you can stop for a break and buy drinks or snacks.
- Oia to Imerovigli route is also around 10 kilometers long and is often used as a round trip to popular resort towns.
- Skaros Rock to Panagia Theoskepasti is a shorter hike that takes you to two of the most beautiful churches on the island. The path is adequate for all types of hikers.
- Kamari to Ancient Thera, which is atrial, offers incredible viewpoints and takes you on an adventure to an ancient settlement dating back to the ninth century. It is perfect for people who love exploring historical sites.
Mykonos Trails Are Mostly Located Around Secluded Beaches and Beautiful Countryside
Unlike Santorini, which has official trails for hiking that are fully adjusted for adventurous tourists, hiking on Mykonos includes some “wilder” trails. If you like exploring on your own and wandering around secluded beaches and nice countryside landscapes, then this destination would be a better choice for you.
Here you have more options for catching beautiful sunsets and exploring old Greek churches and historical sites. One of the most amazing things to do at this destination is hiking to the famous Armenistis Lighthouse and exploring some of the most famous countryside farms and vineyards. Although Santorini has better options in trails, Mykonos offers more diverse activities in nature.
The Best Idea Is to Visit Visit Each Island and Explore All of Their Trails and Beaches
Deciding between these two beautiful locations can be pretty hard, but luckily they are not too far away from each other, and you can easily visit both of them. Traveling from Mykonos to Santorini is easy, and you can do it in numerous ways.
You can take a ferry from Santorini to Mykonos, organize a private flight, or perhaps go on a yacht tour. Since both of these destinations in Greece offer some gorgeous attractions, beautiful beach bars, and stunning locations for exploring and hiking, it is best to make your vacation more exciting and explore both of them.
Need Help With Organizing Your Travel to Cycladic Islands? The Ace VIP Is Here to Help You Out
Organizing an island vacation can be pretty challenging and time-consuming, especially when you have to travel to two different locations. Luckily, The Ace VIP team is here to help you out. Our concierge in Mykonos can help you with managing the entire holiday in Greece and ensure you have the best experience possible.
Whether you need Mykonos yacht rental services or you want to book one of the luxury Mykonos villas for rental near the beach or in the main town – our team can easily help you. We have the finest private villas in Mykonos on our offer and can help you find the perfect Mykonos villa with a private pool for your stay. We are here to make your dream island vacation in Greece a reality.