Mountain hiking is a field in which Karpathos can offer unique emotions. The island has very good hiking trails – mostly on the north side – with a network of about 60 paths, which are electronically mapped and lead to the secret beauties of the area.
The hiker has many choices, depending on his level and strength. Typically, hikes are made in the form of a day trip and are combined with a bath, a lovely beach or a cave with stalactites. Most of these routes are through pine trees and have sea views. Walkers are advised to have a water bottle, snack or fruit with them, hat and glasses (necessarily), as well as a walking stick and athletic shoes.
Some beautiful walks:
- Kato Lastos – Spoa: Easy route. It combines mountain and sea (3 hours + 10′).
- Avlona – Tristomo – Vannada – Diafani: A route of particular interest, relatively difficult, combined with swimming (about 7 1/2 hours).
- Avlona – Vannada – Diafani: A good route with pine trees and sea (4 1/2 hours).
- Spoa – Mesohori: Easy trip with pine trees and sea (1 hour).
An interesting route will bring us to the unused cave with stalactites, over the beach of Achata. During the course there are picturesque churches and springs with crystal clear waters.
Of great interest are the stone-built cobbled paths, which still retain their traditional character. Most of the paths start from Olympos, while Saria with its gorge is also interesting hiking wise. The island has hills covered with wild flowers and small villages to explore on its walk.
The Friends of the Mountains of Karpathos every Sunday performs separate routes in places where there is no other way of access than walking and is a unique opportunity for someone to visit them.
Sources: www.enikonomia.gr, www.olympicair.com
