A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Discover the alluring charm of Lesvos and Chios, two Greek islands. Dive into their diverse culture, savour the delectable Mediterranean dishes, and soak in the picturesque landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable Greek island escape.
Greece
Coast & Islands
Landscape
May
Sep
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
Discover the enchanting Greek islands of Lésvos and Chíos, nestled just a breath away from the mesmerizing Asia Minor coast in the north-eastern part of the Aegean Sea.
On Chios, renowned as the birthplace of the legendary Greek poet, Homer, immerse yourself in its medieval charm, dominated by the imposing Mount Pelineo at its core. The island is dotted with quaint "Mastic" villages, where narrow streets and tightly packed houses define timeless settlements. Splendid churches and monasteries adorn these villages, recounting stories of centuries past. Embark on unforgettable walks along ancient kalderami, traditional stone-paved pathways, leading you through the island's historical landmarks and natural splendors.
After exploring Chios, take a short ferry ride to Lésvos, Greece's third-largest island. Immerse yourself in the charming town of Petra, which serves as a perfect base for exploring the island's diverse landscapes. From the lush, forested eastern coast to the rugged, volcanic terrain of the west, Lésvos offers a kaleidoscope of natural wonders. Wander through ancient oak and pine forests, including the awe-inspiring petrified forest, where trees over 500 years old stand as remarkable testaments to time. As you traverse the island, you'll encounter vast olive groves and stumble upon fascinating medieval and Ottoman architecture, showcased in the form of picturesque bridges, mosques, and grand tower houses, scattered throughout Lésvos. The captivating village of Molyvos and the port-town of Mytilini, both guarded by majestic castle-fortresses, beckon history enthusiasts to explore the island's rich past while indulging in delectable local cuisine at charming waterside tavernas.
Lésvos and Chios offer an idyllic blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable seafood delights that are just waiting to be explored. Embark on an unforgettable journey through these captivating Greek islands and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
15820
Uncover the allure of the Dodecanese Islands, a captivating Greek archipelago nestled in the Aegean Sea. From the vibrant culture of Rhodes to the tranquil beauty of Tilos, the volcanic landscapes of Nisyros, and the picturesque charm of Symi, these destinations offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders for an unforgettable Aegean adventure.
Discover ancient stoned pathways, untouched countryside, and serene beaches on Tinos and Andros, two Greek islands that together create a walker's’ paradise in the Cyclades. These unspoiled gems offer a tranquil escape for anyone seeking a timeless Greek island experience.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
You depart the UK and fly to Chios. Due to the late arrival, dinner is not included this evening, so it is advised that you have dinner at the airport or on the flight.
Transfer Time = 1 hour
Meals
Accommodation
During your time on Chios you will do a selection of the walks below, a free day will be offered on one day to explore the area, your leader can make recommendations.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Anavatos to Avgonyma- This walk explores one of the more remote areas of the island. Starting from the spectacular abandoned village of Anavatos, the walk takes you through pine forests. As you start to arrive into Avgonima you will have great views over the west coast before arriving where you have time to explore the village.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The Mastic Villages- Pyrgi- Mastic is produced from the mastic tress which grow in South West Chios and they are an important source of prosperity for the island. The medieval villages were fortified to defend against pirates. You take private transport to Pyrgi for a demonstration with a local guide for a demonstration introducing mastic harvesting and a chance to get hands on and do it yourself, followed by a visit to the Mastic Museum. After the demonstration you head out of a circular walk to and from the village with free time allowed to explore Pyrgi village as well.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Nenita to Kataraktis Coastal Walk- This walk in the quiet countryside takes you through cultivated area with olive and mastic trees. The walk starts in the quiet, picturesque village on Nenita where you can stop off for a coffee before the walk. From here you head towards the coast and once reach follow the coastline passing through the small settlement of Vokaria before you end the walk in the peaceful seaside village of Kataraktis.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Four Villages- This walk takes place in the Amani region of North West Chios, one of the more remote and least explored regions of the island. The area has a wide variation of scenery, flora and fauna. The walk begins in the village Afrodisia boasting one of the oldest churches on the island before heading to Kourounia and Egrigoros which are both the centre of the wine making industry on Chios. Finally finishing the walk on the Northern coast of Chios at Agiasmata, known for its thermal baths from naturally occurring hot springs. All the villages have their own stories to tell. The route is generally one of descent but there are gentle ascents as it weaves its way over the low ridgelines and through the valleys which separate the villages. It is a little further away from Chios Town than the other walks of the tour but the drive across Northern Chios, with its stunning scenery, is a treat in itself.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Nea Moni to Lithi- Nea Moni is the most famous monastery in Chios set in a beautiful location. You walk along a mule track to Agios Pateras before heading towards Lithi with a gorgeous sandy beach and little cafes for refreshments.
Meals
Accommodation
Today you transfer from Chios by ferry to Lesvos. The journey on the ferry takes roughly 2 hours. Once you arrive in Lesvos you transfer to your hotel in Petra, where you will check in and have some free time before dinner this evening in a local taverna.
Meals
Accommodation
During your time on Lesvos, you will engage in a variety of walks listed below. A free day will be provided for you to explore the area. Your leader can offer recommendations, such as visiting the petrified forest.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Molyvos- You start your walk today from the hotel, rising gently through the pleasant countryside offering views over Petra bay before descending down into Molyvos where you have time to explore the back streets of the picturesque old town and castle. You then have a choice to return to Petra by the road train or walk along the pavement beside the coast.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Lafionas & Agios Alexandros: Starting from your hotel you walk along the seafront and then inland up to Lafionas, you have time to explore the village and admire the views from the village square. You then continue on to Agios Alexandros where we visit the site of a 4th century monastery and modern chapel and break for a picnic lunch. You then head back down to Petra to return to the hotel.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Agiassos-Ag Anargyri- Karini- A beautiful mountain area with villages nestled into the lower slopes of Mount Olympos taking you away from the coast for the day. You start the walk with time to explore Agiassos, wandering the little streets and craft shops before heading on the walk among the pine and chestnut trees, visiting the green valley down to Ag Anargyri and through to the small hamlet of Karini.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Eftalou to Skala Sikaminia - Starting this walk in Eftaloi where you may have a chance to visit the thermal spa (depending on opening hours), this coastal walk brings you to the picturesque village square of Skala Sikaminia with many enticing cafes, shops and a mini market.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Ligona Watermill Valley- starting from the hotel you head out on todays walk, where you get to view abandoned watermills and wander through beautiful fields, forest and views of the coast.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Lampou Myli - Roman Aqueduct - Ag Dimitrios- Many visitors to Lesvos are unaware that there are two sections of the Roman aqueduct still standing. On this walk you will visit the section near to Lambou Myloi this is relatively unknown and little visited. The aqueduct, when it comes into view, sits in a deep valley in the pine forest and is incredibly beautiful. The walk takes you across the Kovili bridge and into Ag Dimitrios.
Meals
Accommodation
After breakfast you pack up your bags and head to the airport to fly home.
From (GBP)£2,249
Departure dates for your selected tour
9th May 2025 - 23rd May 2025 (14 Nights)
23rd May 2025 - 6th Jun 2025 (14 Nights)
12th Sep 2025 - 26th Sep 2025 (14 Nights)
26th Sep 2025 - 10th Oct 2025 (14 Nights)
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Chios Chandris hotel overlooks the island's harbour and is located 300 meters from the beach with its own swimming pool and sun terrace and a short walk from local bars and tavernas. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, safe, minibar, TV, hairdryer and ensuite facilities.
Panorama Hotel is located 200 meters from the beach and 800 meters from a local supermarkets, shopping facilities and local tavernas. The hotel has 78 rooms in total and its own swimming pool. Rooms are equipped with free wi-fi, TV, air conditioning, hairdryer, refrigerator, safe and ensuite facilities.
Trip Information
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
The currency in Greece is the euro.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Breakfasts are taken in the hotel.
Lunches are at your own expense and can be purchased from the local supermarket/café or the leader can advise if a taverna is possible on the walk.
Dinners will be taken in local tavernas where you will get a chance to sample authentic local dishes.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Greece
Electricity in Greece is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Greece
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Greece.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may also wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
There is a low to no risk of malaria in Greece. Malaria risk is from May to October and is very limited; confined to the villages of the Evrotas delta area in Lakonia district. Please seek advice from your doctor or travel clinic.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
Reviews
Useful Information
Capital
Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 91mm
February
Avg. Rain: 78mm
March
Avg. Rain: 65mm
April
Avg. Rain: 43mm
May
Avg. Rain: 29mm
June
Avg. Rain: 15mm
July
Avg. Rain: 10mm
August
Avg. Rain: 11mm
September
Avg. Rain: 28mm
October
Avg. Rain: 71mm
November
Avg. Rain: 94mm
December
Avg. Rain: 106mm
View Dates & Book
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