Greece Active Tour (Athens – Peloponnese – Kefalonia – Meteora)

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    10 days / 9 nights
    Period of Operation : April to November
    Athens
    Min Participants : 4
    Max People : 7
    Tour Description

    Embark on a 10-day adventure through some of the most legendary and breathtaking regions of Greece — a journey where mythology, history, and nature intertwine at every step. Designed for active, culturally curious travelers, this itinerary takes you far beyond the tourist trail, offering a rich blend of iconic landmarks, local life, and hands-on exploration.

    Begin in the cradle of Western civilization — Athens — where ancient stones still whisper the origins of democracy and philosophy. With a private guide, walk the Acropolis, explore the modern Acropolis Museum, and kayak along the Athenian Riviera to Cape Sounio, where the Temple of Poseidon catches the last light of day.

    Continue into the heart of the Peloponnese, a region alive with legends. Raft the mythic Lousios River, said to be where Zeus bathed as an infant. Wander the atmospheric mountain village of Dimitsana, where traditional hospitality and local delicacies await. Step into the sacred grounds of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games, and experience the awe of walking through temples dedicated to gods.

    Cross the Ionian Sea to Kefalonia, an island of dramatic cliffs, underground lakes, turquoise bays, and wild mountain trails. Hike to the summit of Mount Ainos, explore Melissani Cave by boat, kayak along limestone coasts, and swim in hidden beaches only reachable by sea. Taste Kefalonian wines in a scenic vineyard and enjoy evenings in charming villages like Assos and Fiskardo.

    Then travel north to the mystical region of Meteora, where gravity-defying monasteries are perched atop towering rock spires. Hike centuries-old footpaths once used by monks, visit UNESCO-listed monasteries carved into cliffs, and watch the sunset over one of Greece’s most spiritually powerful landscapes. Your journey ends with a farewell dinner beneath Meteora’s majestic silhouettes.

    With expert guides, thoughtfully selected experiences, and a perfect balance of activity and cultural depth, this is Greece as few get to experience it — wild, sacred, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.

     

    Highlights:

    • Private guided tour of the Acropolis and Athens’ historic neighborhoods, followed by sunset at Cape Sounio after a sea kayaking session along the Athenian Riviera

    • White water rafting in Lousios River, once said to be the bathing place of Zeus himself

    • Cultural immersion in mountain villages, with traditional dinners, local drinks, and warm-hearted hospitality in Dimitsana

    • Walk in the footsteps of Olympians at ancient Olympia, with guided exploration and time to relax by the Ionian Sea

    • Island-hopping to Kefalonia, with a hike up Mount Ainos, a vineyard wine tasting, and a full-day sea kayaking experience along the coast

    • Explore natural wonders like Melissani Cave, Drogarati, and the postcard villages of Assos and Fiskardo on a scenic island tour

    • Hike the hidden trails of Meteora, visiting cliff-top monasteries and walking ancient paths once used by monks

    Level of difficulty / Entry requirements

    This journey is rated as Moderate, ideal for travelers with a good level of physical fitness who enjoy active exploration. While daily distances are manageable, the rating reflects notable elevation changes throughout the itinerary. Expect a dynamic mix of activities. Basic swimming ability is required; participants should feel comfortable in the water.

    Grade and Terrain

    The trails are well-maintained but often rocky and uneven, requiring sturdy footing. You’ll traverse diverse terrains, from scenic mountain paths and rugged footpaths to occasional stretches of tarmac. Some sections feature steeper inclines, adding a touch of challenge to this rewarding adventure. Perfect for those seeking an active way to immerse themselves in Greece’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

    Itinerary

    Day 1Welcome to Athens - Walking Hour in Plaka

    Arrival in Athens — a city where every corner hums with history and every stone has a story to tell. After settling into your accommodation, the journey begins with a relaxed afternoon meet-up. We’ll gather for an informal welcome talk to set the tone for the days ahead and get to know one another.
    Later, we head out for a gentle stroll through Plaka, the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Athens. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, Plaka’s narrow lanes are lined with neoclassical houses, hidden courtyards, and small shops that echo the rhythm of old-world Greece.
    We’ll end the evening with our first shared meal — a traditional Greek dinner in a cozy taverna, where warm hospitality and authentic flavors offer the perfect start to the experience ahead. (D)
    Overnight in Athens

    Day 2Acropolis, Acropolis Museum & Sea Kayaking to Cape Sounio

    After a hearty breakfast, the ancient wonders of Athens await. At the entrance of the Acropolis, your private professional guide greets you with stories ready to unfold — tales of gods, philosophers, and one of the greatest civilizations the world has ever known.
    As you walk through the sacred grounds, stand before the iconic Parthenon, temple of Athena, and feel the energy of a place that has inspired thinkers, artists, and dreamers for over two millennia. The experience continues at the New Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural gem that houses stunning artifacts recovered from the surrounding area — giving deeper context and meaning to what you’ve just explored.
    After a delicious lunch, the pace shifts from ancient marble to Aegean blue. Head south to the Athenian Riviera for a thrilling sea kayaking experience along the coast. This is one of the most immersive outdoor activities in the Athens region — paddling past hidden coves, sea-sculpted cliffs, and tranquil waters that carry the whispers of myth.
    The day concludes at Cape Sounio, where the Temple of Poseidon stands proudly on the edge of a cliff. As the sun dips into the horizon, bathing the marble columns in golden light, you’ll understand why this is one of the most magical places to experience a Greek sunset. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Athens

    Day 3White Water Rafting in Lousios River & Village Life in Dimitsana

    Leaving behind the city buzz of Athens, the journey leads us deep into the mountains of the Peloponnese, where nature and mythology intertwine in breathtaking ways. Our destination: Dimitsana, a stone-built mountain village perched above the Lousios Gorge — and the perfect gateway to one of the most scenic river adventures in Greece.
    The day’s thrill begins on the Lousios River, where, according to legend, Zeus himself once bathed as an infant. Surrounded by lush cliffs and ancient forest, we’ll embark on a second-degree white water rafting route that flows from the mythic Lousios into the Alfios River. Along the way, we’ll paddle beneath dramatic rock walls, float under a spectacular stone bridge, and even stop beneath a cascading waterfall for a splash and some epic photos.

    After working up an appetite, we’ll enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal filled with rustic Peloponnesian flavors. The pace slows in the evening with time to unwind at a cozy guesthouse, before heading out for a walk through Dimitsana’s winding alleys and lantern-lit squares.
    As night falls, we mingle with the locals over local wine, ouzo, and traditional bites in the village square — the perfect way to savor the soul of mountain life in Greece. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Dimitsana

    Day 4Ancient Olympia: Sacred Grounds & Seaside Escape

    After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the road leads us west to one of the most sacred sites of the ancient world: Olympia — the birthplace of the Olympic Games and a place where history, myth, and nature converge in majestic harmony.
    Accompanied by our private professional guide, we’ll walk through the valley of wild olives and plane trees, entering a timeless landscape where athletes once competed in honor of Zeus. As we move beneath towering temple columns and explore the remains of gymnasiums, altars, and arenas, the energy of the past feels vividly present. In the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the stories of gods and mortals come alive.
    A visit to the Olympia Archaeological Museum adds rich context, showcasing marble sculptures, intricate votive offerings, and the legendary statue of Hermes by Praxiteles. We’ll also take a few quiet moments to absorb the profound stillness and dignity of this historic sanctuary.
    In the afternoon, we trade the ancient stones for sun and sea with a refreshing escape to the coast. A swim in the Ionian waters, a delicious seaside meal, and time to relax under the Mediterranean sun round out the day — the perfect contrast to a morning steeped in myth and history. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Olympia

    Day 5Ferry to Kefalonia, Mount Ainos Hike & Vineyard Wine Tasting

    The journey continues westward as we board the ferry from Kyllini to Kefalonia — one of Greece’s most captivating islands, known for its wild beauty, cultural richness, and warm island spirit. Upon arrival, we settle into our accommodation in the island’s charming capital, Argostoli, before setting off for our next adventure.
    Rising dramatically above the Ionian Sea, Mount Ainos is the tallest peak in the Ionian Islands and a designated national park. Our hike takes us through dense black fir forests unique to this region, leading to panoramic vistas where sea and sky seem to stretch endlessly in every direction. The crisp mountain air and breathtaking views offer a true outdoor escape and one of the most scenic hikes in Greece.
    From mountain peaks to rolling vineyards, the afternoon invites a shift in pace. We head to a local Kefalonian winery for a guided wine tasting experience amidst the vines. Let our expert host lead you through the aromas and flavors of indigenous grape varieties like Robola, sharing insights into Kefalonia’s winemaking traditions and the secrets of Greece’s evolving wine culture.
    We’ll savor a variety of regional wines paired with authentic Greek delicacies, all enjoyed outdoors as part of a vineyard picnic — a moment of pure Ionian indulgence. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Kefalonia

    Day 6Kefalonia Sea Kayaking Adventure

    The entire day is dedicated to one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in Greece — an epic sea kayaking adventure along Kefalonia’s dazzling coastline.
    Paddling at a relaxed, exploratory pace, we set out into a world shaped by water and time. The first stretch takes us past a landscape of sea caves, natural arches, and rugged rock gardens — each turn revealing a new surprise carved by the sea. We pause for a refreshing swim and a fruit break in Palaiostafida Bay, a site steeped in mythology. According to Robert Bittlestone’s modern theory on Homer’s Odyssey, this very bay may have been where Telemachus, son of Ulysses, was ambushed by the suitors — a hauntingly beautiful place where legend and landscape collide.

    As we continue paddling, we pass the lively beach of Makris Gialos, and the scenery shifts dramatically. Towering white limestone cliffs rise from the sea, giving way to hidden caves, surreal turquoise waters, and remote sandy beaches that feel like well-kept secrets. We’ll take another break for snorkeling, swimming, and a laid-back lunch by the sea, immersed in the tranquility of this lesser-seen side of the island.
    The final stretch brings us to Minies Beach, where we wrap up the journey with a cold drink at a cozy beach bar — a well-earned toast to a day of adventure.
    The evening is yours to relax, explore, or simply soak in the island atmosphere. (B,L)
    Overnight in Kefalonia

    Day 7Kefalonia Island Tour

    From mysterious underground lakes to turquoise bays and charming coastal villages, Kefalonia reveals its most iconic and enchanting corners in one unforgettable day.
    Our island tour begins with a visit to the magical Melissani Cave, where sunlight streams through a collapsed roof and dances on the crystal-clear underground lake. A short boat ride through its shimmering blue waters is like entering another world — part natural wonder, part myth, once believed to be a sanctuary of the nymph Melissanthi.
    Nearby, we explore the Drogarati Cave, a natural cathedral of stalactites and stalagmites, known for its incredible acoustics and otherworldly beauty. The atmosphere is cool and ancient — a striking contrast to the sun-soaked coastline just beyond.
    Next, we head to Myrtos Beach, one of Greece’s most famous — and photogenic — stretches of coastline. Framed by dramatic cliffs and brilliant blue waters, it’s the perfect spot for a swim or a moment to soak in the Ionian magic.
    Our journey continues to the postcard village of Assos, with its pastel houses, peaceful bay, and Venetian ruins, before finishing in the cosmopolitan harbor town of Fiskardo. With its elegant waterfront, yachts bobbing in the harbor, and lively cafés, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the island’s laid-back luxury. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Kefalonia

    Day 8From Kefalonia to Meteora

    The Ionian adventure draws to a close as we take a scenic ferry from Fiskardo to the mainland, continuing our journey toward one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring landscapes — the mystical rock pillars of Meteora.
    Rising like giants from the Thessalian plain, these towering stone formations are crowned with centuries-old monasteries, seemingly suspended between earth and sky. As we approach, the sight is nothing short of breathtaking — a spiritual and geological marvel that defies logic and gravity.
    What began as simple shelters carved into cliff faces by hermit monks has evolved into a thriving monastic community. While modern roads now reach many of the monasteries, we’ll take a more meaningful approach — following ancient rocky paths once used by pilgrims and monks themselves, soaking in the solitude, the silence, and the astonishing views.
    We settle in the peaceful village of Kastraki, nestled at the base of Meteora’s stone sentinels. Tomorrow, we’ll explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site more deeply — not from tour buses, but on a hidden trail known only to locals. (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Kastraki, Meteora

    Day 9Meteora Hiking Tour - Athens

    The morning begins with a rare and unforgettable experience — a hike through Meteora, following the same ancient trails once used by monks centuries ago. Far from the tour bus crowds, this is a journey into both the heart of nature and the soul of Greek spirituality.

    Our trail begins at St. Nicolas Monastery in Kastraki, winding beneath Meteora’s soaring stone towers, shaped by 60 million years of elemental force. Along the way, we pass under the silent presence of the Pantocrator Monastery, through a lush forest path that leads us to the hidden Monastery of Ypapanti, tucked into the cliffs, and the evocative ruins of St. Dimitrios.

    The path climbs toward two of Meteora’s most celebrated clifftop monasteries: Varlaam and Great Meteoro — architectural masterpieces perched at the edge of the sky. We’ll enter one of these sacred sites to explore its ancient frescoes, relics, and quiet reverence.
    As we descend back toward Kastraki, we pass the cave of St. George Mandila, where local climbers still carry on the unique tradition of hanging colorful scarves in honor of the saint — a symbol of courage, gratitude, and community.
    In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner, surrounded by the towering rocks that have witnessed centuries of devotion, solitude, and inspiration — the perfect setting to reflect on the journey and celebrate everything we’ve experienced together.(B,L,D)

    Overnight in Kastraki, Meteora

    Day 10Departure day

    After breakfast, we say farewell to the magical landscape of Meteora and begin our comfortable return drive to Athens. As the dramatic rock formations fade in the rearview mirror, we carry with us the stories, sensations, and connections of the past ten days — a journey through myth, mountain, and sea. (B)

    Arrival in Athens marks the official end of our adventure. Whether you’re continuing your travels or heading home, we’re happy to assist with private transfers, extended stays, or any onward arrangements you may need.

    Photos
    Pricing

    Price is based on a minimum attendance of 4 people (for less or more participants, feel free to contact us).

    Price Includes

    • All accommodations based on double occupancy
    • Aegean Outdoors English speaking guide throughout the trip
    • All necessary equipment and staff for all activities mentioned above
    • Transportations
    • Fuels and tolls
    • Meals as mentioned above
    • All necessary ferry tickets (Kyllini - Kefalonia and Kefalonia – Lefkada)
    • Admission/entrance fees (Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum, Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site, Melissani Cave, Drogarati Ruins, Meteora)
    • Professional guided tour at Acropolis, Parthenon, New Acropolis Museum and Olympia archaeological site

    Price Excludes

    • Flights to/from Greece
    • Personal, Travel or emergency evacuation insurance
    • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Drinks during meals
    • Personal expenses
    • Gratuities for leader/guide or drive
    • Overnight Stay Tax (payable locally at the hotels)
    Recommended Gear

    Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm sunny days and occasional cool breezes, especially on the islands or at higher elevations. The best approach to packing is to use the layering system—this allows you to easily adjust to changing temperatures. If it gets hot, you can remove layers; if it turns windy or cooler, you can quickly layer up for comfort.

    Travel light, travel smart. The less you carry, the easier your journey will be—especially when navigating ferry ports, cobblestone streets, or compact sailboats. Minimalist packing isn’t just convenient at the start; you’ll thank yourself at the end of the trip, too.

    Here’s a list of recommended items to bring on your Greece Active Tour:

    What to bring

    • Day pack to carry camera, water bottle and snacks etc.
    • Windbreaker
    • Casual clothing made of light-weight fabrics
    • Long-sleeve shirt
    • Hiking pants, loose and easy to move in and quick-drying hiking shorts
    • Swimsuit
    • Sun hat or baseball cap
    • Casual, comfortable shoes for evening
    • Sunscreen and lip protection
    • Sunglasses and retainer strap
    • Electrical adapter plug/converter
    • Soft duffel bag or lightweight rolling suitcase (ideal for boat storage)

    *This packing list is meant to serve as a flexible guideline, not a strict checklist. Feel free to adapt it based on your personal preferences, travel style, and the specific activities you have planned. Add what you need, skip what you don’t—the goal is to pack smart and travel comfortably.

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