Nomia Trail Greece Hiking or Running Trip

Nomia Trail Hiking/Trail Running Greece

Nomia Trail is a village-to-village hiking or trail running experience through the Parnon Mountains of the Peloponnese, combining stunning landscapes, authentic local culture, traditional food, and meaningful encounters with the people of the region.

Duration: 8–9 Days Season: March–May, October–November Group Size: 5–10 Participants Far from the crowds of Santorini and the busy archaeological sites of mainland Greece lies one of the country's best-kept secrets: the Parnon Mountains. This journey combines a five-day village-to-village trek with authentic cultural encounters, local cuisine, Byzantine heritage, and time by the Mediterranean Sea. Guests walk through chestnut forests, mountain ridges, forgotten stone villages, and coastal landscapes while experiencing a side of Greece that few international travelers ever discover. The itinerary is designed as a hiking program, though with adjustments to daily distances and support logistics it can also be offered as a mountain trail running adventure.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER TO MOUNT PARNON

Arrival in Athens and group transfer to the eastern Peloponnese. Along the way, we stop for lunch and a first introduction to rural Greece before continuing into the mountains of Arcadia. Arrive in the village of Platanos, settle into our accommodation, enjoy a welcome dinner, and meet the local team. Overnight: Platanos

DAY 2: MEGAAIL TORIA SUMMIT HIKE/RUN

Our first full day introduces guests to the landscapes of Mount Parnon. The Nomia Trail begins as we hike a spectacular circular route to the summit of Megali Tourla (1,934 m), the highest peak in the region. The trail offers sweeping views across the Peloponnese, dense forests, alpine terrain, and, on clear days, the Aegean Sea. Distance and pace can be adjusted according to the group's profile. Highlights Highest summit of Mount Parnon Panoramic mountain and sea views Introduction to the local flora and ecology Overnight: Platanos

DAY 3: TREK FROM PLATANOS TO KASTANITSA

Today's route follows ancient paths connecting mountain communities and leads to Kastanitsa, one of Greece's most beautiful villages and home to a unique Tsakonian cultural heritage. Guests arrive in the afternoon with time to explore the village's narrow alleys and stone houses. Highlights River and canyon walk Traditional stone paths Chestnut forests Tsakonian culture and architecture Overnight: Kastanitsa

DAY 4: KASTANITSA TO AGIOS VASILI

Today's walk traverses remote mountain landscapes and traditional shepherd territory, we will pass through Prastos village, once was the capital of the Tsakonian villages. The route descends gradually toward Agios Vasilios, where the group is welcomed by local hosts. In the evening, guests participate in a hands-on cooking workshop featuring traditional Peloponnesian recipes and seasonal ingredients. Highlights Village-to-village hiking Local culinary traditions Home-style dinner experience Overnight: Agios Vasilios

DAY 5: AGIOS VASILI TO KOSMAS

The trail leads toward the mountain village of Kosmas, passing a series of historical sites of the Parnon Mountains. Arriving in Kosmas, guests discover a lively mountain village centered around its famous plane tree square. Highlights Historic routes Traditional village life *We can add a visit to The Hanging Monastery of Elona Overnight: Kosmas

DAY 6: BABALA GORGE AND DESCENT TO THE SEA

By group transfer, we travel toward the wild and remote landscapes of Babala, often referred to as the "Lost Valley" of Mount Parnon. Along the way, we visit the historic Byzantine town of Geraki, where the ruins of its medieval settlement and castle offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich past. At the Babala Valley, hikers will walk through changing landscapes and ecosystems, gradually leaving the mountains behind as the Myrtoan Sea comes into view. The route ends in the charming coastal village of Kyparissi, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. Highlights Byzantine town of Geraki Babala Valley Dramatic coastal views Arrival at the Mediterranean Sea Overnight: Kyparissi

DAY 7: COASTAL LEISURE DAY

After five active trekking days, guests enjoy a slower pace beside the sea. Optional activities may include: Sailing excursion Sea kayaking Stand-up paddleboarding Rock climbing Guided village walks Beach time and swimming The evening concludes with a farewell dinner overlooking the sea. Overnight: Kyparissi

DAY 8: RETURN TO ATHENS

After breakfast, transfer back to Athens Airport. Depending on flight schedules, stops can be incorporated along the route.

OPTIONAL 10 DAY VERSION

For groups seeking a more relaxed pace and additional cultural content, we recommend adding one or two days.

OPTION A: BYZANTINE PELOPONNESE EXTENSION

A full-day excursion to: Mystras (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Sparta historical site and heritage Local olive oil tasting Traditional village lunch This extension works particularly well between Kosmas and Kyparissi, breaking up the trekking days and providing deeper historical context. metres (2530 feet) Elevation Loss: 707 metres (2319 feet)

OPTION B: ATHENS RETURN EXTENSION

Add an overnight stop before returning to Athens, allowing guests to explore: Nemea wine region Mycenae Nafplio Old Town This option creates a more leisurely ending to the journey while showcasing another side of the Peloponnese.

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS

These experiences can be incorporated into the itinerary according to the group's interests:

Cultural & Culinary Experiences

• Regional wine tasting in Nemea – from €25 p.p

• Local workshops as Goat Cheese making or Herbal workshop – from €20 p.p

Active Experiences

• Introductory rock-climbing experience – from €35 p.p (minimum group charge may apply)

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – €20-25 p.p

• Morning yoga sessions

Cost: Price varies based on total no. of participants

Included in the Price

7 nights of accommodation Airport pick-up and drop-off in Athens
All ground transportation throughout the program
Professional local guide throughout the journey
Daily luggage transfers between accommodations during the trek
7 breakfasts 7 dinners, including one traditional cooking workshop
7 lunches or picnic lunches during hiking days
Entrance fees and activities included in the itinerary
Full trip planning, coordination, logistics, and operational support by Nomia Experience

Not Included

International flights to and from Greece
Any domestic flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages
Additional meals not specified in the itinerary
Optional activities on the leisure day (sailing, climbing, SUP, kayaking, etc.)
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and local hosts

Questions? Contact Us