Hikers in Greece can now embark on their own epic journey thanks to a new network of trails spanning the southern peninsula, launched for Europe’s summer hiking season. The Peloponnese Trail, also known as the Peloponnese Mythic Trail Network, connects 12 major walking paths over more than 1700 kilometres, offering breathtaking views of blue coastlines and historic towns and ruins.
In an unexpected twist that might have been orchestrated by Hermes, the Greek god of travel and good fortune, the Peloponnese region will also play a significant role in Christopher Nolan’s retelling of The Odyssey, set to premiere in cinemas on July 17. This film features stars like Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya.
The development of these trails began in 2015 with the creation of Arcadia’s Menalon Trail. Over the past decade, efforts have focused on updating signage, creating digital trail maps, and restoring old mule paths—some of which had not been used since the 1970s—through olive groves, pine forests, and mountain villages.
Each trail is named after figures from Greek history and mythology, weaving through the agricultural heartlands and historic cities of the Peloponnese. These routes also include visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Olympia, Epidaurus, and Mycenae.
One of the most popular trails is the 203-kilometre Hercules Trail, which follows the hero’s labours through the vineyards of Nemea, renowned for its wine production. This area is famous for the legend of Hercules killing the Nemean lion. Hikers can explore the mountainous valleys of north-eastern Arcadia, visit the Temple of Zeus and Mycenaean Tombs, and taste red wines made from the agiorgitiko grape at family-run estates.
Another notable route is the Messinia Trail, which winds through Kalamata, the legendary home of King Nestor from Homer’s tale and a centre for modern Greek olive cultivation. The Sparta Trail takes hikers past dramatically crumbling palaces and mansions, leading to the Tomb of Leonidas.
Trailheads in Corinth, Kiato, or Xylokastro can be accessed via Athens’ suburban train service. Experienced hiking operators, including InnWalking and Wild Rover Travel, offer eight-day self-guided packages along the Menalon Trail, featuring stays at guesthouses.
After a week of hiking, hikers can treat their feet to a wellness retreat inspired by Ancient Greek traditions at Mandarin Oriental’s Costa Navarino, the group’s first property in Greece, which opened in August 2023 in Messinia. Alternatively, they can unwind by the pool at Kinsterna Hotel, a restored Byzantine-era mansion estate in Monemvasia that received two Michelin Hotel Keys last year.
