Walking on the east coast
Red cliffs, deep gorges, quiet chapels and coastal paths, all within reach of the sea. Four favourite walks and when to do them.
The short answer
Leonidio sits between the Myrtoan Sea and the Parnon mountains, and almost every walk here starts within a few minutes of the coast. Paths that shepherds and pilgrims once used now lead to chapels, monasteries and hidden beaches.
You can walk for an hour before breakfast or for a whole day. The routes below run from an easy hilltop stroll to a long gorge trail, and most pair well with a swim afterwards.
We have walked them many times from our hotel at Sampatiki, so the tips come from experience, not a brochure.
Written by the Sampatiki Suites team. Updated September 2026.
Best months
March to June, September to November
Trails
Easy to hard
Start from
Leonidio or Poulithra
Bring
Water, sun protection, good shoes
Four favourite walks
Distances and times are approximate. Allow longer if you stop to swim or explore.
Easy · 4.5 km · 1.5 hrs
A gentle climb from Leonidio to a hilltop chapel with views over the town, the sea and the red cliffs. Lovely at sunrise or sunset. Wear good shoes and bring water.
Moderate · 12 km · 4 to 5 hrs
Climb from Leonidio to a cliff monastery built into the red rock. Start early in warm months and dress modestly to go in.
Moderate to hard · 15 km, or 3 km short · 2 to 6 hrs
Follow an old path through the Daphnon Gorge to the monastery at about 650 metres. Most people walk the short version from Hunters’ Spring. Avoid it after heavy rain.
Moderate · 12 km · 4 to 5 hrs
An ancient footpath from Poulithra to a hidden bay of white pebbles, with sea views, wildflowers and a swim at the end.
A landscape with a story
The trails cross a landscape where history, myth and nature overlap. You pass stone chapels, terraced hillsides and old mule paths, with the scent of wild thyme and sage underfoot.
Whether you want wide views, a quiet monastery or simply a morning on a path with no one else on it, there is a route to suit you.
When to walk
Leonidio suits walking in every season. Choose the one that matches the walk you want.
Spring
The scent of thyme and sage fills the air and the trails are alive with butterflies and birdsong.
Summer
Midday is hot. Walk early, then swim.
Autumn
Trails are quieter and the sea is warm enough for a swim after your hike.
Winter
Lower paths are often open and peaceful. Higher ground can be wet and cold.
Our tip
Not every path is signposted. Download an offline map before you set off, and tell reception where you are heading.
Your base
After a day on the trail, our hotel on the coast, a short drive from Leonidio, gives you the best of both worlds: mountain paths in the morning and seaside calm in the evening.
Soak in the pool, book a spa treatment or eat dinner by the sea. Eleven sea-view suites and a breakfast built around local produce make it an easy base for a walking week.
From us at Sampatiki
After a day on the trail, the sauna and jacuzzi at our spa are included in every suite, and breakfast starts at 07:00 for an early start.
Keep exploring
Questions
What is the best time of year to hike in Leonidio?
Spring and autumn give the mildest weather. Summer is best for early mornings and coastal walks, and winter is quiet on the lower trails.
Which hike is best for beginners?
The Profitis Ilias trail. It is about 4.5 km round trip, takes about 1.5 hours and ends at a hilltop chapel with sweeping views.
Are the trails marked?
Not all of them. Use an offline map, start early and tell someone your route.
What should I bring?
Water, sun protection, good walking shoes and swimwear. Dress modestly if you plan to enter a monastery.
Stay with us
Eleven sea-view suites, a spa and a breakfast built around local produce, a few minutes from Leonidio.
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