Walking highlights of Paxos

Walking on Paxos: a guide to the Green Island

Paxos, a small island in the Ionian Sea, is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages.

For those who love to explore on foot, Our guidebook to walking on Paxos contains a superb variety of hiking trails that showcase the scenic landscapes and cultural heritage of the island.

Here are some of the best walks on the island, along with tips for planning your trip.

Circuit from Gaios via Tripitos Arch and Moggonissi Island (Walk 1)

Tripitos Arch is one of the island’s natural wonders. It takes you by surprise: you peer over the sheer sea-cliffs and see not far below you an impressive archway of rock hanging off the island.

It requires a bit of a scramble to reach the arch but, if you’re sure-footed, don’t miss this descent. Otherwise, just enjoy the peace and quiet of the shady mule tracks we follow.

Then cross the short causeway to Moggonissi Island and take a dip in the beautiful inlet that lights up this picturesque corner of Paxos.

From Gaios to Loggos (Walk 3)

Climb into the hills that look out over the harbour at Gaios and stumble upon the partly abandoned and enchanting hamlet of Geromonaches.

Sitting here amidst the sagging walls and derelict buildings, time really does stand still.

Continuing on, we traipse over the island’s backbone of hills. Rustic villages dot the countryside; these too echo abandonment, with their shuttered villas and forgotten gardens. Idyllic spots for day-dreaming.

From Bogdanatika to Lakka via Ipapanti Church (Walk 5)

Here’s a walk without beaches! It’s a real countryside ramble – most of it spent wandering through rustic villages deep amidst the olive groves.

But a walk without sea views would be virtually impossible on this tiny island, and this walk has perhaps the most dramatic sea views you’ll see on Paxos.

From Loggos to Lakka (via the coast) (Walk 6)

The idyllic little coves that lie scattered along the east coast make this island the gem that it is. They warrant a cove crawl, and this hike is the second half of it (the first half being Walk 4).

By boat it will cost you much less energy. By foot you pay with a couple of hours and possibly a blister, but the reward certainly outshines the discomfort. Don’t forget your suncream!

Circuit via Cape Lakka, Vassiliatika and Ipapanti Church (Walk 7)

Explore Cape Lakka and discover varied beaches and seascapes. Then move on to the plunging escarpment of the west coast, an inaccessible wall of cliffs that will leave you in awe.

Inland, the countryside is a timeless masterpiece. Enchanting old lanes lead you through the Paxos of centuries ago… and the Paxos of today. There is little difference between the two.

Getting to, and walking on, Antipaxos

Antipaxos is a small island off the coast of Paxos – it’s a popular day trip destination. There are regular ferry services between the two islands, making it easy to explore both in a single day.

Antipaxos is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. While there are no official hiking trails, you can explore the island on foot and discover hidden coves and beaches.

The best time for walkers to visit Paxos

The kindest months for your strolls around Paxos and Antipaxos are on either side of summer: April to June and September to October.

July and August, when temperatures are mostly over 30°C, are the hot and sticky months — but sea breezes do help to keep you cool. This the time for short strolls only — to the beach or a picnic spot.

Spring is announced in April with warmth in the sun and an extravaganza of wild flowers, but the rain isn’t over yet. By June a rainy day is considered unlucky, and in July or August, a phenomenon.

Towards the end of September there’s a freshness in the air again, with an occasional passing thunderstorm. In early October it’s time for a fleece and, as the month progresses, the cloudy days turn to rainy days.

It’s not the time for a beach holiday, but the haze-free cerulean sky and lush greenery, where autumn flowers hide, make this an exhilarating time to walk.

Getting around Paxos

There are no public buses on Paxos, so the best way to get around is by car, scooter, or bicycle. Also, you can rent vehicles in Gaios.

Paxos offers a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. There is stunning scenery, charming villages, and friendly locals – it’s a perfect destination for those who love to explore on foot.

Buy our guidebook to walking on Paxos.