The 6 ‘Must Haves’ for a Walking Holiday in Greece
If you’re fortunate enough to be going walking in Greece through a cool pleasant spring or a warm balmy summer, you’ll need to remember a few absolute essentials. Here’s a list of 6unforgettable items that you’ll need to take with you to make the most of your holiday in the land of golden light, classical myths and a warm people.
The 6 ‘Must Haves’ for a Walking Holiday in Greece
1. Sunglasses
As Louis de Bernières pointed out in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, the brightness of the light in Greece can be quite overwhelming for the first time visitor. Whether it’s the white-washed walls of the tavernas and villages, the hazy greens and browns of the fields or the striking blue of the sea that causes it, you’ll need something between the sun’s rays and your adjusting eyes! That’s not to say that walking in Greece is an uncomfortable experience, but there’s a reason why such a relaxed atmosphere descends upon the country when the sun is high in the sky. A good pair of sunglasses will help you drink in the amazing beauty of your surroundings without overloading your senses.
2. Fine Footwear
As you’re hiking in Greece it’s a given that you’d take a strong pair of walking shoes. With some sturdy footwear you’ll be able to roam over hot sands, pebbled stone and winding paths without impediment. But here’s an interesting question… what will you do as the sun begins to set? With such beautifully warm Mediterranean evenings to enjoy, it’s a good idea to bring some soft, open sandals that will let your feet breathe in the cool, soothing air. Remember, if your feet feel hot, you’ll feel hot and if they feel relaxed and free, so, in turn, will you. There’s no better way to spend an evening.
3. Phrase Book
Anyone who wants to walk in Greece and see the real, local country should have at least a few greetings stitched into their mind. With a simple ‘Yiá sas’ (‘Hello’) and a ‘Hérome yia tin gnorimía’ (‘pleased to meet you’), you’ll give an open impression of yourself to the people you meet on your travels, and will soon experience some of the warmest hospitality in the world. It’s surprising just how far you can get with even a basic phrase book, and there are few things quite as fun as exchanging compliments with a curious stranger, particularly if neither of you speak the other’s language.
4. Swimming Costume
One of the great virtues of walking in Greece, particularly in the warmer months, is the many attractive coastal routes that you can follow. The heat of the day need never inconvenience you as the cool waters of the Mediterranean are often no more than a stone’s throw away. So warm are the sea breezes that a towel may not even be a necessity. Come to think of it, many of the routes are so secluded and peaceful that the swimming costume may not be a necessity either!
5. Compilation of Greek Myths
Hiking in Greece is not only a feast for the senses, but a chance to explore the birthplace of classical literature. So many evocative myths and tales have come from Greece and her islands that you’re spoiled for choice at every turn. Whether this is at the remains of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi or by hoping to stumble upon Jason’s Golden Fleece, Aphrodite’s Girdle, or Hermes’ Winged Boots is up to you. However, a ball of twine is a wise investment if you plan to search for the Minotaur’s Labyrinth on Crete, as finding your way into its lair is famously easier than finding your way out.
6. A Guide Book
The wise old Greek leaders said that when walking in Greece, all paths go from the back of one church to the back of another church. Given the ubiquity of churches and chapels this isn’t a bad maxim to follow. However, in reality hiking in Greece isn’t that simple and paths can be extremely difficult to find, unless they are motorways like the Samaria Gorge on Crete. For this reason investing in a good map or guide book is a wise choice and going with a company that has already worked out the routes in advance definitely pays dividends.
You will not be able to resist the charm and beauty of Greece and once you fall under her spell – you will be smitten forever.
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, a long-established and highly respected company. They have expertise in more than 70 different countries, offering over 250 holidays, including many related to walking in Greece, making them a superb choice for the discerning traveller.
