Routes that reveal the island’s past and beauty
Amidst oak forests, stone and sea, the footpaths of Kea offer a treasure trove of experiences and beauty. Twelve footpaths etched into slopes and dry-stone walls traverse the island’s history. Over 80 kilometres of hiking routes connect the four ancient cities —Ioulis, Karthaia, Korissia and Poiessa— with chapels, springs and coasts that smell of thyme.
The Chora is the natural starting point for many of these paths. From the paved alleys of Ioulis, you head up towards the Castle and the Lion of Kea, a giant archaic sculpture carved into the rock 2,500 years ago. From there, the routes unfold like threads towards Vourkari by the sea and the harbour of Korissia, or eastwards towards the ancient theatre of Karthaia and the coasts with their emerald waters.
While hiking, be sure to observe all safety measures and, where necessary, engage an experienced, certified guide.
The ascent to the Castle offers a magnificent view in the morning before the light intensifies. Stop at the small springs or fountains of Ioulis for refreshment – the Keans say that here the water “remembers the gods”. Reward your effort with a refreshing dip in the sea. Combine your hike with a meal in Vourkari or Korissia, enjoying fresh fish and local wines.
The Chora is the natural starting point for many of these paths. From the paved alleys of Ioulis, you head up towards the Castle and the Lion of Kea, a giant archaic sculpture carved into the rock 2,500 years ago. From there, the routes unfold like threads towards Vourkari by the sea and the harbour of Korissia, or eastwards towards the ancient theatre of Karthaia and the coasts with their emerald waters.
While hiking, be sure to observe all safety measures and, where necessary, engage an experienced, certified guide.
Routes worth following:
- Ioulis – Lion – Otzias (5.1 km): Passes the stone spring of Benjamin and crosses lush green streams and small hamlets.
- Ioulis – Messaria – Agios Symeon – Karthaia (11.8 km): The island's most sprawling and thrilling hike. It follows an ancient stone-paved road, passes Profitis Ilias and reaches ancient Karthaia, where the ruins almost touch the sea.
- Vourkari – Koundouros (7.2 km): A coastal route that combines the mountain landscape with the scent of the sea.
- Korissia – Agia Irini – Vourkari (3.5 km): Easy and enjoyable, ideal for those wanting a gentle hiking experience.
The ascent to the Castle offers a magnificent view in the morning before the light intensifies. Stop at the small springs or fountains of Ioulis for refreshment – the Keans say that here the water “remembers the gods”. Reward your effort with a refreshing dip in the sea. Combine your hike with a meal in Vourkari or Korissia, enjoying fresh fish and local wines.
