Adventure

Hike the ancient trail to the zenith of the Cyclades, Mount Zas in Naxos. Enjoy the infinite blue of the Aegean Sea and the breathtaking view of the neighboring islands in the company of a guide.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 4.5 - 6 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English, Greek, Russian
Pickup optional: Please wait outside of your hotel/accommodation 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. (Please check your emails: your exact pick-up time will be sent to you the day before the tour).
Small group: Limited to 12 participants

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Susan – United States

David and Nectorios (I know I probably spelled that terribly), were absolutely amazing! We loved every part of this hike and recommend it to anyone willing and able to tackle it. The weather was chilly and the wind was significant, but we wouldn't have missed this wonderful experience for anything. The guides took photos all along the way and shared them with us afterwards. The picnic lunch at the end was authentic and delicious. There may be other guides but we can't imagine any of them being better than ours. We feel like we made friends for life. Excellent job guys - we will be recommending you to others! Cheers, Susan & Shawn

Matthew – United States

This hike was amazing! It was my wife and I’s favorite thing to do our whole trip. We got to see the country side of Naxos and see the beautiful mountains as well as villages! Nikkos was an amazing tour guide and provided us with lots of information. We will be booking another tour with them when we come back!

Highlights

Hike to the top of the Cyclades.
Conquer the highest mountain of the island where God Zeus was raised.
Gaze upon the 360-degree view over the Aegean Sea and neighboring islands.
Hike the ancient trail used since antiquity.
Enjoy a delicious traditional picnic at the end of your hike.

Full description

This hike will take you up to the top of the most popular mountain in the Cycladic island cluster: Mount Zas!

Once you reach the peak, there are many things to be proud of! Not only will you be at the highest point in the Cyclades ( 1003 m / 3290 ft), but you’ll have hiked to the summit of the mountain where Zeus, Father and King of the Olympian Gods, was raised. That is the reason why the mountain was named after Zeus (Zas in Naxos’ local dialect).

This pleasant hike of moderate difficulty begins at the small country church of Agia Marina at Danakos village. The trail you’ll be following is exactly the same trail people have been following to the top of the mountain since ancient times. As you hike up, you will encounter the fascinating 4th-century BC inscription carved on a rock: “ΟΡΟΣ ΔΙΟΣ ΜΗΛΩΣΙΟΥ.'' What does the inscription say? Come with us and find out how mythology blends with history!

You’ll start walking up a dirt trail flanked by the signature vegetation of the Cyclades. Higher up, it gradually becomes a jagged limestone path that’ll take you to the craggy summit of mighty Zeus. The vast blue of the Aegean Sea will accompany you along the way, while the view of the neighboring Cycladic islands is breathtaking. When you’re at the top, the 360 degree view is worthy of the Gods: plains and green slopes, small villages and tiny, whitewashed country churches (how many can you count?) as far as the eye can see .

Once you reach the top, you’ll spend some time taking photos and having a delicious traditional treat. After you take in all the beauty, you start on your way back! At the end of your hike you'll enjoy a delicious traditional picnic!

The hike to the peak of Mount Zas never disappoints. It’s actually a hike you’re not likely to forget. Do join us for this epic hike and discover unspoiled, pristine Naxos off the beaten track.

Distance: 6 km / 3.7 m
Altitude: 1003 meters / 3290 ft
Ascend: 391 meters / 1282 ft
Descend: 391 meters / 1282 ft
Terrain: dirt trail, rocky trail

Includes

English speaking Trekking Hellas Guide
Snack
Traditional picnic (full meal)
First aid kits and other necessary equipment
Local Transportation (optional, can be added during booking process)
Liability insurance
Taxes

Not suitable for

Children under 12 years
People with mobility impairments
People with low level of fitness
People over 70 years

Meeting point

Guest(s) should meet the guides outside the ''Saint Marina Holy Chapel''.

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Important information

What to bring

Windbreaker
Sunglasses
Hiking shoes
Sunscreen
Water
Comfortable clothes
Daypack

Know before you go

Please bring your own personal water bottle. We recommend at least 1,5 liter per person. As part of our environmental policy and actions, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic water bottles.
Please check your emails the day before the tour: For guest(s) who will meet us on the starting point the tour : more detailed information regarding the meeting point will be sent to you! For guest(s) who booked to use our transfer service, the exact pick-up time from your hotel/accommodation will be sent to you the day before the tour.

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Naxos: Hike to the Top of Mount Zas with a Guide