Hiking at the Finest Castle View of the island (Naxos)
Activity Description
Feel like the duke on the top of your duchy. What a view! How do your people live? What was your main concern about your duchy? How have people's lives changed since that time? Witness the Nobles' privileges and local way of living.
A moderate-to-demanding walk, starting from the village of Halki, Naxos’ old commercial centre. As we cross the lush valley of Tragea, heading west to Apano Kastro (Upper Castle), we can see the rapid change of the geomorphology: huge stone rocks form a lunar-like landscape, on geological formation unique in the cycladic region. A short, rough footpath leads us to Apano Kastro, a formidable citadel with a view over the central part of the island. This was the residence of the island’s Duke during the period of Venetian rule. The view from this point is breathtaking. The medieval scenery of the fort and the half-ruined old churches is quite theatrical. Descending from the castle, we visit the Geometric Era Cemetery (Necropolis) and the nearby Menhir, a large upright-standing stone suggesting pre-historic presence of people in the area. We then follow old footpaths that peasants used for centuries which connect the nearby small charming, traditional villages of Heimaros, Damalas and Damarionas, before ending up in Halki. Picturesque churches can be encountered all along our hike to Halki.
- Level: moderate to demanding
- Duration: 4h (plus driving time 1+ h)
- Distance: 9.2 km
Other Technical Details:
- Elevation gain: 236m
- elevation loss: -236m
- maximum inclination: 23.5% (asc.) -23.6% (desc.)
- average inclination: 4.6% (asc.) -5.1% (desc.)
Recommended seasons: All year round (except on very windy days)
Starting time: i) April to June 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ii) July to mid-September is 7:00-8:00 a.m. iii) Late September to November is 8:30 - 9:00 a.m. depending on weather conditions
Meeting point: i) If the transfer is included: your hotel ii) If the transfer is not included: a convenient place according to your hotel’s location
Starting point: Halki village
Points of interest: Traditional settlements of Tragea Valley, an olive press museum, an old pottery lab, the Citron distillery, unique geological formations
Ending point: Halki village
Complimentary meal: Yes
Returning time: Approximately 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Read MoreRead Less
Included
Not included
Do nοt forget
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 30 days or more prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are automatically reimbursed for the full activity price.
- Cancellation between 14 and 30 days prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are entitled to a 50% reimbursement.
- Cancellation 14 days or later are what we call last-minute cancellations. No reimbursements will be effected.
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
Location
Meeting Point
Region: Naxos
Address: Chora of Naxos
Notes: The exact meeting point will be determined after booking. Contact your guide.