Hike to the top of the Cyclades - Mount Zeus, Naxos island

Activity ID : 4211

Moderate

4 hours

Apr - Oct

Minimum participation limit 12 years

English, Greek

Reviews

Activity Description

Hike the ancient trail to the top of the Cyclades and enjoy the infinite blue of the Aegean Sea and the breathtaking view of the neighboring islands.

Overview

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 delicious traditional treats. 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, under the shade of the trees!

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.

Itinerary

Meeting time (Agia Marina Chapel) 09.00
Hike to the top of the Cyclades 09.00– 11.00
Short break to enjoy the view and traditional snack/treat 11.00 – 11.30
Hike down the mountain 11.30 – 12.30
Enjoy traditional picnic 12.30 - 13.00

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 Naxos, the Aegean Sea, and neighboring islands.
Hike the ancient trail used since antiquity.
Enjoy the breathtaking views all along the way to the top.
Enjoy a delicious traditional picnic at the end of your hike.

DISTANCE: 6 km / 3.7 m

SUN EXPOSURE: 90%

ALTITUDE: 1003 meters / 3290 ft

ASCEND: 391 meters / 1282 ft

DESCEND: 391 meters / 1282 ft

Participation requirements

Ages between 12 - 75 years old
Good physical condition

Included

• English speaking Guide

• First aid kits and other necessary

• Equipment

• Local Transportation (optional, can be added during booking process)

• Snack

• Traditional picnic

• Liability insurance

Not included

• Gratuities (optional)

Do nοt forget

• Obligatory light hiking shoes or hiking boots

• Small backpack

• Comfortable clothes (preferably quick-drying material: cotton or polycotton not denim)

• Waterproof jacket/membrane (for the rainy days)

• Hat

• Sunglasses, sunblock

• Your own personal water bottle. As part of our environmental policy and actions, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic water bottles.

• Hiking poles (optional)

Cancellation policy

Cancellation 24 hours before the start date of the agreed activity. You will be automatically refunded for the full price of the activity.
Cancellation 24 hours or later before the start date of the agreed activity is what we call last minute cancellations. No refunds will be made.

* 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.

Trekking Hellas Naxos