Hiking medieval trails at Kythnos island

Middle Ages had a profound impact on the island of Kythnos. Holidays on Kythnos island give you the opportunity to experience the dark ages of the island by hiking the Medieval Trails of Kythnos. Through this guided tour you will learn about the glorious moments of the island and old stories which pass by word of mouth to the new generations.

One of the medieval landmarks of Kythnos is the Castle of Oria (or simply Kastro), located at the medieval capital, which lies on a steep cliff in the northwest of the island. An area with an amazing view of the Aegean Sea, rich flora, and fauna. This place is the center of a unique story that is lost in the depths of the ages with pirates, kings, and beautiful princesses.

Activity

Our hiking experience begins above the settlement of Loutra on Kythnos island, giving a magnificent view of the eastern Cyclades. Then we continue uphill following a dirt road until we reach the junction either north to the church of St. George or west to the Castle of Oria.

Further on our trail, you may enjoy unique views of the western Aegean sea and the wild beauty of the landscape until you see the impressive steep cliffs on which the Castle of Oria is built. The Castle of Oria was the seat of the Italian feudal family of Gozzadini who dominated the island from 1337 to 1617 as the subordinates of the Venetian Duchy of Naxos. In 1292, Kythnos was plundered by the Catalans while throughout the Venetian and Ottoman domination, it suffered greatly from pirate raids. Today, only the ruins of fortifying walls and medieval residences are preserved from the old Castle, while only the churches of Keralaousa and Agia Triada are preserved from its 100 churches.

After our guided tour and extensive storytelling at the Castle of Oria, the hiking trail continues through the fruit crops of the locals and our experience ends at the port of Loutra.

Features

• Start time: 09:00 pm
• Implementation period: All year round (upon request)
• Trail distance: 12km
• Route type: Circular
• Activity duration with breaks:5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Suitability: Suitable for all / relatively good fitness is required

Important Information

• The altitude difference we cover is relatively small and only 4 kilometers are uphill.
• A minimum of 4 participants is required for the implementation of the activity. In the event that the required number of participants is not reached or due to adverse weather conditions or technical difficulties, we have the right to postpone or cancel the activity.