Evia (also spelled Euboea) is Greece’s second-largest island and one of its most rewarding hiking destinations. Stretching for around 180 kilometres from north to south, it offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from rugged mountain peaks and deep forested gorges to waterfalls, coastal cliffs, alpine plateaus, and quiet valleys. Whether you’re after a short nature walk or a demanding mountain ascent, you’ll find trails to suit every level.
Evia is also where I grew up and still spend much of my time. Having hiked its mountains and trails for nearly 30 years, I’ve created this guide to bring together the routes I know best and love most, from the island’s iconic summits to lesser-known walks that deserve far more attention.
Because the island is so large, I’ve divided this guide into Central, North, and South Evia. Most visitors explore one region at a time, and this structure makes it much easier to find hikes that fit your itinerary.
Hi! I’m Dimi, tour guide and writer of this blog. I offer affordable, custom private tours (hiking or driving) around Evia. If you need any help exploring the best of the island, get in touch.
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Best Hikes in Central Evia
Mount Dirfys Summit
As the highest peak on Evia at 1,743 metres, Mount Dirfys is the island’s ultimate hiking destination. Rising high above the forests around Steni, its rugged limestone summit, sweeping alpine scenery, and far-reaching views make it one of the most rewarding mountain hikes in Greece. The standard route begins near the old mountain refuge on the southeastern side, following a well-marked trail that climbs steadily across rocky slopes to the summit of Delfi. Although technically straightforward, it is a demanding hike that requires good fitness and suitable mountain conditions.
While the southeastern ascent is the most popular and accessible option, Dirfys offers many more possibilities for experienced hikers. A second marked route approaches the summit from the northern refuge, while longer itineraries can incorporate Agali Gorge or other trails around the mountain. Whichever route you choose, the combination of dramatic scenery, changing landscapes, and the mountain’s wild character makes Dirfys a hike you’ll remember long after you’ve descended.
Read more 👉 Hiking Mount Dirfys, Evia Island, Greece
Steni to Dirfys Refuge Loop
Starting from the mountain village of Steni, this scenic loop is one of the best ways to experience the lower slopes of Mount Dirfys without tackling the summit itself. The route follows the S1 and S2 trails through dense chestnut and fir forests, crosses streams and shaded ravines, and reaches the historic Dirfys Refuge before returning via a different path. It is a moderately demanding hike that combines varied scenery with excellent trail marking, making it ideal for hikers looking for a rewarding full-day walk.
For stronger hikers, the loop can also be extended into a challenging mountain adventure by continuing from the refuge to the summit of Mount Dirfys before descending back to Steni. Whether completed on its own or combined with the island’s highest peak, it offers an excellent introduction to the landscapes that make central Evia one of Greece’s finest hiking regions.
Read more 👉 Steni to Dirfys Refuge Loop Hike
Agali Gorge
Agali Gorge is one of the most beautiful hikes in Central Evia, winding through a narrow valley on the western slopes of Mount Dirfys. Following a clear, well-marked trail, the route passes beneath towering limestone cliffs, through dense forests of chestnut and plane trees, across wooden bridges, and beside streams that flow for much of the year. The constant shade and rich vegetation make it an excellent choice during the warmer months, while the dramatic scenery changes with every turn.
The hike can be enjoyed as an out-and-back walk through the gorge or combined with other trails to create longer mountain adventures around Dirfys. One popular option is to continue towards the Dirfys Refuge or even the summit itself, making Agali Gorge part of one of the island’s most rewarding hiking itineraries.
Read more 👉 Hiking Agali Gorge: A Stunning Trail in the Heart of Evia
Stropones Gorge
Stropones Gorge offers one of the most varied and atmospheric hikes in Central Evia. Beginning near the traditional village of Stropones, the trail follows a crystal-clear stream through a lush gorge lined with plane trees, moss-covered rocks, wooden bridges, and small waterfalls before emerging at the iconic Chiliadou Beach. The route remains pleasantly shaded for much of its length, making it especially enjoyable in spring, early summer, and autumn, while the constant sound of flowing water adds to its tranquil character.
Unlike the more rugged mountain routes around Mount Dirfys, Stropones Gorge is all about immersing yourself in the forest. Depending on your time and fitness, you can enjoy a shorter walk through the most scenic section or continue further along the valley to explore more of the gorge. It is one of Evia’s finest hikes for anyone seeking rich vegetation, abundant water, and a peaceful escape into nature.
Read more 👉 Stropones Gorge: A Beautiful Hike in Central Evia
Mount Xerovouni
Mount Xerovouni is Evia’s second-highest mountain, rising to 1,453 metres directly opposite Mount Dirfys. Although less famous than its towering neighbour, it is arguably the island’s most dramatic peak, with a sheer northern cliff dropping onto the forests below. The standard route begins from the mountain pass between Dirfys and Xerovouni, climbing through fragrant fir forests before reaching open alpine terrain and the mountain’s rugged limestone slopes. The final ascent involves a short scramble using your hands in a few places, rewarding the effort with magnificent views over Dirfys, the surrounding peaks, and both the Aegean and Euboean seas.
Unlike Mount Dirfys, Xerovouni remains surprisingly quiet despite its outstanding scenery. Its wild plateau, towering cliffs, and sense of remoteness make it an excellent choice for experienced hikers looking to venture beyond the island’s best-known trails and discover one of Central Evia’s most striking mountain landscapes.
Read more 👉 Hiking Mount Xerovouni on Evia Island
Tanaida Plateau
Tanaida Plateau is one of Central Evia’s most unexpected landscapes. Perched high between Mount Dirfys and Mount Pyxarias, this secluded alpine basin feels remarkably remote, with rolling meadows, scattered oak trees, seasonal ponds, and panoramic views framed by the island’s highest mountains. The hike is relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience Evia’s mountain scenery without a strenuous summit ascent.
Several trails cross the plateau, allowing you to tailor the walk to your available time and fitness. Whether you come for a leisurely stroll among the wildflowers in spring or to enjoy the vast open scenery beneath Dirfys’ towering cliffs, Tanaida offers a completely different side of Evia from its forests and gorges, and one of the island’s most peaceful hiking experiences.
Read more 👉 Tanaida Plateau: One of Evia’s Most Beautiful Mountain Landscapes
Mount Olympus Euboicus
Mount Olympus Euboicus is one of Central Evia’s most overlooked summits, offering a rewarding hike through forests, rocky slopes, and open mountain scenery. Rising to 1,172 metres just south of Mount Dirfys, it provides sweeping views across much of the island, from the surrounding peaks to the Euboean Gulf and, on clear days, the distant mountains of mainland Greece. Despite its accessibility, the mountain remains pleasantly quiet, making it an excellent choice for hikers seeking solitude.
The standard route starts near the village of Gymno and follows a well-marked trail to the summit, passing through varied terrain that keeps the hike interesting throughout. While not as demanding as Dirfys or Xerovouni, Olympus Euboicus still delivers a true mountain experience and is one of the finest day hikes in Central Evia.
Read more 👉 Hiking Mount Olympus Euboicus in Central Evia
Manikiatis Waterfall
Manikiatis Waterfall is one of Central Evia’s most refreshing short hikes, leading to a secluded waterfall hidden within a narrow, forested gorge near the village of Manikia. The trail descends through Mediterranean woodland before following the stream into the gorge, where moss-covered rocks, crystal-clear pools, and steep cliffs create a surprisingly lush landscape. Although the waterfall is at its most impressive after periods of rain, the gorge remains a beautiful place to explore throughout much of the year.
The walk is relatively short but includes a few rocky and uneven sections that require care. Combined with a visit to the traditional village of Manikia or the surrounding mountains, it makes an excellent detour for anyone looking to experience a quieter and lesser-known side of Central Evia.
Read more 👉 Manikiatis Waterfall: Evia’s Hidden Gorge Oasis
Best Hikes in North Evia
Mount Kandyli
Mount Kandyli dominates the western side of North-Central Evia, rising abruptly above the Euboean Gulf with towering limestone cliffs, dense pine forests, and sweeping mountain ridges. Despite being one of the island’s highest mountains, it remains surprisingly overlooked, rewarding hikers with spectacular scenery and a welcome sense of solitude. The standard route climbs steadily through forests before reaching the broad summit ridge, where panoramic views extend across Northern Evia, the gulf, and the mountains of mainland Greece.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kandyli is also a mountain steeped in history. Along the way, you’ll encounter traces of old shepherd settlements, abandoned mountain huts, and reminders of the area’s past, adding another dimension to the hike. For those looking to venture beyond Evia’s better-known peaks, Mount Kandyli offers one of the island’s most rewarding mountain adventures.
Read more 👉 Mount Kandyli: Evia’s Mountain of Cliffs, Forests, and History
Drymonas Waterfall and Mount Xiron
Drymonas Waterfall and Mount Xiron make an excellent combination for a full day in the mountains of Northern Evia. The hike begins at one of the island’s most famous waterfalls, where a short forest trail leads to a spectacular cascade plunging into a deep pool. From there, a much quieter route climbs through dense pine and fir forests to the summit of Mount Xiron, rewarding hikers with sweeping views across Northern Evia, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Although many visitors stop at the waterfall, continuing to Mount Xiron’s summit reveals a wilder and far less explored side of the region. The contrast between lush woodland, open mountain ridges, and panoramic viewpoints makes this one of Northern Evia’s most varied hikes, while combining two of its finest natural attractions into a single rewarding outing.
Read more 👉 Exploring North Evia: Drymonas Waterfall and Mount Xiron
Mount Pyxarias
Mount Pyxarias is one of Northern Evia’s least-visited summits, offering a rewarding hike through dense forests, quiet mountain ridges, and open viewpoints with hardly another person in sight. Rising to 1,341 metres, it is the highest peak in Northern Evia and rewards the climb with sweeping panoramas over the surrounding mountains, the Aegean Sea, and the northern coastline of the island. The route follows a well-marked trail through varied terrain, making for an enjoyable mountain hike without any technical difficulties.
What makes Pyxarias special is its sense of wilderness. Far removed from the island’s better-known hiking destinations, it feels untouched and remarkably peaceful, making it an excellent choice for experienced hikers looking to escape the crowds and discover one of Evia’s hidden mountain gems.
Read more 👉 Hiking Mount Pyxarias, Northern Evia
Mount Telethrion
Mount Telethrio is one of Northern Evia’s most distinctive mountains, combining beautiful hiking with a rich cultural and natural heritage. Rising above the spa town of Edipsos, its network of trails passes through extensive pine forests, old chestnut groves, traditional chapels, and mountain springs before reaching broad ridges with sweeping views across Northern Evia and the North Euboean Gulf. The mountain is particularly rewarding in spring and autumn, when wildflowers or autumn colours transform the landscape.
Rather than a single summit hike, Telethrio offers numerous walking routes that can be tailored to different abilities and interests. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely forest walk or a longer mountain traverse, it provides a quieter alternative to Evia’s better-known peaks while showcasing the remarkable biodiversity and traditional landscapes that make Northern Evia so special.
Read more 👉 Mount Telethrio: Northern Evia’s Ecological and Cultural Treasure
Best Hikes in South Evia
Dimosaris Gorge
Dimosaris Gorge is one of Southern Evia’s classic hikes, descending from the ridge of Mount Ochi to the secluded beach of Kallianos through one of the island’s most spectacular gorges. The trail follows the course of the Dimosaris River beneath towering cliffs, passing waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, stone bridges, and dense stands of plane trees before emerging on the coast. The constant contrast between rugged mountain scenery and lush vegetation makes it one of Evia’s most memorable hiking experiences.
Most visitors experience only part of the gorge, hiking from Lenosei village up through the most scenic section of the route. If you have more time, however, the full route is far more rewarding. Starting from the ridge of Mount Ochi, you can descend the entire gorge, camp on the remote beach overnight, and make the return hike the following day. It is one of Evia’s finest multi-day adventures, combining dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and a refreshing swim in the Aegean at the end.
Read more 👉 Dimosaris Gorge to Kallianos Beach Hike
Mount Ochi & the Dragon House
Mount Ochi is the highest peak in Southern Evia and one of the island’s most iconic hikes. Rising to 1,398 metres, it combines rugged alpine scenery with sweeping views across Southern Evia, the Aegean, and the northern Cyclades. Near the summit stands the famous Dragon House, an extraordinary megalithic structure built from massive stone slabs whose origin and purpose remain one of Greece’s greatest archaeological mysteries.
One of Mount Ochi’s greatest strengths is the variety of routes it offers. If you’re short on time, you can reach the summit on a relatively short hike starting close to the mountain refuge, while stronger hikers can follow much longer trails beginning as far away as Karystos. Whichever route you choose, the mountain rewards the effort with dramatic landscapes, a true sense of wilderness, and one of the most distinctive summit experiences anywhere in Greece.
Read more 👉 Hiking Mount Ochi and the Mysterious Dragon House
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If you’re planning a road trip on Evia and haven’t got a car already, you can compare some of the best rental deals here.
