Hiking from Kamari to Ancient Thera

Where the path starts

Walk through the village to the southern end of Kamari, where the road starts to climb towards Mesa Vouno, and follow the signs for Ancient Thera. You can leave the car behind: the trailhead is within walking distance of the apartments.

How long and how hard

The site stands about 360 m above sea level and you start near the beach, so it is a steady climb all the way, about an hour at a comfortable pace. The way down takes a little less.

The route is an old cobbled mule track that cuts across the bends of the zig-zag road. It is steeper than the road but shorter and more interesting. It is not technical, but there is almost no shade, so midday in summer is hard going.

Opening hours and tickets

The archaeological site usually opens in the morning until early afternoon and closes one day a week, with shorter hours in winter. Hours and ticket prices change, so check them before you set off, or ask us and we will check for you.

What to bring

At least one litre of water per person; outside high season there may be nothing to buy at the top.

Trainers or walking shoes. Flip-flops are not a good idea on the polished cobbles.

A hat, sunscreen and a light layer for the wind on the ridge, plus cash or a card for the ticket.

What you will see

The ruins of a city lived in from around the 9th century BC into Byzantine times: a main street, the agora, a theatre, temples and houses.

The views are just as memorable: Kamari on one side, Perissa on the other and, on clear mornings, neighbouring islands such as Anafi.

On to Perissa

A path goes down the far side of the ridge to Perissa in about 40 minutes. It is steeper than the way up, with loose gravel in places. To get back to Kamari, take the seasonal water taxi around the headland or a taxi.

Questions guests ask