Sports and leisure activities Greece

EOS is the association of mountain enthusiasts of the region, who organize many mountain outings: hiking, climbing, canyoning, visits to caves ... The association also plays a very active role in the promotion of these kinds of activities, sometimes unknown by tourists and Greeks themselves. The members mark out and maintain the paths, manage the refuges, publish magazines... Do not hesitate to ask the volunteers and members of the association for advice for all your outdoor excursions in the mountains of the region.

An experienced and reliable scuba diving center for all levels, always in small groups and in complete safety. Founded in 1993, the center also offers its services at Panormo, located at the Club Marine Palace. Atlantis Diving Center offers a variety of programs and courses for beginners and advanced divers throughout the summer months with experienced SSI and PADI instructors. A sensational experience in the underwater world. The center provides free pick up and delivery to all hotels in Rethymno.

This is a good idea to discover Naxos, even if you have never mounted horse, Niki, a German and his francophone friend offer many equestrian excursions: tours of the island in one day (100 € per person) or in 3 days, 3-hour walk (50 €) or 2 hours (35 €, off season only), children's walks (20 € for 30-45 minutes), as well as horseback riding lessons for the big and large. Day trips begin at 8 a. m. in the morning, for a return period. In the direction of At, you will enjoy a stop in Faros, for lunch and sunbathing on the beach or the swimming pool. 20 years of experience. Book at least one day in advance.

Mykonos on horseback. Discover other facets of the island. From 2 a. m. to 3 p. m. with swimming, picnic, lunch at the water restaurant. Special short-term programme for children with snacks and drinks. For honey moons: golf course or night with champagne and fruit on the beach. Groups welcome. Fanis Rouvas, a riding instructor, works with passion. During the winter, he stays with his horses in the mountain from Vorras to Kaimaktsalon.

It is an experienced dive center, open since 1998 from May to October, and present in Laganas and Tsilivi.

For a breathtaking experience in some of the most beautiful waters of Zakynthos, you can count on Kostas and his team. They are always at your side, guiding beginners. You will feel safe every minute of this unforgettable dive. Also on the program: boat trips, cave trips, PADI certification, dives for all levels and even snorkeling. Non-divers are welcome too.

A multiple sports club present in several regions of Greece: rafting, horse riding, mountain biking, kayaking, canyoning, trekking, climbing… but also half-day excursions by minibus or Jeep (light meals, approximately 45 €).

Those who want a little less crowd, but still enjoy the same services, should go to the beach of Kalo Livadi, towards the west. You will find the junction on the road, a little after the exit of Ano Meria. Between the two, the curious will discover a pleasant little beach with emerald waters and less visited. It is the beach of Aghia Anna, also called Divounia Beach. It can be reached by road or in a few minutes on foot by a path that starts from Kalafatis and is famous for its fine sand and good restaurant.

Among the many activities offered here, parasailing over the coast of Perivolos is a rather unforgettable way to see the southern coast of the island from the air. You will take off from the specially chartered boat and fly over the sea. A certified crew will make sure you enjoy the whole trip safely. It's not cheap, but quite unique. Otherwise, the coasts of the island can be discovered by flyboard or, closer to sea level, by boat, jet-ski or tubing. Strong and visual emotions guaranteed!

Framed by Simon Montmory, state-run climbing instructor, develop your own climbing program on Kalymnos's most beautiful tracks. For all levels of climbers and organized into small groups to give preference to optimal teaching. 

In 1965, Charalampos Tsaousoglou bought the Xenia Hotel in Corfu. His cousin Cleon Kedros from Trieste, a golf enthusiast, and his good friend Constantin Karamanlis, former president of the Greek democracy, are said to have suggested that Corfu needed a golf course to become a high quality tourist resort. More than 50 years later, golf enthusiasts will tell you that it is one of the best golf courses in Europe, and one of their best kept secrets. It was designed by the famous Swiss architect Donald Harradine and blends in nicely with nature.

Kefalos Bay is home to one of the best windsurfing spots on Kos. In recent years, wingfoil has also developed here: you'll find navigation details in our special report at the beginning of this guide. There's also a reference address for professional lessons and courses and/or for renting quality equipment. There's also a kitesurfing spot at Kohilari, on the north coast of the Kefalos peninsula, though it's less well-known than Psalidi.

Kefalos Windsurfing (+30 697 762 0316 - www.kefaloswindsurfing.com): individual or group lessons.

This Greco-German family opened its farm-inn in 1998 and welcomes you in the middle of its many animals in a very friendly atmosphere and a pleasant setting, a little away from the village. They organize horseback rides: count one hour for a ride on the beach and five hours for a hike to the Odigitrias monastery (picnic lunch included in the price). Saddlery equipment in perfect condition. Horse and donkey rides for children. Possibility to stay in the farmhouse in a nice apartment.

The club offers courses and training for all levels, from beginner to expert. The club also runs a summer camp for children, which is very popular with parents. The facilities are top-quality and the atmosphere is friendly.

The races usually start in May. The start and finish are at the port of Kassiopi, north of Pantokrator. The routes, from 9 to 35 km, are laid out among the most beautiful natural landscapes of the island, especially along the coast. The paths through the villages are those used by the locals fleeing pirate attacks in the past. The race will even take the runners through the old fortress. An exceptional way to discover Corfu in all the diversity that makes up its splendour.

The Achilleon Diving Center offers to accompany you on a dive in the corners of Palaiokastritsa, the islet of Othonoi and the island of Paxos. For certified divers, twenty-six spots are accessible. For beginners, several options are also available, such as the Messonghi Center, part of Natura 2000, an ecological network of protected areas. Among the staff, you will find French-speaking people. Palaiokastritsa remains the most famous place for Corfu divers.

Nothing to say, here everything slides. It's a very fun park, well designed, with lots of different slide varieties. A water park with a lot of attractions and other wave pools for your toddlers to enjoy. Admission is not free, but you will have a great day. Within the building there are cafeterias, restaurants, ice cream parlours, a bar, a shop... Many deckchairs are available free of charge throughout the park, so that older children won't get bored either!

A very reliable company with an international reputation, it continues the tradition of the Vernikos, shipowners from one generation to the next since the 19th century. This agency specializes in the sale and charter of sailing and motor boats. Various types of yachts, catamarans and pleasure boats for rent, safely, with crew, by this Greek company, the most experienced in this field. Several destinations are offered. Offers and prices are announced on the website. Renowned among tourism professionals.

Luxury and safety guaranteed! This very reliable company offers yacht charters and sales all over the world. A large yacht has four separate cabins: two cabins with large beds and private bathroom, and two cabins with two small beds and separate bathroom and toilet. The interior is splendid, one admires the mixture of mahogany and leather. Allow 2 hours sailing time from Alimos (Athens) to Mykonos. Limousine service for transfers to/from the airport.

This is the island's most popular sport, known internationally for its exceptional walls, especially around Myrties and Massouri where you will find the necessary equipment and supervision.

The reference site is climbkalymnos.com: all information about climbing, updated daily.

The Kalymnos Climbing Festival normally takes place every year around mid October. Don't forget to book your accommodation!

Frenchman Simon Montmory(references above) has set up a climbing school, offering courses and workshops for all levels.

Diving is the historical queen of aquatic practices in Kalymnos: the marine fauna is particularly rich and the seabed is covered with shipwrecked vessels from all periods. Diving is highly regulated: any archaeological findings must be reported to the authorities. Legislation is being reviewed to facilitate the creation of underwater museums in the island's waters. A club to note, south of Pothia:

Kalymnos Diving Club (+30 693 875 5896 - kalymnosdiving.com) : PADI training, outings and equipment rental.

This is the queen activity of Leros: not surprising when you consider the tragic history of this strategic base during the Second World War. The seabed is littered with shipwrecks of ships that were torpedoed and sunk during the hard battle of Leros, as well as warplanes. The most famous case is the destroyer Queen Olga, which is a unique diving site today. A club to note for your outings, PADI training and equipment rental:

Hydrovius Diving Centre (+30 22470 26025 - www.hydrovius.gr) located in Krithoni

They can provide you with any practical information you may need. Diving all levels. Exit to the island of Gavdos also. Very reliable.

In the village of Marineika, 25 minutes walk from the beach of Tsivili, a local girl has opened a ceramic studio. You can visit the studio, buy her productions, dishes, pottery figurines, paintings... You can also learn about pottery and take classes. You have to book for the classes, especially in the middle of summer! The studio is located in the middle of olive trees, lemon trees and vineyards. A nice outing!

It is the oldest windsurfing club on the beach and, in the area, the most popular with windsurfers near Vassiliki, with a breathtaking view of the mountains to the north, the palm trees and the bay of Vassiliki. Although it boasts international competitions, this club is also suitable for all types of visitors, families or individuals, experienced windsurfers or not (yet). You can take lessons or rent all the necessary equipment on site. The instructors are very professional and helpful

Discover Lefkada through off-season hikes, here is the idea of Walking Lefkada. Accommodation and meals are also available on request. Among the hikes, you can follow the one starting from the picturesque village of Karia where the traditional embroideries of the island are made. The walk from Eglouvi is also magnificent: you cross vineyards and discover the church of Saint-Donatos to end on the fertile plateau of Englouvi where the lentils that have made the reputation of this small village are grown.

Janet, the owner of the riding school, is a Swede who fell in love with the island of Lefkada. She offers horseback riding for beginners and more experienced riders. The ride to the beach of Aghios Giannis to watch the sunset is very romantic and ideal for couples. The ride to the Melissa Gorge is also spectacular: through the mountain and the pine trees you will discover the hidden side of Lefkada, its abundant nature. But you can also stop with children for a 10 minutes walk.

Here you will swim on the beaches of Tsirimbis, Paliokaravo, Loutsa, Aetos and Pisso Aetos. But it is better to discover in caïque Kinos, Sarakiniko and especially Ghidaki and Filiatro. As many beaches and coves are inaccessible by road, it can be a good idea to rent a small boat for a day. Motorized "compass" boats do not require a license, the instructor will show you briefly how to drive it and you will be able to enjoy the crystalline waters of Ithaca's creeks as a little Ulysses!

A very professional riding school that has been operating on the island since 1994. For beginners, you will be initiated with instructors who speak English. For the others, you can ride more freely on the beaches or hills of the island. The center works with several resorts and can pick you up directly at the hotel to take you on a tour. They are always accompanied by an experienced English, Dutch and/or Greek speaking guide.

George and his team offer great dives for all levels in the crystal clear waters of Kythera. You can get your diving diploma, make dives in sea caves, just snorkel and watch the fish with a mask... The welcome is remarkable and you will feel confident for the dives. To discover below: the cannons of an old pirate ship, the giant winches of a contemporary wreck, seals, octopus, groupers, lobsters but also incredible corals and reefs.

The long beach of Theologos is exposed to the meltemi and offers unique conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing and wingfoiling. The spot is ideal for beginners looking for a flat ride. Freeride and slalom experts can wait for the wind to pick up in the afternoon. There are two professional addresses for training and equipment hire:

WetSkillz (+30 6944 222 689 - wetskillz.com).

Surf & Kite Theologos (+30 224 108 2203 - www.surftheologos.com)

Tired of swimming and wanting to see a little more green than blue? Fanis offers horseback riding on the beaches or in the valley. Ideal to see the sunset differently with a little peace and quiet. Possible packages with picnic and pick up at your hotel.

The beaches near the city centre are almost impassable in the summer because they are overcrowded. This is particularly the case of the seafront that runs northwards along the town, in the Lambi area where hotels and deckchairs follow one another. Towards the south-east of Kos-city, the beaches are a little less crowded:

Psalidi, perfect for kitesurfing but beware of crowds too (3 km away)

Aghios Fokas, famous for its clear waters but avoid the resorts section (8 km away)

Embros Therma with its source of sulphurous water that heats up to 40 °C and its beautiful landscapes (12 km away)

The Psalidi spot on the north-eastern tip of the island is one of Greece's most famous for windsurfing, kitesurfing and now wingfoiling. These are actually two separate spots, just 1 km apart. We have detailed the sailing conditions in the special report at the beginning of this guide. Numerous clubs have set up shop here, but we've chosen a friendly, serious address that's well known among professionals:

Windzone (+30 6939117475 or +30 6979723193 - windzone-kos.gr)offers equipment and courses for all three sports.

It doesn't matter if you've never driven a buggy before, the vehicles are user-friendly, and everyone will get detailed instructions and tips before starting the 80 km tour. Going to the island's most hidden spots to meet the locals makes this experience unique. Departure: 10 a.m. Return around 4pm. Driving license required. Passengers: minimum age 7. Half-price for children under 10. Offers on site.

It's the only riding school in Hersonissos. It offers day rides or 3-hour guided rides, with lunch and a shuttle from the hotel to save you the trip to the centre. The opportunity to discover a part of the region in a different way, taking your time, and in the middle of nature, to take part in the transition to a greener tourism. There is another equestrian centre of the same kind in the nearby town of Malia.

Managed by an expert team of marine biologists, Blutopia offers since 1995 a complete discovery of the fauna and flora of the Aegean Sea through diving in crystal clear waters. From diving for beginners, in shallow waters, to proposals for the more expert in the open sea among caves and wrecks. Blutopia is a center with a strong commitment to the environment. It also offers educational trips to the marine reserve where you can visit a fish farm, discover the ecosystem that develops around it and the unique benefits of aquaculture, its nutritional value for people and its contribution to the protection of the sea. Don't miss the opportunity to take advantage of the day trips and visit the Alimia and Chalki islands.

In Grikos itself, you can swim on a small, busy beach before walking along the enormous bay to the rock that closes it off on a sandy isthmus. It is said to possess magnetic healing powers. The bay of Petra extends across the isthmus: good swimmers should head for the islet of Tragonissi (beware of currents!). Walkers will prefer the path dotted with wild coves that continues south to the shipyard. It's a magnificent, unspoilt walk in this corner of Patmos, between sea and sky.

Created in 1993, this 5-star PADI center for beginners and experienced divers is located in the Nea Hora district and has offices in the old Venetian port. Instructors of different nationalities focus on safety. Excursions are made on board their recent 25m boat. It allows families and friends to accompany the divers. The brands Mares, Cress, Sherwood, Scubapro are sold in the shop at interesting prices. The centre is open in season, from April to October, depending on the year.

The Crete Golf Club, located near Hersonissos in the hinterland, offers a beautiful 18-hole course. Every year in October, a competition is organized and attracts many participants passing through Crete. Of course you will find instructors on site to take private lessons. The club also has a shop and a restaurant and offers reduced rates in low season and for the younger ones. You will need to bring suitable golf shoes, of course: they are compulsory.

As you stroll along the beach, heading south, you may come across this small agency that rents out water sports equipment, including surfboards and, if available, a glass kayak. The surfboards allow you to take advantage of the beautiful waves on this beach. But the best surprise is the transparent kayak, which is incredible to maneuver when the sea is clear and beautiful. The owners are very friendly and approachable, and offer fair prices for this equipment.

Since 1995, the Kissamos Diving School, one of the first in Hania, very professional, offers PADI, Dan Europe... courses, in complete safety and for all levels. Beginners start in the small fishing port next door. Activities all year round on request. Also offers a shop for material and equipment. Diving points: 70 miles from the bays of Kissamos and Hania to Paleohora via Elafonissi, Livadia, etc.

Probably one of the best known in Santorini. Apostolos, the founder, has over 20 years of experience on the island and was the first Cousteau Divers instructor in Greece. Explore the impressive underwater landscape around the caldera of Santorini and search for the remains of the lost city of Atlantis, as many explorers, adventurers and scientists have done before you. The centre is also very active in the preservation of the environment, and is fighting to create a protected marine area around the caldera.

From the small port of Avlemonas begins one of the oldest hiking trails on the island. Its creation and use dates back to the Minoan period, when the inhabitants of Kythera used it to access a sanctuary. Head towards Aghios Georgios and let yourself be carried away. The arrival at the village church, with its 7th century Byzantine mosaic floor, is already worth the walk. The view of the island and especially of the eastern coast of Kythera is breathtaking

If you are looking for a friendly outdoor activity that combines vacation, fun, learning and respect for the environment while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Lake Kournas and its surroundings, the Zoraïda club offers horseback riding vacations and nice rides for everyone! For intermediate riders, there are half-day or multi-day rides, on the beach or in the hills. A pleasant, well organized activity and a great way to discover the region.

This bike rental company and specialized agency offers guided bike tours throughout the region. You can discover the coast as well as the hinterland, according to your preferences. On the program: visit of cultural sites, beach sessions, nature tours. A very good alternative to discover the region in a different way and participate in the transition to a greener tourism. Also bike rental (mountain bikes, VTC and VTT) at reduced prices.

This cycling agency was founded 30 years ago, and the team's professionalism has been maintained over the years. The proof: these enthusiasts manage the major cycling races held on the island, including the Tour de Rhodes, the most important cycling race in Greece. If you're looking for a different way to travel and discover Rhodes while taking your time and limiting your carbon footprint, there's nothing better than signing up for a guided tour of the roads and itineraries on offer. There are many options from intermediate to advanced levels.

A very professional and multilingual diving centre offers you the opportunity to discover the dazzling underwater richness of Crete. Excursions are frequent as there are caves to visit and 25 dive sites around Agia Pelagia. If you book on the website at least one week in advance, you will receive a discount. The transfer is assured but limited to the area between Fodele and Gouves. Possibility of diving at sunset.

If you follow the coastal path southwards, you will find the beach of Papa Mina (2 hours round trip), and northwards, the beach of Vananda (1 hour round trip). From there, you can continue to the northern tip of the island, to Tristomo, in front of the islet of Saria (plan for the day): an option may be to plan a return trip on a caique. For a longer loop (allow 5 hours), go up to the pastoral village of Avlona then go down to the bay of Vroukounda where natural pools and ancient ruins await you.

Dutch scuba diving school, experienced and very serious, open from April to October, for all levels. For beginners or confirmed divers, in small groups and in complete safety: dives, certification, training courses, equipment rental. French-speaking team. A half-day program is set up for beginners who are welcome as well as the whole family. A really enjoyable and well organized experience in the world of scuba diving.