Greek Island Hopping Adventure in the Cyclades

Meet up with your host at Athens International Airport and head downtown to settle into your hotel in a lively part of Athens. Have some free time to wander around Athens and see the sights before meeting up with your fellow adventures to head to Athens' coastline on the Saronic Gulf. Hop in a kayak and paddle along the calm waters at sunset, along what is known as the Athenian Riviera – a side of Athens often missed by visitors. Afterwards, gather for a classic Greek feast at a local taverna and have a chat about the adventures ahead.

Head to the port in the morning and hop on a ferry to the magical island of Tinos, an enchanting combination of traditional Greek villages, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches lapped by the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Settle into your hotel and then head out for a hike to explore the island, from Chora to the village of Ktikados, with its whitewashed houses nestled among rolling hills. Continue on to the coastal village of Kionia for a refreshing swim in the warm clear waters, before heading back to your base. Head out in search of dinner at a local taverna – your guide will be full of suggestions for the best spots.

After your first taste of hiking yesterday you'll set off for a longer stomp across the island today, starting in the quaint village of Falatados. As you traverse the island's interior – filled with history and natural beauty, flanked by blue ocean in the distance – you'll pass by the enigmatic ruins of Eksomvourgo and the distinctive rock formations of Volakas. After stopping in a village for a leisurely lunch, you'll then hike on to the finish line at the beautiful Agapi village, where you can enjoy a sundowner before heading back for a well-earned dinner and a good night's rest.

Bid farewell to Tinos as you hop over to your next Greek island, boarding the ferry to Naxos – the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago. Waste no time as you start to explore the island on foot, hiking to the imposing Kouros Statues – a group of remarkable ancient sculptures dating back to the 6th century BC, hewn from marble and believed to represent gods and heroes from ancient times. The trail meanders on to the village of Chalki, where cobblestone streets wind through historic buildings adorned with colourful facades. In this quintessential Naxos village, you'll find quaint artisan shops and traditional tavernas, amid the scent of citrus trees. Grab drinks here before dashing to take in the sunset at Portara, also known as the 'Great Door' – a massive marble doorway, part of the ancient temple of Apollo.

Get set for the biggest hike of the trip – to Mount Zas. This is the highest peak in the Cyclades, and one steeped in Greek mythology as the legendary birthplace of Zeus, King of the Gods. Ascend the mountain via a network of rugged trails, while hearing the ancient Greek tales that are woven into this part of Greece. Hitting the summit, you'll be rewarded with an unbroken 360-degree panorama over Naxos and the neighbouring islands. Descend from the summit then hike on to the village of Filoti, nestled at the mountain's base and a gorgeous place to wind up the hike and grab a cold drink. Your efforts are further rewarded as you head on to a local winery for a wine-tasting experience, delving into Naxos' unique wines which showcase the eco-conscious spirit of the island. Finish up an epic day by swimming in the inviting waters at Agios Prokopios beach, an idyllic stretch of coastline renowned for its soft, golden sands.

Tuck into breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Agia Anna pier where you'll hop on a traditional wooden boat bound for the Koufonisia Islands. These two tiny, tranquil, hidden gems are nestled within the Small Cyclades, far from the bustle of the larger islands in the chain. Settle in on deck for a two-hour long cruise to Kato Koufonissi, where you'll anchor in exotic waters that wouldn't look out of place in the Caribbean. Dive in for a swim, while the crew lay out a Greek BBQ lunch for you to tuck into on board. Sail on for a further 20 minutes to Ano Koufonissi, where you'll get back on dry land to explore the coastline, beaches and quaint village on foot – maybe grab an ice-cold frappe at a local café while absorbing views of the Aegean Sea. Later in the afternoon you'll sail on to the Rina Cave – a unique spot accessible only by boat, where you can swim and snorkel directly from the boat into the cave, or brave a cliff dive. Set sail back to Naxos as the sun sets, in time to dive into a taverna for dinner after a memorable day.

Soak up the last of your time on Naxos over breakfast this morning, before heading to the port to board the ferry back to Athens. Arriving mid afternoon, you'll head back to your hotel and later, head out with your guide to explore Athens on foot. No trip to the city is complete without a hike around cobbled streets and rocky outcrop in the historic centre – bask in views of the Acropolis, the ancient Greek citadel, as you walk. Settle into one of your host's favourite tavernas in the evening, for a farewell dinner to toast an incredible week of Greek island gallivanting.

Your adventure ends today after breakfast as your host transfers you to Athens Airport in time for your onward flight.