Of all the Cyclades, the northerly islands of Andros and Tinos offer perhaps the best combination of scenery and seclusion. A peaceful, unchanging scenery of oleander lined streams, of steeply terraced hillsides, of remote chapels, stone mulepaths and packbridges. And seclusion beyond that of visiting two little - known islands served only from the small port of Rafina, thus escaping most tourists' attention. Come out of season with us, when the spring flowers carpet the terraces, or when the grape and fig harvests bring the villages to life, and you will discover the tranquil lifestyle and the age-old crafts that lie behind this 2500 year old culture.

From our trailhead in central Andros, we hike up to the 10th century monastery of Panachrantou, pass a long-forgotten Venetian hilltop fortress before reaching a secluded beach near the southern tip of the island. A fishing boat takes us across the narrow straight to Panormos on Tinos, from where we continue south through tiny villages, visiting the marble workshops of Pirgos and the basket-weaving community of Volakas en route. Our last full day takes us to the highpoint of the trek, the rocky pinnacle of Mt. Tsiknias (725m), before we wind down to the southern port of Tinos, passing by Kehrovouni convent, important place of pilgrimage for Greek Orthodox Christians.

This island walk suits those seeking an undemanding trek with the sea as the backdrop. We follow mainly dirt roads and walled mulepaths, averaging 4-5 hours' walking per day. Our bags are transported each day by taxi, bus, van and boat. Both summit ascents are optional. Those who wish to opt out of any day's hike may be able to travel with the luggage.

We stay in pensions and small hotels, mostly double/triple rooms with private bathroom, and take dinner at nearby tavernas. Lunches are simple taverna meals (days 6 & 7) or picnics taken at scenic spots en route (all other days).

Itinerary

Day 1

Morning transfer Athens - central Andros by bus and ferry (3 hrs); walk via Panachrantou monastery to Andros town (3 hrs).

Day 2

Walk via Sineti gorge, water-mills and hilltop fortress to Korthi village (5 hrs).

Day 3

Loop - walk either to Agios Ioannis beach (6 hrs) or through picturesque inland villages (4 hrs).

Day 4

Boat crossing to Panormos on Tinos (2 hrs) (in stormy weather we travel here by ferry and bus via Gavrion and Tinos town). Walk to Pirgos via (optional) Profitis Ilias peak (3-5 hrs).

Day 5

Walk across the island, with short lift in the middle, via Xobourgo castle and Volakas to Falatados (6 hrs).

Day 6

Ascent of Tsiknias peak (3 hrs); descent via famous Kehrovouni convent to Tinos port (3 hrs).

Day 7

Return to Athens by ferry and bus (5 hrs). Trip ends in mid- afternoon.