Hiking with kids in Greece: routes and tips

The Pezoparea team · Updated 4 November 2026 · 6 min read

For hiking with kids, pick a short, shady route with something to see, like a stream, a lake or a chapel. A handy rule says a child can walk about their age times 1.5 in kilometres on flat ground. Let the child set the pace, stop often and turn back before they're exhausted.

How far can a child hike?

The German Hiking Association (Deutscher Wanderverband) offers a simple rule: age times 1.5, in kilometres, on flat ground. A six-year-old can manage about 9 km. For climbing, every 100 m counts as an extra kilometre (Wanderbares Deutschland).

Treat that as the maximum on a good day, not a target. For a first hike, aim for half the distance and leave time to play.

Which routes in Greece suit a family day out?

Kids don't hike for the view. They want to throw stones in a stream, find snails, reach a lake. Pick a route with stops like that and a good path, with no drop-offs or loose scree.

• Parnitha, from the Bafi refuge towards Mola: about 3.5 km through pine and fir, with a chapel and a spring. Dogs aren't allowed there.
• Lake Beletsi at the foot of Parnitha, and the gentle waymarked trails of Mount Ymittos
• Asopos Springs Park at Pavliani, at the foot of Mount Oiti: a short walk by the water, with play structures along the way
• Gorges with water and a gentle gradient in summer, for kids over 7–8

For the first few trips, it helps to stay within an hour of home, so the day isn't spent in the car.

Can children join an organized group hike?

It depends on the organizer. Some clubs and companies run family outings or kids' hikes. Others have a minimum age or only take children with a parent. Ask before you sign up and mention your child's age and experience.

On easy adult outings, a 10–12-year-old who walks often usually does fine. Just remember the group won't stop for games.

What should I pack when hiking with kids?

• Shoes with good grip, already broken in
• Layers and a full change of clothes
• Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
• More water and snacks than you think, in small portions
• A small first aid kit with tick tweezers and blister plasters
• A whistle on the child's pack and a note with your phone number
• Their own small backpack, so they feel part of the team

How do I keep kids motivated on the trail?

1. Let them lead and set the pace. The German Hiking Association puts it simply: the weakest member of the group decides the pace and the breaks.
2. Give them a job: spotting the trail markers or holding the map.
3. Bring a friend of theirs. Kilometres go faster with company.
4. Stop for a snack before they ask.
5. Turn back while they're still happy. You want them to ask to go again.

After the hike, check your child for ticks, especially behind the ears, on the scalp and in skin folds. Ticks are more active in spring and autumn.