Karpathos Along With Saria Set To Become Premier Hiking Destinations With Twenty Five New Trails, Backed By European Regional Development Fund

Published on October 25, 2025

Karpathos, along with the nearby island of Saria, is set to transform into a premier hiking destination thanks to the development of 25 new trails. This ambitious project, supported by the European Regional Development Fund, aims to enhance the region’s tourism appeal while preserving its natural beauty. The trails will not only offer hikers unparalleled views of rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins but also provide a sustainable way to explore these islands. By promoting eco-tourism and outdoor adventures, the project is poised to elevate Karpathos and Saria as key players in the growing European hiking circuit, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers from around the world.

Karpathos, along with the neighboring island of Saria, is on track to become a new hub for walking tourism in the Aegean. This follows the approval of the “Upgrading Hiking Routes in Karpathos and Saria” project, which is included in the South Aegean Regional Programme for 2021–2027. The initiative is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) with a total budget of €247,876.

This ambitious project aims to develop and promote a vast network of hiking trails that will stretch across both islands, creating 25 interconnected routes that span over 220 kilometers. The primary goal of the project is to showcase the islands’ exceptional natural landscapes and cultural heritage, drawing in visitors to explore them through sustainable, low-impact tourism.

A Strategic Push for Sustainable Tourism

The new hiking trails are not just about creating better infrastructure; they are part of a broader strategy spearheaded by the Municipality of Karpathos. The initiative is designed to extend the island’s tourism season and enhance its reputation as a destination for authentic experiences. The project focuses on eco-friendly outdoor activities, a growing trend in Greece’s tourism industry that combines environmental consciousness with a deep appreciation of local culture and history.

Karpathos, with its rugged terrain, picturesque villages, and dramatic coastal vistas, is an ideal location for hiking enthusiasts. The island’s natural beauty is unmatched, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in an environment that has largely remained untouched by mass tourism. The hiking trails will link diverse landscapes, from coastal to mountainous regions, allowing visitors to experience a wide range of scenic spots, including archaeological sites, chapels, and stunning viewpoints. This network of trails will provide an immersive and educational way for tourists to connect with the authentic character of the Dodecanese.

Promoting Regional Diversification

The project is not only significant for Karpathos but also reflects a broader regional effort to diversify tourism across the South Aegean. By investing in smaller, lesser-known islands such as Karpathos and Saria, the region hopes to spread the benefits of tourism beyond the larger, more established destinations in Greece. This vision aims to promote sustainable tourism by focusing on regions with rich natural resources and cultural assets, which have the potential to attract more visitors while preserving their authenticity.

Similar initiatives are being implemented across other islands in the Dodecanese, demonstrating a clear commitment to the principles of “gentle tourism.” This type of tourism focuses on sustainable growth and responsible travel, where cultural and environmental preservation are prioritized over the sheer volume of visitors. In many ways, these projects align with both Greek and European policies aimed at fostering a tourism model that benefits local communities while safeguarding the environment.

The project in Karpathos and Saria forms part of a wider European Union and Greek initiative to support “slow tourism” and promote destinations that offer a more relaxed and meaningful travel experience. By enhancing the island’s infrastructure for outdoor activities, the project not only boosts tourism but also encourages visitors to explore the islands at a slower, more reflective pace, taking the time to appreciate their natural beauty and cultural richness.

Environmental and Cultural Benefits

The development of the hiking trail network brings significant environmental and cultural benefits to Karpathos and Saria. First, by offering an alternative form of tourism that focuses on hiking and walking, the islands can reduce their reliance on more environmentally taxing tourism sectors, such as mass resorts or large-scale cruises. This project encourages visitors to explore the islands on foot, resulting in less carbon emissions and a more eco-friendly approach to tourism.

Moreover, the trails will pass through some of the island’s most culturally significant areas. By connecting archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and traditional villages, the project will help preserve and showcase the islands’ cultural heritage. The initiative will also provide a platform for local communities to get involved in tourism, offering small businesses and cultural organizations a chance to benefit from the influx of visitors while maintaining the authenticity of the islands.

A Balanced Approach to Growth and Preservation

For Karpathos and Saria, the introduction of the hiking trail network represents more than just an infrastructure improvement. It is a step towards redefining the future of tourism on the islands, one that strikes a delicate balance between growth and preservation. By promoting hiking and other eco-tourism activities, the project will encourage a form of tourism that respects the environment while providing sustainable economic benefits to local communities.

Additionally, the trails will help to extend the tourist season beyond the summer months. As the focus shifts toward outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy the islands’ unique landscapes year-round, ensuring a steady flow of tourists even during the off-peak seasons. This sustainable approach to tourism allows the islands to grow their economy without overwhelming their natural resources or altering the authentic character of the destinations.

Ultimately, the new hiking trail network on Karpathos and Saria is more than just a tourism development project — it is a model for sustainable growth in the region. The focus on eco-friendly activities, cultural heritage, and low-impact tourism aligns with global trends toward responsible travel. It also sets the stage for other small islands in the South Aegean to follow suit, showcasing how sustainable initiatives can promote tourism while protecting the environment.

Karpathos and Saria are set to become top hiking destinations with the addition of 25 new trails, funded by the European Regional Development Fund, aimed at boosting eco-tourism and outdoor exploration.

With its blend of rugged landscapes, historical sites, and picturesque vistas, Karpathos and Saria are poised to become a premier destination for walking and hiking tourism, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and culture in a meaningful and sustainable way.