Ranging from the lush, forested islands of Skiathos to the dramatic mountains and olive groves of Kalamata, Greece has some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Mediterranean. If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, this is Greece at its most authentic.
Corfu
If you’re craving a lush, living postcard rather than a sun-bleached cliché, Corfu delivers. It’s a riot of green with rolling hills draped in olive groves, cypress trees and hidden trails leading to secret coves. Panoramic viewpoints are in abundance, and the scent of herbs is even present during village walks on the Corfu trail. Head to Achilleion Palace Gardens for incredible views over the island or Antinioti Lagoon for a wilder but quieter side of Corfu, with wetlands, sand dunes and rich birdlife.
Kefalonia
Kefalonia blends rugged drama with an array of greenery. Forests spill down mountainsides, vineyards and olive groves are patchworked across the valleys. The island’s highest peak is cloaked in rare fir trees too. Shaded trails, thermal springs and pockets of lush vegetation soften the landscape. For a more untamed side of the Greek islands, Kefalonia is the one. Mount Ainos is a must-visit for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Lefkas
Here, you can expect undulating hills carpeted with olive groves, vineyards and dense clusters of cypress and pine. The Nydri Waterfalls offer a refreshing escape during hot weather and checking out Dimosari Gorge is essential. This trail boasts streams, rocks and dense foliage made for an easy hike. Even along the island’s famous cliffs, bursts of green cling to the terrain.
Sporades
Skopelos
From Skiathos, a short boat ride takes you to Skopelos, where scrubby hills meet sparkling turquoise waters. Nature feels untouched here and experiencing the iconic Agios Ioannis Chapel perched above the sea is one to remember. Slow days, tucked-away coves and pure Aegean tranquillity are givens.
The Peloponnese
Set at the foot of the Taygetus Mountains, this region stretches along the golden coastline. There’s Kalamata’s charming Old Town with its Venetian castle views, plus the palm-lined waterfront and the Polylimnio Waterfalls just a short drive away. For breathtaking mountain scenery and wild, far-reaching landscapes, be sure to visit Viros Gorge. And for a blend of sea and forest, nearby villages like Kardamili are perfect.
Thassos
Although Thassos is known as the ‘Emerald Island’, it’s a destination where pine forests tumble down to meet white sandy beaches. And it’s among the newest on our Greek map! Stone houses, waterfalls and shaded trails around Panagia make for idyllic days out. From the slopes of Mount Ipsarion to coves like Paradise Beach, Thassos is the true essence of green Greece.
Rhodes
Beyond its famous medieval charm, Rhodes is full of go-slow nature trails, cascading waterfalls and glorious scenes. Wander through the enchanting Valley of the Butterflies, where shaded paths and flowing streams await, or visit the village of Embonas. The surrounding vineyards are a sight for sore eyes!
Are you a history buff too? Read our blog post on the best historical sites in Greece.
Posted: 7th May 2026.