Apano Meria Syros hiking exploration in Natura 2000
This Apano Meria Syros hiking exploration takes you to the wild northern side of the island, a protected Natura 2000 area with panoramic Aegean views, ancient inscriptions, secluded beaches and rich biodiversity.
The experience begins in Kampos, the northernmost settlement of Syros, in the wider region of Apano Meria. From there, the route follows old Cycladic paths through a landscape that feels remote, authentic and untouched.
Along the way, you will enjoy 360-degree views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding Cycladic islands, including Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Delos, Gyaros, Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Antiparos, Paros and Naxos.
The hike passes through areas with traces of the island’s past, including an abandoned marble quarry and landscapes connected with local history. You will also walk among trees planted by John Herman Groesbeck Pierson, an American economist and environmental activist.
Approaching the sea, the route reaches secluded beaches accessible mainly by foot or by boat. One of the most important stops is the Grammata area, known for ancient inscriptions carved into rocks near the shore by sailors who found refuge there during storms.
After swimming in crystal-clear waters, the experience includes a picnic with fresh local products. The return hike offers more views, quiet natural scenery and a deeper sense of the wild beauty of northern Syros.
Apano Meria is part of the Natura 2000 network and covers approximately 804 hectares, or 8 square kilometers. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with more than 250 plant species and subspecies, including sea fennel, caper, wild lavender and three crocus species, among them the endemic Crocus tournefortii.
The region also includes rare geological formations, such as eclogites and glaucophane-bearing blueschists, and protects 28 bird species. Its relative isolation has helped preserve one of the most authentic natural landscapes of Syros.
For more ideas before or after your hike, explore more experiences in Syros or discover the island’s history on syros.gr.
