Activities in Northern Greece
Rafting on the Nestos and Aggitis, and hiking on Mount Pangaion and above the Aggitis gorge, around Serres, Drama and Kavala. These trips are 6.5 to 7.5 hours by road from Athens, so they suit guests travelling in the north.
Eastern Macedonia, around Serres, Drama and Kavala, is a region of big rivers, deep gorges and forested mountains that runs up to the Rhodopes on the border with Bulgaria. It is a long way from Athens, and we say that plainly: these trips are for guests who are already in northern Greece or planning to spend time there.
How far is it from Athens?
Symvoli near Serres is about 630 km and 6.5 hours by road from Athens. Paranesti near Drama is about 680 km and 7.5 hours. None of these trips works as a day trip from Athens.
Which activities happen in northern Greece?
- Nestos rafting: about 4 hours on the Nestos river at Paranesti, with English-speaking river guides. It runs all year and needs at least 4 people.
- Aggitis rafting: a class III descent at Symvoli near Serres, about 4 hours, for at least 3 people.
- Aggitis canyon hike: a 4 hour hike above the Aggitis gorge, with visits to caves and rock paintings.
- Mount Pangaion hike: about 5 hours from Eleftheroupoli, on a mountain with ancient gold mines and wide views.
What is included?
English-speaking guides and all local transfers are included on every trip. Rafting includes a neoprene suit and shoes, a life jacket and a helmet. Transport from Athens is not included.
Can you combine them?
Yes. The Aggitis rafting and the Aggitis hike start from the same area near Serres, so two days there can cover river and gorge. The hikes need at least 4 people.
What should you bring?
A backpack with water and a snack, hiking boots or spare shoes, socks, a t-shirt, and for rafting a swimsuit and towel.