WALKING PLUS is the oldest walking tours operator in the Cyclades, and the first to offer self-guided walking holidays in the islands of Paros, Naxos, Amorgos & Tinos. It was founded in 2002 by British couple Gilly and Robin Cameron-Cooper, who have lived in Greece full-time and still spend a good part of the year on Naxos; Gilly still is our local Route Manager. Robin was ex-Army (hence the navigation skills essential for plotting self-guided routes) and Gilly was a journalist and author/book editor (her writing still forms the basis of our self-guided notes, so they are clear, easy-to-follow and interesting to read). In March 2017, the Walking Plus operation was transferred to ‘Ardikas – Paros Hikes’, a cooperative based on the island of Paros. Under the management of walking tours guide Christoforos Korovesis since, the Walking Plus project has become truly local, and many aspects of its operation have been updated with new added services. In 2019, Mairi Maniopoulou joined the team, adding new flair to the guided tours section.
‘Ardikas – Paros Hikes’ is a Social Cooperative Enterprise (KOINSEP) 100% owned by local people. It is monitored by the Greek Ministry of Labour & Social Security and operates along the principles of social economy, therefore placing emphasis on benefiting employees and local communities. Its mission is to create a sustainable tourism paradigm and preserve the islands’ cultural & environmental heritage, primarily by maintaining, re-utilising and promoting traditional, centuries-old walking routes. Its other branch is Paros Hikes, which offers exciting walking, cycling & cultural day-tours on Paros & Antiparos.
Work out the best walking routes to take you deep into island life and landscape
Provide insights into history, culture, traditions, and wildlife
Book your accommodation & transfer your bags, or guide your tour
Organize all transport in the programme
The Walking Plus programme was brilliantly planned. The organizers’ knowledge of this richly varied island is encyclopedic, and this, together with the independence, solitude and strenuous exercise, made this walking holiday unique.
