Crete: Mountains and Coast Guided Walk
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Crete. This multi-day tour is a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical discovery, and natural beauty. From the charming Venetian harbor of Chania to the tranquil village of Loutro, you'll traverse ancient gorges, explore Byzantine churches, and marvel at the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, you'll savor traditional Cretan cuisine, interact with locals, and learn about the island's rich history. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, this tour offers an immersive experience that caters to all levels of adventure.
Included
7 breakfasts - breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices
7 dinners at local taverns
vegetarian, vegan, kosher, meat
7 nights in small inns and pensions on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Single rooms available on request - supplement applies
Local taxes - VAT and the overnight stay tax
During the trip you will be accommodated in hotels in the main towns and local inns and village pensions during the rest of the trip (all with private facilities).
guesthouse: 7 night(s);
English speaking walking guide
Entrance fees in Samaria National Park and Agia Irini Gorge
Scheduled group transfer to/from airport on day 1 and day 8
Transfer from Chania to Agia Irini and from Sougia to Omalos
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Map
Attractions
Go Kart Chania - Pista Park
Lighthouse of Chania
Manousakis Winery
Sosorides beachDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Chania
Day 1: Arrival in Chania
- Go Kart Chania - Pista Park
- More
Welcome to Chania, a city steeped in history and culture. Upon arrival, you can arrange for a group transfer from the airport to your hotel. Spend the day exploring the historic old town, a testament to the city's Venetian and Turkish past. Wander through the narrow lanes, admire the Byzantine churches, and soak in the atmosphere of the charming Venetian harbor. In the evening, meet your guide and group for a briefing, followed by a delightful dinner at a traditional tavern. Overnight in Chania.
Day 2 – Day 2: Chania to Sougia via Agia Irini Gorge
Day 2: Chania to Sougia via Agia Irini Gorge
After breakfast, we'll transfer you to the entrance of Agia Irini gorge for your first hike. The trail, surrounded by pine and chestnut trees, leads to Sougia, a beautiful village on the southern coast of Crete. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spend the next two nights in Sougia.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Sougia and Lissos
Day 3: Exploring Sougia and Lissos
- Lighthouse of Chania
- More
Today, we'll embark on a cultural walk through the beautiful gorge of Selinou, leading to the ancient city of Lissos. This city was an important center of hydrotherapy in ancient times. Here, you'll visit a well-preserved temple dedicated to Asklipios, the God of medicine, and explore the city's fascinating history. After a dip in the cove, we'll return to Sougia for the night.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sougia to Omalos Plateau via Samaria Gorge
Day 4: Sougia to Omalos Plateau via Samaria Gorge
- Manousakis Winery
- More
Leave your luggage at the hotel's lobby as we transfer you by boat to Agia Roumeli village, at the foot of Samaria gorge. A mini-bus will then take us to the entrance of Samaria gorge at Omalos plateau, from where you'll climb up Mt Gigilos. This area is home to the wild goats of Crete and some of Europe's most rare birds. The summit offers spectacular views in all directions. We'll descend by the same route and spend the night at a family-owned hotel in Omalos plateau.
Day 5 – Day 5: Omalos Plateau to Agia Roumeli via Samaria Gorge
Day 5: Omalos Plateau to Agia Roumeli via Samaria Gorge
A short drive from the hotel will take us to Xiloscalo at the entrance of Samaria gorge, the longest gorge in Europe. You'll walk through a shady pine forest and beside a flowing stream, reaching the small village of Agia Roumeli. Here, you can relax and enjoy a swim before settling in for the night.
Day 6 – Day 6: Agia Roumeli to Loutro
Day 6: Agia Roumeli to Loutro
Today's walk takes us along a beautiful coastal path on the Mediterranean Sea. On the way to Loutro, you'll pass the picturesque St Paul's chapel. After a refreshing break at Marmara beach, you'll arrive at the small port of Loutro, a village adorned with blue and white houses. Spend the next two nights in Loutro.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Loutro and Anopolis Village
Day 7: Exploring Loutro and Anopolis Village
Today, we'll ascend an ancient path to Anopolis village, a historic area known for the revolution against the Turks in 1866. From Agia Ekaterini's church, enjoy the wonderful view of the Libyan Sea and the south coast of Crete. Visit Anopoli's square, relax with the locals, and return to Loutro. For strong hikers, we recommend crossing Arathena's gorge that ends at Marmara beach and returning to Loutro by following the E4 path. Overnight in Loutro.
Day 8 – Day 8: Loutro to Chania via Hora Sfakion
Day 8: Loutro to Chania via Hora Sfakion
- Sosorides beach
- More
On the final day of our tour, we'll head to the village of Hora Sfakion, either by a 2-hour hike along the coastal path that crosses Sweet Water beach or by a 15-minute boat ride from Loutro. From Hora Sfakion, we'll return to Chania where you can take a leisurely walk through Chania's market before concluding the trip.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.