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17 reviews
Bestseller
Bestseller
Holidays

Walking the White Mountains of Crete

Greece
17 reviews
Available Departures: May, Sep, Oct

8 days from

US$1,685

without flights
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
MODERATE MODERATE

The best guided walks in Crete: from the peaks of the White Mountains, through the Samaria Gorge, to the secluded coves of the Mediterranean coast

Trip Code: CRE
Holiday Grades
          

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Walking the White Mountains of Crete

Highlights
  • Descend to the Mediterranean sea through the spectacular Samaria Gorge
  • Reach the summit of Pachnes, the highest peak in the White Mountains of Crete
  • Discover Crete's hidden coves on a stunning coastal walk from Agia Roumeli
  • Stay in charming accommodation, enjoy Cretan cuisine and sip Ouzo in Greek tavernas

At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 15
  • 6 days walking
  • Max altitude 2453 metres
  • Join In Chania

Accommodation & Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts
  • 5 Lunches
  • 7 Dinners
  • 7 nights Hotel
Overview

This Mediterranean walking holiday on the island of Crete offers a wonderful blend of high mountain scenery, picturesque coastal walking, traditional villages, and legendary Greek food and hospitality. Immerse yourself in the spellbinding beauty of the White Mountains, traverse the rugged terrain of the Samaria Gorge, and discover the hidden beaches along Crete's lesser-explored coast.

Starting from the mountain hamlet of Omalos, our first objective is to hike to the summit of Gingilos (1980m), a rocky peak offering spectacular views across the White Mountains and a bird's-eye perspective of our route for the following day. This route leads us down to the Mediterranean via the world-famous Samaria Gorge, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We then spend two nights in Agia Roumeli, a charming collection of traditional tavernas accessible only by walking or boat. Here, you have the option to relax on the beach or partake in a variety of day walking excursions.

Continuing along the sun-kissed shoreline and a stunning cliff-side pathway, our next day's walk in Crete takes us to Marmara beach and the delightful white-painted seaside village of Loutro. With a hotel base in Loutro, our trekking adventure ascends to Pachnes (2453m), the highest peak in the 'Lefka Ori' mountain range, before a circular hike via the impressive Aradena Gorge and the charming shepherd's village of Anopolis.

Is this holiday for you?

This walking holiday is designed to escape the main tourist hotspots of northern Crete and embrace the magic and tranquility of the quiet southern coastline. While we are sure to enjoy plenty of sun, experience isolated beaches, and sample superb Greek cooking, this holiday is first and foremost tailored for walkers. Our hikes include ascents to the rocky peak of Gingilos, as well as Pachnes, t …

This walking holiday is designed to escape the main tourist hotspots of northern Crete and embrace the magic and tranquility of the quiet southern coastline. While we are sure to enjoy plenty of sun, experience isolated beaches, and sample superb Greek cooking, this holiday is first and foremost tailored for walkers. Our hikes include ascents to the rocky peak of Gingilos, as well as Pachnes, the highest mountain in the area. We anticipate an average of 5 to 7 hours of walking each day, with average ascents and descents of around 700 meters per day. The paths are generally well-maintained, but during the ascents of Gingilos and Pachnes, we will encounter open scree and traverse rocky terrain with no discernible track. This holiday is suitable for weekend hikers seeking tranquility and sun. Be prepared for a unique and authentic Greek experience!

Why KE?

Our itinerary is pretty hard to beat, combining all the walking highlights of unspoiled Western Crete, including a guided walk to summit Pachnes. We love how this adventure consistently surprises and delights travellers - the White Mountains are a true hidden gem and walker's paradise.

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