
The Ultimate Hiking Tour of Crete
Duration
5 Days
Theme
Group Type
Private
- Description
- What is included
- Why book with us
We created a wonderful 5-day hiking itinerary for families ready to explore the glorious Cretan countryside.
- Experienced mountain guides
- Water bottle
- Light snacks
- First-aid kit
- Third-party insurance
- All taxes
- The trails are handpicked and carefully chosen to be easily followed by the whole family.
- We can tailor the hikes to suit the ages and experience levels of your family.
- We have significant experience in organizing hiking expeditions in Crete.
- We collaborate with local guides who have years of hiking and touring experience.
The Ultimate Hiking Tour of Crete
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
Karfi
Recommended Accommodation: Elounda or Agios Nikolaos
Level: Easy
You will start outside Tzermiado, a beautiful village in the Lassithi area. By climbing on a small path, you will eventually reach the Karfi Summit, where an ancient Minoan settlement once stood and is currently being researched by archaeologists. Make sure your phones are charged and cameras ready because the panoramic views of the mountains of Selena and Dikti are breathtaking.
Kritsa
Recommended Accommodation: Elounda or Agios Nikolaos
Level: Easy
The day starts in the beautiful village of Kritsa. You will visit the Kera Church, which has amazingly well-preserved Byzantine frescos. Following your guide, you will reach the gorge’s entrance and, following the riverbed, cross one of the most beautiful Cretan gorges. At its narrowest point, the width is just 1.5 meters! – don’t worry, though, as it quickly gives place to open land. The adventure ends back in Kritsa, where you can relax in one of the cafés and learn more about this stunning part of Crete from your guide.
Gorge of Saints
Recommended Accommodation: Elounda or Agios Nikolaos
Level: Easy
We travel westwards towards the capital of Crete, Heraklion. The Gorge of Saints (Agiofarago) is located south of Heraklion. Pink oleanders and indigenous wildlife surround the area. The sea views are to die for. The trail is relatively easy for the whole family to follow. You will eventually arrive at Agiofarago Beach, once the shelter of monks coming from nearby eastern Orthodox monasteries.
Samaria
Recommended Accommodation: Chania
Level: Medium
Samaria is a stunning Cretan gorge. A national park since 1962, Samaria offers the luxury of unspoiled natural beauty, fresh mountain air, and visits to secluded sites, including an old, abandoned village hidden deep in the gorge! The hike is not too challenging, yet the gorge’s ten-mile distance calls for sturdy shoes and trained feet. The journey ends on the crystal-clear beach of Agia Roumeli, the perfect spot to freshen up after 6-7 hiking hours.
Imbros
Recommended Accommodation: Chania
Level: Easy
The stunning gorge of Imbros features beautiful rock formations, native flora, and incredible sea views. It is a two-hour easy hike perfect for wrapping up your Cretan Mountain adventure. You can then visit the famous Frangokastello, a Venetian Fortress where an army of 350 men lost their lives during the Greek War of Independence in 1828. The legend goes that a long procession of “dew shadows” (Drosoulites) is visible yearly on the anniversary of the dramatic battle, marching around Frangokastello! Alternatively, you can visit a local olive oil factory and winery for a delightful wine tasting. Raise your glass to the ultimate alternative Cretan experience!
Crete holds a unique place in all our hearts here at Kids Love Greece. This wonderful, diverse, family-friendly, and very BIG island offers anything any traveler wants. Crete is a world of its own, from secluded beaches to seafront resorts, from mountains to climb to towns to stroll around for endless shopping hours. Its crown jewel is the Cretans, famous for their warm hearts and hospitality.
Crete is best known for being an ideal sea and sun destination. Less well-known, though equally impressive, are its gorgeous mountains and gorges. Apart from the famous Samaria, few people know that Crete offers many glorious hiking paths and gorges to explore. From east to west, the island is a hikers’ paradise!
We created the Ultimate Hiking Adventure in Crete, a 5-day family-friendly itinerary that will take you from east to west, from Lassithi’s Karfi to Samaria and Imbros Gorges in Chania. Pack your hiking boots and get ready to take in the oregano-infused fresh Cretan air, the endless sea views, the dramatic gorges, and memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Best season to visit
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