This self-guided walking holiday explores the most remote south-west corner of Crete.
There are often no roads within miles and most of the local commuting is done by boat! You’ll follow ancient paths and shepherd trails through gorges and along stoney coastal paths that meander above hidden coves, along virgin beaches and across pebbly promontories, often within metres of the appetisingly clear waters of the Mediterranean.
Starting in Chania, the most charming city of Crete we head towards the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) which take their name from the shining bleached limestone in summer. Explore the lush Samaria and Agia Irini gorges blanketed with colourful Cretan rock lettuce and Aubretia. Follow the southern coastline from Sougia to Ancient Lissos, known for its famous Temple of Asklepios (Aesculapium), where people came from all over Crete to be cured by the local waters. The temple was destroyed in a great earthquake, but its mosaic floor depicting animals and geometrical patterns is preserved. Continue along the coast to Loutro, passing the chapel of St Pavlos, said to mark the place where St Paul landed on Crete. There are plenty of swimming opportunities along the way and your final walk takes you to Freshwater Beach before returning to Chania.
You’ll be treated to historical sites, fabulous swimming spots and a spectacular variety of birds. The White Mountains have golden eagles and lammergeyers and at lower altitudes you will find bee-eaters, hoopoes, blue rock thrush and golden oreols.
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
KEY INFORMATION
- 7 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH and 3-star hotels
- All breakfasts
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
- Route directions and maps
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Walking transfers on days 2, 3 and 7
- Countries visited: Greece
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- 7 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH and 3-star hotels
- All breakfasts
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
- Route directions and maps
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Walking transfers on days 2, 3 and 7
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Travel insurance
- Single accommodation (available on request)
- Any Solo traveller supplements (where only one person is travelling on a departure date)
- Visas or vaccinations
EXT – W07GI
Images Courtesy of Exodus Travel
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