Walking in Crete is a physical activity to be savoured by most of the senses with each step. Greece’s largest island boasts about half a dozen mountainous regions ranging from west to east, and this rugged topography includes a variety of lakes, rivers, valleys, and gorges. In this series, we’ll uncover some of the best trails and areas you can explore on your pedestrian travels around the island.
Walking in Crete: readying yourself for adventure
Crete’s location in the South Aegean Sea provides ideal conditions for outdoor adventures any season of the year. Extremely hot and humid summers are only for the most intrepid adventurers, so plan your trip during the spring and autumn seasons when the temperatures are moderate and more conducive to long walks amid blue skies.
Hiking trails in Crete vary according to the degree of difficulty or ruggedness of the terrain. A comfortable pair of waterproof boots, light clothing, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Bring a light jacket in case of rain or cool temperatures in higher elevations and a towel in case you have the urge for a refreshing dip in the island’s turquoise waters. Take note that a section of the E4 European Walking Path (almost 200 miles’ worth) crosses through Crete, and bus routes are available from the various cities to or near all destinations.
Walking in Crete: sampling the western trails in Chania
Chania is the second largest city in Crete and is located on its western side. Here, Lefka Ori (White Mountains) dominates the region’s southern landscape, whilst the Samaria Gorge is home to some of the most famous trails on the island.
Samaria Gorge National Park
Perhaps no other area showcases the grandeur of Crete like a trek through Samaria Gorge National Park. This trail takes at least six hours to complete and starts in the high mountains at Xyloskalo, where kri-kri (Cretan mountain goats) roam. It then descends over 4,000 ft to sea level, where Agia Roumeli beach rewards you with its refreshing waters. You can also visit the ancient shrine to Apollo at Agios Nikolaos, but be prepared for crowds owing to the popularity of the park and its trails.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate
- Length: 8.5-10 miles
Agia Eirini Gorge
Another breathtaking walk in Chania is along the Agia Eirini trail, where the flora changes colour in the autumn and spring treks are relatively quiet and serene. Several birds of prey live in this area, including eagles, kestrels, and vultures, so don’t be surprised to see or hear them among the maple and pine trees or boulder outcroppings as you go. It’ll take about five hours to complete the walk from Agia Eirini to the village of Sougia on the western side of the White Mountains, where you can lunch at one of its charming tavernas.
- Degree of difficulty: easy length: 7.5-8.5 miles
Imbros Gorge
By most estimates, Imbros Gorge is one of Crete’s three most popular hiking trails. It’s a short route that only takes about three hours at a very easy pace, and the landscape is such that it is highly favoured by backpackers and campers. If you’re looking for a beautiful trail the entire family can walk with comfort, then this is it. Most people turn back at the stone arch, but adventure seekers know that making the trip all the way to Komitades is rewarded with tavernas and spectacular vistas. You can even take your dog along this trail, but keep it on the lead.
- Degree of difficulty: easy
- Length: 4-5 miles
Walking in Crete: traversing the central regions of Rethymno and Heraklion
This area is home to Crete’s largest city and has some spectacular trails for you to enjoy. Mount Ida, the island’s highest peak, lies a few miles closer to Heraklion. Nida Plateau is also a well-known spot for enjoying a relaxing walk out in nature.
Psiloritis National Park
Trekking around this UNESCO Global Geopark is a feast for the eyes and the feet. There is much to see and do here, so be prepared to venture off-trail while exploring some of the more intriguing spots. The mountain peak rises to over 5,000 ft, and Nida Plateau is where you’ll find Idaion Andros (Zeus Cave), Kamares Cave and, as you travel west, Vrondisi Monastery and Rouvas Gorge and Forest. Shepherds’ huts are common in this area and provide ideal resting points while you explore the region’s trees and plants.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate
- Length: 4-12.5 miles depending on the route
Amari Valley
A few miles due southeast of Rethymno is one of the most cherished trails on the island. Nestled between the Psiloritis and Kedros mountain ranges is the fertile Amari Valley, where everything thrives. Hilltop communities here allow for a huge expanse of nature barely touched by human hand, and its lakes, rivers, caves, and wetlands draw thousands of visitors each year. You’d almost believe you’re not even in Greece, except for the fact that this very valley was a hotbed of rebellion against the Nazis during the Second World War. Even then, its sheer beauty was worth fighting over.
- Degree of difficulty: easy
- Length: about 15 miles
Kotsifou Canyon
There’s something truly magical about trekking a canyon floor. In areas where the floor is narrow and the walls high enough, you can sense the primordial nature of the landscape. You might even want to catch your breath if you really consider the thought. Kotsifou Canyon is infused with enormous energy, and so are those who are drawn to it. There’s a lot of climbing involved here, and some of it is a bit tricky, so wear sensible boots and take your time getting around. Others judge the journey to be well worth the effort, and we stand firmly behind that conclusion.
- Degree of difficulty: challenging
- Length: about 8 miles
Walking in Crete chases an eastern wind
Looking at a map alone will tell you that the Lasithi region of eastern Crete, which includes Sitia, is teeming with mountains, cliffs and caves: all perfectly natural playgrounds for those who enjoy being immersed in the great outdoors. Need we say more?
Richtis Gorge
Richtis Gorge is a famous stretch along the northern coastline of eastern Crete. If you’re really up for a jaunt, try walking the trail from Lachana Stone Arch Bridge down to the gorge and on even further to Richtis Beach, where the road meets the Sea of Crete. Located a few miles from Exo Mouliana, Richtis Gorge is home to watermills and stone bridges as well as a diversity of plants, tree life, and animals; it has become well regarded among locals and professional walkers. Pass the waterfalls on the way down and savour a prelude to what awaits at sea level.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate
- Length: about 5.5 miles
Zakros & Zakros Gorge
The trail from Ano, or Upper Zakros, to Kato, or Lower Zakros, is a popular one among hiking enthusiasts. It traverses through Zakros Gorge, famous for its formidable rock formations and ancient Minoan excavations, such as Zakros Palace and caves containing a trove of burial tombs. Several species of birds, plants, and trees native to the island flourish here, contributing to its fame as a walking trail. The route through the gorge also represents the last portion of the E4 European Trail in Crete.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate
- Length: about 7.5 miles
Pelekita Cave
Just north of Kato Zakros is one of Crete’s deepest and most spectacular natural caves. Known to the locals as Sikias Spilios, or Cave of the Fig Tree, owing to the massive tree near the entrance, this underground structure features massive pillars of stalactites and stalagmites in a series of vaulted chambers sure to leave you breathless with awe.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate
- Length: approximately 1,020 feet
We hope you enjoyed exploring our list of the best trails for walking in Crete. This is just a small taste of what’s on offer, so use our examples to supplement your own itinerary or just make it up as you go. Have fun!
