Meet Alternative Crete: Your local experts in sustainable adventure

At Alternative Crete, we don’t just show you the island, we invite you to live it. Founded on a deep-rooted love for the Cretan landscape and a commitment to responsible tourism, our mission is to connect travellers with the raw, untouched beauty of our home.
With over 15 years of exploring the Cretan mountains, we offer insider knowledge that typical tours miss.

Our story: Passion for the great outdoors

The idea for Alternative Crete was born from years of exploring the rugged mountains, hidden gorges, and ancient paths of Crete.

Based in Rethymno, we have spent decades mapping out the island’s best-kept secrets, from the peaks of Psiloritis to the most secluded coastal trails.

Why Choose Us?

In a world of mass tourism, we stand for something different. Here is what defines the Alternative Crete experience:

Expert Local Knowledge: Our guides are more than just professionals, they are locals who know the history, mythology, and ecology of Crete by heart.
Safety: With years of experience in mountain guiding, your safety is always our top priority.
Tailor-Made Adventures: We specialize in private guided tours and multi-day tours, allowing us to adapt every tour to your fitness level and interests.
Sustainability at Core: We operate with a “leave no trace” philosophy. Every tour is designed to minimize environmental impact and maximize positive local engagement.
Professionalism: Licensed travel agency by the Greek National Tourism Organisation (G.N.T.O.)

Our philosophy: Beyond the typical

For us, “Alternative” isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a commitment to highlighting the hidden aspects of Crete that most travellers never see. Whether it’s sharing a traditional meal in a remote village or finding the perfect quiet spot in a majestic gorge, we aim to provide experiences that resonate with your adventurous spirit.

Join us and discover the Crete that we love.

Our Team

Yorgos Prinarakis

Mountain Leader

Yorgos, Back in 2008, he came into contact with the magical world of the mountains for the first time, fascinated by what he saw and experienced he became a nature lover.
Since then and after countless Kilometres of hiking in the mountains of Crete and Greece and after attending in mountain and climbing schools he succeeded in becoming a mountain leader.
He is a graduate of the Vocational Institution of Rethymno and certified Mountain Leader from the National Organisation for the Certification of Qualifications & Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP).
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Kostas Marmatzakos

Mountain Leader

Kostas is a certified Mountain Leader with over 15 years of experience and a member of the Cretan Mountain Leaders Association. He collaborates with top outdoor adventure companies and is always looking to sharpen his skills and explore new challenges.

When he’s not leading hikes and treks, you’ll find him rock climbing, trail running, or ski touring—always chasing the next adventure!