Discover Crete’s hidden spots through an outdoor activity and experience the authentic Crete alternatively.
Experience and explore Crete with five outdoor activities that blend action and exploration, mountains and sea, tranquil vibes or exhilarating bursts of adrenaline!
Holidays are not solely about the endless hours of idleness spent on the beaches or evenings in the well-hidden cafes of the countryside. Τhey can encompass all of the above, they can simultaneously offer more adventurous and authentic experiences.
Climbing in Crete
The easy access to numerous climbing areas, the diverse range of easy routes, and the abundance of paths tailored for experienced and demanding climbers are the primary reasons why rock climbing has gained an increasing number of enthusiasts in Crete over recent years.
The many options among the vertical cliffs bordering the sea, as well as climbing routes cleverly concealed within the crags of the mountains, has sparked the interest of both local and foreign climbers, resulting in the establishment of hundreds of new routes and numerous climbing areas, which continue to be developed with immense dedication, driven solely by their passion for climbing.
The most intriguing climbing fields on the island, organized by region, include:
Lasithi: The Gorge of the dead at Kato Zakros in the West, alongside the climbing field of Peza, located 12 km south of Agios Nikolaos.
Heraklion: In 15-minute drive west of the city lies Voulismeno Aloni, a field crafted by local climbers. However, if you wish to escape urbanity and seek more solitude, Agiofarago, located on the south coast of Heraklion, is your perfect choice!
Rethymno: The climbing fields in the broader area of Plakias, such as Damnoni, Kalypso, and Paligremnos, offer the most accessible options. For those in search of more beautiful adventures and routes showcasing mountainous beauty, the field of Kria Vrisi is the ideal location for those yearning for tranquillity and seclusion.
Chania: The Therisos Gorge, with grades ranging from 4a to 8b and an impressive setting among the vertical rocks of this historic gorge, is the highlight of climbing in Chania. Moreover, popular climbing spots include Stavros in Akrotiri and Monte Vardia at the fringes of Chania city.
Hiking and Multi-day Trekking
Crete emerges as a mountainous bulk rising from the depths of the sea, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, and perhaps one of Greece’s most promising hiking destinations. Undoubtedly, the most popular hiking experience in Crete is the crossing of the Samaria Gorge. Yet, what lies beyond this famed gorge?
Let us begin our hiking journey from the West and move eastward.
One initial suggestion is the European long-distance trail E4, starting from Kastelli (Kissamos) and ending in Kato Zakros. This challenging trail attracts hundreds of trekkers, not only from Greece but primarily from abroad, traversing the island from end to end.
For easier routes and for more interaction with the locals and the villages of the hinterland, a new network of trails has been developing in recent years in Chania Prefecture, known as the ‘’Chania Trails’’.
This “hiking labyrinth” stretches across the region, aiming to highlight the rich history and beauty of Chania’s inland. Through hiking, it seeks to rejuvenate villages, preserve their history and restore forgotten or abandoned landmarks due to rapid tourism growth and mass tourism of the last decades.
For those passionate about ascending lofty peaks and relishing the rewarding panoramic views from above, Psiloritis, the highest mountain of Crete, promises to satisfy their adventurous spirit. The mythical Ida Mt. (2,456m), birthplace of Zeus and Cretan mythology, is conveniently situated between the Rethymno and Heraklion Prefectures, easily accessible by car from almost anywhere on the island.
Last but not least, for canyon enthusiasts, the “Gorge of the Dead” in eastern Lasithi Prefecture, at Kato Zakros, presents an appealing option. Contrary to its macabre name—which conceals archaeological intrigue—the landscape and beauty are comparable to those of the renowned gorges in western Crete.
River Trekking
Literally, River trekking is hiking through the riverbed or an easy gorge with flowing water, devoid of technical challenges and without the necessity for specialized equipment for descent.
This exhilarating activity, particularly refreshing during the hot months of the Cretan summer, is perfect for families or groups of friends who are seeking fun, cool dives, and swimming in crystal-clear river waters while marvelling at breathtaking landscapes accessible only by water!
Three distinct locations to experience the above include:
In Chania, the Kiliaris River in Apokoronas, just a few kilometres from the city amidst a lush landscape. Conversely, if you find yourself on the eastern side, the Sarakina Gorge near Ierapetra is the most easily accessible option.
However, the epicentre of River trekking is at the heart of the island, specifically in Rethymno at the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Starting from its famous springs and descending through stunning scenery which can lead all the way to the exotic beach of Preveli with Crete’s largest palm forest, this experience is the definition of river trekking!
Via Ferrata in Crete
The Via Ferrata activity is not as widely known in Greece as it is abroad, yet is slowly and gradually taking shape, allowing individuals to engage with this alternative outdoor activity.
Currently, Crete hosts only one significant effort to establish an “iron road” situated in the Asterousia Mountains, the southernmost mountain range in Europe, and created by Zbynek Capela in 2013.
With vertical cliffs, remote gorges, and vistas that captivate the eye, this activity caters to those wishing to infuse action into their lives, relishing moments of intense adrenaline, yet always with safety. Clearly, the Via Ferrata does not appeal to individuals suffering from acrophobia, vertigo or similar phobias. Nevertheless, everyone can relish the experience of pristine mountainous landscapes traversed by air passages.
Discover Crete by Bicycle
Lastly, a bike excursion to explore the less-touristy regions of Crete and delve into the island’s interior unknown destinations.
Ride through the curvy roads of the narrow gorges and verdant valleys, cross remote villages with small traditional cafes to take a breath and to taste a Greek coffee, and all this while immersing yourself in the Cretan countryside with your bike away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism.
There are routes and rides for those yearning to test themselves not only on asphalt and gentle inclines but for those craving dirt and mountains, intensity and challenge. Grab a mountain or trekking bike and embark on an exploration of the untamed beauty of Crete on two wheels.
Even if you don’t find a coffee shop open, don’t worry at all! You’re bound to stumble upon an unassuming, forgotten chapel, likely unmarked on any map, perfect for a brief respite and coffee in hand!
