The 11 most beautiful hiking tours in Crete

Sunny beaches, grandiose sites, sparkling landscapes await you in Crete! And what better, to discover them than to go for a hike in Crete?

Both wild and shining, this lost island in the Mediterranean is full of mysteries and secrets. Its mythical lands contain archaeological sites, grandiose landscapes and sunny beaches. The Crete, this magnificent setting of wonders, is one of the top destinations for the holidays! So, to explore it at best, put your boots on seven leagues and go hiking in Crete! Between Azur lagoons, impressive gorges and breathtaking valleys, Crete is a true paradise for hiking lovers!

Once your shoes are laced and your walking sticks in hand, go swipe this little island full of mysteries! Follow the guide and discover the 11 most beautiful hikes to do in Crete!

North

1. From Kaliviani to Balos lagoon

This hike in Crete 30km round trip is a real enchanted parenthesis for the athletes who walk it. Indeed, the lagoon of Balos, in the heart of a desert landscape, appears as an oasis. A marvel of nature with crystalline waters tinted with azure blue and silver reflections, the Balos lagoon makes you forget all the efforts provided to get to it.

Located at the end of the Gramvoussa peninsula, the site of this hike in Crete is accessible by wild trails surrounded by mountainous terrains more impressive than others. Amazing show guaranteed!

South

2. Aradena Gorges at Marmara Beach

With its high peaks and numerous gorges, Crete is a paradise for walkers. The hike in Crete called "Aradena Gorges" is no exception to the rule and highlights the Cretan reliefs and hilly paths. Longue 5.5km , this hike in Crete offers all the tranquility and magic that walkers seek.

Along a river with translucent waters, the trail is sheltered by the impressive Cretoises cliffs. At the same time wild and natural, this route offers some stops in various small typical hamlets such as Liviana, Finix and Lyxos. This hike in Crete leads you to the beach of Marmara where it is very pleasant to enjoy the sea air and swim.

Attention: a passage from this hike in Crete crosses with a scale.

3. Imbros Gorges in Komitades

The second most visited gorges of the island after those of Samaria, this hike in Crete is simply fabulous! Accessible to all , fast (6.6km) and easy, it is the journey that delights the whole family.

With its grandiose landscapes, this hike in Crete in a narrow canyon leaves you compelling memories! The show is striking: blue rivers and a colorful flora are born in a rocky world! Ebloui in front of such beauty and subjugated by the Cretan environment, you do not even feel the effort! When you arrive in Komitades, take a break at a coffee terrace.

4. Paleochora – Sougia – Chora Sfakion – Frangokastello (E4)

If you have the soul of an adventurer and want to do sport during your holidays, this hike in Crete is the ideal option. Long 70km the course takes place in several days (between one week and 10 days) and stages. Walking all the south of the island, the path leads you from Paleochora to Frangokastello through Sougia, the gorges of Samaria, Agia Roumeli or Loutro.

Gorges bleutées, mountainous landscapes, desert areas, crystalline lagoons and treed valleys follow each other and make your hike in Crete a real change. The days follow, but don't look like it! Marvelled by the beauty of nature, you continue your efforts (despite the streaks) to arrive at the final destination and realize the path travelled.

After this exhausting week, we advise you to stay a few more days on the island of Minotaur to really rest!

Is it?

5. Gorge des Morts : Zakros – Kato Zakros

Nice hiking in Crete by about 12km , the path in the valley of the Dead still holds you surprises. Do not trust his disturbing name and brave your fears to discover a path that winds through lush vegetation. You cross the Zakros to the village of the same name where it is possible to relax on a beautiful white pebble beach.

This hike in Crete in the wake of postcard decors allows you to discover both the Cretan flora and the ancient funerary caves of the minoans. Between nature and history, this hike enjoys both adults and children.

West

6. Gorges de Samaria

Incontournable hiking in Crete, the path of the gorges of Samaria is also one of the most frequented. Long 14km , this path leads you to the heart of Samaria National Park where nature is preserved there. In this lush green setting, the landscapes are exceptional, majestic flora and wild fauna (the Kri-Kri : Cretan goat in freedom).

At the turn of a river in the narrow between impressive walls, you see the gorges. Being one of the most beautiful and deepest in Europe, the show is striking!

Attention: Gorges are open only from May to October!

7. Gorges d’Agia Irini

Nestled in the heart of Samaria National Park, this hike in Crete of almost 14km offers spectacular landscapes. A perfect alternative to the gorges of Samaria, the gorges of Agia Irini cross a part of the white mountains and lead you to Sougia near the sea of Lybie.

Considered as a natural sanctuary, the gorges sheltered abundant fauna and flora. Who knows, maybe you'll come across Kri-Kri ?

Attention: pay access, 2€ per person.

8. Xyloskalo – Afchenas – Gigilos

With an altitude of 1,980 metres, the Gingilos summit is a must-see in Crete. And what's better, to discover an out-of-the-ordinary place than to hike in Crete?

Ascension begins at the gates of the Gorges de Samaria and continues in cypress forests. Through the footsteps and the turn of rock formations, the hike is intensifying. After a break at the Linoseli source, you arrive at the top. From there you dominate the island and have a magnificent view on Tripiti Gorges and on the Libyan Sea.

9. From Moni Chrisoskalitissis to the Lagoon of Elafonissi

This friendly hike in Crete of 15km is accessible to all and ideal for families. Indeed, you walk the beaches of pink sand facing limpid waters. This idyllic frame accompanies you throughout the course and allows you to reach small secret coves unknown to tourists.

Almost magical, this path along the lagoon is a real enchantment for the eyes!

10. Passage de Rousies – Pachnes

If you are looking for a total change, this hike in Crete is for you! Reserved to the most adventurers, this walk makes you breathe the fresh air of the Cretoises mountains. With a view of 2,453 metres, this site offers breathtaking views!

Although ascension is difficult, the reward exceeds the efforts provided. So, if you have the courage, try this hike in the heart of a preserved and authentic nature. Amazing show at the top!

Centre

11. Nida Plateau – Psiloritis

If you dream of overlooking the world, at least Crete, go to Mount Psiloritis! This 8.5km Crete hike is reserved for experienced athletes because ascent is difficult, but the reward is so beautiful! Starting from the plateau of Nida, you gradually climb the highest peak cretan and what experience!

At the top, a 360-degree view and the small chapel of Timios Stavros await you. Take a few pictures before descending!

So, among these 11 circuits, what is your favourite hike in Crete?