Highlights
- Crete’s high biodiversity of ecosystems, including: Gorges, high mountain ranges, plateaus, caves, lakes and rivers, coastal areas and cliffs, islets, olive groves and vineyards
- The bird migration routes of Eastern Europe towards North, as well as the wide variety of raptors of the island
- The wide variety of (about) 1700 flora species growing on Crete, 10% of which are endemic
- Butterflies, insects, reptiles and more
- Ancient historic trees
- Local communities and seasonal activities
- A wide range of fine Cretan cuisine and wines
- Crete’s long and diverse cultural history
- Swimming and relaxation opportunities
dates
(available on other dates for private tours upon request)April 10th - 17th, 2020
April 25th - May 2nd, 2020
May 16th - 23rd, 2020
duration
09:00 – 17:00 (~8 hours)walking distance
short walkslanguages
Englishgroup size
4 (min) - 16 (max)ascent / descent
400m / 400mActivity profile
This tour features:
- medium-difficulty walking
- activities for families
- mountainous terrain and gorge(s)
- wildlife observation
- culinary stops
Summary
Crete is a natural experiment. An island located at the south-easternmost point of Europe, geographically close to three continents (Europe, Asia, Africa), it is a land created by powerful forces of nature and signatures of human history.
On this tour, we invite you to explore and interact with the wildlife and culture of Crete. We will visit many of Crete’s ecosystems, including gorges, high mountain ranges, plateaus, lakes and rivers, coastal areas, cliffs and olive groves. We will encounter some of the many plants and birds of Crete, visit ancient historic trees and take part in seasonal activities in local communities. We will experience a wide range of fine Cretan cuisine and wines and explore Crete’s longstanding and diverse cultural history. There will also be opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
Our base will be a village situated at the foothills of Mount Kedros, surrounded by the stunning nature of the Amari valley in the heart of Crete. This tour will make you part of Crete and its people.
Itinerary
Day 1
Pick up from Heraklion
Dinner in a local village kafeneion
Stay: Amari valley village
Day 2
Walking in Triopetra Outfall, swimming
Trip to Spili village
Stay: Amari valley village
Day 3
Botanising at Gious Kampos
Tour of the Amari Valley
Stay: Amari valley village
Day 4
Birdwatching on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis
Stay: Amari valley village
Day 5
Kourtaliotis & Kotsifos gorges
Swimming at Souda bay
Stay: Amari valley village
Day 6
Exploring the coast of Frangokastelo
Excursion to the Askyfou plateau
Stay: Chania
Day 7
Hiking on the Akrotiri Peninsula
Stay: Chania
Day 8
Drop off at Heraklion – Departure
Duration:
8 days (7 nights)
What's included
The cost of the tour is €1,350 per person, including:
-shared (twin) en-suite accommodation in 3-star hotels
(single en-suite accommodation supplement €200)
-all planned meals and activities
-minibus transportation
Offer: The first three participants receive a €100 discount.
- A single-centre holiday
- Direct flights with sociable timings
- Comfortable hotel of high quality (with swimming pool if possible), serving meals of a high standard
- Leisurely paced walks on gentle terrain
- Expert leaders, as ever, with more time for interpretation & explanation
- A maximum of 6 hours in the field each day (9.30am-3.30pm with picnic lunch or two 3-hour excursions)
- Morning and afternoon toilet/comfort stops
- Minimal long drives
- Back in time for afternoon tea
- All excursions optional
- All-inclusive cost (except bar drinks & laundry)
- Time to relax, read, paint, potter, swim or enjoy anything else that you might wish to do!
- see also: https://www.gadventures.com/trips/hiking-crete-gorges-coastal-walks/8499/details
Not included
- Transport from/to your accommodation (upon request)
- Beverages and drinks
- Personal expenses & tips
- Anything not mentioned above
You May Also Enjoy
(other related tours?)
Sustainability profile
(just a reminder for thinking / noting how this tour follows our sustainability principles)
Info not placed yet
Meeting Point: Rethymno
Price: The cost for the trip is €95 per person. Children aged 6-12 pay €80.
Including Minibus transportation, Guided hike, Meal at local tavern, Local guide