Hiking in Crete 2025

The island of Crete is known not just for its wonderful beaches, but also as an awesome destination for hiking and trekking. There are three main hiking regions, namely: the Lefka Ori (or the White Mountains), the spectacular south coast, and the glorious Cretan gorges.

Lefka Ori, also famous as the White Mountains, has such a name because of white rocks covered with snow during the wintertime. It's one of the most famous trekking spots in Crete with an altitude of 2,080m. The hike takes approximately four days and three nights. On the South Coast of Crete, there is a hiking route from Tripiti to Sougia. It features breathtaking landscapes of coastline and the bay of Sougia. While walking, you will have the chance to visit the ancient town of Pikilassos, the remains of a Venetian fortress, and the old chapel of Prophet Elias which stands 400 m above the Libyan sea.

Richtis Gorge is a tiny green paradise in the Eastern part of Crete. While trekking you will see ancient water mills. Also, you can have a chilling and exotic bath in the 20 m high falls of Richtis. The Gorge of Death (Zakros Gorge) is a wonderful place, full of caves, rocks, and high walls. Wondering why the gorge has such a scary name? It's because of the tombs of the Minoan inhabitants which were once found in this territory. You'll discover lots of interesting archaeological landmarks in the area.

The best time for hiking in Crete is during May and June. At that time, the weather is very enjoyable, trails are not crowded, and the abundance of blooming wildflowers is another pleasant bonus. September and October is another suitable period for hiking, but at this time nature and the air can be pretty dry because of the period of arid weather.