Crete - White Mountains and the Mediterranean

Days 1 and 2. Outbound

Fly to the atmospheric and picturesque Venetian port of Chania in western Crete. Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring the old harbour quayside before transferring to the beachside village of Paleohora in the southwest corner of the island.

Days 3 to 5. 'E4' Coastal Path and Elafonissi Island

Follow the 'E4' to an exotic beach where a boat will take you to the pink sand of the island of Elafonissi. Follow the coast eastwards to the ancient city of Lissos, a flourishing hydrotherapy centre in the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine era with a well-preserved temple. Continue through the beautiful gorge of Selinou to the fishing village of Sougia. From here you will walk to the isolated beach of Agios Antonios to relax in its crystal clear waters returning to Sougia by boat.

Days 6 and 7. Mount Gingilos

Transfer to the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) and ascend the quiet gorge of Agia Irini to reach the Omalos Plateau (1000 metres). Climb Mount Gingilos (2080 metres), abode of the rare lammergeyer, where wild goats (kri-kri) and Griffon Vultures also live. An easy scramble brings you to the summit for spectacular views in all directions.

Days 8 and 9. Samaria Gorge

Today you will walk through the largest and one of the most impressive gorges in Europe, the Samaria Gorge. The rugged trail follows barren rock passes, shady pine forests and river canyons. Emerge at the small village of Agia Roumeni on the south coast and enjoy a relaxing day swimming from its black sandy beach.

Days 10 to 12. Coast, Mountains and Gorge

Follow the jagged coastline passing picturesque St Paul's chapel built on a beach, to Agios Ioannis village, at the foot of the White Mountains where the local people wear traditional costume. From the mountain refuge here you will ascend Zaranokefala Mountain (2100 metres). The summit should present views of the entire southwest coast of Crete and most of the 52 mountain summits above 2000 metres. Descend the beautiful and little visited Aradena gorge that leads to peaceful Marmara beach and its amazing sea caves. Continue along the coast to the pretty village of Loutro.

Days 13 to 15. Beaches and Homeward

Relax at Loutro or walk to historic Anapolis Village for views to the south coast and to the White Mountains. Either take the coastal path past Sweet Water Beach (where freshwater springs gush out to the sea) or hop on a ferry to Sfakia for your return to Chania. Enjoy a final farewell taverna dinner before transferring to the airport and flying home.