Trekking in Crete’s mountain ranges
Much of Crete’s western region is given over to the White Mountains, or Lefka Ori, and here you’ll find some of the best hiking trails in Crete. This limestone range reaches 8,048 feet (2,453 m) at its highest peak while its deep gorges are of a staggering scale. Between the two extremes, you can hike across its wide plateaus, high up and ringed by mountains.
The southern sections of the White Mountains are famous for their lunar-like landscapes. Often bare rock and gravel, the mountain tops here are high desert. It is scenery that needs to be experienced to fully believe.
To the east, you can explore the Dikti mountain range, complete with the beautiful Lasithi plateau, the largest on the island. Unlike the White Mountains in the west, on the slopes of Dikti you’ll hike through forests of pine, cypress and maples.
Adding ancient history and mythology to your routes
Walks in Crete would hardly be complete without taking in some of the world-famous mythology. Humans have lived on this island for over 130,000 years and have had plenty of time to create some of the most memorable and enduring stories in history.
As a culturally important island and the site of Europe’s first advanced civilisation, Crete’s mythology and history is cherished. Perhaps the most famous site is the Knossos Palace on the southern outskirts of Heraklion. It is said that beneath this palace, the Minotaur was trapped in a labyrinth and while you won’t need a ball of string to guide you around here, the ruins of Knossos are still impressive.
From this historic site, you can continue hiking south to the ancient Venetian Aqueduct and into Fourni Forest. To really blend your hikes in Crete with the heart of Greek mythology, roam the tranquil Lasithi Plateau at 2,952 feet (900 m) and stop by Psychro Cave. One of the most precious places in Crete, a stunning area of patchwork fields and orchards hides this famous cave. It’s the proposed birthplace of the god Zeus.
Hiking in Crete offers beauty wherever you turn. On high mountain trails, you’ll see staggering views of lunar landscapes and breathtaking gorges. You can explore huge plateaus and walk between olive trees to the sound of goat bells and rest up on a sandy beach, feet firmly in clear, sparkling water.
