A Mountain in the Sea
Crete is the largest of Greece’s thousands of islands. Despite its rich history over several millennia, much of Crete is still wild, untrodden and unexplored. Once you traverse this legendary land, you’ll never again consider it as just a Mediterranean island, but instead as a mountain in the sea.

We start in Chania, one of the most beautiful small cities in Europe, with its ancient, coved harbor marked by a Venetian lighthouse. Chania bustles with small shops and restaurants and it’s a great place for a couple pre-tour days of relaxation and sightseeing, before taking off into the high country.

White Mountain Traverse
The backbone of Crete is the Lefka Ori range (Λευκά Όρη, meaning 'White Mountains') and we ascend Pachnes, the highest peak in the range at 8048 ft (2453m), and enjoy commanding views to many of the 40 surrounding summits that rise to over 2000m in elevation. During uprisings against the Venetian and Ottoman rulers, as well as during the WWII German occupation, Cretan rebels sought refuge in the White Mountains. The peaks of the White Mountains are snow covered in winter, but get their name from their perennial exposed white limestone flanks. While in the White Mountains we’ll also ascend Gigolos, a dramatic-looking peak with an elevation of 6,824 ft (2028m).

The gorges that descend below the White Mountains offer some of the best hiking in Crete. We’ll ascend the most famous of those gorges, Samaria Gorge, which at 9.9 miles is the longest hikable gorge in Europe.

Sheltered Coves, Quiet Beaches
The southern coast of Crete is famous for sheltered coves and quiet beaches. We’ll conclude at the seaside village of Sougia, a peaceful haven on the Libyan Sea. With a relaxed atmosphere, beachfront cafes, and nearby walks and hikes, you’ll be tempted to spend a few extra days here after the tour.

Overview Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Chania | Transfer to harborside hotel in Chania's old town

Day 2 – Exploring Chania and the surrounding areas

Day 3 – Loutro | Marmara Cove | Aradena Gorge

Day 4 – Pachnes summit hike

Day 5 – Descent from mountain plateau to coast

Day 6 – Samaria Gorge

Day 7 – Gigolos summit

Day 8 – Hiking the E4 Coastal Path from Sougia to Paleochora

Day 9 – Private boat tour to wild coves

Day 10 – Shuttle return to Chania, depart

View Detailed Itinerary
View Detailed Itinerary

Tour Price

$4,495 USD per person, double occupancy from Chania

$750 single supplement

Reserve your place on this tour with a $500 per person deposit

Trip Dates

13 May 2025 - 22 May 2025

16 September 2025 - 25 September 2025

Or, book a private departure

Trip Highlights

  • Experience the wild canyons, remote mountaintops, pristine beaches, and expansive views found only in Crete
  • The superb cuisine of Crete which you’ll enjoy in traditional restaurant, small tavernas, and guesthouses
  • Explore Samaria National Park, through the longest gorge in Europe
  • Connect with the rich and vibrant culture of Crete through its hospitable people
Book This Trip Now

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter

Stay up to date on the latest Alpenwild news. You're free to opt out at any time. See our Privacy Policy.

Interests: