Discovering the land of Zeus (hiking West Crete)

After breakfast departure to the most important city of western Crete, Chania (150 km). Among others you see the old Venetian port built on the 13th AD and the Egyptian Lighthouse. In early afternoon you reach Palaiochora (70km) where you will have the opportunity to enjoy the sandy beach and the crystal clear waters. Dinner, overnight.

Today's hiking along the coast, enroute stop to see the archaeological site of Lissos, being port of the Doric city Elyros that has flourished during the Hellenistic, Roman and First Byzantine times and was destroyed by Saracens invaded from Spain. Arrival to Sougia and time at leisure by the sea (course 5-6 hours, alt ± 500m).

After Sougia, today’s hiking through a beautiful path across the gorge of Agia Irini, you arrive to Omalos plateau. Lunch at the top of the plateau, check-in and time at leisure to enjoy the breath-taking view to the White Mountains. (course 4 hours, alt. +700m).

Let’s discover today the renowned wonderful Samaria gorge, being National Park of Greece and World's Biosphere Reserve. From Xyloskalo (1200m) you start descending till the basement of the gorge. Then a 15km long hiking along the footpath by the riversides takes you to Agia Roumeli, in Lybian Sea. There you will be relaxing and swimming in the beautiful waters. In late afternoon you get to Loutro by ship. Check-in and time at leisure and chatting about today’s experience. (course 6 hours, alt. -1000m).

Today through an impressive path above Loutro, you hiking towards the legendary Sfakia considered to be one of few places in Greece that has never been enslaved by conquerors. The locals are famous for their hospitality and generosity towards guests, while Sfakia is connected with a legend and unexplained phenomenon describes a procession of visions (Drosoulites) seen in the nearby village Frangokastello as troops that died in the war of independence against the Turks. Time at leisure. Then transfer to Heraklion, check-in and overnight. (course 3 hours).

Get ready to uncover the mysteries of Heraklion. You explore the magnificent Knossos Palace, home to King Minos and legends of the Minotaur, remnants of courtyards, shrines, great halls, and royal apartments adorned with frescoes. You also visit the Archaeological Museum featuring artifacts collection of Minoan civilization dating back to 5000 BC. Your tour ends to the old Venetian walls.

Day at leisure until 12h00. Transfer to the port or airport. End of the programme