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Traditions & History of Crete

• single-centre holiday • grade 1-2 • varied choice of walking routes • first-rate hospitality • relaxing A-class spa hotel with pool • car hire included

In the splendid west of the island of Crete, dominated by the magnificent White Mountains soaring up to 2,500 metres, the lush hillsides are watered by springs, rivers and lakes and are dotted with picturesque villages, all just a few minutes’ drive from long white sandy beaches. There is a palpable sense of history and tradition here, with Byzantine chapels, historic villages and the fascinating Venetian town of Chania showing constant reminders of the historic struggle of the islanders.

Grade: 1-2
Terrain: Wooded hills
Climate: Long, hot summer; warm spring & autumn
Nights: 7
Base: Elia Traditional Hotel & Spa (A-class)
Days 1-6: Walks of 4-18km (see below)

First-rate hospitality

The Elia Traditional Hotel and Spa makes an ideal base from which to explore the wonderful landscape of Western Crete - and the perfect place to come home to after an invigorating and rewarding day in the hills. Set in the middle of an olive grove, this carefully converted 200-year-old farmhouse has expansive views over the rolling hills down to the sea and a serene atmosphere of peace and calm. From your initial friendly welcome, you will find that the emphasis is on relaxation, rejuvenation and harmony. Restful seating areas have been created in the lush gardens amid fragrant herbs and towering mulberry and lemon trees. The meals at the hotel use only wholesome, local, fresh produce and, for that little extra luxury, the hotel invites you to enjoy their marble Turkish bath, the cleansing sauna, a therapeutic body massage and the refreshing pool.

Secluded valleys and bustling markets

The four walks that we recommend (we provide notes) take you on a pleasant exploration of the local countryside, where you discover ancient monuments, secluded valleys and groves, bustling markets and tavernas, quaint hill-top villages and cascading waterfalls. You will be rewarded with spectacular views over the bay of Kolimbari, the Rodopos Penisula and the surrounding countryside. You can visit the small church of Agia Paraskevi and, in Chrysavgi, discover a traditional shop selling honey, wine and Cretan delicacies. Another highlight takes you through Ano Vouves where you see the ancient 2,500-year-old olive tree. While in Voukoulies, you will find shops, tavernas and a lively Saturday market.

An unchanging landscape

A short drive of just a few minutes brings you to the start of a pleasant circular walk from the seaside town of Kolimbari. From the monastery, the views become more spectacular, with the rolling hills and the sea in the distance dominated by the peaks of the vast White Mountains. You walk through a Cretan landscape of shady pine and cypress trees, of olive groves and rows of beehives, where the pace of life is pleasantly slow and the people warm and welcoming. Stop at the little beach of Afrata (nice for a cooling dip), and wander along a small ravine with dramatic views, before returning through the villages of Astratigos and Grimbiliana back to Kolimbari for lunch. Wherever you choose to walk, all are fittingly scenic routes in an area of such outstanding natural beauty.

The walks
We recommend 6 walks, although one can be split into two. Two are circular walks from Elia whilst the others involve a drive to the start of the walk:

Walk 1: Circular from Elia 10km (approx 2h10) up to 200m ascent
See a Venetian castle at Xalvata, ancient olive trees and pretty Cretan villages.
Walk 2: Circular from Elia 7km (approx 2h15) up to 400m ascent
Walk 3: Two walks that can be combined or undertaken separately:
                a) drive to the start 4km (approx 1h25) up to 150m ascent
                b) drive to start 16km (approx 5h15) up to 850m ascent
Walk 4: Short drive to start 4km (approx 2h40) or longer version 8km (approx 3h40) 450m ascent
Walk 5: Short drive to start 10km (approx 3h55) up to 300m ascent
Walk 6: Short drive to start 16km (approx 6h) up to 1300m ascent  

Further afield

For a break from walking, head to Kolimbari and stroll to unspoiled Mediterranean beaches for a refreshing swim; alternatively, you can head for Chania and explore this quaint coastal town with its Venetian harbour, old port, narrow shopping streets and waterfront restaurants.

Prices & travel 2008

All prices in £ per person based on 2 people travelling together and sharing a double/twin room

# 8-night holiday with a night in Athens on outward journey
* Price based on 7-night holiday. Add £29 for single room in Athens

Start: any day
Nights: 7
Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners and 3 picnics
Upgrades: superior room, £6pppn; de-luxe room, £13pppn
Walk Price Includes: 7 days’ category C car hire
Air Via Athens Includes: Olympic Airways Heathrow-Athens (out dep 1220/arr 1755, home dep 1330/arr 1530); Olympic Airways Athens-Heraklion (out dep 1215/arr 1305, home dep 1030/arr 1120) & 7 days’ category C car hire
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