Greece's Crete Walking Vacation

Although the largest island of Greece, Crete could be viewed as a nation in its own right. Certainly, the Cretans have a fiercely independent streak to their character and would consider themselves to be Cretans first and Greeks second. Crete has, in fact, only been part of the Greek state for just over 80 years, and we may still meet people born in Turkish-held times.

The claim to be the first European civilization is made by the Minoan era on Crete from 3000-1400 BC, which was at its peak of prosperity from 2000-1500 BC when the famously recreated palaces at Knossos were built. After the destruction of this civilization by an earthquake, Crete retained its independence through classical Greek and Roman periods before being conquered in 67 BC by Rome.

Part of the Byzantine empire, Crete was taken by the Venetians in 1204 and held until falling to the Ottoman Turks in 1669 after a 20-year siege. Uprisings were common place under occupation by the Turks, but only in the late nineteenth century was Crete given assistance by Greek forces who by now were pursuing, under the charismatic leadership of Crete-born statesman Eleftherios Venizelos, the "Great Idea" of uniting all areas of Greek settlement in the Near East. Finally in 1913 Crete proclaimed 'enosis' (unity) with Greece.

Your walk will take you through the most beautiful parts of this magical island. Although every day brings a highlight, one of the most thrilling areas is the Samaria Gorge. This natural area was designated a national park in 1962. It is here that the rare Cretan Wild Goat is most abundant.

You will visit villages which have stood in the same place for hundreds of years, see beautiful sunsets over the bright blue Mediterranean Sea and wildflowers on the craggy hills. The atmosphere is incredible. You really know that you have entered another world and another time. Your accommodations along the trail are in comfortable guesthouses with private baths.

Click Here To Request A Reservation!