Mainland Greece and Crete
Crete
Possibly the most diverse of all Greek islands, Crete has incredible scenery, beautiful beaches, 8000 ft mountain ranges, 1000 ft high gorges and rich archeology. There is well developed tourism in parts of the island, but jump in a car, drive only a short distance and you will find peaceful traditional Cretan villages. Most of the island is criss-crossed with trails but the best of the walking can be found in the west of the island in the White Mountains. Here you will find the majestic Samaria Gorge which makes for a full day hike. Lesser known but equally beautiful trails can be found in other gorges such as Aradena Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge. Good walking maps and guidebooks are available. Accommodation on the island is very varied. In the east of the island there are some world class luxury resorts in stunning locations. You may want to stay there after some days walking the west of the island. Accommodation in western Crete is simpler, comprising smaller boutique hotels and self-catering accommodation. A car will be needed to make the most of your stay. Alternatively a number of operators organise small group walking in Crete.
Mani Peninsula
Forming the spine of the central spine of the Pelopponese the Mani peninsula is a place of olive trees, tower houses, prickly cactus, sparkling blue sea, mystical sea caves, spectacular mountains and lunar landscapes. The walking here is spectacular with a well preserved network of dirt and cobbled hiking paths, well mapped and marked. The walk through Viros gorge to abandoned monasteries is a must do. Coastal villages like Kardamli face sparkling blue water with a backdrop of the stunning Taygetus mountain range while the only real resort on the peninsula, Stoupa, is still pretty low key and a good place to hire motor boats for a potter about on the waves. Further south the scenery changes from such greener to dry lunar landscape. This area is known as the Deep Mani and is well and true off the beaten track. Other sights to see are the vast underground lakes and caves of Pirgos Diros and the tower house village of Vathia. We can book you into some beautiful boutique accommodation in traditional buildings but with a contemporary feel, excellent cuisine and gorgeous views.
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